**Move in cleaning Melbourne is a pain point for many new residents, but avoiding these common mistakes can save you time, money, and stress.**
**Mistake 1: Skipping the Deep Clean**
**Scenario:** You move into your new apartment, excited to settle in. You hire a cleaning service for a “move-in clean” and think you’re done. Months later, you notice dust bunnies under the fridge, grime on the shower walls, and a musty smell in the bathroom. The cleaning company says they did a “move-in clean,” but you realize they only did surface cleaning.
**Real Cost:** The hidden dirt and grime can cause health issues, especially for those with allergies or respiratory problems. The musty smell can make the space feel uncomfortable and uninviting. The real cost is not just the cleaning bill but also the potential health risks and the need for additional deep cleaning services.
**Fix:** Always specify a “deep clean” in your move-in End of tenancy cleaning contract. A deep clean includes cleaning under and behind appliances, wiping down walls and ceilings, and sanitizing all surfaces. Ask for a detailed checklist of what will be cleaned and ensure the cleaning company follows it.
**Mistake 2: Not Checking References and Reviews**
**Scenario:** You hire a cleaning service based on their website and a few positive reviews. You move in, and the cleaning is subpar. The place is still dirty, and some areas are missed entirely. You try to complain, but the cleaning company is unresponsive and dismissive.
**Real Cost:** The cost is not just the poor cleaning but also the time and effort you spend trying to resolve the issue. You might end up hiring another cleaning service, which adds to your expenses.
**Fix:** Always check references and reviews before hiring a cleaning service. Ask the cleaning company for references from previous clients. Read reviews on the company’s website and on third-party review sites like Google, Facebook, and the Better Business Bureau. Look for patterns in the reviews. If many clients complain about the same issues, it’s a red flag.
**Mistake 3: Not Inspecting the Cleaning Company’s Equipment and Supplies**
**Scenario:** You hire a cleaning service and notice they’re using old, worn-out mops and brooms. They’re also using harsh chemicals that leave a strong chemical smell. You ask them to change their supplies, but they refuse, saying it’s not their responsibility.
**Real Cost:** The cost is not just the poor cleaning but also the potential health risks from using harsh chemicals and old equipment. The cleaning company might also damage your furniture and floors with their rough cleaning methods.
**Fix:** Always inspect the cleaning company’s equipment and supplies before they start cleaning. Ask to see their cleaning tools, mops, and brooms. Make sure they’re clean and in good condition. Ask about the cleaning products they use. If they use harsh chemicals, ask if they have eco-friendly alternatives. If the cleaning company refuses to change their supplies or methods, look for another company.
**Mistake 4: Not Setting Clear Expectations**
**Scenario:** You hire a cleaning service and don’t specify what you want cleaned. The cleaning company shows up and cleans the living room, kitchen, and bathroom but misses the bedroom and hallway. You’re disappointed and ask them to clean those areas, but they charge you extra for the additional cleaning.
**Real Cost:** The cost is not just the extra cleaning fees but also the time and effort you spend communicating with the cleaning company and ensuring they clean all the areas you want.
**Fix:** Always set clear expectations with the cleaning company. Provide them with a detailed list of what you want cleaned. Include the frequency of cleaning, the type of cleaning (e.g., dusting, vacuuming, mopping), and any specific instructions. Make sure the cleaning company acknowledges and agrees to your expectations in writing.
**Mistake 5: Not Scheduling Regular Cleaning**
**Scenario:** You hire a cleaning service for a one-time move-in clean. A few months later, your place is a mess again. You hire another cleaning service, but the quality is inconsistent. You’re frustrated and spend more money on cleaning services than you should.
**Real Cost:** The cost is not just the cleaning bills but also the time and effort you spend dealing with multiple cleaning companies and ensuring your place stays clean.
**Fix:** Always schedule regular cleaning with the same cleaning company. Regular cleaning ensures your place stays clean and reduces the need for additional cleaning services. Ask the cleaning company for a maintenance cleaning plan that suits your needs. Make sure the cleaning company provides consistent and high-quality cleaning services.
**Mistake 6: Not Cleaning Before the Cleaning Company Arrives**
**Scenario:** You hire a cleaning service and forget to clean before they arrive. The cleaning company shows up and cleans your place, but they can’t clean all the areas because of the dirt and grime you left behind. You’re disappointed and ask them to come back, which adds to your expenses.
**Real Cost:** The cost is not just the extra cleaning fees but also the time and effort you spend cleaning your place before the cleaning company arrives.
**Fix:** Always clean your place before the cleaning company arrives. Make a list of what needs to be cleaned and tackle it before the cleaning company shows up. This ensures the cleaning company can clean your place thoroughly and efficiently.
**Mistake 7: Not Following Up**
**Scenario:** You hire a cleaning service and provide them with detailed instructions. The cleaning company shows up and cleans your place, but they don’t follow your instructions. You’re disappointed and ask them to clean your place again, which adds to your expenses.
**Real Cost:** The cost is not just the extra cleaning fees but also the time and effort you spend communicating with the cleaning company and ensuring they follow your instructions.
**Fix:** Always follow up with the cleaning company after they’ve cleaned your place. Check the areas they cleaned to ensure they followed your instructions. If they didn’t, ask them to clean those areas again. Make sure the cleaning company provides the cleaning services you expect.
**Key Takeaways:**
– Always specify a “deep clean” in your move-in cleaning contract.
– Always check references and reviews before hiring a cleaning service.
– Always inspect the cleaning company’s equipment and supplies before they start cleaning.
– Always set clear expectations with the cleaning company.
– Always schedule regular cleaning with the same cleaning company.
– Always clean your place before the cleaning company arrives.
– Always follow up with the cleaning company after they’ve cleaned your place.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure a thorough and efficient move-in cleaning service in Melbourne. This will save you time, money, and stress, and ensure your new home is clean and comfortable from the start.