Housekeeping Guidelines for Direct Care Workers

Sanitation & Safety Standards for In-Home Care

Maintaining a clean and safe environment is essential to supporting the health and comfort of clients receiving home- and community-based services. This guide outlines standard housekeeping responsibilities and safety protocols Direct Care Workers should follow during home visits—ensuring compliance with client care plans, infection control procedures, and best practices for sanitation.

Direct Care Worker Responsibilities

Sanitation

Maintain clean living spaces and bathrooms as outlined in the care plan.

Safety

Identify and reduce fall hazards, use safe cleaning practices.

Infection Control

Disinfect high-touch surfaces and use personal protective equipment (PPE) properly.

Respect for Client Preferences

Always seek consent and follow household norms and routines.

* Only perform housekeeping duties listed in the client’s authorized Service Plan (ISP).

Cleaning Schedule

Daily Cleaning Tasks

Wipe kitchen counters and eating areas after use.
Disinfect doorknobs, remotes, light switches.
Take out trash and reline bins.
Clean bathroom toilet, sink, and faucet handles.
Tidy up mobility paths and common areas.

Weekly Cleaning Tasks (if authorized)

Sweep and mop floors.
Dust accessible furniture and fixtures.
Change and wash linens and towels.
Wipe down appliances (microwave, refrigerator, stove handles).

Monthly or Seasonal Tasks

Clean vents, fans, or filters (if instructed).
Organize clutter or storage areas.
Deep-clean bathroom tiles or kitchen backsplashes.

Infection Control Procedures

Wash hands before and after all cleaning or personal care tasks.
Wear gloves for any sanitation involving bodily fluids or waste.
Disinfect tools or use disposable cleaning cloths.
Use color-coded supplies for different areas (e.g., bathroom vs. kitchen).

Home Safety Guidelines

Electrical & General Safety

Avoid overloading outlets or using damaged cords.
Keep floors dry and clear of hazards.
Never leave cleaning supplies unattended or in reach of clients with cognitive impairments.

Chemical Safety

Do not mix cleaning products (especially bleach and ammonia).
Use only approved household cleaners provided or permitted by the client.
Store chemicals in safe, labeled containers.

Waste Disposal

Regular Trash: Bag securely and dispose daily or as needed.
Incontinence Products: Use gloves; double-bag before disposal.
Laundry: Separate clean and soiled items; follow client’s instructions for washing.
Medical Waste: Follow agency or facility policy for safe disposal.

What to Do in Emergency Cleaning Situations

Biohazard Clean-Up (e.g., blood, vomit, feces):
Use gloves and disinfectant; report incident to supervisor.
Broken Items or Unsafe Conditions:
Document and notify your agency or client’s representative.
Unusual Odors, Pest Activity, or Mold:
Note details and report immediately per agency guidelines.

Documentation & Communication

Log completed tasks in daily care notes if required.
Record any cleaning refusal or limitation due to client preference.
Report any signs of unsafe living conditions (e.g., broken stairs, hoarding).

SAMPLE Housekeeping Task Checklist

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Training Requirements

Direct Care Workers must complete infection control and safety training upon hire and as scheduled
Review and follow each client’s service plan regularly
Attend refresher trainings provided by the agency or required by state programs