It is hard to get good help. This is true, very true indeed. Admittedly, slacking is a forte of mine. Don’t really know where it started, probably back when we were kids and we have an all-around nanny. Yes, an all-around individual that cleans, cooks, irons and cleans again. After searching through our database of local establishments that offer residential cleaning maid services, my pregnant mom (couple of months before her due date) decided that she’d be needing help---a lot of it. She needed someone to assist her not only around the house but also in the hospital. After the delivery of my older sister, the helper turned into a stay-in, fulltime nanny who does household chores. The following year, I was born. Our helper provided much assistance to our family for almost a decade---then she decided to have a family of her own.

Again, we started digging our noses in the database----recommendations from relatives, friends and neighbors. We even ask the local church for some referrals (where else to find trustworthy people than in a church, right?) Moving on, with the bar set high---we searched for a person who can address our house requirements. Phone calls were made. Interviews finished. Screening, not so successful. Up front, we already mentioned what we need, an all-around helper. One who sweeps the floor and does laundry; one who knows how to cook and does the dishes. Simply put, an all-around house help. (I know we’re a bit demanding but that’s what we need.)

If you imagined of a perfect maid/nanny/superhero who does detailed cleaning, who’ll scrub the corners or get down on their knees---that’s just it, an imagination. Each of us possesses our own guidelines on choosing cleaning companies, be it house cleaners or janitorial services, but let’s be real. Ninety-nine percent of these guidelines will not be completely satisfied. We may not find the perfect house cleaners, but we can get someone close enough to our standards.

Initially, one must define what needs to be done and what not to be touched. There should be an outline or list that reflects what must be accomplished according to its priority. Ask about their limitations. Do they scrub bathrooms? How about the windows? How about the laundry? Remember to negotiate and communicate. If you want detailed cleaning, be sure to hand over a detailed list. (A list that she understands, not some gibberish written in a piece of paper stuck in the fridge with crayon scribbles all around the page.) If an item needs special treatment, reiterate the same. An example would be not to move your precious chinaware or your antique figurines or vacuum your silk carpet.

If your expectations are not met, here’s an idea. Put into play the assessment of one’s performance. First couple of months would be the trial period, after which an assessment will be made to determine if you’re going to stick with your current maid or not.

Whatever you choose, be it an independent cleaning lady or a home cleaning service; note that the relationship between you and your cleaning lady is a long one. You should be at ease when dealing with one. Sooner or later, your house cleaners will know what you want in terms of residential cleaning like the place where you usually run your fingers through (kitchen counter, anyone?). And the right place where items must be put. Give your housecleaners a month or two, if they’ll perform well---meaning at par with your standards---you’ll know that your housecleaner is for keeps. If not, start screening for another one but don’t let go of your current cleaning lady if you have yet to find a replacement.

To wrap up, it’ll be your discretion if you’ll stay with the current or find a replacement. I believe that when given ample, house cleaners will be familiar with how you run your household.