Hiring a professional cleaning service is an excellent way to maintain a tidy and hygienic home without the stress of handling everything yourself. Whether you have a one-time deep cleaning scheduled or recurring cleaning appointments, proper preparation ensures the cleaners can work efficiently and achieve the best possible results. A well-prepared home allows cleaners to focus on their tasks without unnecessary delays, ensuring that you get the most value out of the service.
Additionally, small preparatory steps can help prevent misunderstandings, protect your valuables, and make the cleaning process smoother for both you and the cleaning team. In some cases, a little pre-cleaning preparation—such as decluttering or securing pets—can save time and even reduce the total cost of cleaning if the service charges by labor hours. Below are some key steps to take before your scheduled cleaning appointment.
- Declutter Surfaces and Floors
While cleaners handle dusting, scrubbing, and disinfecting, they are not responsible for organizing clutter or putting away personal belongings. To ensure they can clean effectively, take a few minutes to:
- Pick up loose items such as clothes, toys, paperwork, and dishes.
- Store away valuables, fragile items, or anything you don’t want to be moved.
- Clear countertops in the kitchen and bathroom so that all surfaces can be properly cleaned.
- Make sure floors are free from excessive clutter to allow for vacuuming and mopping without obstruction.
A cleaner, more organized space allows the cleaning team to focus on deep cleaning rather than tidying up first.
- Secure Pets
Pets can be a significant distraction during a cleaning appointment. To ensure the safety of both your pets and the cleaners:
- Keep pets in a separate room, crate, or a secure outdoor area.
- Inform the cleaning service in advance if you have pets so they can be prepared.
- If your pet is anxious around strangers, consider scheduling the cleaning at a time when you’ll be home to manage them.
Some cleaning products or equipment, such as vacuums, can be stressful for pets, so keeping them secured will make the process easier for everyone.
- Run the Oven’s Self-Cleaning Cycle the Night Before (If Applicable)
If your cleaning service includes oven cleaning, a helpful step is to run the oven’s self-cleaning cycle the night before the appointment. This process:
- Burns off food residues and grease, making it easier for cleaners to wipe down the interior.
- Helps remove strong odors that may linger from previous cooking.
- Saves time during the cleaning appointment, allowing the cleaners to focus on detailed cleaning rather than excessive scrubbing.
After the self-cleaning cycle is complete, ensure the oven has cooled down completely before the cleaners arrive so they can safely wipe away the remaining residue.
- Communicate Special Requests
If you have specific areas that need extra attention, be sure to communicate these requests in advance. This includes:
- Highlighting problem areas, such as stained countertops, moldy grout, or high-dust areas.
- Requesting add-on services like refrigerator cleaning, inside cabinet cleaning, or additional laundry services.
- Providing clear instructions on any personal preferences, such as using certain cleaning products or avoiding specific surfaces.
If you’re unsure what’s included in your cleaning package, review the checklist provided by your cleaning service.
- Provide Cleaning Supplies (If Required)
Most professional cleaning services bring their own cleaning supplies and equipment, but some companies may require or allow clients to provide specific products. If you have a preference for eco-friendly, hypoallergenic, or specialized cleaning solutions, place these products in an accessible location.
Additionally, if your home requires unique tools—such as a step ladder for high areas—consider making them available for the cleaners.
- Ensure Accessibility
Make sure your home is easily accessible for the cleaners, especially if you won’t be present during the cleaning. Some ways to facilitate entry include:
- Leaving a key in a secure location and informing the cleaning company.
- Providing an access code for gated communities or security systems.
- Ensuring all entryways are unlocked and free of obstructions.
If parking is limited in your area, inform the cleaners in advance so they can plan accordingly.
- Secure Important Documents & Valuables
Even with a trusted cleaning service, it’s always a good practice to store personal items safely. Secure:
- Cash, jewelry, and other valuables.
- Sensitive documents, including passports, credit cards, or important paperwork.
- Any delicate or sentimental items that could be accidentally knocked over or misplaced.
Taking these precautions provides peace of mind and prevents any potential misunderstandings.
- Inform About Any Home Issues
If your home has any known maintenance issues or areas that require special care, let the cleaning service know in advance. This includes:
- Broken fixtures, leaky sinks, or damaged surfaces.
- Areas that are off-limits for cleaning.
- Any allergies or sensitivities to cleaning products that need to be considered.
Providing this information ensures that cleaners can do their job without risk of damaging fragile areas or using products that might cause a reaction.
- Plan for Payment & Tips
Most cleaning services will confirm the payment method ahead of time, but it’s always good to double-check:
- If paying electronically, ensure the correct payment information is on file.
- If tipping, decide whether you’ll provide cash or add gratuity to the total bill.
- Confirm any cancellation or rescheduling policies to avoid last-minute fees.
If you’re satisfied with the service, tipping your cleaners is a great way to show appreciation for their hard work.
- Plan to Provide Feedback
After your home has been cleaned, take a moment to review the results. If you notice any areas that need additional attention, provide feedback to the cleaning service as soon as possible. Many companies, including Elevated Cleaning Solutions, offer a satisfaction guarantee and will be happy to address any concerns.
If you’re a recurring customer, establishing clear communication and feedback ensures that each cleaning meets your expectations.
Final Thoughts
Taking the time to prepare your home before a cleaning appointment helps ensure a smooth and effective service. By following these steps, you can make the process easier for your cleaners while maximizing the results. Whether it’s securing pets, running your oven’s self-cleaning cycle, or communicating special requests, these small efforts contribute to a better overall experience.
For professional cleaning services in Oklahoma City, Edmond, Moore, Yukon, and parts of Texas, Elevated Cleaning Solutions is here to help. Call us at (405) 225-0116 or email okc@elevatedcleaningsolutions.com to schedule your next cleaning!
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