Tips For Using A House Cleaning Service When You Have Pets

Posted on: 14 March 2015

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Don't view a cleaning service as an impossible dream just because you have pets. Often, pet owners are the ones that can benefit most by having a professional cleaner help them stay on top of their weekly housekeeping chores. Although it's possible to have both a pet and the help of cleaning services, you do need to prepare before you start to schedule the service.

Check the Pet Philosophy of the Service

Although few services will refuse to work with pet owners, some may have special rules in place. For example, dogs may need to be crated or outside if the owner isn't home, or cats may need to be in a closed room to prevent escape during cleaning. Other services may have no issues with pets, but they may not clean up some pet-specific messes. Then there are services that will handle almost any cleaning chore.

Choose the Right Services

If you are mainly concerned about dander and fur, you may want to choose a service that offers deeper cleaning methods, like steam cleaning for carpets. The following examples are just a few services your cleaning company may offer that apply directly to your pets:

  • Litter box cleanup

  • Crate or cage cleaning

  • Yard cleanup

  • Upholstery cleaning

  • Spot and stain treatments

Keep Everyone Comfortable

Even with a pet-friendly service, it's vital that you take steps to keep everyone comfortable. If your pet is easily stressed by strangers, look for a service that offers dedication assignments. This means the same cleaners will service your house each time, thus giving your pet a chance to adjust and eventually feel comfortable with that person.

Arrange for a meeting between your pet and the cleaners before services begin. Your pet is more likely to warm up to a new person when you are initially there during the initial meeting. In the future, consider leaving the cleaners with a supply of treats so they can continue to build a good relationship with your pet.

Even if your dog or cat is friendly, it's usually a good idea to contain them if you aren't home during the cleaning schedule. Not only does this give the service room to work without Fido underfoot, it ensures that no accidents occur. At the very least, you may want to remain present for the first few appointments to ensure your beloved companion adjusts to the new people working in their home with as little stress as possible.