Cleaning Services 101: Everything You Need to Know Before Hiring
Hiring anyone to do work in your house takes a lot of trust. After all, you and your family spend most of your time in your home, so you want to ensure it is in good hands. This is especially true when it comes to hiring cleaning services. Not only are you letting strangers into your personal space, but you are also trusting them to take care of your belongings and keep your home clean. This guide will discuss everything you need to know before hiring a cleaning service.
Conduct Proper Research Before Hiring
Proper research is one of the most critical steps before hiring a cleaning service. Hiring cleaning services in Lakewood, for instance, may require a bit of legwork to ensure you find a reputable and trustworthy company. Start by asking for recommendations from friends, family, or neighbors who have used cleaning services. You can also check online reviews and ratings to get an idea of the experiences others have had with different cleaning companies.
It is also essential to check if the cleaning service has certifications or affiliations with professional organizations. This can indicate their level of expertise and commitment to providing quality service. Some reputable organizations in the cleaning industry include the Association of Residential Cleaning Services International (ARCSI) and the Cleaning Industry Management Standard (CIMS).
Understand the Difference Between a Regular and a Deep Clean
When hiring a cleaning service, it is essential to understand the difference between a regular clean and a deep clean. A regular clean typically includes cleaning, vacuuming, mopping, and wiping down surfaces. On the other hand, a deep clean involves more thorough and detailed cleaning, such as scrubbing bathrooms and showers, cleaning inside kitchen appliances, and washing baseboards.
Depending on your needs, you may opt for a regular clean on a weekly or bi-weekly basis and schedule a deep clean every few months. It is important to communicate your expectations with the cleaning service before hiring them to ensure they can meet your specific needs. You can also discuss any additional services you may require, such as laundry or organizing, to determine if the cleaning service offers these.
Ensure the Cleaning Service Is Insured and Bonded
Anything can happen during a cleaning service. For instance, a valuable item may accidentally get broken or damaged. In these situations, the responsible cleaning company should have to reimburse you for the cost. The good thing is that most reputable cleaning services are insured and bonded, which means they have liability insurance to cover any damages or losses that may occur while working in your home.
The last thing you need is a lawsuit against a cleaning company for damages or injuries that occur on your property. The legal and financial implications can be overwhelming, leading to unnecessary stress and expenses. An insured and bonded company provides peace of mind for both parties involved, ensuring proper compensation in case of any accidents. Additionally, bonding ensures the cleaning service has undergone background checks for all its employees and can be trusted in your home.
Ensure the Pricing is Explicit
See to it that there are no hidden charges. For instance, if you're hiring a cleaning service for the first time, you may need to pay an initial fee or deposit. Clarifying any additional fees or charges upfront before hiring the service is important to avoid any later surprises. You may also want to discuss their pricing structure for different services and how often they charge you.
Some cleaning services offer discounts for recurring customers or bundle deals for multiple services, so it is always a good idea to ask about these options. Additionally, ensure that the pricing is clearly stated in your contract or agreement with the cleaning service to avoid any confusion or disputes in the future. Before making a final decision, ensure you completely understand the pricing structure and are comfortable with it.
Know the Types of Cleaning Products Used
Most cleaning services use their own set of cleaning products in homes. However, it is important to know what these products are and if they are safe for you, your family, and your pets. If you or anyone in your household has allergies or sensitivities to certain chemicals, make sure to communicate this with the cleaning service beforehand. You can also ask if they offer eco-friendly cleaning options or if they are willing to use specific products that you provide.
Reputable cleaning services generally use non-toxic and environmentally friendly products, but it is always better to double-check and ensure your peace of mind. You can also ask for a list of the cleaning products they use and do a quick online search to see if there are any potential health hazards associated with them. When hiring a cleaning service, it is important to prioritize your own safety and that of your loved ones.
In addition to the type of products used, discussing how they will be stored and used in your home is important. This includes proper labeling, storage away from children and pets, and following any necessary safety precautions. A reputable cleaning service should prioritize the health and safety of its clients and use products that are effective yet safe.
Decide if You Need to be in the House During Cleaning
Some people feel more comfortable in their homes while the cleaning service works, while others prefer to leave and return to a clean house. It is important to decide if you are comfortable leaving strangers in your home and if you must be present during the cleaning process for any reason. Discuss this with the cleaning service beforehand so they can schedule accordingly.
If you plan on being in the house during cleaning, communicate any specific instructions or preferences with the cleaners. This can include areas of the home that need extra attention or any delicate items that require special care. Good communication and clear expectations can ensure both parties' smooth and satisfactory experience.
Hiring a cleaning service requires careful consideration and research. By following these tips and communicating effectively with the cleaning service, you can find a trustworthy and reliable company to help keep your home clean and tidy. Remember, it's not just about finding the cheapest option but finding a company that meets your needs and provides quality service. So, take your time, research thoroughly, be bold, and ask questions before deciding.