Have you ever been confused by the terms housekeeper and a domestic cleaner? Don’t they mean the same thing? No, definitely not! There is a significant difference between what a housekeeper is expected to do and what you might get from a house cleaner. So, let’s talk more about it.

What is a Housekeeper

A housekeeper generally has more responsibilities than a regular professional cleaner. Apart from maintaining good hygiene in the domestic premises, housekeepers also make sure the rooms are tidy and organised. Very often, especially in big homes, housekeepers are also required to keep stock of some domestic supplies such as, cleaning products, toiletries, bin bags, etc. In some cases, food products and shopping, as well as budgeting for all that may  be included in the housekeeper’s responsibilities. In such scenarios, the position comes on a live-in basis. It is very rare that families will hire a housekeeper who doesn’t live with them.

Housekeeping as a term is also used in relation to servicing short let accommodations and holiday homes. That service is usually performed by professional cleaning companies and may be the reason why housekeepers are often confused with domestic cleaners. When it comes for short lets housekeeping, the tasks include thorough cleaning between guest bookings and changing of bed linen and towels. It also involves restocking of toiletries and some essential food supplies for self-catering such as milk, eggs, butter, coffee and tea.

What is a Domestic Cleaner

The job of a domestic cleaner is to perform a cleaning service in your home. They may bring professional cleaning products, tools and materials. In some cases, however, they might need to use yours, or you could choose to supply your own products and tools. The cleaner is not required to tidy up your house. It is recommended that you pick up toys or other objects from the floor before your cleaning visit as those may obstruct the work of the cleaner and slow them down.

Depending on the company you are booking with, different tasks may be included in the service. Most regular domestic cleaning visits include general dusting, wiping and vacuuming of the rooms. If you require more thorough work, then you may have to book a deep cleaning or add extras like oven cleaning, fridge cleaning, window cleaning and so on. Always check what is included in the service you are booking.

Domestic cleaners can be supplied by a cleaning company, an agency or work as freelancers. They are almost never offered a live-in position with a particular family because they usually work with several different clients and their job takes up to 3-4 hours at one address.

Have you ever considered hiring a housekeeper? How about booking a regular domestic cleaning service? What do you think would be the more suitable version for you and your family?