Get More From Every Cleaning Visit: A Homeowner's Prep Guide
1. Clear the surfaces (10 min) Pick up clothes, toys, dishes, and mail. You're not pre-cleaning — you're giving the pro clear surfaces to clean. 2. Communicate your priorities (3 min) Tell your cleaner upfront — the shower grout, the kitchen, the baseboards. A short note or two-minute walkthrough beats hoping they'll guess. 3. Secure pets and valuables (2 min) Settle pets somewhere comfortable and out of the way. Put jewelry, cash, and sensitive documents in a drawer or safe. 4. Know what's yours to provide Most pros bring their own products — confirm when you book. If you have preferences, set them out with a note. 5. Do the walkthrough Check bathrooms, kitchen, and floors before they leave, while there's still time for touch-ups. What not to do Don't hover — give them room to work. Don't apologize for the mess — cleaning is literally why they're there. Don't change the scope mid-visit without asking what it costs. Booking throu...