Cleaning behind your fridge once every three months is a good goal to stick to. This helps keep messes to a minimum and ensures it runs efficiently. Seasonal cleaning will also remove dropped food and food residue that can act as pest attractants, so keeping this area clean can help keep your household healthier, too.

Whether or not a cleaner brings supplies also depends on their preference. Some cleaning services require the homeowner to supply cleaning products and a few basic materials (sponges, paper towels, rags, a mop, and vacuum, for example), but others bring everything they need to get in, clean, and get out.

You can always ask whether or not they bring their cleaning supplies, and if so, make sure you’re comfortable with what they use. If you prefer organic or natural products, for example, you may need to supply them or pay a premium.

You can remove stubborn stains from your toilet by scrubbing with a store-bought cleaner appropriate for the toilet’s material. If you’re looking for a homemade solution, you can also use vinegar and baking soda—just pour 2 cups of white vinegar around the edges of your toilet. Once the bowl is wet with vinegar, sprinkle 3 tablespoons of baking soda, concentrating on the stains. Scrub the bowl with a toilet brush and flush to clean the mixture. 

Just a note: While combining baking soda and vinegar is OK, never mix that solution with any other cleaners.

The best way to clean kitchen cabinets is to use a soft cloth soaked in warm water and mild dish soap. For areas that require a stronger solution, a mixture of baking soda and vinegar is the best choice. If your cabinets are made of sealed hardwood, you can deep clean them using a steam cleaner, but other cabinet materials are exempt from this type of cleaning.