Tidy clutter (don't clean)
You don't need to clean before the cleaner arrives, but tidying clutter helps. When surfaces are clear and floors are picked up, the cleaning team can focus on actual cleaning rather than organizing your belongings.
- Pick up clothes and personal items from floors and surfaces
- Put away dishes or load the dishwasher
- Clear bathroom counters of personal products
- Put away toys and clutter from living areas
- Secure valuables and sensitive documents
Communicate your priorities
Every home is different, and your cleaner can't read your mind. If there are specific areas you want them to focus on — or things you'd prefer they skip — let them know.
- Point out priority areas or problem spots
- Mention any surfaces or items to avoid
- Note if certain rooms need extra attention
- Share preferences about products or techniques if you have them
Provide clear access
Make sure the cleaning team can get into your home and access all the areas that need cleaning.
- Confirm how the team will enter your home
- Make sure all rooms are unlocked or accessible
- Secure pets that might interfere with cleaning
- Provide parking information if relevant
Handle pets thoughtfully
If you have pets, consider how they'll interact with the cleaning team.
- Secure pets in a safe area if they're anxious or disruptive
- Let the cleaning team know about pets in advance
- Pick up pet toys, food bowls, and beds from areas being cleaned
- Note any areas with pet-related mess that need extra attention
Be realistic about what can be done
In the time available, your cleaner will do their best to address everything, but priorities matter. If you have a long list of requests, understand that some tasks may need to wait for a future visit. Focus on the most important areas first.