Hiring a housekeeper is a major step. Maybe you’ve arrived at the conclusion that your home is so spacious that you spend way more time scrubbing, wiping and washing than enjoying it. You could have a large family, and keeping up with order and organization seems impossible. Or, regardless of small or large square footage, you’ve decided that having an extra set of hands gives you more time back in your day, and that alone is worth it. Opening up your home is also deeply personal, and you want to hire someone that you trust. Here are a few things to think about, as well as questions to ask to help the process go as smoothly as possible.

Identify Your Needs

First, you’ll want to see where it is you need support the most. This will help prevent casting a wide net and spending more time than necessary sifting through applications. Make a list of your top priorities, from reducing that pile of laundry or dishes to deep cleaning and keeping floors pristine. Additionally, ask yourself how often you’ll want them to come, or if you’d like more than one. For some, once a week is just enough to keep their home orderly. But if you have a demanding schedule or find yourself constantly cleaning your household, you might want to consider two or three times a week.

Have a Budget Range Ready

Housekeepers vary how they charge, but it’s typically by the hour. This can range greatly per individual and calculates factors based on their experience, your needs and square footage. For example, if you have a home that’s 2,500 square feet, you could pay roughly anywhere from $250-$265. Smaller homes or individual rooms take less time to clean and would result costing less. If you go through a service, they’ll likely offer a discount for your first service. If you are comfortable trying out different ones, try a few until you find the right fit.

Experience Matters

Experience can be a major factor when hiring a housekeeper, especially if you’re very particular about your expectations. Look for candidates who have a solid track record and a history of satisfied clients with positive reviews. Different types of living spaces have different challenges, so this will help identify exactly what you need.

Check References

Your home is such a personal space, and hiring someone you can trust is essential for your peace of mind and safety. Most companies you go through conduct background checks, but if you hire an independent contractor, you should do one of your own online for a fee.

Communication, Communication, Communication

Effective communication is essential for a successful working relationship with your housekeeper. Clearly communicate your expectations, preferences, and any specific instructions you may have regarding cleaning tasks. A good housekeeper will listen attentively, ask clarifying questions, and be receptive to feedback to ensure they meet your needs and standards.

Flexibility Counts

Life can be unpredictable, so it’s important to find a housekeeper who is flexible and adaptable. Look for someone who can accommodate changes to your schedule or additional cleaning tasks as needed. A flexible housekeeper will make your life easier and make sure your home stays clean and well-maintained even during busy or challenging times.

Attention to Detail

If you’re detail-oriented, chances are you’ll want your housekeeper to have the same qualities. Look for someone who takes pride in their work and has a keen eye for detail—something you can usually identify from reading their reviews.

Where to Find Housekeepers

If you’re looking for more than one housekeeper or have a specific job in mind such as a deep cleaning for moving out or something as simple as cleaning your flooring, consider engaging professional housekeeping agencies through an online search. These agencies rigorously vet their staff, promising high standards of professionalism, reliability, and expertise.

While this option may come with a higher price tag, you typically get a third-party quality assurance that may be worth it. If you go this route, you can explore nationally recognized chains, or look for something local in your area. Otherwise, you could ask around by reaching out to your friends and family or on social media. This can give you an extra layer of trust, as the resources will come personally recommended.