Hiring a professional cleaning service is a great way to keep your home spotless without the hassle. But did you know that a little preparation beforehand can help your cleaners work more efficiently and deliver even better results?

By taking a few simple steps before your cleaning team arrives, you can ensure they focus on deep cleaning instead of decluttering—saving time and maximizing the service you receive.

Follow this step-by-step guide to get your home ready for a professional cleaning!

1. Declutter & Pick Up Loose Items

A cleaning service focuses on deep cleaning, not organizing. Before they arrive:

✔️ Pick up toys, clothes, and other scattered items from floors & surfaces
✔️ Put away important documents, mail, and fragile valuables
✔️ Store dishes in the dishwasher to keep countertops clear

📌 Pro Tip: The less clutter your cleaners have to move, the more time they can spend on actual cleaning!

2. Secure Valuables & Important Documents

While professional cleaning services are trustworthy, it's always a good idea to store away cash, jewelry, and sensitive paperwork for peace of mind.

✔️ Keep valuable items in a locked drawer or safe
✔️ Put personal documents (passports, bank statements, etc.) in a secure location
✔️ If possible, inform the cleaning team of any fragile or delicate items

📌 Bonus: Label fragile items so cleaners know to handle them with extra care.

3. Make Arrangements for Pets

Pets can get anxious or in the way during a cleaning session. To ensure a smooth experience:

✔️ Keep pets in a separate room or outdoor area
✔️ Inform the cleaning team about any pets in the home
✔️ Use a pet-friendly cleaner if your pet has allergies or sensitivities

📌 Pro Tip: If your pet gets nervous around strangers, consider scheduling a walk or pet daycare visit during the cleaning.

4. Give Access to All Areas That Need Cleaning

Ensure your cleaners can access every space that needs attention.

✔️ Unlock rooms, closets, or storage areas that require cleaning
✔️ Move furniture if you need deep cleaning under beds or sofas
✔️ Provide any necessary gate or door codes for access

📌 Bonus: If you won’t be home, leave clear instructions for entry and lock-up procedures.

5. Communicate Special Requests & Problem Areas

Do you have stubborn stains, pet odors, or high-priority areas that need extra attention? Let your cleaning team know in advance!

✔️ Inform cleaners about specific requests (e.g., focus on grout, deep clean the oven, etc.)
✔️ Point out high-traffic areas or spots that require extra scrubbing
✔️ Specify any preferred cleaning products (especially for allergies or eco-friendly preferences)

📌 Pro Tip: Make a short checklist of cleaning priorities and hand it to your cleaners when they arrive.

6. Plan Your Schedule & Cleaning Duration

Depending on the level of cleaning, the process can take a few hours or more. To ensure a smooth experience:

✔️ Choose a time slot when you won’t need access to cleaned areas
✔️ If working from home, set up a quiet space to avoid interruptions
✔️ Arrange for kids and pets to be occupied elsewhere if needed

📌 Bonus: If it’s your first time hiring a professional cleaning service, ask for an estimated time frame so you know what to expect.

7. Know What’s Included (and What’s Not)

Professional cleaners typically cover standard cleaning tasks, but some special services (like deep cleaning, laundry, or dishwashing) may cost extra.

✔️ Review your cleaning package to know what’s included
✔️ Ask if there are any add-on services available (e.g., window washing, carpet shampooing)
✔️ Confirm if they bring their own supplies or if you need to provide them

📌 Pro Tip: If you need extra services, book them in advance so the cleaners can allocate enough time.

Final Thoughts: Get the Most Out of Your Professional Cleaning

A little preparation goes a long way in helping your cleaning service work efficiently and effectively. By decluttering, securing valuables, and communicating your priorities, you can ensure a smooth, stress-free cleaning experience—leaving your home fresh, spotless, and sparkling!