How to Prepare for Your House Cleaner in Toronto
A little preparation before your cleaner arrives makes a significant difference in what they can accomplish. This isn't about doing the cleaning for them — it's about removing the obstacles that slow them down and prevent them from reaching the surfaces that actually need attention.
The Day Before or Morning Of
Clear Surfaces
The most impactful thing you can do: clear items off the counters, tables, and other flat surfaces you want cleaned. Toiletries on the bathroom counter, mail and dishes on the kitchen counter, or clothing on the nightstand all need to be moved before cleaning can happen there. If the cleaner has to work around your stuff, they spend time managing items instead of cleaning.
Pick Up Clutter from Floors
Clothes, shoes, toys, and other items on the floor prevent proper vacuuming and mopping. Clear the main floor areas as best you can so your cleaner can get to the floor properly.
Put Away Valuables and Fragile Items
Store fragile or high-value items you're concerned about. This isn't about distrust — it's about peace of mind. Professional cleaners won't move fragile items; if something is in the way, they work around it.
Providing Access
If you won't be home:
- Leave a key with a neighbour or in a lockbox at the door
- For condos: leave fob instructions and ensure concierge knows someone is coming
- Add access instructions in your Maidless booking notes — cleaners check these before arriving
- Make sure parking is available if applicable
Pets
If you have pets, note it when booking. If your pet is anxious around strangers:
- Confine them to a room that doesn't need cleaning
- Or arrange to have them out of the house during the clean
If your pet will be loose in the home, let your cleaner know when they arrive so they're not startled.
What Not to Do
- Don't deep-clean before the cleaner arrives — basic tidying is sufficient
- Don't follow the cleaner around — it slows them down and makes them uncomfortable
- Don't stay on a conference call in the main area — if you're home, being in another room is considerate
Communicate Special Requests
When booking with Maidless, there's a notes field where you can flag anything specific — a room to avoid, a surface that needs extra attention, specific products to use or avoid, or any other instructions. The cleaner reviews these before arriving.
Book at maidless.ca/book.