House Keeper!!! - Conroe,TX

It depends if your housekeeper is from an agency or an individual worker. When I went with an agency, they have a set number of things within a limited amount of time to do it so there was not much I needed to tell them because they won't do anything outside their list. My current housekeeper, however, is independent, so she would do little things like clean out the fridge or water plants if I asked.
It is addictive!!! My husband got a pay cut and I had to cut her hours but I basically limited my other luxuries such as movies, dining out, cable, etc because I'd rather pay her to help me with my house! It's a sanity saver!
On a less pleasant note, I did get someone who stole from my house once so I would keep any valuables/cash/jewelry out of sight to resist temptation.

So addicting!

Number one on the list...never give anyone else your housekeepers number. Soon your housekeeper will not need you because they have too much work.

Try not to get to relaxed with her. I made the mistake of never checking her work and she began cutting corners and getting out 2 - 3 hours earlier, because I felt as long as the work was done and my house was clean, why should she be away from her family. Once I began approaching her with areas that needed attention, I noticed she was not that happy and eventually I had to let her go.

No more housekeeper for me until the economy gets a bit better.

You have a bunch of good advice already but I wanted to add this one thing:

One of the things that you need to do to get ready is remove your clutter and put away the kids toys, etc. so that they can actually do the cleaning!

Enjoy the luxury and happy birthday to the kiddos!
blessings,
stacy

I always remind them to "Dust Everything!" Also, remind them to stay away from flat screen tv and computer monitor, you'll do that yourself.

Just make sure its clear from the beginning what it is that she is suppose to do and what is not included. I have a regular housekeeper that comes every two weeks and she does the basics, but if i want extra done like laundry, etc... then we establish that for the day and I pay her a little extra. Its better to be upfront about all because if you don't you only leave yourself set up for possible disappointment. You never know.

I do home cleaning on the side, independently. Be very specific on what you want done; if there are certain cleaners you want used or not used in certain places. Clear any clutter like papers on counters & desks, clothes on the floor, dishes, etc. Are you paying a flat rate for certain things to be done or by the hour? Set that up before the "Cleaning Technician" (LOL) starts. I do ironing, 3-10 items, and if there is something extra I don't mind every now and then. It is usually done with a little less ironing. It takes a time or two to establish the little things you may want done. I have heard of theft, and strangely it was little things, trinkets or inexpensive items. I have a rule, never mess in the hand that feeds you or you will end up with no way to eat.
Best of luck!!!

ha-ha! It is addictive...I'll warn you in advance. It's a breakable habit though, I no longer have someone to help. My advice is to start a list now of the things you absolutely have to have done. Most are very good about it but make it very clear with a list. I would also ask them what is included in their price. If they wash rugs, for example, take them up on it. Give any specifics (things you don't want them to touch, cleaners you might want them to use, etc.). Lastly, keep your kids out of the house as much as possible! :) My kids could destroy the house within 3 hours of our housekeeper leaving. This is why I decided I should just do it myself. :)