In the world of home maintenance, the age-old adage 'cleaning before the cleaner' takes on a new meaning. It's not about ensuring every corner is spotless, but rather about creating an environment that allows for a more efficient and effective cleaning experience. This simple yet powerful concept can transform the way we approach our homes and the professionals who help us keep them tidy. So, what's the secret to a successful cleaning session? It's all about tidying up, not cleaning.
The Art of Tidying Up
The idea of 'tidying before the cleaner' is not just a catchy phrase; it's a game-changer. By taking a few moments to organise and declutter, we can significantly enhance the cleaning process. This simple act can make a world of difference, both for the cleaner and the client. It's like giving the cleaner a head start, allowing them to focus on the task at hand without the added stress of navigating around obstacles.
Emotional and Practical Benefits
Kate Croukamp, Clean Like a Pro co-owner, sheds light on the two primary reasons behind this practice. Emotionally, some clients feel self-conscious about mess or clutter and want their homes to appear more organised. Practically, many understand that cleaners work within a set timeframe, so tidying up beforehand ensures the cleaner can dedicate their time to actual cleaning rather than spending it on decluttering.
The Impact of Tidying
Sara Allan, owner of Housekeeping Heroes, emphasises the importance of this simple act. She notes that spending time organising clutter and picking up items can extend the cleaning time, costing the client more. It can also lead to overlooked details, as the cleaner might struggle to access certain areas. This highlights the importance of a quick tidy-up before the arrival of the cleaner.
Real-Life Examples
Jemima, a mum, shares her experience, emphasising the practical benefits. She ensures her cleaner can focus on cleaning by doing a light tidy beforehand. Similarly, Mikala's mum prepares her home by putting everything back in its place and ensuring the sink is empty. These simple acts create a seamless cleaning experience.
What Needs to Be Tidied?
So, what exactly should be tidied before the cleaner arrives? Allan recommends clearing toys from floors for easy vacuuming and mopping, removing benchtop clutter, putting away paperwork, taking pets outside, and removing clothes from furniture. For those who request bed-making, Allan advises stripping bedding and leaving fresh linen for the cleaner to make the beds.
The Flexibility of Tidying
Cherie Polwarth, a professional cleaner from Maid2Match, highlights the flexibility of this approach. Some clients are content with the cleaner navigating their clutter, while others prefer a more thorough clean. This flexibility allows cleaners to adapt to different client needs, ensuring a personalised and efficient service.
In conclusion, 'cleaning before the cleaner' is not about perfection but about creating an environment that allows for a more efficient and effective cleaning experience. By embracing the art of tidying up, we can transform our homes and the way we interact with professional cleaners. It's a simple yet powerful practice that can make a significant difference in our daily lives.
