Cleaning vs Housekeeping

A question I frequently get asked is what is the difference between a cleaning service and a housekeeping service. The words are often used interchangeably but they are two different services. If you hire a cleaning service, they will make your house clean and polished. If you hire a housekeeping service, they will also keep your house tidy and do other chores such as laundry, washing dishes, folding clothes and ironing, in addition to cleaning. Housekeepers are typically hired on a more frequent basis than cleaners and this service is often more expensive than just cleaning. I am able to provide both cleaning and housekeeping to my clients depending on their needs and budget.

An example of the difference between cleaning and housekeeping is if you stay in a hotel. The maid may neaten your belongings but they won't put them away or pack your suitcase. A cleaner is there to make your home look and feel impeccable while a housekeeper will help you manage it. Both cleaning and housekeeping are equally as important and one service may be suited to your needs while the other may not. A good housekeeper will require an extensive meeting with the homeowner to discuss their needs and most importantly, to see where everything goes! A good cleaner will never be standing still long enough to even hold a mug, never mind wash them!

If you hire a cleaning service, many will politely ask you to tidy floors and surfaces before your cleaner arrives (myself included). This is because we are there to make your house clean and spotless, both to the eye and where you wouldn't think to look. Even if your house looks tidy beforehand, I guarantee that at the end of our time we will be sweating and physically exhausted! If you want your home properly cleaned, there is simply no time for housekeeping duties as well. This is why I advise my clients who would like additional housekeeping to book longer, more frequent slots.

In short - A cleaner will neaten but never tidy.