How to Prepare Your Home Before a Cleaner Arrives
A little preparation before your cleaner arrives means they spend their time actually cleaning rather than moving things around, and you get significantly better results for the same cost. Here's what actually makes a difference.
1. Declutter Surfaces
The single most impactful thing you can do. Counters, tables, desks, and bathroom vanities covered in items can't be properly cleaned — the cleaner either moves everything item-by-item (taking significant time) or cleans around it (leaving covered areas untouched). Before the clean: pick up and store items off surfaces, clear the kitchen counter, and tidy the bathroom vanity. This alone frees up substantial time for actual cleaning.
2. Pick Up Off the Floor
Clothes, toys, bags, shoes, and anything else on the floor prevents proper vacuuming and mopping. A cleaner shouldn't have to decide where your belongings go. Floor items in bedrooms and common areas take a few minutes to put away and ensure floors get a proper clean throughout.
3. Identify Priorities
If you have specific areas that need more attention — a particularly dirty oven, a bathroom that hasn't been deep cleaned in months, or a room that's the focus — mention it when booking or leave a note. Cleaners prioritize based on the information they have; without direction, they follow a standard routine.
4. Secure Pets
Pets that are loose during a clean create safety concerns for the cleaner (dogs that bark or jump) and can interfere with the work. Secure pets in a room not being cleaned, crate them, or arrange for them to be out of the home during the clean. Let Maidless know when booking if you have pets.
5. Provide Access
Make sure the cleaner can get in. If you won't be home: confirm the access method (key, lockbox code, building buzzer instructions). If parking is needed, let them know the best option. Unclear access arrangements are the most common cause of late starts.
What You Don't Need to Do
- Pre-clean before the cleaner arrives — that's their job
- Buy supplies — Maidless brings everything needed
- Be home — it's fine to leave once they've arrived and have access
Book your next clean at maidless.ca — 4.9★, 100+ reviews, vetted cleaners across Toronto. Flat-rate pricing, no surprises.