Got a cleaning lady for the 1st time....

Tomorrow will be my first time using a cleaning lady to clean my home. I have a few questions for those who use one....

1. Do I have to tell her what to do? I really don't want anything out of the ordinary - just some dusting, mopping, etc...

2. She works for an agency. How much do I tip?

Re: Got a cleaning lady for the 1st time....

She'll do what's agreed upon in your contract or if you didn't sign one, whatever you're paying for... ie. light cleaning of any surface and outside of appliances.

Extras are things like cleaning inside of appliances, fans, folding laundry, etc. If your cleaner is part of a larger organization, you may find that asking the cleaner to do some of the extras and giving her money directly will save you some $$. ;)

If you them to use specific cleaning supplies/solutions, you'll have to leave that out and specify those be used. Some cleaners I've used don't speak English so I don't even bother to write down instructions, but just call the cleaning svc office and give them instructions so they can relay to the cleaners.

Regarding tips, don't have to unless they went above and beyond (ie. doing extras free of charge). But chances are you won't know if they did went above and beyond if you're not around to inspect the work before they leave.

Message edited 1/20/2012 1:59:30 PM.

Re: Got a cleaning lady for the 1st time....

Thanks!

Re: Got a cleaning lady for the 1st time....

When I used an agency I tipped. Each woman (there were 2) $20.

I was very specific in what I wanted done each time. Down to what I wanted the base boards and ceiling fan cleaned with and how often. Go thru each room with her and be specific and maybe write things down so there is no miscommunication later on. I also made clear on things I didn't want touched (bedside drawer