How to prepare your home for a professional spring clean visit

1. De-clutter first

Preparing for a spring clean is the first step to success.  Carefully remove any items that do not belong in the common areas of your home, such as clothing, toys, dishes, and paperwork. Take a moment to sort through these items. Consider organising them into designated spaces or returning them to their rightful places. By de-cluttering surfaces like tables, countertops, and living room areas, you foster a more organised energy. And you also create an environment that allows cleaning professionals to access all corners of your space more easily.

This proactive approach enables cleaners to perform their tasks with greater efficiency and effectiveness. They can spend their time cleaning, not organising and avoiding. And even breaking. This way they can ensure that every surface is meticulously cleaned and that no dust, dirt, or debris are left behind. A well-maintained and tidy environment significantly contributes to a more relaxed and harmonious atmosphere for everyone in the household.  This promotes a sense of peace and well-being. Taking these steps can make a noticeable difference in the overall comfort and aesthetic of your living space.

If it all seems too hard just place your items into stackable plastic clutter boxes. Then deal with them later once you have the clear space in a beautiful clean home.

2. Communicate expectations

The next step in preparing for a spring clean is to kindly outline any specifics in writing. Such as areas you would like the cleaning team to focus on or steer clear of during their service. For instance, if there are fragile items, such as your antique desk or valuable artwork, that you prefer remain undisturbed, please indicate this clearly. Additionally, if you would like a comprehensive deep cleaning of certain appliances, like the oven or refrigerator, or areas such as the bathroom or kitchen, detailing those requests will be extremely helpful. Make sure you have an agreed upon list like this one before you start.

3. Clear the sink and counters

The next step in preparing for a spring clean is to gather and organise any dirty dishes, utensils, and personal items. These cluttered spaces, such as toiletries and their containers, add complication. Place dirty dishes and utensils in the sink or dishwasher, ensuring they are stacked neatly to maximise space. For toiletries, consider using a designated basket or drawer to keep everything together and easily accessible.

This process will help create a tidy and uncluttered environment, allowing you to enjoy a more functional and efficient kitchen and bathroom.

Once you’ve cleared these items, take a moment to wipe down the countertops and sink using a suitable cleaning solution. Focus on removing any crumbs, spills, or grime to maintain a high standard of cleanliness and hygiene. This will not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of the space but also promote a healthier living environment, making the area inviting for both you and your guests.

4. Secure pets

To minimise distractions and reduce the risk of accidents, it is highly advisable to keep pets or animals in a separate room or outside during potentially hazardous activities. Ensure that the designated space is secure, well-ventilated, and comfortable for them, providing ample bedding or resting areas. Additionally, supply them with fresh food and water, as well as an assortment of toys or engaging activities to keep them mentally stimulated. This approach not only fosters a focused and productive environment for humans but also prioritises the safety, comfort, and overall well-being of the animals involved. By taking these precautions, you can ensure a harmonious balance between human tasks and animal care.

5. Provide access

To facilitate a seamless entry experience for our guests, please provide comprehensive instructions regarding the following:

•  Keys: Specify the exact location where the keys can be found (e.g., in a lockbox at the front door or with a designated contact person) and any necessary access codes or instructions for retrieving them.
• Alarm Systems: Outline the steps for disarming the alarm system upon arrival, including any specific codes or procedures guests need to follow to ensure safety and prevent false alarms.
• Gate Codes: If applicable, please include the gate code needed for entry and any instructions on how to use it (for example, whether to enter the code on a keypad or use a clicker).
• Parking: Confirm the availability of adequate parking for guests. Provide details on where guests can park (e.g., designated spots, street parking), any restrictions they should be aware of (such as permit requirements or time limits), and alternative options if the primary parking area is full.

This information will help ensure that our guests have a smooth and stress-free arrival experience. 

6. Gather laundry or trash  

If this service is included in your agreement, please take the time to carefully sort the laundry into distinct loads. For example, ensure that all white garments are kept separate from dark-colored items to prevent any colour bleeding. Additionally, consider using separate mesh bags for delicate fabrics such as lingerie or silk to protect them during the washing process.

Furthermore, gather all household trash, including items like food wrappers, paper products, and any other waste, and securely place them in appropriate garbage bags. Be sure to tie each bag tightly to prevent any potential leaks or unpleasant odours. Once secured, place the bags in the designated disposal area to maintain a clean and orderly environment.

8. Do a quick walkthrough and inspect

Take a minute to note any damage or areas of concern so you can track cleaning progress. And if there has been damage or loose ends, take photos immediately after the cleaning. This will enable your conscientious cleaners to come back and fulfil their promise. Good luck and happy spring cleaning.