The Importance of Correctly Assessing Cleaning Needs: The difference between Regular Cleaning vs. Deep Cleaning
The Importance of Correctly Assessing Cleaning Needs: A Professional Cleaner's Perspective
In the cleaning industry, understanding the difference between regular cleaning vs. deep cleaning is crucial, not only for meeting client expectations but also for efficient time management. Here’s a detailed look into why professional cleaners emphasize the importance of accurately assessing the type of cleaning required before undertaking a job, especially for first-time clients.
## A Common Misunderstanding
Recently, I accepted a cleaning job for an Airbnb property from a repeat client who owns multiple properties that I have serviced before. This time, however, the property was new to me. The client requested what he referred to as "regular cleaning." Based on our previous interactions and the usual upkeep of his other properties, I anticipated a straightforward task. Unfortunately, this assumption led to a significant misunderstanding.
Upon arriving at the property, it was evident that the place required much more than just regular cleaning. What the client considered normal — perhaps a clean-looking bathroom by his standards — was, in reality, in dire need of deep cleaning. This scenario is a common issue in the cleaning industry: many clients do not understand the stark differences between regular and deep cleaning, which are industry-specific terms.
Regular cleaning typically involves basic tasks like sweeping, mopping, and light dusting — activities suited for a well-maintained home. On the other hand, deep cleaning is much more thorough, addressing areas that aren't usually covered in a routine clean. This includes scrubbing soap scum from bathroom tiles, cleaning inside the tracks of sliding doors, and extensive kitchen degreasing.
In this particular instance, the property hadn’t seen a professional cleaning in months, necessitating a deep clean that included scrubbing, degreasing, and detailed attention to overlooked areas. I even had to remove a sliding door to clean the track properly, which is beyond the scope of regular cleaning.
## The Consequences of Miscommunication
The misunderstanding about the type of cleaning needed led to an underestimation of the required time and effort. As a result, I had to rush the job to accommodate my next appointment, compromising the quality of work and my usual standards. This situation could have been avoided if the cleaning type had been correctly communicated and scheduled.
To address the heavy buildup and bacteria, I used Clorox gel for disinfection, followed by thorough rinsing. Even though I managed to achieve satisfactory results, the process was rushed due to the initial miscommunication.
## Best Practices for Clients and Cleaners
For clients, it is vital to understand that if your property hasn’t been professionally cleaned in a while, it likely needs more than just a regular clean. Properly assessing your space or having it evaluated by a professional cleaner can prevent misunderstandings and ensure that the cleaner allocates enough time to do a thorough job.
For cleaners, it's essential to educate clients about the different types of cleaning services and to insist on inspecting the site before agreeing to the job scope. This practice not only sets realistic expectations but also ensures client satisfaction and efficiency in cleaning.
## Conclusion
The takeaway from this experience is clear: precise communication and a proper understanding of cleaning standards are fundamental to the success of professional cleaning services. Whether you're a client looking to hire cleaning services or a professional in the industry, clear and accurate descriptions of the required cleaning will lead to better outcomes and satisfaction on both ends.
Lastly, it's also critical to maintain cleanliness standards between professional cleanings, which can reduce the need for frequent deep cleanings and help maintain a pleasant and hygienic environment.
