To prepare for a house cleaning, pick up clutter so surfaces are reachable, decide how the team will get in, secure pets, and tell the cleaners about delicate surfaces or rooms to skip. You don’t need to pre-clean or buy supplies. The goal is to let the team spend its time cleaning instead of moving your things.
Quick answer
- Pick up clothes, toys, papers and dishes.
- Plan access: be home, leave a lock box, or arrange key pickup.
- Secure pets and mention them when you book.
- Point out delicate surfaces and priority rooms.
- No need to buy supplies: at Ana’s Cleaning Services they’re included.
Do I need to clean before the cleaners come?
No. Tidying and cleaning are different. Picking up items helps the team reach counters, floors and furniture, but you don’t need to scrub anything. That’s what you’re paying for.
What should I pick up before a house cleaning?
- Clothes and shoes on floors and beds
- Dishes in the sink (unless you booked dish loads)
- Toys, papers and mail on counters and tables
- Valuables, cash and medications
- Anything fragile you’d rather move yourself
How will the cleaners get in?
Agree on it before the visit. Common options are meeting the team at the door, a lock box, a key left with a neighbor, or key pickup. Many regular clients aren’t home during their cleaning.
What about pets?
Tell the company about your pets when you book. Keep anxious pets in a closed room or crate, and put away food bowls and litter boxes if you’d like the area underneath cleaned.
What should I tell the cleaning team?
- Surfaces that need special care (marble, unsealed wood, antiques)
- Rooms to skip or prioritize
- Products you prefer or want to avoid
- Extras you want this time, such as inside the oven or fridge
Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for delicate surfaces. The CDC also recommends using products suitable for each surface.
Ready to book? See what’s included in our recurring house cleaning and deep cleaning, or request a free estimate.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to be home during a house cleaning?
No. You can leave a key or lock box, or arrange key pickup. Let the company know in advance.
Should I provide cleaning supplies?
Not with Ana’s Cleaning Services: supplies are included at no extra charge. If you prefer your own products, tell us when you book.
Should I strip the beds?
Only if you want fresh sheets put on. Changing sheets is an add-on; leave clean sheets out if you’d like us to do it.
What if I have pets?
Mention them when you book and keep nervous pets in a separate room.
How do I get an estimate?
Call or text (240) 350-6404 or use our online quote form. Photos help.
Sources
Book your cleaning
Tell us about your space and we’ll send a free estimate. You can call, text or fill out the quote form, and attach photos if you like.
- Phone / text: (240) 350-6404
- Email: contact@anas-cleaningservices.com
- Hours: Mon–Sat 8:00 AM–5:00 PM · Sunday closed
- Service area: Silver Spring, MD and the DMV area

