In the NDIS world, we talk a lot about choice and control. But what does that actually look like when someone is in your home, mop in hand?
True control means having your preferences respected without having to repeat yourself every week. One of the most effective ways to achieve this is by creating a Sensory Cleaning Profile.
This is a simple, written guide that tells your support worker exactly what works for you—and what doesn’t. Here is how to build one that protects your peace.
Why a Written Profile Matters
Communication can be exhausting, especially on low-energy days. A Sensory Cleaning Profile acts as your “voice” when you don’t feel like talking. It ensures that even if you have a fill-in worker or a new team member, your home remains a safe, predictable sanctuary.
Building Your Profile: 4 Key Areas
You can create your profile in a notebook, a digital document, or even a laminated sheet on the fridge. Here’s what to include:
1. Sound Preferences
Be specific about equipment.
- “Please text me 5 minutes before using the vacuum so I can put on my headphones.”
- “I prefer the broom over the vacuum whenever possible.”
2. Tactile and Visual Boundaries
Help your worker understand your “order.”
- “Please do not move the items on my bedside table; just dust around them.”
- “I prefer my cushions to be placed straight, not angled.”
3. Scent and Product Requirements
Make your “No-Go” list clear.
- “Only use the fragrance-free spray located under the sink.”
- “Please avoid using any aerosol sprays in the living room.”
4. Communication Style
Define how you want to interact during the service.
- “A quiet wave hello is perfect—I prefer not to have small talk while you work.”
- “Please leave a written note on the counter telling me what was finished today.”
A Quick “Start Today” Checklist
Ready to take the lead? Here is a 2-minute checklist to get your profile started:
- [ ] Identify your “Deal Breakers”: What is the one thing a cleaner does that triggers your stress? Put that at the top of your list.
- [ ] Locate your safe products: Gather the cleaners you know are sensory-safe and put them in one dedicated basket.
- [ ] Set the boundary: Let your provider know: “I’ve created a guide for my home to help us work together better. Can we go over it briefly?”
Empowerment Through Clarity
At Jia Support, we don’t just “clean around you”—we work with you. When you share your rules and your boundaries, it helps us provide the high-quality, respectful support you deserve.
See the Full Picture
Creating a profile is a huge step toward independence. To see how this fits into a wider sensory-friendly lifestyle, revisit our [Sensory-Conscious Cleaning: A Guide to a Calmer Home].
Feng is the founder of Journey In Action Support, an NDIS provider based in Sydney’s Lower North Shore. With a Certificate III in Individual Support, Feng supports participants across household tasks, personal care, transport, and community access — with a bilingual Mandarin and English service that reflects the needs of the local Chinese-Australian community.
