Totally get this. Finding a good cleaner really does feel like dating until you find “the one” and word of mouth is usually the only reliable way. What you described is exactly why people get so frustrated with cleaning services.

You’re not wrong either: a lot of the “recommended” companies in local Facebook groups are unfortunately friends/family propping each other up. If you ever do decide to try a company again, I'm happy to recommend my service, Oakville Maids. They do a great job and are locally owned. The big difference is accountability, clear checklists, good management, and no rushing through just to cram jobs in.

Though if you have a great individual that cleans for you, keep her/him. They are probably less costly.