You've booked a professional cleaning, and soon your home will be sparkling. But a little preparation beforehand can make the visit smoother, faster, and more effective. Think of it as setting your cleaners up for success: the more they can focus on actual cleaning, the better your results.
The good news is that you don't need to clean before the cleaners come. (That's what you're paying us for!) Here's a simple checklist to get your home ready.
1. Pick Up the Clutter
The most helpful thing you can do is clear surfaces and floors. Cleaners can't wipe a counter covered in mail or vacuum a floor covered in toys.
Put away clothes, shoes, and toys
Clear countertops, tables, and nightstands
Gather loose papers and mail into a single pile or basket
Return dishes to the kitchen and load the dishwasher if you can
A tidy space lets your cleaners spend their time scrubbing and polishing instead of organizing.
2. Secure Valuables and Personal Items
Even with a trusted team, it's smart to put away anything that's valuable, fragile, or sensitive.
Store jewelry, cash, and important documents out of sight
Move fragile or sentimental items to a safe spot
Close and lock any private rooms or cabinets you don't want cleaned
Put away medications and personal care items
3. Plan for Pets and Kids
Pets and children are wonderful, but they can slow down a cleaning visit and may get stressed by unfamiliar people and equipment.
Keep pets in a separate room, crate, or with a friend, or let your cleaners know where they are
Put away pet bowls, toys, and beds from the areas to be cleaned
Arrange for children to be out or in a designated area if possible
4. Make Sure Cleaners Have Access
Nothing slows a cleaning like not being able to get in. Before the appointment, confirm how your cleaners will enter.
Share building access details, doorman instructions, or elevator rules (especially important in NYC buildings)
Provide a key, code, or lockbox information, or plan to be home
Let your building staff know to expect the team
Note any parking or loading instructions
5. Tell Us What Matters Most
Every home has trouble spots. Give your cleaners a quick heads-up so they know where to focus.
Point out areas that need extra attention, such as a stained tub or a greasy stovetop
Mention any surfaces that need special care, like marble, hardwood, or delicate fixtures
Share any products you'd prefer we avoid, such as for allergies or sensitivities
Let us know about rooms that are off-limits
6. Clear Space Around Areas to Be Cleaned
A little extra room goes a long way.
Move small furniture or décor away from baseboards and corners if possible
Clear the bottom of the shower or tub of bottles and products
Empty the sink so it can be scrubbed
Take down anything hanging on the shower rod or doorknobs
7. Don't Forget the Small Details
A few last things can make the visit even easier.
Take out the trash or let your cleaners know where to dispose of it
Start a load of laundry if you'd like it folded, and ask about this service
Leave a clear path to your electrical outlets for vacuums and equipment
Think about supplies: confirm with your cleaning service whether they bring everything or whether you should provide anything specific
What You Don't Need to Do
To save you stress, here's what you can skip:
Deep cleaning beforehand. Leave the scrubbing to the pros.
Buying supplies. Professional services typically bring their own.
Rearranging the whole house. A quick tidy is all that's needed.
Ready for a Spotless Home?
A few minutes of prep can make a big difference in how smoothly your cleaning goes and how great your home looks when it's done. Get the basics out of the way, share your priorities, and let our team handle the rest.
Ready to book? Contact Sparkling Housemaids NYC today for a free quote and let us bring the sparkle to your home.
