Get matched with top house cleaners in Largo, MD

If you’re hiring someone to clean an empty and tidy house before you move in, there’s little prep work to do. Make sure to discuss your goals with the cleaning service, arrange entry to the house, and communicate any problem areas or special requests. If you’ve already moved into the house, or if it’s messy, it’s best to complete the following tasks before the cleaners arrive:

• Declutter things like clothes, toys, or cardboard boxes

• Do the dishes

• Put fragile items in a safe spot where they can’t be accidentally broken

• Keep pets away from cleaning areas

To neutralize mildew smell, you can use natural deodorizers like baking soda or activated charcoal. Baking soda absorbs odors; sprinkle it liberally on the affected area, let it sit for a few hours, then vacuum it up. Activated charcoal, available in pouches, works similarly. Vinegar, with its natural acidic properties, can also neutralize odors. Mix equal parts water and vinegar, spray the affected area lightly, then blot it with a dry cloth. Enzymatic cleaners are effective too, breaking down odor-causing compounds.

When you deep clean your washing machine, using hot water is the best practice since it’s more effective than cold water at killing various types of bacteria and viruses. Plus, hot water tends to break down soap residue more efficiently.

If your house cleaner is doing a standard cleaning, you can expect this project to take between one and three hours, depending on the size of your home. If you are looking for a deeper clean, your house cleaning service might last between two and five hours. For a move-out clean, anywhere from two to three hours is standard.