How to Prepare for a Professional Home Clean: A Simple Guide

To prepare for a house cleaner, clear floors and surfaces so they can be reached, put away valuables and fragile items, and tell the cleaners what matters most to you. A little preparation means more of the visit is spent cleaning rather than moving clutter.

You do not need to clean the house first. The aim is simply to make it easy for the cleaners to do a thorough job.

Do I need to tidy before the cleaners arrive?

A light tidy is enough. Cleaners can only clean what they can get to, so anything covering a worktop, bedroom floor or bathroom shelf may be cleaned around rather than underneath.

A quick ten-minute sweep of each room usually does the job:

• Clear kitchen worktops of post, bags and small appliances you do not use daily.
• Pick up clothes, toys and shoes from floors.
• Empty bins or make sure they are easy to find.
• Clear the draining board and put dirty dishes in the dishwasher or sink.
• Clear bathroom surfaces of toiletries, or gather them into a basket.
• Take loose paperwork off desks and tables.

If your home is very cluttered, mention it when you book. It may affect what type of clean you need, and an honest conversation beforehand avoids disappointment on the day.

What should I put away first?

Put away anything valuable, fragile or sentimental. This is not about distrust. It simply removes the risk of accidents and means nobody has to worry about moving things.

Consider setting aside:

• Jewellery, cash and important documents.
• Fragile ornaments and collectables.
• Laptops, tablets and other electronics.
• Medication, which should be stored safely in any case.
• Anything you would not want to be moved, such as a half-finished project or a jigsaw on the table.

It also helps to close doors to any rooms that are not part of the clean, and to say which ones they are.

What should I tell the cleaners?

Clear instructions are the biggest factor in a clean that meets your expectations. Cleaners cannot guess your priorities, so spell them out at booking and again in a short note on the day.

Your priorities

Tell them which areas matter most. For some households it is the kitchen and bathrooms. For others it is skirting boards, windows or the inside of cupboards. If you have a long list, rank it so the essentials come first.

Your home's quirks

Mention anything that needs special handling:

• Delicate surfaces such as natural stone, unsealed wood or antique furniture.
• Appliances that are temperamental or need switching on in a particular way.
• Stubborn marks you already know about, and what you have tried.
• Allergies or sensitivities to fragrances or products.

Practical details

Let them know about pets, how to get in, where the meter or fuse box is, and any parking arrangements. If you would like cleaners to use a particular product, or avoid one, say so in advance.

How do I get the house ready on the day?

A few small steps help the visit run smoothly.

• Secure pets. Even friendly animals can get underfoot or slip out of an open door. Tell the cleaners where they will be.
• Sort access. Decide whether you will be home, leave a key or use a key safe, and confirm the arrangement in writing.
• Clear the way. Move bikes, buggies and bags from hallways so equipment can be carried through.
• Leave bedding plans. If you want beds stripped or changed, say so. Leave clean linen in an obvious place.
• Check the basics. Make sure there is hot water and electricity, and that cleaning cupboards are accessible if supplies are kept there.

Do I need to provide cleaning supplies?

This varies between providers, so ask when you book. Find out whether products and equipment are included, and whether you would need to supply anything such as a working vacuum cleaner. If you prefer environmentally friendly products, or have a preference about what is used around children or pets, raise it at this stage.

Should I be at home during the clean?

Either works. Some people like to be there for the first visit to show the cleaners around and explain priorities. Others prefer to leave a written list and return when it is finished.

If you stay, give the cleaners space to work and keep a quiet room for yourself. If you go out, make sure you are contactable in case a question comes up.

What should I check after the clean?

Take a short walk through the house once the cleaners have finished, ideally with a copy of your priority list. Look at the areas you asked about first.

If something has been missed or does not meet your expectations, tell the cleaner or the company promptly and politely. Specific feedback such as "the inside of the microwave still has marks" is far more useful than a general comment, and it is easier to put right soon after the visit.

How do I get the most from the first visit?

The first clean is often the most demanding, because the cleaners are learning your home. Be realistic about what a standard visit covers. If your home has not been cleaned thoroughly for some time, a deep clean can be a better starting point, followed by a regular cleaning schedule to keep things on track. Our guide on deep clean or regular clean explains the difference.

After the first visit, small adjustments make later cleans even better. Keep a running list of extras you would like, and pass on feedback as you go.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to clean before the cleaners come?

No. A light tidy is enough. Clear surfaces and floors so the cleaners can reach them, and leave the cleaning itself to them.

Should I hide my valuables?

It is sensible to put away valuables, cash, documents and fragile items. This prevents accidents and keeps everything safe and out of the way.

How long will a home clean take?

It depends on the size of the property, its condition and the type of clean. Ask for an estimate when you book, and mention any areas that need extra attention.

What if I am not happy with the result?

Tell the company as soon as possible and be specific about what needs attention. A good provider will want the chance to put it right.

Can I ask for extras such as oven or carpet cleaning?

Often, yes. Extras are usually best arranged in advance so that enough time is allowed. Ask when you book.

Ready to book your first clean?

If you are in Leeds or the surrounding areas and would like to talk through what your home needs, PRN Cleaning Services offers free estimates, flexible domestic packages and an online booking form. You can also call 0113 534 0046 or email info@prnclean.co.uk during office hours, Monday to Friday, 08:00am to 05:00pm.