I know this will make me sound pretty thick, but I've never even contemplated getting a cleaner before, so I've no idea where to start.
I've had carpal tunnel release surgery which hasn't gone very well and I need to take it easy for up to another 2 mo while having weekly physio. I have a toddler and a nearly toddler, both in nappies, the youngest still bf (including at night atm as he's been ill) so although I pace myself with outings and so on, my hand-strength gets used up on kids really. Despite loads of help from friends for the first 2-3 weeks, and amazing support from my dh every evening, I don't think I can really take it easy enough to let this wretched hand heal AND continue to do basic housekeeping without more ongoing support and I really don't feel I can ask friends to continue - they've all got their own problems too and it's been 6 weeks already.
Dh has suggested getting a cleaner just for the next 6 weeks, as we're both exhausted. It feels like a bit of a failure because I could do it myself, just then not manage anything else - and it will take money out of our savings. It's only a 3bed terrace, and it would only be downstairs (through room and kitchen/diner) and the bathroom and nursery upstairs. Just basic cleaning but possibly helping me spring-clean the kitchen.
Do people do short term arrangements like this? How do I find such people? Would I have to arrange to be out? What kind of money are we talking and how much time would we need?