How to Prepare for a Cleaner (And What You Don’t Need to Do)

Hiring a cleaner can feel oddly stressful the first time.

People worry about whether they should tidy first, apologize for the mess, or rush around trying to make the place look presentable. Some even clean before the cleaner arrives, which defeats the purpose entirely.

The truth is, preparing for a cleaner is simpler than most people think.

You do not need to clean before a cleaner

This is the biggest misconception.

You do not need to scrub, wipe, or deep clean anything before we arrive. That is the work you are hiring us to do.

If you want to do anything at all, focus on access, not cleanliness. Our approach is built around consistent standards rather than quick fixes.

Clear surfaces enough that we can reach them. Pick up personal items you would rather not have handled. Make sure we can easily move through the space without guessing where things belong.

That is preparation. Cleaning is our job.

What actually helps on cleaning day

A few small things can make a big difference.

If possible, put away loose clutter like paperwork, clothing, or kids’ toys so we can clean surfaces efficiently. Let us know about anything delicate, broken, or out of bounds so there are no surprises.

If you have pets, a quick heads-up about temperament or routines is helpful. The same goes for alarms, access codes, or areas you would prefer we skip.

None of this needs to be perfect. It just needs to be clear.

What you do not need to apologize for

You do not need to apologize for mess, dust, or buildup.

We see homes and workplaces in all kinds of states. Mess usually means people are busy, not careless. Our job is to meet your space where it is, not judge how it got there.

You also do not need to explain every mark or stain. If something is important or fragile, we should know. Otherwise, we will handle it as part of the clean.

What to expect during the clean

If it is your first time working with a cleaner, it can feel strange having someone in your space.

You are welcome to be home or away. Some people work from another room. Others prefer to step out and come back later. Both are fine.

What matters most is that expectations are clear. If there is a priority area or something you want us to pay extra attention to, say so upfront. That helps us do the job well.

After the clean

Once the clean is done, take a few minutes to walk through the space.

Notice how it feels to move through the rooms. Notice the surfaces you touch most often. If something feels off or you have feedback, share it early. Clear communication helps us adjust and keep things consistent going forward.

Cleaning works best as an ongoing relationship, not a one time event.

The short version

You do not need to clean before a cleaner arrives.
You do not need to be embarrassed.
You do not need to manage the process closely.

A little access and a little clarity go a long way.

The rest is what you hired us for.