Sponsor Spotlight: THE DUST DEVILS

What to consider when hiring a house cleaner

BY THERESA KOLBUS: OWNER AND CEO

Imagine a life where weekends aren’t consumed by cleaning marathons or debates over who’s responsible for cleaning up the kitchen. Hiring a house cleaner can provide not only a sparkling home but also peace of mind and extra time to focus on what truly matters—family, relaxation, and hobbies or passions. But if the idea of inviting someone into your home feels daunting, you’re not alone.

How do you trust a stranger with your space? What does hiring a house cleaner involve? Will your pets be comfortable with a visitor in the house? These are valid questions that should be asked of every home cleaning service. Here’s a guide to help you confidently navigate this process.

INDEPENDENT CLEANERS VS. CLEANING COMPANIES

One of your first decisions is choosing between an independent cleaner and a professional cleaning company. Independent cleaners often cost less, and you’re likely to have the same person cleaning your home every time. However, this option may come with trade-offs.

Independent cleaners might lack the insurance or bonding that companies typically provide. In that case, what happens if something in your home is damaged? If they’re unavailable due to illness or personal emergencies, there’s no team to back them up, potentially leaving your home uncleaned, sometimes for unknown periods of time. Additionally, they may not have formal policies for handling issues like scheduling conflicts, dissatisfaction with services, etc. Hiring a professional cleaning company can ensure reliability, professionalism, and peace of mind. Companies like The Dust Devils are insured, bonded, and have established procedures for quality and accountability. Technicians are background checked and vetted. Plus, if your regular cleaner is unavailable, a replacement can step in seamlessly.

QUESTIONS TO ASK BEFORE HIRING

To ensure you’re hiring the right fit, here are key questions to ask:

1. Will the Same Cleaner Come Each Time?

Consistency matters. A cleaner familiar with your home’s layout and preferences will save time and improve results. While some companies send teams or rotate staff, others aim for consistency by assigning the same technician to your home whenever possible. At The Dust Devils, we send the same technician to your home each time.

2. Do I Need to Sign a Contract?

Most companies don’t require longterm contracts but may have policies for cancellations, service scope, or employee non-compete agreements. Clarify these during your initial discussions to avoid surprises.

3. How Should I Prepare My Home for Cleaning?

The age-old question: Should you “clean” before the cleaner arrives? Not exactly. Decluttering is key—clearing surfaces and picking up personal items ensures your cleaner can focus on actual cleaning rather than organizing. If you have specific requests, such as washing dishes or laundry, be sure to mention them during the estimate.

4. How Do Payments and Tips Work?

Many companies streamline payments by storing your card on file and charging it after each service. Others may use digital platforms like QuickBooks or PayPal. Tipping isn’t required but is always appreciated as a gesture of gratitude for exceptional work.

5. Can I Be Home While You Clean?

Absolutely. Many people work from home these days, so cleaning companies are used to coordinating around your schedule. Discuss which areas you’d like cleaned first or last to minimize disruptions. Building a rapport with your cleaning technician often turns the process into a pleasant, personalized experience.

6. How Will You Handle My Pets?

For pet owners, this is often a top concern. Most cleaning companies, including The Dust Devils, love furry companions! Friendly pets are usually free to roam during cleaning, but if your pet prefers solitude, creating a safe space for them will keep everyone comfortable.

Hiring a house cleaner isn’t just about a clean home—it’s about reclaiming your time, reducing friction in the household, and reducing stress. By asking the right questions and choosing a provider that aligns with your needs you can enjoy a spotless house without lifting a finger.

At The Dust Devils, we specialize in more than just cleaning—we’re here to help make life better and brighter for our clients. Our trusted team is ready to transform your home and give you more time for what matters most.

The Dust Devils (317) 268-8639 info@indydustdevils.com indydustdevils.com