Should we get a cleaner??

[snugglemommaebear]

After maternity leave I'm returning to work full time (my partner is full time too). My partner thinks we can easily cope with all the housework, food shopping etc but I'm not so sure. I've arranged for a family member (in need of some cash) to do some cleaning fortnightly and want to do online food shopping.
Any tips for for coping with returning to work full time and is a cleaner necessary?

[ImperialBlether]

If you can afford to, it'll make a huge positive difference to your life. However, I think it depends on the relationship between you and the cleaner - I would rather employ someone outside of the family, I think. It could turn into a nightmare otherwise.

[ImperialBlether]

Does your partner pull his/her weight with all the housework?

[toastedbeagle]

Online food shopping is essential. A cleaner fortnightly sounds reasonable, although I have one weekly and house still a mess the other 165 hours of the week.

[OllyBJolly]

I loved having a cleaner. Made such a huge difference to my life. I was a single parent, long commute, demanding job. My cleaner meant my home time was down time and I could spend it with DCs rather than dusting and hoovering and changing beds.

I wasn't organised for batch cooking but would usually make two of most things - lasagne, mac and cheese, mince and tatties etc - and eat one, freeze one. This meant there was always something in the freezer for dinner.

[snugglemommaebear]

Thanks everyone for your comments.
I've gone for a family member as I know they need the cash. It won't be long term as they will have less time soon and then I'll go to an agency.
Partner does his bit but as I'm on maternity I do the majority of the cleaning, cooking and shopping. I think he's in for a shock!!
What do you include in cleaning? I'm thinking it should include cleaning the bathroom, vacuuming, mopping, and polishing. Is changing the beds included?