If I Have a Cleaner, How Much Cleaning Should I Be Doing Myself?

Hiring a domestic cleaner is great for time, energy, and peace of mind but it doesn’t mean you never lift a finger again. One of the most common questions people ask is if i have a cleaner “How much cleaning should I still be doing myself?” The answer depends on your lifestyle, the frequency of your cleaner’s visits, and your personal standards.

Let’s break it down.

Understand What Your Cleaner Covers

Start with your cleaning agreement. Most professional cleaners focus on:

• Dusting

• Hoovering and mopping

• Bathroom scrubbing

• Kitchen cleaning

• General tidying

Daily Maintenance Matters

Even with regular cleanings, messes build up quickly. Here are a few daily or weekly tasks you might still want to handle:

• Dishes: Especially if your cleaner comes weekly or less.

• Wiping down kitchen worktops after cooking

• Quick bathroom touch-ups (wiping the mirror or sink)

• Putting things away so clutter doesn’t accumulate

Keeping up with these tasks helps your domestic cleaner be more efficient and ensures your home stays fresh between visits.

Spot-Clean Between Visits

Spills, muddy paw prints, and toothpaste splatters don’t follow a schedule. A little spot-cleaning with a kitchen towel or disinfectant wipe can go a long way in keeping your space feeling clean and comfortable.

Tidy So They Can Deep Clean

Your house cleaner isn’t there to guess where your socks go or which paperwork is rubbish. Do a quick pre-clean or declutter before they arrive:

• Pick up clothes, toys, or personal items

• Clear surfaces so they can be cleaned properly

• Move dishes to the sink or dishwasher

This sets them up to focus on the deeper cleaning tasks you’re paying them for.

Take On the Personal Touches

Some cleaning tasks are better done by you   especially if they involve:

• Fragile or sentimental items

• Organising drawers

• Managing personal hygiene items

House cleaners keep your home clean, but only you can keep it personalised.

Adjust as Needed

Your routine will shift. Some weeks are busier than others. If you’re hosting guests your house might need more attention between cleanings. Don’t hesitate to adjust your personal efforts to match the household’s rhythm.

Hiring a house cleaner gives you a head start but it’s not a complete handoff. Think of it as a partnership: you maintain the day-to-day, and they handle the heavy lifting. With the right balance, your home stays clean, calm, and comfortable without the stress.