Common Mistakes to Avoid Before Cleaners Arrive

Aug 14

Hiring a professional cleaning service is a great way to maintain a clean, organized, and comfortable home. However, homeowners sometimes make small mistakes before cleaners arrive that can reduce the efficiency of the service or impact the final results.

By understanding what not to do, you can make the most of your cleaning appointment and ensure the process goes smoothly.

This guide covers common mistakes to avoid before a cleaning service visit and offers simple steps to prepare effectively.

Mistake 1: Not Decluttering in Advance

Professional cleaners are there to clean, not organize clutter. If surfaces and floors are covered with toys, clothes, paperwork, or dishes, cleaners may need to spend extra time moving these items—time that could be used for actual cleaning.

Better approach:

Pick up items from floors, countertops, and furniture before cleaners arrive.
Place loose belongings in designated storage areas.
Make decluttering a quick, regular step before each appointment.

A tidy space allows cleaners to focus on the tasks you’ve hired them for.

Mistake 2: Forgetting to Secure Valuables and Fragile Items

While reputable cleaning companies handle homes with care, accidents can happen. Small, fragile, or valuable items may be knocked over or misplaced during cleaning.

Better approach:

Store jewelry, electronics, cash, and important documents in a safe place.
Move fragile décor to secure locations.
Communicate with the cleaning team if there are items that should not be handled.

This is part of how to properly prepare for a cleaning service and helps create a smooth process for both you and the cleaning team.

Mistake 3: Not Communicating Priorities or Special Instructions

Every home is different, and your cleaners won’t know your preferences unless you share them. Skipping this step can result in areas being overlooked or not cleaned to your expectations.

Better approach:

Let the cleaning company know which rooms or areas need extra attention.
Share preferences for cleaning products, especially if you have allergies or sensitive surfaces.
Discuss any areas that should be skipped.

Clear communication ensures your cleaning session matches your needs.

Mistake 4: Leaving Blocked Access to Key Areas

If furniture, boxes, or clutter block areas that need cleaning, the team may not be able to reach them. This can leave some spaces untouched.

Better approach:

Move items blocking cabinets, windows, or closets to be cleaned.
Ensure clear access to floors, surfaces, and entryways.
Arrange furniture or belongings so cleaners can work efficiently.

Mistake 5: Keeping Pets in the Cleaning Areas

Pets can become anxious around cleaning equipment, and they may interfere with the process.

Better approach:

Place pets in a separate room or safe space during cleaning.
Inform the cleaning company if pets will be in the home.
Secure pet food, toys, and beds away from cleaning zones.

This ensures safety for both pets and cleaners.

Mistake 6: Forgetting to Arrange Entry

If you won’t be home during the cleaning, not arranging entry can delay or prevent the appointment.

Better approach:

Decide how cleaners will access the home (key, lockbox, or smart lock).
Communicate entry details to the cleaning company in advance.
Confirm the plan the day before the appointment.

Mistake 7: Expecting Deep Cleaning During a Standard Appointment

Standard cleaning services focus on regular upkeep. Deep cleaning tasks like scrubbing grout, cleaning behind appliances, or washing windows may not be included unless specifically requested.

Better approach:

Review the service checklist to understand what is included.
Request deep cleaning or add-on services in advance if needed.
Schedule a separate deep cleaning session for more intensive tasks.

Mistake 8: Not Reviewing the Service Scope in Advance

Misunderstandings can occur if you assume certain tasks are included without confirming them.

Better approach:

Read the list of services provided by the cleaning company.
Ask questions if you’re unsure about specific tasks.
Clarify any special requests before the appointment.

Mistake 9: Not Being Reachable During the Appointment

Even if you won’t be home, it’s helpful for cleaners to be able to contact you if they have questions.

Better approach:

Provide your phone number or preferred contact method.
Stay accessible in case the team needs clarification.
Check messages during the appointment in case of updates.

Mistake 10: Skipping the Post-Cleaning Walkthrough

Skipping a quick review of the work can mean missing areas you’d like adjusted.

Better approach:

If possible, walk through the home after cleaning is complete.
Provide feedback while the team is still there.
Discuss adjustments for future visits if needed.

How Proper Preparation Improves Results

Avoiding these mistakes creates a better experience for both you and your cleaning team. Proper preparation helps:

Save time during the appointment.
Ensure areas are cleaned thoroughly.
Build a positive relationship with your cleaning company.

When you prepare well, you get maximum value from your cleaning service.

Small Steps Lead to Better Cleaning Sessions

Avoiding common mistakes before cleaners arrive can make a big difference in the quality and efficiency of the service. By decluttering, securing valuables, communicating priorities, and ensuring access, you help create the best conditions for a successful appointment.

These steps are simple but effective in ensuring you get the results you expect from your cleaning service. A little preparation leads to a cleaner, more organized home—and a better working relationship with your cleaning company.