If you've never booked a professional cleaner before — or you're switching from a platform like Housekeep or Airtasker to a dedicated service — there are a few things that make the difference between a good clean and a great one. It's not about having a spotless flat before they arrive. It's about 10 minutes of preparation that lets your cleaner spend 100% of their time actually cleaning. Here's exactly what to do.
1. Tidy Before They Arrive — Not Deep Clean, Just Tidy
Your cleaner is not there to sort through your belongings. Clearing surfaces, picking up clothes from floors, and returning items to their normal places takes you 10–15 minutes but saves your cleaner significant time — time they can instead spend on actual deep cleaning. You don't need to clean anything yourself; just create a clear work surface.
2. Secure or Move Valuables and Fragile Items
Move anything fragile or irreplaceable off open surfaces before the clean. This isn't a reflection of trust — it's simply good practice that removes risk for both parties. Jewellery, documents, and items with significant sentimental value are better stored away during any cleaning appointment.
3. Communicate Your Priorities
Every home is different. Tell your cleaner which areas need extra attention this visit — the bathroom grout, a kitchen appliance that's been neglected, or a specific room that's due more focus. Clear priorities mean your most important areas get the best attention, rather than even time spread across everything.
4. Let Your Cleaner Know What Products Are in the House
DS Cleaners brings their own professional-grade, eco-friendly products for every appointment. But if you have particular surfaces that require specific care — marble worktops, unsealed stone, certain wood finishes — mention this. We'll bring the right products and avoid anything that could damage a delicate surface.
5. Provide Access to What's Needed
Make sure your cleaner has access to a working hoover, mop and bucket (we bring products but not equipment unless agreed in advance), and knows where to find bin bags, extra cloths, or specific items you'd like them to use. A quick orientation on your first appointment is time well spent.
6. You Don't Need to Be Home
Many clients provide a key or access code and are out for the duration of the clean. This is perfectly normal and often produces better results — your cleaner can work uninterrupted and focus entirely on the job. All DS Cleaners staff are vetted, reference-checked, and trusted with solo access routinely.
7. Give Feedback After the First Clean
The first appointment is always the most important for getting the relationship right. If anything wasn't done to your standard, or if you'd like priorities adjusted, say so clearly and promptly. A good cleaning team wants to know — it means every subsequent visit gets closer to exactly what you want.