Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about our house cleaning services. Can't find what you're looking for? Give us a call — we're happy to help.
Booking & Scheduling
How do I book a cleaning?
You can book online in about 60 seconds through our online booking system. Just enter your home details, select your service type, and pick a date and time that works for you. You'll get instant pricing with no surprises.
Prefer to talk to a real person? Call us at (516) 699-8406 for Nassau County or (631) 596-0682 for Suffolk County.
How far in advance should I book?
We recommend booking at least 3-5 days in advance to secure your preferred time slot. For recurring cleanings, we suggest booking your first appointment 1-2 weeks ahead.
Need a cleaning sooner? Call us — we can sometimes accommodate same-day or next-day requests depending on availability.
Can I reschedule or cancel my cleaning?
Yes! We understand plans change. You can reschedule or cancel with at least 48 hours notice at no charge. Cancellations with less than 48 hours notice may be subject to a cancellation fee.
To reschedule or cancel, call us or email [email protected].
Do I need to be home during the cleaning?
No, you don't need to be home. Many of our clients provide a spare key, door code, or lockbox access. Your cleaner will lock up when they leave and secure your key.
If you prefer to be present, especially for the first cleaning, that's perfectly fine too.
What time will my cleaner arrive?
We offer arrival windows rather than exact times, as cleaning durations can vary. When you book, you'll select a morning (8am-12pm) or afternoon (12pm-5pm) window.
Your cleaner will text you when they're on their way so you know exactly when to expect them.
How long does a cleaning take?
Cleaning times vary based on home size, condition, and service type. As a general guide:
- 1-2 bedroom home: 1.5 - 2.5 hours
- 3-4 bedroom home: 2.5 - 4 hours
- Deep cleaning: Add 1-2 hours to standard times
Your cleaner will stay until the job is done right, not rush out at a set time.
How should I prepare for my cleaning?
To get the most out of your cleaning, we recommend:
- Pick up clutter and personal items from surfaces and floors
- Put away dishes so we can clean counters and sinks
- Secure pets or let us know how to interact with them
- Leave out any special products you'd like us to use
- Let us know about any areas to avoid or pay extra attention to
The less time we spend tidying up clutter, the more time we can spend actually cleaning.
Can I change my cleaning frequency?
Absolutely! You can switch between weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly cleanings at any time. Just let us know and we'll adjust your schedule. Your pricing will update to reflect the new frequency.
Can I book a one-time cleaning?
Yes! While we love our recurring clients, we're happy to do one-time cleanings for special occasions, pre-party prep, post-renovation cleanup, or just to try us out. One-time cleanings are priced slightly higher than recurring service.
Pricing & Payment
How much does house cleaning cost?
Pricing depends on your home's size, condition, and service type. Here are typical bi-weekly recurring cleaning ranges:
- 1 Bedroom: $190 - $210
- 2 Bedrooms: $210 - $250
- 3 Bedrooms: $250 - $290
- 4 Bedrooms: $290 - $340
- 5+ Bedrooms: $340+
Deep cleaning and move-in/move-out services cost more due to the intensive nature of the work. Get your exact price in 60 seconds with our online booking tool.
Why does the first cleaning cost more?
The first cleaning is typically priced higher because it requires more time and effort to bring your home up to our maintenance standard. This includes tackling built-up grime, detailed cleaning of areas that may have been neglected, and establishing a baseline.
After the initial deep clean, recurring cleanings are faster and less expensive because we're maintaining a clean home rather than starting from scratch.
Are there any hidden fees?
No hidden fees. The price you see when you book is the price you pay. We include all supplies and equipment at no extra charge.
The only exception: if we arrive and the home's condition is significantly different than described (e.g., heavy pet hair, excessive clutter), we may discuss a price adjustment before starting.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept all major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover). Payment is processed automatically after your cleaning is complete.
For recurring clients, we securely store your card on file so you don't have to worry about payment each time.
Do you require a deposit?
No deposit required. You only pay after your cleaning is complete and you're satisfied with the work.
Do you offer discounts for recurring cleanings?
Yes! Recurring clients enjoy discounted rates compared to one-time cleanings. The more frequently you schedule, the better the rate:
- Weekly: Best pricing
- Bi-weekly: Great savings
- Monthly: Still discounted vs. one-time
Should I tip my cleaner?
Tipping is never required, but always appreciated. If your cleaner does exceptional work, a tip is a great way to show your gratitude. Most clients who tip give 15-20% or $20-40 cash.
You can also leave a Google review — it means a lot to our team!
Will my price change from visit to visit?
No. Once we've established your recurring rate, it stays consistent visit to visit. The only time pricing might change is if you add extra services, change your home size significantly, or change your cleaning frequency.
Do you offer gift cards?
Yes! Cleaning gift cards make a wonderful present for new parents, busy professionals, or anyone who could use a break. Gift cards start at $275 minimum and can be purchased by contacting us directly.
Call us at (516) 699-8406 or email [email protected] to purchase.
Services
What's included in a standard cleaning?
Our standard recurring cleaning covers all the essentials:
- Dusting all surfaces, furniture, and fixtures
- Vacuuming and mopping all floors
- Cleaning and sanitizing bathrooms (toilets, sinks, showers, mirrors)
- Kitchen cleaning (counters, appliances exterior, sink, stovetop)
- Making beds and tidying
- Emptying trash
View our full cleaning checklist for details.
What's the difference between deep cleaning and recurring cleaning?
Deep cleaning is an intensive, top-to-bottom cleaning that tackles built-up grime, neglected areas, and detailed tasks. It takes longer and costs more but gets your home to a baseline level of clean.
Recurring cleaning is maintenance cleaning that keeps your home consistently clean once it's already in good shape.
We recommend starting with a deep clean if it's been a while since your last professional cleaning, then switching to recurring service to maintain it.
Do you bring your own supplies and equipment?
Yes! We bring all cleaning supplies and equipment at no extra charge. Our cleaners arrive with professional-grade vacuums, microfiber cloths, mops, and eco-friendly cleaning products.
If you have preferred products or specific supplies you'd like us to use (especially for allergies or sensitivities), just let us know and we're happy to accommodate.
Do you clean inside ovens, refrigerators, or windows?
These are add-on services not included in standard cleaning. Here are our add-on prices:
- Inside oven: $35
- Inside refrigerator: $35
- Interior windows: $5 per window
- Inside cabinets/drawers: $5 per cabinet
- Laundry (wash, dry, fold): $25 per load
- Inside dishwasher: $20
- Garage sweep: $35+
Just let us know when booking and we'll include them in your quote. Many of these tasks are included in deep cleaning services.
Do you use eco-friendly cleaning products?
Yes! We use eco-friendly, non-toxic cleaning products as our standard. Our products are safe for children, pets, and people with allergies or sensitivities.
If you have specific products you prefer or need us to use (due to allergies or personal preference), just let us know and we're happy to accommodate.
What's NOT included in a standard cleaning?
Standard recurring cleanings do not include:
- Inside oven, refrigerator, or dishwasher
- Inside cabinets, drawers, or closets
- Interior windows
- Laundry or dishes
- Exterior cleaning (patios, garages)
- High areas requiring ladders
- Heavy furniture moving
- Biohazard or hoarding cleanup
Many of these can be added on for an additional charge, or are included in our deep cleaning service.
I have pets. Is that a problem?
Not at all! We love pets and clean many homes with dogs, cats, and other animals. Just let us know about your pets when booking so we can:
- Plan for extra time if there's heavy pet hair
- Know if pets should be secured or are friendly
- Avoid letting pets out accidentally
Note: We clean up regular pet hair as part of our service, but we cannot address pet odor issues, pet accidents, or excessive pet hair buildup (this may require a deep clean first).
Do you offer move-in/move-out cleaning?
Yes! Our move-in/move-out cleaning is designed to get a property spotless for new occupants or to ensure you get your security deposit back. It includes inside cabinets, appliances, and detailed cleaning throughout.
Can you clean apartments and condos?
Absolutely! We clean apartments, condos, townhouses, and single-family homes throughout Long Island. Just provide any building access information when you book.
Our Cleaners
Will I get the same cleaner every time?
Yes! This is one of our key differentiators. We match you with a dedicated cleaner who returns for every visit. They'll learn your home, your preferences, and how you like things done.
If your regular cleaner is ever unavailable (vacation, illness), we'll notify you in advance and send a qualified backup.
Are your cleaners background checked?
Absolutely. Every cleaner on our team undergoes a thorough background check before they're hired. No exceptions. We also verify references and conduct in-person interviews.
Your safety and peace of mind are our top priorities.
Are you insured and bonded?
Yes, we're fully insured and bonded. This protects you in the unlikely event of accidental damage or any other issues. You can learn more on our insurance & bonding page.
What if I'm not happy with my cleaner?
Just let us know. We want you to be completely comfortable, and personality fit matters. If your assigned cleaner isn't the right match, we'll assign someone new — no awkward conversations required.
Are your cleaners employees or contractors?
Our cleaners are independent contractors who work exclusively with Long Island Maids. They're trained to our standards, use our systems, and are covered by our insurance. This model allows us to maintain quality while fairly compensating our team.
Do your cleaners speak English?
Yes, all of our cleaners speak English and can communicate with you about your cleaning preferences, special instructions, or any questions that arise. Clear communication is important to us.
Guarantee & Policies
What is your satisfaction guarantee?
If you're not satisfied with any part of your cleaning, let us know within 24 hours and we'll send the same cleaner back to make it right — completely free of charge. We call it our 24-Hour Re-Clean Promise.
Learn more on our guarantee page.
What's your cancellation policy?
We ask for at least 48 hours notice if you need to cancel or reschedule. Cancellations with less than 48 hours notice may be subject to a cancellation fee, as our cleaner has already reserved that time for you.
What if something gets damaged during cleaning?
Accidents are rare, but they can happen. We're fully insured, so if something is accidentally damaged during a cleaning, let us know right away. We'll work with you to make it right, whether that's repair or replacement.
Do you lock up when you leave?
Yes. Your cleaner will always lock all doors when leaving and secure any keys in the designated location. If you use a smart lock or code, we'll make sure it's locked when we leave.
Are there contracts or commitments?
No contracts, no commitments. Even for recurring cleanings, you can skip, pause, or cancel anytime. We believe you should stay because you want to, not because you're locked in.
How do you handle keys and home access?
We offer several options for home access:
- Lockbox: Leave a key in a secure lockbox with a code
- Door code: Provide your garage or door code
- Key handoff: Give us a spare key to keep on file securely
- Be home: You can be present to let us in
Your keys are labeled with a code (not your address) and stored securely. Your cleaner will always lock up when leaving.
What happens in bad weather?
We clean rain or shine! However, in cases of severe weather (blizzards, hurricanes, dangerous road conditions), we may need to reschedule for safety. We'll contact you as early as possible if weather affects your appointment.
There's no cancellation fee for weather-related rescheduling.
Service Areas
Where do you provide service?
We serve all of Long Island, including:
- Nassau County: Garden City, Great Neck, Manhasset, Mineola, Rockville Centre, Syosset, Jericho, Westbury, Roslyn, and more
- Suffolk County: Huntington, Smithtown, Commack, Dix Hills, Babylon, Islip, Northport, Cold Spring Harbor, Stony Brook, and more
- The Hamptons: East Hampton, Southampton, Bridgehampton, Sag Harbor, Montauk, Westhampton
View our full service areas page for a complete list.
Do you serve the Hamptons?
Yes! We provide house cleaning services throughout the Hamptons, including East Hampton, Southampton, Bridgehampton, Sag Harbor, Montauk, and surrounding areas.
Note: Hamptons pricing is slightly higher due to travel time and the specialized nature of many properties. See our Hamptons cleaning page for details.
Do you service Queens?
We serve select areas of Queens that border Nassau County, including Bayside, Little Neck, Douglaston, and Fresh Meadows. Enter your address in our booking system to confirm availability.
Is there an extra charge for certain locations?
Most locations in Nassau and Suffolk County have standard pricing. The Hamptons and far East End locations have adjusted pricing due to travel. Very remote locations may also have a travel surcharge.
Your exact price is shown when you book online — no surprises.
We're Here to Help
Can't find the answer you're looking for? Our team is happy to help with any questions about our services, pricing, or policies.
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