So, You’ve Booked House Cleaning Services. Now What?
You’ve finally done it. You scheduled a professional cleaning service. The appointment is locked in, your home is about to sparkle, and you can almost smell the lemon-scented finish. But as the day approaches, a little question starts creeping into your mind:
Do I need to clean before the cleaners come?
Spoiler alert: not exactly. But there are a few things you can do (and a few you should definitely avoid) to get the most out of your house cleaning services—without turning into a pre-cleaning perfectionist.
Whether it’s your first time hiring cleaning services or you’re a seasoned delegator of dust, this guide will walk you through what to do, what not to do, and how to strike the right balance before your cleaning team arrives.
What You Should Do Before They Arrive
Let’s start with the essentials—things that will help your cleaners work more efficiently and ensure you get the full value of your appointment.
1. Tidy, Don’t Clean
Yes, there’s a difference.
Tidying means putting things in their place—shoes in the closet, dishes in the dishwasher, random socks off the couch. It helps the cleaning team access surfaces quickly and safely. No one wants to risk stepping on Lego landmines while vacuuming.
What you don’t need to do is vacuum, scrub toilets, or wipe down counters. That’s what you’re hiring professionals for. So resist the urge to pre-clean yourself into exhaustion.
2. Communicate Special Requests or Trouble Spots
Got a guest bathroom you haven’t used since 2019? Or a kitchen corner that’s become your cat’s personal kingdom? Let your cleaners know.
Minnesota house cleaning services appreciate a heads-up about priority areas, delicate surfaces, or off-limits rooms. Write down any notes or walk them through the space briefly before they get started. A little context can go a long way toward getting results you’re happy with.
3. Secure Pets (and Maybe Your Vacuum Robot, Too)
Pets are adorable—but not always helpful during a cleaning session. Dogs bark, cats hide, and some pets have a strong opinion about vacuum cleaners.
To avoid stress (for everyone involved), secure pets in a designated room, crate, or outside area. It ensures safety and allows the cleaners to move freely without distraction or unexpected tail chases.
What You Shouldn’t Do
Just as important as knowing what to do is knowing what not to do. These common mistakes can interfere with cleaning services or reduce the efficiency of your session.
1. Don’t Micromanage the Process
It can be tempting to hover and point out spots as they go—but try to resist. Professional cleaners follow systems and checklists designed for efficiency. Trust that they know what they’re doing, and let them work their magic.
If you’ve already communicated your preferences, there’s no need to supervise every dust bunny’s departure. Give yourself permission to step back and relax.
2. Don’t Leave Hazardous Items Around
It’s rare, but sometimes homes have unexpected safety hazards—open razor blades, broken glass, or cleaning chemical spills.
If anything like this is present in your home, make sure to clean it up or warn the cleaning team in advance. A safe space ensures better work, faster results, and peace of mind for everyone involved.
3. Don’t Assume Everything Is Included
Not every cleaning service includes fridge interiors, baseboard scrubbing, or laundry folding. If you’re expecting those things, ask ahead of time.
This is especially important if you’re preparing for a specific type of appointment—like a move out cleaning or seasonal deep clean. Bundl Home Cleaning & Maintenance, for example, offers specialized services that go beyond surface-level tasks—but they still need to be scheduled properly to get the time and team required.
Bonus Prep Tips That Make a Big Difference
Want to go above and beyond without overthinking it? Here are a few quick, optional steps that can elevate your cleaning session:
- Label fragile items or areas that require a delicate touch
- Clear countertops of clutter so surfaces can be cleaned more easily
- Leave clean sheets on the bed if you’d like them changed
- Make a list of priorities if you’re on a time-based service plan
Small actions like these don’t take long, but they help ensure the cleaners spend more time cleaning and less time wondering where your broom lives.
What to Expect During and After the Cleaning
Once your cleaning team gets started, expect to hear the gentle hum of vacuums and the rhythmic swipes of microfiber cloths. Many cleaning services begin with dusting high areas and work downward, ensuring nothing is re-contaminated.
They’ll likely move from room to room with a system—dust, wipe, vacuum, mop. For larger jobs, they may split tasks or assign specific zones.
When it’s over, do a quick walkthrough. Most cleaners appreciate feedback and want to know if anything was missed. Just be courteous and constructive—pointing out a smudge or requesting a quick touch-up is totally normal.
How Often Should You Schedule House Cleaning Services?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—it depends on your lifestyle, household size, and tolerance for dust bunnies.
Some typical options include:
- Weekly or biweekly for busy families or those who want ongoing upkeep
- Monthly for light maintenance in between your own cleaning
- Occasional deep cleans for post-holiday resets, spring cleaning, or prep for guests
- Move out cleaning for a full-scale scrub before leaving a property
If you’re not sure what’s right for you, start small. One professional cleaning session can reset your space and help you decide what level of support makes sense long-term.
Final Thoughts
Hiring house cleaning services isn’t just a convenience—it’s a smart, sanity-saving decision that gives you back time, clarity, and control over your space. But to get the most out of your cleaning session, a little prep and clear communication go a long way.
No need to clean before the cleaners. Just tidy, guide, and then let the professionals do what they do best. And if you ever feel unsure, companies like Bundl Home Cleaning & Maintenance are there to help you feel confident, cared for, and cleaner than ever.
Whether you’re prepping for guests, catching up after a busy week, or just craving a home that feels fresh again, professional cleaning services are your shortcut to clean without the chaos.
