Cleaning vs Housekeeping

A common question I get asked is the difference between a cleaning service and a housekeeping service. Though the terms are often used interchangeably, they actually refer to two distinct services. When you hire a cleaning service, their main job is to make your home spotless and polished. A housekeeping service on the other hand, includes cleaning, but also covers other tasks like laundry, dishwashing, folding clothes and ironing. Housekeepers typically work more frequently than cleaners and their services tend to be more expensive. I offer both cleaning and housekeeping services to cater to my clients needs and budgets.

To illustrate the difference, think of your experience in a hotel. A maid may straighten up your room and organise your things, but they won't put items away or pack your suitcase. A cleaner focuses on making your home look and feel pristine, while a housekeeper goes beyond that by helping to manage your household. Both services are essential, and which one suits you depends on your specific needs. A skilled housekeeper will usually have an in-depth discussion with the homeowner to understand their requirements and importantly, to learn where everything belongs! A cleaner however, is too busy moving around to even hold a cup, let alone wash one.

When hiring a cleaning service, many companies, including mine, will kindly ask you to tidy up surfaces and floors before the cleaner arrives. This is because our job is to make your home look immaculate, even in those spots you wouldn't think to clean. Even if your home looks neat beforehand, I guarantee that after we're done, we'll be sweaty and exhausted! Proper cleaning doesn't leave time for housekeeping tasks, so I recommend clients who want extra housekeeping to book longer, more frequent sessions.

In short - a cleaner will clean and neaten things, but never tidy away and organise.