The basics
- Agencies typically cost more but handle insurance, vetting, and substitutes if someone is sick; independent cleaners are usually cheaper but require you to vet them yourself.
- A standard clean and a deep clean are different scopes — be specific about which one you're booking, especially the first time.
- Recurring bookings are usually cheaper per visit than one-off bookings.
The playbook
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The mistakes — what people get wrong
- Being vague about scope and then feeling disappointed when 'clean' meant something different to the cleaner than to you.
- Not confirming insurance coverage for an independent cleaner, leaving you liable if something is damaged.
- Never giving feedback and just quietly switching cleaners repeatedly instead of communicating what's not working.
Ask yourself
- Have I been specific enough about what 'clean' means to me?
- Am I comfortable with how this person will access my home when I'm not there?
Go deeper
- Practice
Write a standing checklist for the first few visits
Removes ambiguity and gives you a clear basis for feedback.
General educational information, not legal, tax, medical, or financial advice. Rules vary by country and change over time — verify with a qualified professional before acting.