It may seem like an expensive luxury to hire someone to clean your house, but for busy people who don’t have the time or energy to keep up with cleaning chores, it can be a worthwhile investment. Having professionals clean your home can save you hours of tedious work and help you relax and focus on other priorities. It can also prevent health problems associated with dust, mold, and pet dander. If you’re thinking about hiring a full house cleaning service, consider the services offered and price options before making a decision.

A general cleaning service usually includes weekly or daily cleaning of most surfaces in the home, including dusting, vacuuming, washing and disinfecting. Depending on the cleaning company, this might include sanitizing appliances and kitchen counters, vacuuming carpets and cleaning windows, and emptying garbage cans. Many professional cleaning companies offer a variety of options for regular and one-time cleans, and they typically provide a free estimate over the phone or in person.

Full house cleaning services can range from a basic deep clean to specialty cleaning services for items such as ceiling fans, baseboards and the underside of furniture, mirrors, walls and wall art, and other small spaces that are hard to reach. In addition, many cleaning companies have specialty offerings such as window cleaning, carpet cleaning or move-in/move-out cleaning.

When choosing a cleaning service, read customer reviews and find out what other customers think about the quality of cleaning and the friendliness of staff. It’s also a good idea to ask friends and family members for recommendations. Many cleaning companies offer savings to regular or repeat customers. Ask if cleaners are insured, background-checked, and drug-tested. Some cleaning companies also offer green cleaning services that use products with fewer chemicals and are safe for kids and pets.

Individual cleaners and independent contractors often have lower rates than cleaning companies, though they don’t offer the same assurances as a company. If you choose an independent cleaner, make sure they are licensed and bonded, and check references and a background check before hiring them. Some cleaners also bring their own supplies, which can save on expenses.

For many people, it is uncomfortable to let strangers into their homes and work in their private space. Some companies, such as Comfy Homes, have managers who meet and brief clients thoroughly at the first session to ensure that all parties are on the same page. Others, such as Merry Maids, will assign you a dedicated helper and provide all of the cleaning supplies needed. Both options have their pros and cons, so it’s important to make a choice that works best for your lifestyle.