What Does General Cleaning Include in Canada?

Hello there! If you've ever wondered what a general cleaning service entails here in Canada, you're in the right place. As a professional house cleaner with years of experience, I’m here to break it down for you. Cleaning might seem straightforward, but there’s a lot more to it than just wiping down surfaces. Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of what you can expect when you book a general cleaning service.

What Are The Basics of General Cleaning?

General cleaning, also known as regular or routine cleaning, covers the essential tasks needed to keep your home looking neat and tidy. It’s like giving your house a little Tender Love and Care to maintain its beauty and cleanliness. Here’s what’s typically included:

1. Dusting

What It Covers:

- Furniture surfaces (tables, chairs, shelves, dressers)

- Decorative items (picture frames, vases, knick-knacks)

- Light fixtures and ceiling fans

- Baseboards and windowsills

Personal Anecdote:

Dusting might seem simple, but it’s essential. I remember cleaning a client's home where dust had accumulated on their ceiling fans. When I turned them on, it was like a snowstorm in the living room! Regular dusting prevents such surprises.

2. Vacuuming and Sweeping

What It Covers:

- Carpets and rugs

- Hard floors (wood, tile, laminate)

- Stairs and hallway runners

Why It Matters:

Vacuuming and sweeping remove dirt, crumbs, pet hair, and other debris that can accumulate on your floors. Not only does this keep your home looking clean, but it also improves indoor air quality.

3. Mopping

What It Covers:

- Hard floors (tile, wood, laminate, vinyl)

Pro Tip:

Always mop in a figure-eight motion to avoid pushing dirt around. And, be sure to use the right cleaner for your floor type to avoid damage.

4. Surface Cleaning

What it Covers:

- Kitchen counters and backsplashes

- Bathroom counters and sinks

- Dining tables and coffee tables

Personal Anecdote:

One of my clients had a beautiful granite countertop that was looking a bit dull. I recommended using a specific granite cleaner, and after a few cleans, it was sparkling like new. Using the right products can make a big difference.

5. Bathroom Cleaning

What It Covers:

- Scrubbing toilets, tubs, and showers

- Cleaning sinks and faucets

- Wiping down mirrors and countertops

Why It’s Important:

Bathrooms are a hotspot for germs and bacteria. Regular cleaning keeps them hygienic and prevents mold and mildew buildup.

6. Kitchen Cleaning

What It Covers:

- Cleaning the stovetop and oven exterior

- Wiping down appliances (microwave, toaster, fridge exterior)

- Cleaning sinks and faucets

- Emptying the trash

Pro Tip:

Keep a separate cloth or sponge for the kitchen to avoid cross-contamination with other areas of the house.

7. Tidying Up

What It Covers:

- Straightening pillows and cushions

- Organizing magazines and books

- Putting away stray items

Why It Matters:

A little tidying goes a long way in making your home feel organized and welcoming. It’s the cherry on top of a clean house.

What Is Included In Additional Services?

While the above tasks are standard in a general cleaning, many cleaning services offer additional tasks for an extra fee. These can include:

1. Inside Fridge Cleaning

Emptying the fridge, wiping down all surfaces, and reorganizing items can make your fridge look brand new and help you avoid wasting food.

2. Inside Oven Cleaning

Removing baked-on grease and food residue can be a tough job, but it’s worth it for a clean, efficient oven.

3. Window Cleaning

Cleaning interior windows can brighten up your home by letting in more natural light.

Seasonal Deep Cleaning

In addition to regular general cleaning, it’s a good idea to schedule a deep cleaning once or twice a year. Deep cleaning covers all the tasks in a general clean, plus some extra attention to areas that don’t get cleaned as often. This includes:

1. Washing Walls and Baseboards

Over time, walls can get dusty and smudged. Washing them down gives your home a fresh look.

2. Cleaning Behind and Under Furniture

Dust and crumbs love to hide in hard-to-reach places. Moving furniture and cleaning behind and under it can improve air quality and reduce allergens.

3. Detailed Cleaning of Light Fixtures and Vents

These areas often get neglected but can accumulate a lot of dust. A thorough cleaning can improve lighting and air circulation.

Eco-Friendly Cleaning

Many cleaning services in Canada now offer eco-friendly options. This means using products that are safe for the environment and your family. Eco-friendly cleaning can include:

1. Green Cleaning Products

Using non-toxic, biodegradable products that don’t harm the environment or your health.

2. Reusable Cleaning Cloths

Opting for microfiber cloths that can be washed and reused, reducing waste.

3. Water Conservation

Using methods and products that require less water, helping to conserve this precious resource.

Personal Anecdote:

I once switched to eco-friendly products for a family with young children and pets. They noticed an immediate improvement in air quality, and the kids had fewer allergic reactions. Sometimes, the little changes make a big difference.

Why Hire a Professional Cleaner?

You might be wondering if you should tackle these tasks yourself or hire a professional. Here are a few reasons why hiring a professional cleaner might be the best choice:

1. Saves Time

Life is busy, and cleaning can be time-consuming. Hiring a professional gives you more time to spend on what you love.

2. Professional Results

Professionals have the experience and tools to get your home cleaner than you might on your own.

3. Consistency

With a professional, you can set a schedule that ensures your home is always clean, not just when you have time.

4. Stress Reduction

A clean home is a happy home. Walking into a tidy space can reduce stress and improve your mood.

Choosing the Right Cleaning Service

Not all cleaning services are created equal. Here’s what to look for when choosing a cleaner:

1. Reviews and References

Check online reviews and ask for references to ensure the service is reliable and trustworthy.

2. Services Offered

Make sure they offer the services you need, whether it’s general cleaning, deep cleaning, or specialty tasks.

3. Pricing

Get quotes from a few different services to compare prices. Remember, the cheapest option isn’t always the best.

4. Insurance

Ensure the service is insured in case of any accidents or damage.

Final Thoughts

General cleaning is essential for maintaining a clean, healthy home. Whether you do it yourself or hire a professional, understanding what’s involved can help you keep your space looking its best. Regular cleaning not only improves the appearance of your home but also contributes to a healthier living environment.

So, next time you look around your house and think it needs a little sprucing up, remember these tips. And if you decide to call in the professionals, you’ll know exactly what to expect. Happy cleaning! Did you find this blog post useful? You also check out another informative blog post that talks about cost of deep cleaning services in Canada.