Cleaning

When I was working full time and had a cleaner I often thought "it will do but only just" I always thought when I retired it would all look lovely because I'd be doing it.
Dream On - I don't have time!

I had a lovely cleaner for five years and she became a good friend and companion but her mother died and she had to care full time for her father. I advertised through Next Door Neighbour. Had several replies and chose woman from the next street. She is not great at cleaning but has made up for that by taking me to hospital appointments. Five days a week for five weeks having to leave 6.30 am thirty mile drive whilst I was having radiotheraphy. Sat up all night whilst I was waiting for seven hours for ambulance to take me to hospital. She also has an on line craft business and often has to look after her grandchildren. So I have learned not to worry about a bit of dust!

In my experience cleaners start off good then “go off the boil”. I found it easier to go through a cleaning company where it’s less embarassing to ask them to send someone else if you aren’t happy!

I've employed a cleaner and now I'm on the other side of the fence and housekeep for someone two days a week. It's hard to find a good trustworthy cleaner. I get on really well with the lady I work for and if I'm not doing something I expect her to tell me - I might not like it but if someone is paying you you should expect to work to the expected standard and hours and also to be told when something is not right. Stand firm and speak to her - if she values her job she should be willing to listen to any criticism and pull her socks up if needed x

I would sit down with her and ask her if she has any problems that are worrying her and mention the leaving early and the drop in her standard of work. It might well be just a short term thing but I do think you need to have that chat.

I have had a cleaner £10 per hour for several years now. Absolutely no problems. Yes she sometimes arrives late/ leaves early but sometimes does extra other times. She has regular things to do but fits in anything she thinks needs doing and it all works out well over the month. No instructions necessary.

I think you need to make it clear to her that she is paid for X amount of hours, and you expect certain things done. When at work we all have to conform and she is no different. I think she has become comfortable and complacent ( mostly, I would imagine, because you haven't said anything when little things have got left). If she doesn't take notice get a new cleaner. Recommends are always a good idea.

Lucky girl. I was earning £10an hour over 10 years ago. Maybe a bit more eh? Especially as she uses her own cleaning materials.

My cleaning lady is me - and I'm not that good at it. I'm going to have to fire me.

My cleaner is not one to mince words..if she wanted a rise she would ask! It suits her as I am very flexible and when she is zipping off to Majorca (again!) I never mind and she swaps days with me when other clients need her for special cleans or are away etc! She cleans for my DD too.

Luckygirl Not parquet floors, floor boards! Use a Vileda spray mop thingy where you put the cleaning liquid in the handle then squirt and mop!