Starting with your cleaner can bring a sense of anticipation and excitement as you envision a sparklingly clean, organised home. It's an opportunity to relieve yourself of the burden of household chores and create more time for yourself and loved ones.
Embarking on this journey requires some consideration and effective communication to ensure it all goes well and establish the best results.
The first step is to decide the frequency and duration of cleaner visits, as well as any special requirements you may have. A typical 3 bed, 2 bathroom home will take 2.5 – 3 hours to clean however there are a many variables (are there pets? do you want ironing? what about tidying up? do you want the whole home cleaned? what about laundry?), which can add to or reduce the time.
Once you have decided on the schedule, it is time to define your expectations and priorities. Consider the specific tasks you want the cleaner to handle, such as dusting, vacuuming, mopping, laundry etc.
Next, conduct your research to find a reliable and trustworthy cleaner or cleaning service. Seek recommendations from friends, neighbours, or online platforms that connect homeowners with domestic service providers. Feel free to meet potential candidates prior to taking them on, ask about their experience and request references to verify their reliability and professionalism.
When you've selected your new cleaner, it's essential to establish clear guidelines. Open communication from the outset, as well as feedback during those first 2-3 weeks, will helps avoid any misunderstandings or disappointment later on. Discuss your cleaning requirements and priorities and provide a walkthrough of your property, highlighting specific areas or items that require special attention or care (we recommend committing your instructions to pen and paper for clarity). Also explain your expectations regarding punctuality, and any boundaries within your home. Share any relevant information about pets, allergies, or cleaning products to ensure a safe and effective cleaning process.
Regular communication and feedback are crucial for a successful working relationship. Encourage open dialogue, allowing the cleaner to express any questions they may have. Similarly, provide constructive feedback when necessary, acknowledging their efforts and offering suggestions for improvement.
As you embark on this new journey with your domestic cleaner, keep in mind that building trust and rapport takes time. Be patient and flexible, allowing the cleaner to familiarise themselves with your home and preferences. With clear communication, respect, and ongoing feedback, your partnership with a domestic cleaner can transform your living environment and enhance your quality of life.