Even if you turn into "that host" who makes everyon leave their shoes inside the front door, there's no way to avoid it: You'll eventually need to have your carpet and rugs cleaned.

If you want to hire a company, our ratings tables show how customers we surveyed rated local housecleaning services and the results of our price shopping.

Many consumers prefer to hire an individual for housecleaning help, rather than a service. But doing your own hiring brings the responsibilities associated with the role of an employer, such as filling out paperwork and paying various taxes.

The National Committee on Household Employment, before it closed its doors, developed a set of standards for employers and their household employees. The guidelines presented here are from its Code of Standards for Household Employment.

You’ll want to do your shopping at stores where you can get good advice, good selection, quality installation services, and honest business practices—at reasonable prices.

Most of us have made unwise furniture purchases that a bit of planning would have prevented. Before shopping, evaluate your budget, how you’ll use the furniture, how it fits in with your other furniture and tastes, and other considerations.