House cleaning guide
How to prepare for a house cleaner
A few minutes of prep helps a cleaner spend their time cleaning instead of tidying, which means better results in the booked time. Pick up loose clutter, clear sinks and counters, secure valuables and medications, contain pets, and note any priorities or problem areas for the provider. You do not need to pre-clean.
Pre-visit checklist
A few quick steps before the cleaner arrives:
- Pick up loose clutter, toys, and laundry from floors and surfaces
- Clear sinks, counters, and dining tables of dishes and items
- Secure valuables, cash, jewelry, and medications
- Contain or plan for pets, and point out any pet areas
- Note priorities and problem areas for the cleaner
- Confirm entry, parking, alarm codes, and where to start
What you do not need to do
You do not need to pre-clean — that is the job. Tidying is only about clearing surfaces so the cleaner can reach them; deep scrubbing, floors, and bathrooms are what the provider handles. If time is limited, prioritize clearing counters and floors, and tell the provider what matters most so they can focus there.
Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to tidy before the cleaner comes?
A light tidy of clutter and surfaces helps the cleaner spend the visit cleaning instead of moving things, which improves results. You do not need to pre-clean, though — scrubbing and floors are the provider’s job.
What should I do with pets?
For everyone’s comfort and safety, contain pets in a crate, a closed room, or take them out during the visit, and let the provider know in advance. Point out feeding areas or litter boxes so they can be cleaned around appropriately.
How does the cleaner get in if I am not home?
Arrange access in advance with the provider — a lockbox, a code, or leaving a key are common. Share alarm instructions and any parking notes. Confirm these details when you book so the visit goes smoothly.
Ready when you are
How to prepare for a house cleaner
A few minutes of prep helps a cleaner spend their time cleaning instead of tidying, which means better results in the booked time. Pick up loose clutter, clear sinks and counters, secure valuables and medications, contain pets, and note any priorities or problem areas for the provider. You do not need to pre-clean.