Should I hire a professional cleaner or do it myself?

Should I Hire a Professional Cleaner or Do It Myself?

Deciding whether to clean your old property yourself or engage professional cleaners is a common dilemma during a house move. The choice often comes down to a balance of time, cost, expected standard, and the specific requirements of your tenancy agreement or sale.

Considerations for Doing it Yourself

Cleaning a property thoroughly can be a significant undertaking, especially when vacating a home. It demands considerable time and physical effort, which can be in short supply during the moving process. Tasks often involve deep cleaning kitchens, bathrooms, floors, and windows.

• Time Commitment: A full deep clean of a typical three-bedroom house can easily take a dedicated person 1-2 days, or several evenings and weekends. This time needs to be factored into the overall moving schedule, which already includes packing, organising logistics, and physically moving items.
• Cost Savings: The primary benefit is financial savings on cleaning service fees. However, this is offset by the cost of cleaning products, equipment hire (e.g., carpet cleaner), and the value of your own time.
• Required Standard: For homeowners, the standard of cleanliness is a personal choice. For renters, the standard required to get a security deposit back is often dictated by the landlord or letting agent. This typically means a professional standard, which can be challenging to achieve without commercial-grade equipment and expertise.
• Tools and Supplies: A comprehensive clean often requires more than just everyday cleaning supplies. Specialist equipment for ovens, carpets, and hard-to-reach areas may be necessary. For example, knowing how to clean a washing machine before moving is important.

Considerations for Hiring a Professional Cleaner

Engaging a professional cleaning service offers several advantages, particularly when vacating a rented property or selling a home where presentation is key. These services often specialise in end-of-tenancy clean, ensuring the property meets rigorous standards.

• Guaranteed Standard: Professional cleaners are equipped and experienced to achieve a high standard of cleanliness, often essential for satisfying landlord expectations and securing a full deposit return. Many services offer a guarantee for a certain period post-clean.
• Time and Energy Saving: Moving is physically and mentally taxing. Outsourcing the cleaning frees up valuable time and energy, allowing focus on packing, utility transfers, and settling into the new property.
• Specialised Equipment and Expertise: Professional teams bring industrial-strength equipment and cleaning agents, tackling stubborn stains, deep carpet cleaning, and oven grime more effectively than domestic products. They also understand the specific requirements for different surfaces. For instance, they will have specific methods to clean carpets for moving out.
• Potential Cost: Professional cleaning services represent an upfront cost. Prices vary based on property size, condition, and location. Obtaining several quotes is advisable to compare services and costs.
• Peace of Mind: Knowing the property will be professionally cleaned to a high standard can alleviate a significant source of moving-related worry. This is especially true when a security deposit is at stake.

Making the Decision

The optimal choice depends on individual circumstances:

• For Renters: If a tenancy agreement specifies a professional clean or if the landlord is known for strict deposit returns, hiring professionals is often the safer, more practical option. The cost of a professional clean can be less than a lost deposit or the stress of rectifying a DIY clean that falls short.
• For Homeowners: Those selling a property might opt for a professional clean to enhance curb appeal for prospective buyers, making the home more attractive and potentially aiding a quicker sale. If the new owners are taking possession immediately, a pristine property is always appreciated.
• For those with limited time or energy: If your moving schedule is tight or you are managing a large household move, delegating the cleaning ensures it gets done properly without adding to your burden.
• For those on a tight budget: If cost is the absolute priority and time permits, a meticulous DIY clean is feasible. It requires planning and elbow grease, along with careful attention to all areas, including those often overlooked.

Ultimately, a professional cleaner can provide assurance and convenience, while doing it yourself offers direct cost savings at the expense of time and effort.