How to Prepare Your Home Before Your Cleaner Arrives

Wondering if you need to tidy up before your cleaner arrives? Here's the honest answer: a little prep helps your cleaner spend their time actually cleaning, rather than clearing, but you don't need to clean before the cleaner comes.

What to do before your cleaner arrives

• Clear surfaces of clutter. Put away paperwork, toys, dishes and personal items so benches, floors and tables can be properly cleaned, not just cleaned around.
• Secure pets. A pet that's anxious around strangers is safer and calmer in a separate room or outside.
• Put valuables and fragile items away. This protects anything irreplaceable and gives your cleaner clear access to work.
• Note anything specific. If a room needs extra attention, or somewhere is off-limits, let us know when you book or on arrival.
• Make sure there's access. Confirm how your cleaner will get in, whether that's someone home, a key, or a code.

What you don't need to do

• Vacuum or mop before we arrive. That's the job.
• Scrub the bathroom or kitchen in advance.
• Make the beds unless you'd like them left exactly as they are.
• Buy cleaning products. Our cleaners bring everything needed.

First clean vs regular cleans

A first clean on a home that hasn't had professional cleaning in a while may take longer, since there's more build-up to work through. Once a regular schedule is in place, weekly or fortnightly cleans stay quicker and more consistent, because the home never has the chance to build up mess between visits.

What to expect on the day

Housekept cleaners bring their own supplies and equipment, so you don't need to provide anything. They're employees, not subcontractors, and HouseKept is insured. Wherever possible, we assign a consistent cleaner so they get to know your home and your preferences over time.

Prep checklist FAQs

Do I need to be home for the clean?

No, as long as we have a way to access the property, whether that's a key, a code or someone letting us in.

What if I forget to clear something?

Your cleaner will simply work around it. Clearing surfaces just means more of the visit goes to actual cleaning rather than tidying.

Can I ask for specific areas to be prioritised?

Yes. Tell us what matters most when you book, or let your cleaner know on the day.

Ready to book your first clean? Book online or see our pricing.