House Sitting and Cleaning Services for Students on Campus

Students on campus often juggle academics, part‑time work, and social commitments. When a roommate leaves for the summer, a dorm or apartment can quickly become a maintenance challenge. House‑sitting and cleaning services give students peace of mind while keeping their living spaces safe and tidy. Below is an in‑depth guide on how to find, evaluate, and use these services, plus a practical end‑of‑tenancy cleaning checklist that students can follow or hand over to a professional.

Why Students Need House‑Sitting and Cleaning Help

• Time management – Balancing coursework, labs, and study groups leaves little time for regular cleaning.
• Safety – A vacant apartment is more vulnerable to pests, water leaks, or even break‑ins. Regular monitoring can catch problems early.
• Preserving rent or lease value – Proper upkeep prevents damage that could lead to costly landlord disputes.
• Peace of mind – Knowing that a reliable person is watching over the home reduces stress while away for holidays or internships.

Students who take advantage of local house‑sitting and cleaning services often report higher satisfaction with their living arrangements and better overall academic focus.

Finding a Local House‑Sitting Provider

1. Ask around – Friends, faculty, or residence life staff often have recommendations.
2. Check campus resources – Many universities host bulletin boards or online forums for student services.
3. Use reputable local platforms – Look for sites that vet providers and offer reviews. Pay attention to whether the platform allows cash‑on‑delivery, which is convenient for students without credit cards, and consider the tips in the complete guide to finding local services and offline gigs near campus for narrowing down options.
4. Verify credentials – Ask for insurance and background checks, especially for long‑term sits.

Evaluating a Cleaning Service

A side note: students should confirm whether the service offers a “one‑time” cleaning or recurring visits. Recurring options are often cheaper per visit.

Understanding the Cost Structure

• One‑time deep clean – Roughly $80–$120 for a one‑bedroom or small apartment.
• Regular visits – $25–$40 per hour for half‑day or full‑day cleaning.
• House‑sitting only – $30–$60 per day, covering basic checks and mail handling.

Because budgets are tight, many students negotiate a combined package: house‑sitting plus a monthly cleaning session. Cash‑on‑delivery is common, but some providers now accept mobile payments via QR codes or campus‑linked accounts, as explained in the how to manage cash on campus with house‑sitting, cleaning, and local gigs.

Preparing for the Service

1. Create a cleaning guide – List items to be cleaned, such as bathrooms, kitchen surfaces, and windows. This helps the cleaner focus on what matters most.
2. Provide access details – Leave a spare key or set up a temporary access code for the cleaner’s first visit.
3. Secure valuables – Remove or lock up jewelry, electronics, and important documents.
4. Set expectations – Discuss any specific allergies or preferred cleaning products.

End‑of‑Tenancy Cleaning Checklist

Students who plan to return to their apartment after a summer break can use this checklist to ensure they meet landlord requirements. For a deeper dive into move‑out cleaning best practices, see the end‑of‑tenancy cleaning checklist for renters.

General Living Area

• Sweep and mop all floors.
• Vacuum rugs and upholstery.
• Dust all surfaces, including baseboards and vents.
• Clean windows inside and out (if accessible).
• Remove any leftover personal items or trash.

Kitchen

• Wipe down cabinet fronts and appliances.
• Clean the microwave, oven, and refrigerator interior.
• Scrub the sink and faucets.
• Empty the trash and clean the bin.
• Check for any leaks or mildew in the dishwasher.

Bathroom

• Scrub the toilet, shower, and bathtub.
• Clean mirrors and glass surfaces.
• Replace any used towels or bath mats.
• Mop the floor and ensure no water spots remain.
• Empty the bathroom trash can.

Bedrooms

• Vacuum or mop the floor.
• Wipe down windows, blinds, and curtains.
• Ensure all storage spaces are clear of clutter.

Miscellaneous

• Test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms.
• Replace batteries if necessary.
• Verify that all lights work and replace any burned bulbs.

A clean apartment not only satisfies lease terms but also creates a welcoming environment when you return.

Tips for Working with a Cleaner

• Clear communication – Let the cleaner know which rooms need the most attention.
• Leave a tip – A small gesture (10–15%) is customary for exceptional work.
• Schedule in advance – Reserve the cleaning slot as soon as you know your travel dates.
• Keep receipts – These can be handy for expense reimbursements or proof of payment.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Leaving the property unsecured – Always lock doors and windows, even if you trust the cleaner.
2. Skipping the inventory – If you own expensive items, consider a quick inventory list to track them.
3. Ignoring maintenance issues – Report any leaks, broken fixtures, or signs of pests before the cleaning visit.
4. Not testing access – Ensure the cleaner can enter without difficulty; otherwise, they may not be able to complete the job.

How Students Can Benefit From Professional House‑Sitting

• Reduced liability – A licensed sitter reduces the risk of accidents.
• Consistent upkeep – Regular checks prevent small problems from becoming major repairs.
• Better rental history – Landlords appreciate tenants who maintain their homes.
• Extra flexibility – Sits can be arranged around exam schedules or short travel trips.

Many students find that a one‑hour weekly visit during the school year, combined with a deeper clean once a month, offers the perfect balance of cost and convenience.

Final Thoughts

House‑sitting and cleaning services are a practical solution for students facing long absences or simply wanting to keep their spaces in top condition. By researching reputable providers, understanding pricing, and following a thorough end‑of‑tenancy checklist, students can ensure their homes stay safe, clean, and ready for return. Whether you need a quick spring‑clean or ongoing maintenance, these services help you focus on what matters most: your studies and personal growth.