Since both R and I don’t really have the time/ energy to do housework (and probably lazy on our free days), we actually tried out a part time cleaning service with Helpling! Although some of the basic household chores are done occasionally, there’s no doubt that the house is getting dirtier especially at areas that are not commonly touched, such as windows and cabinets.
Helpling App:
Booking through the Helpling app is quite convenient, you just have to input your house address and preferred frequency – I chose the fortnightly as the price was cheaper per hour ($25++ per hour) versus ala-carte price ($28++ per hour).
Not sure if it was near Chinese New Year, but there were very limited slots left even for non peak hours like weekday afternoons in February. There was also some confusion with the dates on the app but their customer service team on WhatsApp was quite helpful in resolving my enquiries!
After a helper has accepted the booking, I was notified on my email and app, after which I was able to view her profile and reviews. About 2 days before each booking, Helpling will send over an online COVID-19 declaration form via email to ensure health safety.
To get better matches, you can also fill in the list of requirements such as whether you require window cleaning, or have pets at home. For my case, as there was a small hiccup of dates on the app, I actually manually informed the customer service about my needs and they helped me match with a suitable helper. I really like this function as I believe that it’s always better to be upfront with what is required rather than have a helper not comfortable with certain requirements.
On the first day when my helper came over, I just listed the chores accordingly and handed over all the cleaners/ detergents. There was minimal guidance and supervision throughout the 3 hours. Instead of listing down everything in 1 shot, I told her roughly what were the main areas to be cleaned (Because I really wasn’t sure what was the recommended duration per chore).
But she really did surprise me with her efficiency! Within 3 hours, she could complete the following:
– Cleaned 2 toilets
– Clean the windows (which was untouched for about a year because of the insect mesh)
– Wiped all cabinets/ tables
– Cleaned kitchen
– Vacuum and mop the whole house
My windows have never looked this clean.
One of the helpers on my next few sessions even helped to organise my very messy stuff in the kitchen yard without me saying anything! I love the initiative!
The prices are not exactly that cheap since it is $25+ per hour, but if you don’t really have time to do housework, their service would be really useful!
If you’re interested to try out Helpling’s services, don’t forget to use my referral code to enjoy 50% off your next recurring booking (about $38 savings for a 3 hour booking)!
Helpling Promo/ Discount Code: ecbb83
