Should A House Sitter Clean?

When a house-sitting arrangement is approaching, it’s natural to wonder about cleaning expectations—what should be tidied up beforehand, and what tasks will be handled during the stay?

Generally, routine upkeep is managed throughout the sit, while deep cleaning or extensive chores may fall outside the typical responsibilities.

Curious about the usual cleaning duties in a house sitting arrangement? Read on for more insights.

Does A House Sitter Clean?

Housesitters typically handle general household cleaning, such as tidying up after themselves and any pets, using the washing machine to refresh linens, and making sure the kitchen and bathroom are left clean. However, deep cleaning or extensive chores are usuallyn’t part of their standard duties.

Every house-sitting arrangement is unique, so it’s essential to communicate cleaning expectations clearly in advance. If you require more intensive cleaning, such as a complete spring clean, many house sitters are open to providing these services, though they may charge an additional fee for the extra work.

What Does A House Sitter Clean?

House sitters generally handle routine cleaning tasks. For pet sitters, this includes promptly cleaning up any pet-related messes, such as accidents or sickness.

They also clean up after themselves, making beds with fresh sheets, clearing hair from the shower, and washing any dishes they’ve used. Additionally, it’s reasonable to expect light cleaning, like sweeping or vacuuming to remove pet hair or dirt brought in on shoes, and spot-cleaning any minor messes.

However, it’s not typical to expect sitters to take on tasks like scrubbing walls or cleaning out the fridge. If you need more extensive cleaning, some housesitters offer housekeeping services for an additional fee. Discussing these expectations upfront helps ensure a smooth arrangement.

What Does A House Sitter Do?

Housesitters handle general housekeeping and pet care, offering many daily tasks homeowners typically manage. This can include cleaning litter boxes, walking dogs, and grooming pets. They may also take on additional responsibilities like lawn care, collecting mail, and maintaining the pool.

House sitters often care for indoor plants, and it’s helpful to leave clear instructions if specific care is required.

If there are other tasks you’d like completed during your time away, communicate these needs with your sitter in advance to ensure everything is taken care of while you’re gone.

What Should I Expect Of A House Sitter?

A house sitter typically manages general maintenance, light housekeeping, and provides excellent pet care. Each house-sitting arrangement is unique, so it’s essential to communicate your expectations to ensure everything is handled satisfactorily.

Most sitters are happy to accommodate reasonable requests, and many are open to additional tasks if compensated accordingly. Building a positive relationship with your sitter can encourage them to return for future stays, providing peace of mind when you’re away.

To create a welcoming environment, it’s best to have your home in a tidy state before the sitter arrives. While they will handle general cleaning and upkeep, deep cleaning usually falls outside their responsibilities.

The key takeaway? Be open and transparent about your expectations to make the arrangement smooth and enjoyable for everyone.

Need Some Help?

If you’re a homeowner looking for a housesitter or a housesitter looking for some guidance, we can help you below.