Tips on hiring a cleaner?

[Jergens]

I'm going back to work next week after 10 mos mat leave. Have realised that I'll need a cleaner as I won't manage without.
I have a private cleaner coming round on Monday for an chat/informal interview. What should I make sure to ask? Would you ask for references? Would most people give a new cleaner a house key or arrange for them to come in when you're home?
Any tips/advice appreciated!

Watching with interest, although fromthe opposite angle. I am thinking of starting cleaning for a job.

Great if you can get references.

I wouldn't let them keep a key until after a few months.

If you have them more than once a week, pay them on the last day.

Be clear about what type of cleanning you want.
Do you want them to sort out house stuff,toys,clutter etc. (great help for busy mums)

washing,iorning putting clothes away?

try and communicate your standards eg. base of toilet,sink,should they move furniture,remove cushions from sofas and clean? etc.

Go for a 4 week trial and both have a chat after that to see what you would like them to do more/better.Discuss hours.See how it is working for them.

be clear about how many hours and their break times.

hormonalmum you can use all these points from the other angle when you meet your future clients. I would be impressed if the cleaner asked if I wanted some of the above things done.

Fidelma thanks for your helpful suggestions!

Discuss what happens when either of you is on holiday - do you pay them when you are away and they don't come as you don't want anyone in the house, or not come not pay? Or if they have a key do they come when you are away would the do non-standard cleaning eg. Clean out fridge, clean kitchen cupboards etc.

Thanks for the tips. I've decided to go with a recommended cleaning company as they charge the same as the private cleaner and are insured whilst private cleaner isn't.

If you're going to be there - do they whistle/hum/sniff?

thanks also from my pov!