What's usual
Cleaning companies usually bring products and equipment as part of the service. Independent cleaners vary: some bring everything, some bring products but use your vacuum, and some prefer you to supply everything. There's no standard, so ask.
When the cleaner brings everything
There are real advantages. You don't need to buy or store supplies, the cleaner uses products and tools they know and trust, and professional-quality equipment – a powerful vacuum, good microfibre, proper limescale products – often does a better job than the mismatched bottles under most sinks.
Things to consider
A cleaner bringing a vacuum from house to house may carry pet hair or allergens, which matters if you have allergies. Some cleaners charge slightly more to cover supplies. And you have less control over the products used.
When you supply products
You choose exactly what's used in your home – useful if you prefer fragrance-free, eco-friendly or particular products for your surfaces. Your own vacuum avoids cross-contamination between homes. The downside is keeping on top of supplies; a cleaner can't work well with an empty spray bottle and a vacuum that has no suction.
Allergies, babies and pets
If anyone in your home has allergies, asthma or sensitive skin, or you have a new baby or pets, tell your cleaner which products to avoid. Many people prefer to supply their own in these cases. See cleaning for allergies and asthma and cleaning with pets.
Get quotes from local cleaners
Surfaces that need specific products
Natural stone, wood floors, specialist tap finishes and some worktops need particular cleaners. If you have any, point them out and leave the right products. A good cleaner will ask, but it's best not to assume.
Vacuum cleaners and travel
Many cleaners travel between homes by car, but some use public transport or cycle, which makes carrying a vacuum and a full kit impractical. If your cleaner doesn't drive, they'll probably expect to use your vacuum and products.
If you supply the vacuum, keep it in good working order – empty it, clean the filter and make sure the brush roll turns. A weak vacuum makes the whole clean take longer.
A basic kit if you supply products
If your cleaner uses your supplies, a simple kit covers most jobs:
- Multi-purpose spray and washing-up liquid
- Bathroom cleaner and limescale remover (in hard water areas)
- Toilet cleaner and brush
- Glass cleaner or a squeegee
- Floor cleaner suitable for your floors
- Microfibre cloths (several, in different colours)
- Rubber gloves, a mop and bucket, and a vacuum
Safety
Whoever supplies the products, they should be used according to the label and never mixed. If you supply them, keep them in their original containers so the cleaner knows what they are.
