Ask a House Cleaner - podcast cover

Ask a House Cleaner

Angela Brown the House Cleaning Guruaskahousecleaner.com
Welcome to Ask a House Cleaner, the daily podcast hosted by Angela Brown, the House Cleaning Guru. Get practical advice on cleaning surfaces, removing stains, handling clients, cleaning tips and techniques, and marketing your services. Submit your cleaning questions and get actionable tips to improve your skills and grow your business. With Angela's unmatched expertise, whether you're a pro or just starting out, tune in every day to take your cleaning skills to the next level. On Ask a House Cleaner, you'll get practical advice on everything from how to clean specific surfaces and remove tough stains to how to handle difficult clients and market your cleaning services effectively. Angela's expertise is unmatched, and she's authored countless books and courses on house cleaning that have been translated into 191 languages and used in 37 countries. Listeners are invited to submit their cleaning questions, and Angela will provide detailed answers and actionable tips to help you achieve the best possible results. Whether you're a seasoned cleaning professional or just starting out, Ask a House Cleaner is the go-to podcast for all your house cleaning needs. Tune in every day to learn something new and take your cleaning skills to the next level.

Episodes

The Cleaner's Dilemma

A cleaner's dilemma. Angela Brown answers a viewer's question about starting a cleaning business. Should the viewer treat it as a hobby or a serious business with a DBA or LLC? Angela suggests treating it like a business and diving into the deep end by learning as much as possible about the cleaning industry, customer interactions, employee interactions, sales, marketing, and more. She also recommends getting insured, having a business name, paying taxes, and being prepared to run a business. An...

Feb 02, 20235 minEp. 1398

A Housekeeper is Being Ripped Off, and It is My Mom

A housekeeper is being ripped off, and it's my mom! In this video, Angela tackles a question about a housekeeper's pay and whether she's being taken advantage of. After reading a letter from a concerned daughter, Angela gives her professional opinion on the matter. She considers that the mother has been with the same family for 40 years, the tasks she performs, and how much she is paid. Angela also questions whether the mother is an employee or an independent contractor and the flexibility she h...

Feb 01, 20237 minEp. 1397

I'm Just There to Clean - I Don't Need Any People Skills

I'm just there to clean; I don't need any people skills. This cleaning employee might be in for a surprise! In this video, #AngelaBrown explains that every home has different personalities from various ages and backgrounds, and it's important to be able to navigate and reconcile their many perspectives to get the job done. Angela stresses that the goal of any house cleaner should be to create realistic expectations. She adds that understanding personalities and being a people person can make the...

Jan 31, 20238 minEp. 1396

Moving Furniture - Professional Cleaner Do's and Don'ts

Not into moving furniture while cleaning? You're not alone. In this video, we will discuss the question of whether furniture should be moved as part of a professional house cleaning service. Learn the tips and tools for cleaning effectively around and under furniture without having to physically move it every time. Learn about the difference between maintenance and deep cleaning, and get some practical ideas for making cleaning tasks easier and more efficient. Today's #AskaHouseCleaner sponsor i...

Jan 30, 20236 minEp. 1395

When a Cleaner Can Expect Payment for Airbnb Cleaning

When can a house cleaner expect payment for Airbnb cleaning? If hosts don't pay their house cleaners on time, it can be an incredibly frustrating experience. In this video, we follow the story of one house cleaner who has been waiting months for an Airbnb host to pay up. Despite collecting money for the stay, the host refuses to pay the cleaner. What will the cleaner do to get the money they are owed? Watch this video to learn how this story unfolds and how the cleaner will collect their monies ...

Jan 27, 20238 min

How to Guarantee You Get Paid for Your Work

How to guarantee you get paid for your work? Your boss' checks keep bouncing, costing you time and money. Do you have a job agreement in place? Learn what steps you should take when you start a new cleaning job to ensure you are getting paid as you should. Today's #AskaHouseCleaner sponsor is #SavvyCleaner training and certification for house cleaners and maids. (https://savvycleaner.com/join) And your host today is #AngelaBrown (https://g.page/r/CbMI6YFuLU2GEBI/review) *** HOW TO GUARANTEE YOU ...

Jan 23, 20238 minEp. 1392

Furniture Polish on Stainless Steel - Is it a Smart Choice?

Can you use furniture polish on stainless steel? Someone on TikTok recommended it. You saw a neglected and filthy appliance and decided to clean it with an alternate cleaner, and it worked great! Awesome! But what if it didn't? Should you use a cleaner on something other than what it is intended for? Who's responsible if something goes wrong? Watch this show to get Angela's two cents on proper product usage. Today's #AskaHouseCleaner sponsor is #SavvyCleaner training and certification for house ...

Jan 20, 20235 minEp. 1393

How to Manage Pain as a New House Cleaner - Pro Survival Skills

Are you tired of trying to manage pain as a new house cleaner? Join Angela Brown, as she shares tips and tricks on how #maids and #housecleaners survive a day on the job. From looking at the Standard American Diet (SAD) and its effects on your body, to using stretch bands while on the job, Angela has the solutions you need to keep your body in top condition. Don't let pain hold you back from being the best house cleaner you can be. Learn how to take control of your pain and keep your career thri...

Jan 17, 20236 minEp. 1391

Allergies and Cleaning Chemicals

Allergies and cleaning chemicals are exaggerated in homes with pets. Is the answer hiring a house cleaner? Can you ask a house cleaner to only use green cleaning products? Will a maid service be offended if you ask them to use your vacuum to avoid cross-contamination with other homes with pets? And how do you keep your furry friends if their pet dander makes your eyes water and your nose cry? Tune in to learn more about safe cleaning methods and products for those with allergies and chemical sen...

Jan 16, 20237 minEp. 1390

Solving the Cleaning Business Catch-22: How to Scale Without Sacrificing Income

Are you solving the cleaning business Catch-22? You want to grow your business but don't want to lose your income. Find independent contractors that can support your growth. Try building relationships with other companies. Today's #AskaHouseCleaner sponsor is #SavvyCleaner training and certification for house cleaners and maids. (https://savvycleaner.com/join) And your host today is #AngelaBrown (https://g.page/r/CbMI6YFuLU2GEBI/review) *** CATCH-22 CHAPTERS *** 0:00 - Meet Angela Brown, the Hou...

Jan 12, 20236 minEp. 1389

Cleaning for One: How to Keep a Tidy Home as a Single Person

Cleaning for one. How do you keep your home tidy if you are a single person? How often should you clean? Start with determining what areas you use most and create a maintenance routine. Make it simple and easy to follow. Today's #AskaHouseCleaner sponsor is #SavvyCleaner training and certification for house cleaners and maids. (https://savvycleaner.com/join) And your host today is #AngelaBrown (https://g.page/r/CbMI6YFuLU2GEBI/review) *** CLEANING FOR ONE CHAPTERS *** 0:00 - Meet Angela Brown, t...

Jan 11, 20238 minEp. 1388

Hiring a House Cleaner Without Guilt

Overcoming the guilt of hiring a house cleaner is liberating. But is it possible? Think of it as empowering your life and helping others instead! Many people, especially those raised by parents who cleaned constantly, may feel guilty for not doing it all themselves. However, technology and societal changes have made it more common to outsource certain tasks, such as cleaning, which is not something to feel guilty about. It is also important to be an equal-opportunity employer, regardless of the ...

Jan 10, 20235 minEp. 1387

Deciding Whether to Discount

How do you decide whether to discount your cleaning services? Ask yourself these questions: are you providing the same services? Will your expenses change? Do you still need to pay your staff? Today's #AskaHouseCleaner sponsor is #SavvyCleaner training and certification for house cleaners and maids. (https://savvycleaner.com/join) And your host today is #AngelaBrown (https://g.page/r/CbMI6YFuLU2GEBI/review) *** DECIDING WHETHER TO DISCOUNT CHAPTERS *** 0:00 - Meet Angela Brown, the House Cleanin...

Jan 09, 20234 minEp. 1386

Can An Individual Get Insurance for Cleaning Houses? Tips for Solo Cleaners

Can an individual get insurance for cleaning houses? What type of insurance do I need? Is there insurance that will cover my business as it grows? If you are getting paid to clean, you will need insurance. Let's find out what will work for you! Today's #AskaHouseCleaner sponsor is #SavvyCleaner training and certification for house cleaners and maids. (https://savvycleaner.com/join) And your host today is #AngelaBrown (https://g.page/r/CbMI6YFuLU2GEBI/review) *** CAN AN INDIVIDUAL GET INSURANCE C...

Jan 06, 20237 minEp. 1385

The Secret to Building a Successful Cleaning Business Without Cleaning

The secret to building a successful cleaning business without cleaning starts with your business plans. Which comes first, the employees or the homes to clean? What supplies will you need? Are you up to date on employee rules and regulations? Watch and learn what you need to get your business up and going in no time. Today's #AskaHouseCleaner sponsor is #SavvyCleaner training and certification for house cleaners and maids. (https://savvycleaner.com/join) And your host today is #AngelaBrown (http...

Jan 04, 20236 minEp. 1384

Ending a Cleaning Agreement - Be Clear that the Relationship is Over

Are you ending a cleaning agreement? This can be uncomfortable for all parties. But knowing how to let them go and still be kind can make the situation easier. Today's #AskaHouseCleaner sponsor is #SavvyCleaner training and certification for house cleaners and maids. (https://savvycleaner.com/join) And your host today is #AngelaBrown (https://g.page/r/CbMI6YFuLU2GEBI/review) *** ENDING A CLEANING AGREEMENT CHAPTERS *** 0:00 - Meet Angela Brown, the House Cleaning Guru 0:41 - How do you end a hou...

Jan 02, 20237 minEp. 1382

How to End a Cleaning Client Relationship without Drama

How to end a cleaning client relationship without drama and still remain friends? Is your client being too picky? Does she want more without paying more? It may be time to have a conversation and go your separate ways. Today's #AskaHouseCleaner sponsor is #SavvyCleaner training and certification for house cleaners and maids. (https://savvycleaner.com/join) And your host today is #AngelaBrown (https://g.page/r/CbMI6YFuLU2GEBI/review) *** END A CLEANING CLIENT RELATIONSHIP CHAPTERS *** 0:00 - Meet...

Dec 30, 20226 minEp. 1381

Traps that Customers Set for their House Cleaners

Why would there be traps that customers set for their house cleaners? Are you an Airbnb house cleaner, and has this happened to you? A checklist may help you and your host end this practice. Today's #AskaHouseCleaner sponsor is #SavvyCleaner training and certification for house cleaners and maids. (https://savvycleaner.com/join) And your host today is #AngelaBrown (https://g.page/r/CbMI6YFuLU2GEBI/review) *** TRAPS THAT CUSTOMERS SET CHAPTERS *** 0:00 - Meet Angela Brown, the House Cleaning Guru...

Dec 28, 20227 minEp. 1380

Chemical Sensitivities When Cleaning - Protect Yourself and Your Clients

Do you have chemical sensitivities when cleaning? You are not alone! You don't always have to use bleach. Let your clients know about all-purpose cleaners that disinfect and sanitize. Save your nose and theirs! Today's #AskaHouseCleaner sponsor is #SavvyCleaner training and certification for house cleaners and maids. (https://savvycleaner.com/join) And your host today is #AngelaBrown (https://g.page/r/CbMI6YFuLU2GEBI/review) *** CHEMICAL SENSITIVITIES CHAPTERS *** 0:00 - Meet Angela Brown, the H...

Dec 26, 20225 minEp. 1379

How to Move an Employee to IC Status

How do you move an employee to IC status? Having the right policies in place is essential. Please don't get caught in a difficult spot; set them up right from the beginning. Today's #AskaHouseCleaner sponsor is #SavvyCleaner training and certification for house cleaners and maids. (https://savvycleaner.com/join) And your host today is #AngelaBrown (https://g.page/r/CbMI6YFuLU2GEBI/review) *** HOW TO MOVE AN EMPLOYEE TO IC STATUS CHAPTERS *** 0:00 - Meet Angela Brown, the House Cleaning Guru 0:10...

Dec 21, 20227 minEp. 1377

How to Know When to Stop Cleaning - Are You Over-Cleaning?

How to know when to stop cleaning? It's all about the type of cleaning you are doing and the time you want to spend. Watch this video to learn more about what you can clean and when it's okay to stop. Today's #AskaHouseCleaner sponsor is #SavvyCleaner training and certification for house cleaners and maids. (https://savvycleaner.com/join) And your host today is #AngelaBrown (https://g.page/r/CbMI6YFuLU2GEBI/review) Today's #BehindtheCleans is produced by Savvy Cleaner Training and certification ...

Dec 08, 20227 minEp. 1376

Cleaning as a Subcontractor - What Should You Charge?

Are you cleaning as a subcontractor? Not sure what you should charge for the job? Determining what the job will cost you will depend on several factors. Let's go over what you need to know! Today's #AskaHouseCleaner sponsor is #SavvyCleaner training and certification for house cleaners and maids. (https://savvycleaner.com/join) And your host today is #AngelaBrown (https://g.page/r/CbMI6YFuLU2GEBI/review) Today's #BehindtheCleans is produced by Savvy Cleaner Training and certification for house c...

Dec 06, 20227 minEp. 1370

Cancellation Policy for a Monthly Cleaning Customer - Treat Them As a One-Off

Should you have a cancellation policy for a monthly cleaning customer? Is a monthly customer just a one-off clean? Having rules or choices upfront will help you manage monthly clients. Today's #AskaHouseCleaner sponsor is #SavvyCleaner training and certification for house cleaners and maids. (https://savvycleaner.com/join) And your host today is #AngelaBrown (https://g.page/r/CbMI6YFuLU2GEBI/review) Today's #BehindtheCleans is produced by Savvy Cleaner Training and certification for house cleane...

Dec 05, 20228 minEp. 1369

Create Your Own Cleaning Supplies - Is It Worth It?

Should you create your own cleaning supplies? Chemicals, jars, bottles, all these add up. With the cleaning supplies available today, is it worth developing and marketing your own? Watch and see what Angela's two cents are on this question. Today's #AskaHouseCleaner sponsor is #SavvyCleaner training and certification for house cleaners and maids. (https://savvycleaner.com/join) And your host today is #AngelaBrown (https://g.page/r/CbMI6YFuLU2GEBI/review) Today's #BehindtheCleans is produced by S...

Dec 01, 20226 minEp. 1368

Marketing a Cleaning Business With No Money - Consistent Choices on a Budget

Marketing a cleaning business with no money? Should you get business cards or uniforms? Learn what some of the best choices are on a limited budget. Today's #AskaHouseCleaner sponsor is #SavvyCleaner training and certification for house cleaners and maids. (https://savvycleaner.com/join) And your host today is #AngelaBrown (https://g.page/r/CbMI6YFuLU2GEBI/review) Today's #BehindtheCleans is produced by Savvy Cleaner Training and certification for house cleaners and maids. (https://savvycleaner....

Nov 30, 20227 minEp. 1367

Can You Get Sued for Starting Your Own Cleaning Company

Can you get sued for starting your own cleaning company? Knowing what it takes to go from being an employee to owning your own cleaning company is important. Is it a cute dog, or is there more to it? Today's #AskaHouseCleaner sponsor is #SavvyCleaner training and certification for house cleaners and maids. (https://savvycleaner.com/join) And your host today is #AngelaBrown (https://g.page/r/CbMI6YFuLU2GEBI/review) Today's #BehindtheCleans is produced by Savvy Cleaner Training and certification f...

Nov 29, 20228 minEp. 1366

How to Clean an Oven Fast

How to clean an oven fast? Watch as Angela Brown shares her tips and product suggestions so anyone can clean an oven in about an hour. Today's #AskaHouseCleaner sponsor is #SavvyCleaner training and certification for house cleaners and maids. (https://savvycleaner.com/join) And your host today is #AngelaBrown (https://g.page/r/CbMI6YFuLU2GEBI/review) Today's #BehindtheCleans is produced by Savvy Cleaner Training and certification for house cleaners and maids. (https://savvycleaner.com/join) And ...

Nov 17, 20226 minEp. 1362

The Best Sponge for House Cleaning - Tips from a Professional Cleaner

What is the best sponge for house cleaning? Do you use the same sponge to clean all the rooms in a house or different sponges? Will a non-scratch scrub sponge scratch a tub or shower? Today, Angela Brown cleans and shows you how to keep your #scrub #sponges sanitized and reusable. Today's Ask a House Cleaner sponsor is Savvy Cleaner Training and certification for house cleaners and maids. (https://savvycleaner.com/join) And your host today is #AngelaBrown (https://g.page/r/CbMI6YFuLU2GEBI/review...

Nov 15, 20225 minEp. 1361

Holiday Cancellations for House Cleaners - Don't Go Broke

The end of the year brings holiday cancellations for house cleaners. What do you to do to keep clients on schedule? How do you fill the inevitable cancellations that happen during the holidays? Watch this video for some tips and tricks to making money during the holidays. Today's #AskaHouseCleaner sponsor is #SavvyCleaner training and certification for house cleaners and maids. (https://savvycleaner.com/join) And your host today is #AngelaBrown (https://g.page/r/CbMI6YFuLU2GEBI/review) *** HOLID...

Nov 09, 20225 minEp. 1357

House Cleaners Accused of Stealing - How to Manage Your Employees and Clients

House cleaners accused of stealing and how to handle that phone call. What do you do when your client calls and says an item has been stolen? How do you approach your employee when a client has missing jewelry, cash, etc.? What procedures should you have in place when something goes missing? Today's #AskaHouseCleaner sponsor is #SavvyCleaner training and certification for house cleaners and maids. (https://savvycleaner.com/join) And your host today is #AngelaBrown (https://g.page/r/CbMI6YFuLU2GE...

Nov 08, 20229 minEp. 1358