The author Sybilla Hart recounted her struggles in maintaining a consistent cleaning service for her six-bedroom farmhouse, detailing how multiple cleaners ultimately ceased working for her due to the ongoing state of her home.
Hart described her house as a "perma-mess," attributing the constant disarray to her five children, five dogs, two cats, four chickens, and a horse. She noted that the upkeep required for such a household often overwhelmed hired cleaning services.
Initially, Hart used agency cleaners who she found to be unenthusiastic and lacking in proper cleaning techniques, recalling an instance where a cleaner ironed shirts one-handed while on her phone. Dissatisfied, she sought a local, non-agency cleaner to build a more personal working relationship.
One cleaner, who initially quoted six hours per week, was deemed too expensive. Another cleaner controversially used the suction pole of a bagless vacuum cleaner to remove dog feces from the floor, explaining she could not bend down due to a bad back. This incident led to Hart being dismissed as a client.
Hart then found Anna, a cleaner with a reputation as a "cleaning wizard." Despite a waiting list, Anna eventually agreed to a three-hour weekly slot, much to Hart's relief. Anna was initially effective, managing the household's clutter and animal-related messes. However, over time, the state of the house began to affect their professional relationship.
After a couple of years, Hart's casual apology for the mess elicited a sharp response from Anna, who noted, "No change there then Sybilla." The author admitted that the situation had worsened, with a child smearing Sudocrem on a dog and makeup spilling on bedsheets.
Hart attempted to improve the cleanliness, but Anna's visits became increasingly infrequent, with various excuses. When Anna did come, her demeanor became judgmental, making Hart feel embarrassed. Ultimately, Anna resigned as a client, citing allergies triggered by pet fur and the overwhelming mess, which she likened to "wading through treacle."
Following Anna's departure, Hart decided to clean the house herself, enlisting her children and husband. While the house remains as messy as ever, she stated that the only person judging the state of it is herself. Anna's last name was changed for the article.