A cleaner, or charlady, is a cleaning lady who has a set weekly schedule and performs light housekeeping duties. They can work for companies or independently, and finding one can be done through directories or word of mouth. Tips are customary, especially during holidays.
A cleaner, in British English, is a cleaning lady. Typically, a cleaner has a set weekly schedule, she comes in on a particular day to clean and do light housekeeping and then leaves again. In many cases, she is given a key to facilitate entry and exit. A cleaner may also be referred to as a charlady. To anyone who has read mid-20th-century British novels, this word is undoubtedly familiar, and while not as widely used today, cleaners still exist.
The word “char” in “charwoman” comes from Middle English and means “chore,” so a cleaner is literally a cleaner. The duties performed by a cleaning lady vary, depending on the agreement she reaches with her employer. As with hiring any type of cleaning person, it’s a good idea to talk to a cleaning lady about expectations to make sure she performs as expected. Some cleaners will specifically refuse to perform certain tasks and knowing this in advance can be very helpful.
Housekeepers can clean any size establishment, from apartments to businesses, and can work for companies that offer cleaning services, or on their own. The benefit of hiring a cleaning lady from a company is that cleaning services are usually guaranteed, even if your cleaning lady is ill, because someone can fill in. Cleaning companies are also bonded and insured, in case anything gets damaged or stolen. However, an independent cleaner may be able to offer lower rates.
There are several ways to find a cleaner. Businesses are typically listed in public directories, and you can also find independent housekeepers through telephone directories and online directories. Some people like to place advertisements looking for cleaning help, while others rely on word of mouth. If you live in an apartment building, you may want to ask nearby tenants if they use a cleaning service, as the service may be able to offer a deal on cleaning, since your apartment will be conveniently located.
In addition to their regular weekly pay, many cleaners also receive tips, especially when they perform extra tasks such as a favor or courtesy. It is also traditional to tip regular staff during holidays, as a way of thanking staff for their services. Instead of a tip during the holidays, it’s also appropriate to offer a small gift.
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