thanks for the feedback ladies, you have made me feel much better now about the fact that the guy I booked to come and give me a quote on having my place done did not show up today.

Argh, it is terrible having to rely on waiting around for people to come by your place who give you a 4 hour window - especially at this time of year when there is soooo much more to do! I was a bit frustrated with him this morning for not showing up but now have decided to go with your ideas of spot cleaning and regular cleans, I just need to find a reputable company to do that...

Thanks for your replies!