There are a few things you should look for in a house cleaner to make sure that your home is treated with respect and remains secure, and that you get high-quality service. Start by looking for an experienced company that is insured and has references they can provide. Next, prioritize cleaners that offer the specific services you need and can commit to a cleaning schedule that works with your schedule. Finally, ask your cleaner about satisfaction guarantees and their cleaning process to make sure you hire the right company.

You should consider doing a few things on your own that fall under the category of “good house cleaner etiquette” to prepare for your house cleaner. These include tidying counters, floors, and other surfaces, taking care of the dishes, moving laundry to the laundry room or a dedicated laundry basket, and putting away personal and private items. Think of your house cleaner as someone who brings your home from relatively tidy to organized and clean, and you should have no issues.

Although tipping is not a requirement, many people tip house cleaners around 10% to 15% of the final cleaning cost. Some people tip as much as 20% or more, but it’s up to your discretion. Rather than tipping each cleaning session, you can also tip monthly or give the house cleaner a holiday bonus. There are no rules for tipping, but if your house cleaner did a great job it’s encouraged.