VERY Picky! Need to Find a Very Thorough House Cleaning Service!

Hi B.. I too am a "clean freak." I started using a cleaning lady a little over a year ago. For me I had to come to terms with the fact that noone can clean my house as good as I can. I think you trully have to live in a house to know how to clean it thoroughly.
Here is what has really worked for me: Once or twice a month I take the time to thoroughly clean one space or maybe dust blinds and door jambs. This seems to work really well for me. This way I know that all areas are getting a deep clean every 2 months or so. On the weeks where I have deep cleaned an area, I ask her to do something else for me such as clean the fridge or clean the inside of the windows etc...
What I love about having someone clean is that the whole house does get clean in one day, something I could not accomplish anymore.
Also when I first met my cleaning lady I walked through each room with her and asked her to run through what she would clean. Sounds a little crazy but it really worked.
Also communicating back with her has really helped to so she knows she has done a good job. And one more thing, I supply the cleaning supplies this way I know what she is using.
I think my gal is booked but just incase she isn't and you want to talk with her, her name is Vanessa ###-###-####.
I hope this helps you!

Good Luck. Do you know anyone who uses a service? How happy are they with it? Word of mouth may be your best option. Most companies that offer cleaning services seem to do a sketchy job, their employees can be hard to communicate with and they may not use the products you prefer. Have you tried Craigslist? Check references, do an interview, make certain they understand your needs and preferences. You may have to pay more to get a better quality person.

Here is probably what it boils down to - we all wish we could be superwoman and take care of everything OUR way (which we all feel is the best way) :) Since you're a hard working mom, and doing the best you can, you will probably need to find a way to "let go" of a few things. Know that as long as you communicate as clearly as possible your needs and wants to the service, it's getting done. It may not be 100% of what you want, but even 90% is better than it not getting done at all, or your having to sacrifice time with your family to do it your way.

I understand that you want to get your money's worth from a service - I am getting ready for mine to get here in the next hour, and I am walking around an pointing out just a few things to them too - I get that! Hope that what they do is at least 90% of what you expect, and you're doing great.

We use Exceptional Cleaning Service, and they do my whole house for $60 (about 2800 square feet) - two women come and work hard - for the price, I am getting 99% happiness! I have them come every other week for that price! :) ###-###-#### They came recommended to me by a close friend, and when I booked them, I discovered two of my neighbors use them as well. We all have children and I feel very safe and sure about my decision. Good luck to you!

I use Mountain Maids and have always been very happy with them. I've used them for years and with 4 kids, 2 dogs and 2 cats - they do a great job!
Good luck-
C.