Clear the surfaces, not the dirt
Cleaners clean; they are not there to organize your belongings. The most helpful thing you can do is pick up items from counters, tables, floors and the bathroom vanity so the team can spend its time on cleaning rather than moving things around. A few minutes of tidying makes a visible difference to the result.
- Put away dishes, mail, toys and clothing
- Clear kitchen counters and bathroom vanities as much as practical
- Pick up items from floors, especially in bedrooms
- Empty the sink of dishes if you would like it scrubbed
Secure valuables, documents and pets
Even with vetted professionals, it is sensible to put jewellery, cash, important documents and small valuables away. It removes any uncertainty and means those items will not need to be moved during the clean.
For pets, a closed room, a crate or a short outing works well. Let the team know which room to avoid and whether any doors must stay closed. Our products are non-toxic and safe for children and pets, which you can read more about on our eco-friendly cleaning page.
Arrange access, parking and building entry
Clear access instructions keep the visit running on time. If you will not be home, share how the team should enter: a lockbox, a keypad code or a key left with the concierge. In condos, let the front desk know when to expect the team and whether visitor parking is available. For houses, confirm where they can park and mention any alarm system.
A few practical details help too. Make sure the lights work in every room the team will clean, that hot water is available, and that power outlets are accessible. If a room is locked or off limits, say so in advance so no time is lost looking for a key. In winter, a cleared driveway or walkway makes arrival safer for everyone.
Share your priorities and point out fragile items
Every household has its own priorities. Perhaps the primary ensuite matters most, or you would like extra attention on pet hair along the stairs. Telling the team in advance ensures time is spent where you will notice it most. A short written note left on the kitchen counter works well, especially if you will not be home, and it gives the team something to refer back to during the visit.
- Rooms or areas that need the most attention
- Delicate surfaces such as marble, natural stone or unsealed wood
- Fragile décor, artwork or heirlooms that should not be handled
- Rooms that should be skipped
- Any products you prefer to have used, or avoided
What you do not need to do
Many people feel they should clean before the cleaners arrive. There is no need, and it often means paying for time spent on surfaces that were already clean. You do not have to scrub bathrooms, wipe down the kitchen or vacuum beforehand, and you do not need to supply products or equipment unless you have a specific preference. You also do not need to be home, provided access is arranged.
If you are preparing for a move rather than a regular visit, our move-out cleaning checklist covers the extra steps involved.
Your first visit with Sevenday Services
When you book with us, we confirm the details of your home, access and priorities in advance. Our background-checked, uniformed cleaners arrive with premium non-toxic products, and every visit is documented with before-and-after photos. If anything is not right, we return and re-clean at no charge.
Explore house cleaning in Oakville or start with a Quick Quote; we follow up within one business day.