How to prepare your home before a professional cleaner arrives
1 March 2026 · 4 min read · Scrubly Editorial
Booking a professional cleaner is one of the best things you can do for your home — but to get the most out of every session, a little preparation on your end makes a real difference. Cleaners are experts at cleaning, not decluttering. The more access they have to surfaces, the better the results. Here's a practical guide to getting your home ready.
1. Declutter before they arrive
This is the single biggest thing you can do. Your cleaner will clean around clutter, not through it. Before the appointment, pick up clothes off the floor, clear kitchen countertops of appliances and food items, stack dishes in the sink or dishwasher, and remove items from bathroom surfaces. You don't need a spotless house — just clear surfaces so your cleaner can actually get to them.
A good rule of thumb: if it took you 20 minutes to tidy before a guest came round, that's the level to aim for.
2. Secure valuables and personal items
Reputable cleaning companies like Scrubly vet all their cleaners thoroughly, but it's still best practice to put away jewellery, important documents, and any sentimental items you'd be upset to have moved or misplaced. This also prevents any awkward situations or misunderstandings.
If you have a home office, consider stacking loose papers or closing your laptop. Your cleaner will clean around your workspace without touching your files.
3. Sort out your pets
Pets can be a real obstacle for cleaners — not just because of the hair and mess, but because some animals become territorial or distressed when strangers enter the home. Ideally, arrange for your pets to be in another room, outside, or at a neighbour's during the clean.
If your pet will be in the house, let your cleaner know in advance so they can plan their route and avoid any rooms your pet is confined to. Also mention any pet hair hotspots that need extra attention.
4. Leave clear access instructions
If you won't be home during the clean, leave detailed access instructions. This includes: where the spare key is (or how to use a key safe), any alarm codes and how to set/unset them, which rooms to prioritise if time is short, and any appliances or switches to avoid. Write these down — don't rely on a text message that might get missed. Many customers leave a printed note on the kitchen counter.
5. What your cleaner actually needs
Make sure your cleaner has access to: a working vacuum cleaner (unless they're bringing their own), hot running water, a mop and bucket or access to a sink for mopping, and adequate ventilation for products (open windows if possible). If you have specific products you'd prefer used — say, eco-friendly cleaners or a particular brand for stone worktops — leave them out with a brief note.
6. Communicate any specific concerns
Before the clean starts (or when booking), flag anything specific. Common ones include: a recently installed hardwood floor that needs a dry mop only, a hob with delicate surfaces, a shower door with built-up limescale that needs extra attention, or rooms that are off-limits. The more context you give, the better the outcome.
After the clean
Once your cleaner has finished, do a quick walkthrough while they're still there if possible. If anything's been missed or you'd like something re-done, mention it then — most good cleaners will be happy to address it. Leaving a review after the job helps other customers and gives your cleaner valuable feedback.
A clean home starts with a prepared home. A few minutes of tidying before your cleaner arrives translates directly into a better result — and a happier cleaner who can do their best work.