Home cleaning service providers are dime a dozen in Singapore. While some are professional and deliver what they promise, I have also had my fair share of encountering cleaners who don’t bother to turn up after having made appointments with them.
Newcomer Helpling, a German start-up that provides a cleaner-on-demand service, is fast proving to be a hit in countries like Australia, Canada and several European countries and started operating in Singapore this year. Out of curiosity (plus the fact that I am temporarily without a domestic helper), I decided to give Helpling a shot.
Gone are the days when I need to dial a number to speak to some customer service person about getting cleaner services. With Helpling, I simply go on to their website or use their mobile app to book their service. I went online and was pleasantly surprised by how easy and fast the registration was. Not only that, Helpling really went all out to make sure the service is as customised as possible.
When filling up the request, Helpling was very specific – questions such as how the cleaner should get in, whether I have any pets and even where the cleaner should take out the trash to. The pet question was of particular concern to me as I have a pet dog and was afraid that Helpling would send a cleaner who may possibly be afraid of dogs. It goes to show how much thought went behind this.
When it comes to using cleaning companies, one is naturally concerned with the reputation of the company and security. After all, you are leaving your home in the hands of a complete stranger. Helpling gives the assurance that their service is safer than those provided by independent cleaners. All Helpling cleaners in Singapore are locals who have gone through interviews and have their backgrounds and criminal records checked by the company. Helpling provides added assurance by stating that Helpling insurance will cover cost of any irrecoverable stolen property in the event of theft.
On the day of the appointment, Helpling sent a 27 year-old lady by the name of S Y. She promptly sent out to work. While S Y was diligently cleaning away, I had a brief chat with her and found out that she in fact holds a Bachelor’s degree! Ok, lest you jump to any conclusion, S Y told me she decided not to get a corporate job after she graduated as she wanted to have the freedom to travel whenever she wants to, thus she decided to opt to jobs with flexible timing.
Throughout the four-hour service period, S Y scrubbed, washed, mopped and wiped to make sure everything’s clean as a whistle– all while maintaining a friendly demeanour. Even my (typically fussy) Mom was pleased – she even wanted to recommend Helpling to my aunt.
At a rate of S$20 per hour, I initially felt that Helpling is a tad expensive, compared to the other cleaning companies. But after using their services, I think it’s worth paying that little extra for peace of mind.
For more information on Helpling, visit their website at www.helpling.com.sg.
