For recurring cleaning, many people ask a colleague, neighbour, landlord, compound management office, or community contact for an ayi recommendation. This can make trust and scheduling easier.
Best for: regular weekly or part-time help
02
Use an agency
An agency can help match your requirements and may screen workers or offer contracts and support. Shanghai’s official English portal lists several agencies serving international residents.
Best for: users who want clearer screening or ongoing support
03
Book a one-time clean on a Chinese platform
Chinese home-service apps and WeChat mini-programs can be useful for one-off or deep cleaning. The interface and customer service may be Chinese-only, so keep the message below ready.
Best for: one-time cleaning, move-in cleaning, or a quick booking
Meaning: Hello, I would like to book home cleaning. The apartment is about ___ square metres and I need ___ cleaned. Do you cover my area? How is the price calculated, and what is the earliest available time?
BEFORE YOU BOOK
Confirm these details first
ScopeWhich rooms, appliances, windows, or difficult areas are included?
Price structureHourly, per square metre, or a fixed package?
Minimum bookingIs there a minimum number of hours or minimum order?
SuppliesDoes the cleaner bring products and equipment?
Extra chargesTransport, weekends, heavy stains, windows, or rush booking?
PaymentCan you pay after the service, and which payment methods are accepted?
STARTING POINTS
Two routes you can check
These are starting points, not paid endorsements. Confirm current availability, price, service area, and language support before booking.
OFFICIAL ENGLISH GUIDEShanghai International Services
Explains referrals, agencies, expectations, and questions to consider when finding an ayi in Shanghai.
AGENCY LISTED BY OFFICIAL PORTALCC Shanghai Ayi Agency
The official Shanghai portal describes it as providing cleaners and other household services to international clients. English availability for your exact request should still be confirmed.
With 7-Day Q&A Support, you can ask up to 15 practical questions. For example, I can help you compare a few cleaning options, understand a Chinese reply, or work out what to ask before you book.
This Daily Help page uses Shanghai’s official English-language guidance and current public platform information as starting points. Service availability, prices, language support, and booking rules can change. Adapt to China does not operate or endorse the listed providers and does not process bookings or payments for them.
Page reviewed: 4 August 2026 · Daily Help 01 · Shanghai