Reputable cleaning companies are licensed and bonded for your protection as well as their own. They can visit weekly, every other week, or even just once or twice a year for a big clean - if you're OK with doing regular cleaning on your own. Ask your neighbors and friends for referrals; it's not unusual for people to try several different companies until they find one they like.

And, how often you need to clean depends on things such as how many people live in your house, how many pets you have, your lifestyle, whether you take your shoes off at the door, and where you live. Homes next to dusty fields or near busy streets may need more frequent cleaning.

At a minimum, you should vacuum and thoroughly clean your kitchen and frequently used bathrooms weekly for sanitary reasons, as well as to reduce dust and allergens.