Do Cleaning Services Do The Dishes? What To Know Before You Hire

House cleaner washing dishes in a kitchen.

Do Cleaning Services Do The Dishes? What To Know Before You Hire

Ever wondered if hiring a cleaning service means you'll never have to tackle that mountain of dishes again? You're not alone. Many people assume that dishwashing is part and parcel of a standard cleaning package, but the reality can be quite different.

In my experience with various cleaning services, I've found that policies on dishwashing vary widely. Some companies include it as part of their routine tasks, while others consider it an add-on service or exclude it altogether. Understanding what you're signing up for can save you from any unpleasant surprises down the line. Let's dive into whether your next hired help will handle those dirty dishes for you.

Understanding Cleaning Services

When hiring cleaners, it’s crucial to understand what standard services are included. Most cleaning companies offer packages with set tasks like vacuuming, dusting and mopping. However, dishwashing policies vary significantly.

Standard Inclusions

Most professional cleaners focus on general house upkeep. Tasks usually include:

  • Vacuuming: Removing dirt from carpets and rugs with a vacuum cleaner.

  • Dusting: Wiping surfaces to remove dust.

  • Mopping: Cleaning tiled or hard floors using a wet mop.

  • Bathroom Cleaning: Scrubbing sinks, toilets and showers for hygiene.

These tasks ensure basic cleanliness but typically exclude dishes unless specified otherwise.

Additional Services

Some cleaning services offer additional options beyond the basics. Examples include:

  • Dishes: Washing dirty plates, utensils and glassware either by hand or loading them into a dishwasher.

  • Laundry: Washing clothes and linens then folding them neatly.

  • Deep Cleanings: Detailed cleanings such as washing windows inside-out or scrubbing grout lines in tiles.

Such extra services often involve higher fees due to added labor time and effort.

Communication is Key

Speaking directly with the service provider helps establish clear expectations about included tasks when booking their services. For example many companies classify dishwashing as an add-on so it's best clarified upfront if this service is needed routinely

Professional cleaner doing the dishes during a service.

Common Services Offered

Cleaning services provide a range of tasks designed to keep homes tidy and well-maintained. Understanding what these companies typically offer helps set expectations clearly.

Regular Cleaning Tasks

Standard cleaning packages include essential tasks aimed at general upkeep. These usually involve:

  • Vacuuming: Removing dust and debris from floors using vacuum cleaners.

  • Dusting: Wiping surfaces like shelves, furniture, and decorations to remove dust.

  • Mopping: Cleaning hard floor surfaces with wet mops for added shine.

  • Bathroom Cleaning: Scrubbing sinks, toilets, tubs, and shower areas to maintain hygiene.

While these are common services included in basic packages offered by most cleaning companies, they usually don't cover dishwashing unless specified beforehand.

Specialized Cleaning Services

Specialized services cater to specific needs or more intensive cleaning efforts often not covered under regular tasks. These might involve extra costs due to the additional labor involved:

  • Dishwashing: Some companies offer this but not as part of their standard package; it must be requested separately.

  • Laundry Services: Washing, drying, folding clothes often treated as an add-on service requiring clear arrangement before starting work.

  • Deep Cleanings: Extensive cleaning options targeting neglected areas or buildup that aren't maintained during routine sessions; includes scrubbing grout lines in tiles or thorough appliance cleanouts.

Being aware of both regular and specialized offerings ensures clear communication about what's included when hiring a cleaning service.

A kitchen cleaner washing dishes in a modern home.

Do Cleaning Services Do The Dishes?

Some cleaning services include dishwashing as part of their package while others don't. It's crucial to clarify with your provider whether this service is included.

Inclusions in Regular Cleaning Packages

Regular cleaning packages often focus on general upkeep tasks:

  • Vacuuming: Clean carpets and rugs.

  • Dusting: Remove dust from surfaces.

  • Mopping: Clean hard floors.

  • Bathroom Cleaning: Sanitize sinks, toilets, and showers.

Most standard packages do not cover dishwashing unless explicitly mentioned.

When Dishwashing Is Excluded

Many services exclude dishwashing due to it being time-consuming and labor-intensive. Companies might offer it as an add-on for an extra fee if excluded from the base package. Always clarify these details upfront to avoid misunderstandings.

Benefits Of Opting For Dishwashing Services

Dishwashing services offer significant advantages, enhancing the overall cleaning experience and providing peace of mind.

Saving Time

Opting for dishwashing services frees up valuable time. Modern lifestyles often leave little room for household chores. By outsourcing this task, more hours become available for leisure or work activities. According to a study by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average American spends 30 minutes per day washing dishes; that's about 182 hours annually saved when hiring professionals.

Professional Results

Professional dishwashers ensure high-quality results. Equipped with specialized tools and expertise, they handle even stubborn grime with ease. This guarantees spotless dishes without you lifting a finger. Furthermore, consistent professional care can prolong the life of your dishware by employing proper cleaning techniques specific to different materials like glass, ceramic, and stainless steel.

Benefit and Description

Time Savings - Reclaims approximately 182 hours annually from daily dishwashing tasks

Professional Results - Ensures spotless dishes through expert techniques and specialized equipment

Embracing these services not only reduces personal workload but also promises efficiency where it counts most in maintaining an orderly kitchen environment you deserve.

Cleaner washing plates and cups as part of house cleaning service.

How To Ensure Dishwashing Is Included

Ensuring dishwashing is part of your cleaning service requires specific steps. Here's how to guarantee it's included.

Communicating With Your Service Provider

First, clarify if the cleaning service includes dishes when discussing your needs with the provider. Ask direct questions like "Does the standard package cover dishwashing?" or "Is there an add-on fee for washing dishes?". Specific inquiries leave no room for misunderstanding. Review all details in writing, such as emails or contracts, to ensure clear expectations and avoid confusion later.

Next, specify any unique requirements you might have regarding dishwashing frequency or methods. For example, mention if only certain types of cookware need daily attention while leaving others less frequently cleaned. This helps tailor the service to suit personal preferences while maintaining high standards.

Customizing Your Cleaning Package

Exploring customization options ensures comprehensive coverage of desired tasks like dishwashing without ambiguities. Inquire about flexible package structures that incorporate essential kitchen duties beyond general upkeep services already offered—vacuuming and dusting—to address specialized needs.

Cleaner washing plates and cups as part of house cleaning service.

Summary Reflections

Understanding the nuances of cleaning service packages is crucial. Dishwashing often isn't included in standard offerings but can be added for an extra fee. Clear communication with your provider ensures you're not caught off guard by omitted tasks. Knowing what's typically covered and what requires special arrangements helps set realistic expectations and enjoy a seamless experience.

By clearly outlining your needs, reviewing all documentation carefully, and exploring customization options, you can create a tailored cleaning package that best suits your lifestyle. Remember investing in professional dishwashing services pays off both in time savings and superior results ensuring that every aspect of your home is impeccably maintained.