If you are planning to hire a professional cleaning service, or an individual to clean your home, there are some things you should know before you decide which service to hire.
First, remember that you get what you pay for. This does not necessarily mean that you should hire the most expensive service or person you can find, but you probably shouldn’t hire the cheapest either. While you will likely pay more for a service than you would pay an individual, a professional cleaning service has a trained staff, usually has insurance, and may do background checks or have their employees bonded. Be sure to ask.
A smaller service will generally charge less than a larger company, because there is less overhead. While you may find a very competent, affordable individual to clean your home, keep in mind that you know nothing about a person that advertises in the classifieds. Be sure to follow up on any references. You may also want to remain at home while the person cleans your home.
Cleaning services and maid services may not be the same thing. Maids generally provide more services than a typical cleaning company, such as washing dishes. Ask questions and be very specific about what you need done. Something else to keep in mind is whether the cleaning service or person will provide the necessary equipment and supplies or if you need to purchase special items.
Ask about a free estimate too. Many cleaning services will provide a form for you to fill out, which details what is to be done and how often. You may get a discount if you agree to a contract instead of intermittent cleanings. The first session often costs more than future cleanings. It takes longer to clean your home the first time and to get familiar with it, and to get it in shape, so that future sessions will require little more than routine maintenance.