Cleaning agencies - novice questions

[supergolden88]

So a little while ago I posted a thread asking how to motivate my cleaner... Guess what - after I very gently suggested she did things in a different way she went and quit on me - we had one of those 'it's not you it's me' conversations. I was dumped.

My cleaner tried to arrange for someone to take over but she never turned up on the day she was supposed to clean... So now I am asking around for a new cleaner but so far no luck. Cleaning the house with a baby around AND doing freelance work is impossible. I am thinking perhaps I have to go for one of the cleaning agencies.

Questions for those of you who have used an agency in the past. Any advantages to them? Do you have to commit to certain period? Pay upfront? What are the costs involved above what you would normally pay your cleaner?

Agencies and cleaners please don't respond to the thread with marketing info thanks!