List for housekeeper

[Csara]

For those of you that have a housekeeper come, do you give them a list of what you want done? I've never done this, but being that I've never been happy with any of the cleaning people we've had, I think I am going to do this next time.
We have a new woman coming next week and she will be here longer than anyone has ever been before, which is great. She is coming for the entire day. So, there will be things I need done after she's done with basic cleaning. I am hoping she'll help with laundry and do a bit more of a deep cleaning than others have done.

What are some things that aren't usual that I might not think of to have her do?

[Sydneyp]

Have her clean the coils on your fridge, maybe clean out/organize kitchen cupboards, ironing clothes?

[heather6773]

I would ask her some of the other jobs she typically does for other home owners and go from there. Maybe call her before she starts. Then think about it. Then tell her you know someone in NY that also needs her:D

[RedBedHead]

Go to flylady.net and check out her weekly cleaning list. Things that I would include would be to wipe down baseboards, web the corners (including the ceiling) wipe down kitchen cabinets.

http://www.flylady.net/pages/FLYingLessons_Routines.asp#weeklycheck

Of course this won't all apply but this is the routine that I try to follow.

[Margarita]

I was thinking baseboards and kitchen cabinets, too, especially the tops. I would love to have someone come wash my windows!

[Turtleheadfred]

You should always have a list of what you expect and want done from any cleaning service/lady. Otherwise, they're basically trying to read your mind on what they "think" is going to make you happy... which explains why you've never been completely satisfied.

Some people want their bedclothes changed and the laundry done - but for others - this is WAY too personal. Other people I know have someone JUST do the dusting because that's the only thing they really hate! If you're going to have someone come on a regular basis - they will probably start with a thorough cleaning (window seals, baseboard, etc.) if it's a company - which costs more than the weekly/monthly up-keep cleaning. After they get everything "in shape", it's more or less just maintenance so the fee is less.

You may want ironing done - or not. Definitely decice what is going to be the best timesaver for you - what will "free you up" and be something that will be of most benefit to you in keeping your home orderly.

If it's "cleaning windows" and "baseboards" or "refrigerator coils" - that's not a weekly or monthly thing and you shouldn't base your decision on those unless this is a one time deal for you.

Just my suggestion based on experience. Good Luck! Let you know how it goes!:rock:

[Csara]

You should always have a list of what you expect and want done from any cleaning service/lady. Otherwise, they're basically trying to read your mind on what they "think" is going to make you happy... which explains why you've never been completely satisfied.
Well, I've always pretty much told them to just clean everything so maybe you are right. However, I think the main reason we haven't been satisfied is b/c we have not been able to find someone who does more than surface clean. It seems there is no such thing as "deep cleaning" anymore. :rolleyes: Anyway, remember when I started this thread how I said we found someone new......well, she totally stood us up TWICE. Then I found another one and she flaked on me too. Ugh!!! I am going to go on another friend's recommendation now and see what happens. This is getting really frustrating. Good help is HARD to find.

[Turtleheadfred]

Oh, I'm so sorry C! It is hard to find someone to do things - and do them right!

My mom actually did make a list and told her lady what she wanted done specifically - and she's much happier with what they did this last week. (Shoot - I'd be thrilled! The woman cleans the bathroom and kitchen floors on her hands and knees!!!!)

Anyway, other than referrals, larger agencies will generally do the "deep cleaning" - or so I'm told. And they'll be licensed and insured so that if you don't like the job, you can call them and tell them you're not satisfied and they can either refund your money, or come back and reclean (with your supervision) for free!

Good luck and let us know how it goes!

(Hey - one of my former co-workers found a man that did cleaning and she swears he is the BEST she's ever seen! Maybe you should try to find a guy?!?) :confused:

[Csara]

I have a new one coming tomorrow - another recommendation from another friend and she thinks this woman cleans very well so we'll see. I am going to work on a list so that there are no disappointments on my end.