Spring Cleaning? BBB Offers Tips for Hiring Help, Donating Wisely, and Avoiding Online Scams

If you’ve caught the spring-cleaning bug, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) has tips for finding trusted companies to help you declutter, locating places to donate used items, and staying safe if you’re selling items online.
Clearing the clutter can be a daunting task for busy families, and some turn to
professional cleaning or organizing services.
It’s important to choose a trusted, reliable company you can count on to respect you, your home, and your possessions.
Once the work is done, you may be left with items that need new homes. You can
donate gently used items to a charity or sell them through an online marketplace—but keep in mind these platforms are popular with scammers attempting to steal money or personal information.
Whatever your spring-cleaning plans, do your research before choosing a company to work with or a charity to support. And if you’re selling online, be protective of your personal information.
How can I hire someone to help me organize?
• Decide whether you need a cleaner or an organizer (or both). Professional cleaners and organizers may seem similar, but they offer different services. Cleaning companies typically handle tasks like vacuuming, washing, and disinfecting.
Organizing companies help you sort, store, downsize, and dispose of belongings but don’t usually provide cleaning services.
• Research companies in advance. Search for trusted cleaning companies through the BBB. Look for Accreditation, reviews, and any complaints. A strong track record matters. Consider interviewing companies in person before hiring.
•Get multiple quotes. Request estimates from at least three companies for the same services. The lowest price isn’t always the best—especially if it’s
far below the market average.
•Get everything in writing. Make sure you receive a written contract outlining all service details. Read it carefully before signing or making payment.
• Prepare for the service. Secure personal items you’d prefer to keep private, and plan to keep pets out of the way before the company arrives.
How can I find a trustworthy charity to donate to?
• Research charities through the BBB. Visit Give.org to find BBB Accredited Charities near you. Accredited charities meet 20 standards for transparency and accountability, helping ensure your donation is used appropriately.
•Check donation guidelines. Not all charities accept used items, and many have restrictions on condition or type. Always check first. Avoid donating broken or poor-condition items.
• Verify collection bins and trucks. Don’t assume all donation bins or trucks are affiliated with a legitimate charity. Give.org offers guidance on donating safely through these sources.
How can I avoid scams when selling items online?
• Watch for red flags. Scammers often fake interest to gain personal information or money.
Warning signs include:
– Requests to complete transactions outside the platform, where protections are limited.
– Requests for personal or banking information. This is not needed for a sale.
– Overpayment schemes, where a buyer sends extra money and asks for a refund of the difference.
• Be cautious with high-value items. Expensive listings can attract more scammers.
• Stay safe when meeting buyers. If meeting in person, choose a public location rather than your home, and consider bringing someone with you.
Don O’Brien is the regional director for the Quincy Better Business Bureau. He can be reached at [email protected] or (217) 209-3972.