To get someone in to do a big clean?

[MichaelFinnigan]

I'm weeks away from final exams for a masters. I've just finished an end of year assignment that took every spare moment in the last four weeks. I work full time. I've got two small children

Dh has been ill for a fortnight. He's done ok keeping the kids amused and bunging on the odd load of washing

Our house is in a shocking state

I can either take three days off work to do it myself or try to hire someone.

I'm being perfectly reasonable aren't I?

Sadly £50 doesn't goo too far with a one off clean. Could a friend or family member help you out one weekend?

A big clean is going to cost way more than £50 though obviously depends on how big you house is. Take the 3 days off and break the jobs down bit by bit - tidying first, putting everything back where is belongs, getting on top of laundry etc. then actual cleaning.

Have you had a quote? Do it if you can. It will be a tonic.

If you can afford it then do it. I do this every year at the start of December. Running a busy pub at that time of year makes it hard to keep up with stuff. Costs me about £90 but I would gladly pay double.

I've done this before, and though it was a stretch, it was a worthwhile stretch (I recommend making a huge quantity of chilli to see you through - cheap, filling and nutritious). Given that you probably don't want to take three days away from studying, but it needs doing, it sounds like it could be a useful investment. You want to be specific about what you need them to do, however - does it bother you that the beds aren't made, if the kitchen in spotless? Descaling the shower walls vs mopping the floor?

Take a couple of hours to do the worst of the tidying - put stuff away, review laundry situation, and then take a look at it - what's the biggest problem? Or if that's overwhelming, what's the nearest problem? Deal with that. Do 20 minute bursts, rather than a marathon.

Get some quotes. You won't get tons for £50, but you'll get a good kick in the right direction, and if it means you can study effectively, that may be a good investment to make.