A small amount of diluted bleach is okay to pour down a garbage disposal. As part of your weekly garbage disposal maintenance, use 1 teaspoon of bleach with your concoction of ice cubes and lemon peels. Turn on the disposal and run the water until the blades chop up the ice cubes.

Any more bleach in your disposal can harden oils and greases in your drain, which can cause problems. Always wear gloves when working with bleach, and know that you really don’t need bleach at all—vinegar, baking soda, salt, and ice should do the trick.

Cleaning services typically offer a range of options. Some of the most common cleaning tasks include:

• Windows: $4–$10 per window

• Refrigerator cleaning: $10–$40

• Carpet cleaning: $75–$200

• Baseboard cleaning: $25–$75

• Laundry: $5–$20 per load

• Cabinets: $20–$50

• Polishing or waxing floors: $25–$50

• Dusting: $10–$30

• Oven cleaning: $20–$40

Many modern sculleries have a full range of kitchen appliances and are capable of whipping up large amounts of food—and cleaning the resulting dishes—and can be considered a smaller, more purpose-built kitchen. In some households, such as those with a private chef, the scullery is often used much more than the main kitchen. 

Unless it’s written into the purchase agreement, there’s no legal obligation that a house you’ve bought has to be clean before you move in. The previous owner is generally required to sweep the house, but that doesn’t guarantee everything will be spotless upon your arrival. If possible, discuss the cleaning requirements with the real estate company before moving in.