A home clean, with the important details settled.

Begin with the rooms that would make the biggest difference.

A useful house-cleaning brief does not need every measurement. Start with the rooms you want help with, what matters most in each one and anything the cleaner should leave alone.

Kitchen

List worktops, sink, external appliance surfaces and floor care. Name oven, fridge or cupboard interiors separately so nobody assumes they are included.

Bathrooms

Identify toilets, basins, mirrors and accessible bath or shower surfaces. Mention particular build-up and delicate finishes before the quote.

Bedrooms and living rooms

Describe accessible surfaces and floors. Agree whether bed making is requested and where clean linen will be left. Personal organisation and laundry are separate tasks to discuss.

Floors

Tell us about wood, tile or other finishes and any restrictions. Point out areas blocked by furniture rather than assuming heavy items will be moved.

Choose the kind of help you need.

A one-off visit can focus on the work at hand. Regular visits help maintain an agreed routine. A detailed first clean may be appropriate when the space needs extra attention before maintenance begins.

“I want the kitchen and two bathrooms maintained each week” is a clearer starting point than asking for a number of cleaners without describing the job. If condition is the main concern, compare regular and deep cleaning before deciding.

For an apartment, mention stairs, lifts, parking and entry arrangements that affect arrival. You do not need to share access codes in the initial request.

Set boundaries for possessions and access.

Identify private rooms, documents, valuables and items that should not be handled. Clear small personal items where practical so the agreed surfaces are accessible. Tell us about pets, allergies and products you do not want used.

Before the visit, agree who will let the cleaner in, whether anyone will be at home and how access will be managed. These are arrangements to confirm with the provider; they should not be inferred from an online package.

Ask any provider directly for the credentials that matter to you and check the evidence. A polished website, a generic “trusted” label or a photograph cannot establish insurance or staff checks.

Put the important details in writing.

• Rooms, tasks, exclusions and any requested extras.
• Who supplies products and equipment, and any restrictions.
• Visit date, frequency and access arrangements.
• Price, payment timing and booking or change terms.
• The contact route if you need to raise a question after the visit.

Start with your neighbourhood and room priorities. The work and price are agreed before you book.