Cleanliness has become more important than ever due to the pandemic.

Cleaning companies are being called to clean homes and businesses more frequently than normal in the past year, and cleaning companies are booming because of it. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) sent out guidelines at the beginning of pandemic for everyone to follow on how to clean and disinfect high-touch areas.

Better Business Bureau offers tips for hiring a cleaning company:

• Make a list of what needs to be done. Deciding what needs to be cleaned can help determine what kind of cleaning service you should hire. Specialists will tackle certain aspects of your home, such as floors, windows, upholstery or carpets. General house cleaning services may tackle them all.

• Research companies. Ask family and friends what cleaning company they would recommend.

• Request references and contact them to ask about their experiences. Make sure the company has repeated positive reviews.

• Get estimates from at least three companies. Be prepared to provide your home’s size, overall condition, number of residents and/or pets, as well as if this is a one-time cleaning or you want ongoing service. Keep in mind cleaning services may charge more or hourly for initial visits or one-time cleanings, then charge set rates once regular schedules are developed.

• Check to see if the company is bonded and insured to protect yourself if anything is stolen, broken or someone gets injured.

• Meet with the company and the actual person who will be cleaning your space if possible. Determine if you’ll be comfortable with him or her.

• Ask what types of products will be used in case a family member, employee or pet is sensitive to certain chemicals.

• Inquire if the company outsources its work, employs its own cleaners or uses temporary help. Also, ask if the company does background checks on the people it hires.

• Ask if you have to provide the cleaning supplies. If so, the overall cost should be cheaper.

• Walk through each room with the person cleaning so he or she knows what rooms are to be cleaned and what is not to be touched. Make sure he or she knows your expectations.

• Discuss the cost and get it in writing. Know how long it should take and everything that will be cleaned. Communicate if there is something specific you want cleaned.

• Ask if cleaning company is affiliated with a professional association, such as the Professional Association for the Residential Cleaning Industry (ARCSI), which informs members of new regulations, safety and training.

• Prepare for the cleaning. Pickup clutter and make sure personal items like jewelry or family keepsakes are put away.

For more information about cleaning companies, visit BBB.org or call 937-222-5825 or 800-776-5301. The Better Business Bureau can provide a list of BBB Accredited Businesses in the industry and Business Profiles on companies you are considering.