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So many friends, colleague and clients will comment that they always feel compelled to clean before a cleaner gets to their home.  And in some cases, this can add considerable stress!

At Manhattan Maids we always say to not worry about it as we see it all and are without judgement – and fundamentally that is our job!  However, there can be method to the madness if you are wanting to maximise the effectiveness of your maids visit, or if you’re on a budget and wanting to ensure that the key items in your home are cleaned to a high standard within time restrictions. 

Here’s a quick 3 minute guide on what to clean before the cleaner arrives!

1. Declutter Surfaces

This is probably the best time saving tip as it allows your maid to get straight into deep cleaning.  Especially in the ‘wet areas’ (what we call the kitchen and bathrooms!) this can save much time.

• Countertops: Clear off any items like toiletries, dishes, or appliances.
• Floors: Pick up toys, shoes, and any other items that may be lying around.
• Tables and Desks: Remove papers, books, and miscellaneous items to give them easy access to clean these areas.

2. Organise Your Spaces

While it’s not necessary to have everything perfectly organised, here are the main things to focus on:

• Tidy Up Bedrooms: Make the beds and pick up clothes from the floor. If you have items that belong in drawers or closets, put them away to create a neater appearance.
• Living Areas: Fold blankets, fluff cushions, and put away any stray items.

3. Clear the Pathways

Ensure that pathways are clear for your cleaner to move around freely and vacuum easily. This could include:

• Hallways:  Remove any items like shoes or bags in the hallway as these take time to pick up and vacuum and/or mop underneath.
• Stairs:  Make sure stairs are clear of any items that could create a tripping hazard.
• Laundry: If you want your laundry done, gather your clothes and place them in a basket so it’s easy to see what needs to be washed.

4. Take Care of Pets

Although many of our maids are pet lovers, it can be challenging for them to navigate around your beloved pets when cleaning. If you do have pets, make sure that they are secure and comfortable during the cleaning process to help your maid work without distractions while keeping your pets calm.  You may want to consider:

• Create a Safe Space:  Place pets in a room where they feel comfortable and away from the cleaning activity.  This is particularly important if they get nervous around vacuum cleaners or mops. It also keeps them off the floors when mopping giving them time to dry.
• Remove Pet Supplies: Clear away any pet toys or food bowls from areas that need to be cleaned and pop them into a container or out of the way.

5. Remove Valuables and Fragile Items

Before your maid arrives, it’s wise to secure any valuables and fragile items. Taking precautions gives you peace of mind and allows your cleaner to work without fear of damaging your belongings:

• Personal Items: Store away jewellery, important documents, and other valuables in a safe place.
• Fragile Decor: Move delicate decorations or knick-knacks to a secure location to prevent accidental damage during the cleaning process.

As mentioned above, Manhattan Maids can also take care of any of these items for you as it does form part of their role. However, preparing for your cleaner not only helps them do their job more effectively but also ensures a more thorough clean. By decluttering, organising, and communicating your needs, you can create an environment that allows your cleaner to focus on what truly matters: giving your home the clean it deserves!