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When you're gearing up to move into a new place, your to-do list tends to reach worrisome proportions. There are boxes to procure, furniture to dismantle, clutter to get rid of. And while checking things off can be immensely satisfying, delegating will save you copious amounts of stress.
That's where move-in cleaning services come in. They ensure that your new space is in tip-top shape before you even set foot through the door. Here are a few things you should know before you reach for your credit card.
Move-in cleaning services offer a thorough cleaning of your new home prior to you relocating. They make sure all surfaces are sparkly fresh and that your new space is as welcoming as possible.
That way, you don't have to worry about having to vacuum, disinfect the toilet or wipe down a window as soon as you enter the front door.
Whether you're renting or buying a new place, you have no assurance that the previous occupants have deep cleaned all nooks and crannies. A move-in cleaning service will give you peace of mind.
You can compare potential cleaning providers based on these factors:
The run-down of move-in cleaning services available varies from company to company. Most cleaning professional will perform the following tasks:
Additionally, move-in cleaners are willing to attend to any special requests. Some services, like carpet or furniture steaming, will cost extra.
Start by researching cleaning companies in your area and looking up what kind of services they offer. Make sure you ask for quotes from several companies before settling on one.
Most companies enable potential customers to get a quote by completing a short online form where they share what kind of services they're interested in and how big the property is. You can also contact the company via phone.
Alternatively, you can look into hiring a cleaning professional through websites like Airtasker, where you receive no-obligation quotes in a matter of minutes.
The price you'll pay varies based on how big your new home is and exactly what kind of cleaning services you require. The average price for a move-in cleaner on Airtasker is $50 - $70.
If you hire a company, cleaning packages start around $70 but only include the essentials. You'll have to pay extra for additional services like carpet cleaning (around $50) or wall washing ($100+). Some cleaners/companies charge by the hour.
There's not a lot to do to prepare for a move-in clean, especially since you're already busy with everything else associated with the big move.
Some companies require the property to be completely empty so you might have to move out furniture for the cleaning team to do their job as efficiently as possible.
It depends on the size of the property and the services you book. A move-in clean takes around 2 or 3 hours for a standard one-bedroom apartment.
Regardless of which type of cleaning service you're after, there are three questions you need to answer:
Not necessarily. There are companies that provide key pick-up and drop-off services. That means the cleaner will come and pick up the key from you, clean the property, then bring the key back. You'll likely have to pay extra for this service.
Yes. You can use a key pick-up and drop-off service so you limit contact with the cleaning professionals as much as possible.
Yes, there are companies and individuals that offer same-day cleaning services, though short notice may mean an extra fee.
Ideally, we recommend you set a move-in date and book the cleaners in advance, so you have time to research the companies you're considering carefully.
If you book a one-off cleaning service like move-in cleaning, the company will use their own cleaning products. However, it's always best to double check.
If you can afford it, hiring a move-in cleaning service is a smart move. Your new home will be immaculate and ready for a fresh start. Just like you.
Do I need to tip the cleaner?
When you hire a cleaner for a one-off job, most etiquette professionals say you should tip. Think somewhere around $10-$20.
Is there anything a move-in cleaning service won't do?
If you need a specific service, you can negotiate with the company, but it may incur an extra cost. Move-in cleaners don't move furniture around, do laundry, clean inside a fireplace or get rid of pests.
Should I hire a regular cleaning service?
Hiring a professional cleaner to do the dirty work for you ensures that your house is spotless year-round. Most people choose to have their house professionally cleaned weekly, biweekly or on a monthly basis. Keep in mind that move-in cleaning is more detailed and, hence, more expensive than domestic cleaning.
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