Don't Get Stuck with a Bad Housekeeper
July 31, 2011, By Tom McNulty 0 comments
Rule one in the Clean Like a Man world is “outsource cleaning chores whenever possible.” Rule two is, “Follow Rule One” (shades of "Fight Club"). Often, the smartest thing a man can do is admit he’s helpless against dirt and clutter and trust in a power greater than himself: a housekeeper.
This is called “going pro.” Here are some tips for saving you time, money and trouble when you do it.
A Worthwhile Investment?
Housekeepers, especially franchised services like Merry Maids or The Cleaning Authority, can be expensive. Services can run $100 to $150 per session, possibly twice a month. That’s $2,400 to $3,600 a year…one or two mortgage payments, a great vacation, a ton of golf, gallons of beer…whatever equivalent you use to measure monetary value.
If you’ve got that kind of cash, it’s a no-brainer. But even so, there are serious considerations. You’re giving total strangers the run of your home and access to all of your belongings—that original Picasso, your “rainy day” stash of krugerrands, your ‘50s-era baseball card collection.
Plus, you’re letting them loose in an environment where they could get injured—an event for which, even if you’re not responsible, you’re probably liable unless your cleaners are self-insured. So here are some ways to get the best value on the best cleaning option for you.
Locate Prospective Housekeepers
Ask your friends, neighbors and co-workers who they use, what prices they pay, the quality of the service and what types of cleaning they the company provides. This approach will save you a lot of search time.
Compare Prices
Housecleaners charge anywhere from $12 to $30 or more an hour. High-quality housekeepers will be on the high end, as will services. But you might find a semi-retired neighbor who likes to clean houses for a little extra income, does a good job and gives you a good price. Ask about a package plan discount or about a lower rate. It’s a competitive business, so try to cut a deal.
NEXT: Service or individual?
