How Hiring A Cleaning Service Can Make Your Life Easier

Cleaning the house is a never-ending chore. In California, early fall means kids' soccer games, messy football Sundays in the living room, busy weeks and even busier weekends.

Whether you're a professional or a parent trying to keep up with children's messes, a professional housekeeping service can free up a lot of time. Depending on the services you choose, housekeepers can help with everyday chores like vacuuming, dusting and mopping as well as more complex needs like laundry and organizing.

We all know someone who "cleans up" before the maid service comes, so what do these helpers actually do? The answer depends on the package you choose. Standard maid services typically include a full kitchen and bathroom clean, vacuum, dust, linen change and dish washing. These can be scheduled weekly, bi-weekly or monthly. You can also add on additional services spanning from laundry, moving furniture, polishing woodwork, cleaning ceilings and light fixtures, window washing, upholstery, floor waxing or carpet cleaning.

Most cleaning companies will also offer one-time services like a garage, basement and attic cleaning. If you're in need of a garage storage makeover a la Marie Kondo, you might consider a professional organizer instead of a cleaning company. They will come in and help you decide what to donate or throw away, organize remaining items and design better storage solutions to keep your space clutter free. Once that's done, a cleaning service can ensure this immaculate storage system doesn't get dusty.

The cost of cleaning services varies between the type of company you employ. Private housekeepers typically charge between $25 and $40 per hour, while larger cleaning companies will charge between $50 and $90 per hour. It might seem like a private housekeeper would be much cheaper, but keep in mind that the fee for larger cleaning companies typically covers a team of two or more. If you have a larger home, it may take one individual quite a while to complete the task at hand.

Additionally, larger companies have completed background checks and are always insured and bonded. On the other hand, you'll receive a more personalized service with a private housekeeper. You might feel more comfortable with the same person in your home each week instead of a team of strangers. If you decide to hire an individual, it is especially important to use a service like HomeAdvisor that has already vetted each business.

Read consumer reviews and interview several cleaning services before choosing one. Remember to ask about rates, their feelings about pets, insurance and who will supply the cleaning products. Sometimes, a service will bring their own while others request you supply the chemicals. You can also ask about environmentally friendly products if you have air quality concerns.

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