On Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, some of the most popular videos star “cleanfluencers” who share their scrubbing, polishing, and dusting tips. Some viewers find them inspiring. But if the thought of using all their hacks and products on your muddy floor or filthy toilet makes you want to snooze, not Swiffer, you might want to hire a cleaning company to spiff your space up.
Decision number one: Hire an individual or use a housecleaning company? You may find it more comfortable to deal with a single worker for such a personal job. But that means you’ll have added legal responsibilities as their employer. Many families who hire household workers either are unaware of their legal obligations or choose to ignore them.
If you want to use a company, since prices vary widely from company to company, get several price quotes. The article below offers additional tips on evaluating housecleaning services.
Before hiring an individual, obtain references and check them. Former employers can fill you in on your potential neat freak’s strengths and weaknesses. Describe your job expectations, and ask if they encountered any problems.
Write out a job description listing all tasks and how often you want them done. Make sure you describe jobs you are picky about or that could be considered out of the ordinary. Review with the worker all terms of employment—duties to perform, pay, schedule, and benefits—and put them in writing.
Whether you hire a company or an individual, plan on being home for at least the first few visits, and store valuable and/or fragile items in safe places.
