What Does a Maid Do?
What does a maid do anyway? Depending on who does your cleaning, the answer to this question can vary widely. Make sure you know and get what you are paying for.
Not all cleaning services are the same. One service can offer certain items as “basic” housekeeping tasks, while another service will not offer it at all, or will only do so for an additional fee. Some examples of these things include doing dishes or cleaning inside of the refrigerator. This can cause a lot of confusion and dissatisfaction, often for no reason. That is why good communication is key. Make sure you have contact information for your maid, especially if you are not going to be home when the cleaning is to be done.
Residential cleaning services should have a list of the things they normally complete each time they visit your home. Ask for this list, and clarify anything that is not specifically stated in writing. In order to maintain a good working relationship with your maid, make sure both parties are clear about what is going to be done. If there is something you would like to be done that is not on the list, ask if it can be provided. Often these requests can be accommodated, especially if you are willing to pay more. If you feel something that was supposed to be done has not been adequately provided, be up front about it. Call and resolve the issue right away. Some people offer guarantees and will come out right away to fix whatever is lacking.
A typical routine cleaning includes the following things: Mopping or vacuuming all floors, dusting flat surfaces, straightening rooms, making beds, cleaning sink and countertops, cleaning exterior of refrigerator, microwave and oven, cleaning stove top, emptying trash cans, cleaning and disinfecting bath or shower, cleaning mirrors, cleaning and disinfecting toilet, removing cobwebs, other general dusting of furniture and surfaces. Please remember that this list is only a guideline and your maid will not necessarily provide all these services.
Most maids will also offer deep-cleaning services, and some also offer move-in/move-out services. A deep cleaning service can be required before starting routine care, so be sure you know this up front. Deep cleaning usually includes cleaning windows, wiping baseboards, cleaning the interior of the refrigerator and oven, cleaning inside and outside cabinets, and cleaning inside and outside all doors, and cleaning ceiling fans.
Most cleaning services and individuals provide their own cleaning supplies. This can be especially helpful if you have small children or pets at home and don’t want to store a lot of cleaning products. Be sure to ask if this is included before the day of your service. Otherwise, you may end up paying for a cleaning you don’t receive because you are not prepared.