House Cleaning
Hire help when needed.
Major chains
- Molly Maid — established + bonded.
- Merry Maids — long-time chain.
- The Cleaning Authority.
- Two Maids + a Mop.
- Local family-owned services often comparable.
- Costs $100-$200 per visit typical.
App-based services
- Handy — book cleaning + handyman.
- Tidy — recurring + one-time.
- Bookable in app.
- Ratings + reviews visible.
- Often slightly cheaper than chains.
- Background-checked.
Frequency
- Weekly — best for working seniors or large homes.
- Bi-weekly — most popular.
- Monthly — light maintenance.
- Deep clean quarterly.
- Move-in/out cleans available.
- Pick what fits your budget + needs.
Senior considerations
- Same cleaner each visit ideal.
- Builds trust + familiarity.
- Walk through preferences first time.
- Tip 15-20% if happy.
- Watch for valuables in plain sight.
- Lock medications, jewelry.
Cost-saving alternatives
- Local Facebook groups — moms cleaning.
- Community college students.
- Friends of friends — referrals.
- Independent cleaners often cheaper than chains.
- $25-$30/hour reasonable.
- Cash payment often preferred.
Insurance + tax
- Verify cleaner has insurance.
- Personal injury liability covered.
- If hire individual — they're your employee.
- 1099 form if pay $600+/year.
- Use service to avoid tax complexity.
- Worth slight premium.
Bi-weekly service is sweet spot
For most senior homes, bi-weekly cleaning at $120-$180 strikes a good balance. House stays clean without breaking bank. Same cleaner each visit best — develops trust and routine. Many seniors say hiring help with cleaning is one of best quality-of-life upgrades. Reduces physical strain, gives you cleaner home.