The Maids of East Bergen County are not simply in the business of cleaning homes—they’re in the business of giving families back their time, energy, and peace of mind. At the heart of their work is a mission built on care and community.
For founder Ryan Kerlew, the decision to open The Maids franchise in 2023 was personal. After years working in the software industry, Kerlew was ready to create something lasting for his family. The question was: What kind of business would be both meaningful and impactful?
The answer, as it turned out, was right in his own living room.
“With three kids under six, two dogs, and two career-driven parents, my wife and I knew firsthand how much relief came from having a trusted team help us keep a healthy home,” Kerlew said. “Those extra hours we gained back as a family were invaluable—and I realized countless other families were facing the same challenges. It made launching The Maids in East Bergen County a no-brainer.”
Since then, The Maids have grown into more than just a housekeeping service. Their team handles everything from deep cleans to move-in and move-out projects, post-construction jobs, seasonal refreshes, and even commercial spaces for small businesses. Still, Kerlew insists that what sets The Maids apart is not the checklist of services but the care they bring to every client interaction.
That same care extends beyond paying customers. Through their partnership with Clean for a Reason, a nonprofit that provides free home cleaning for people undergoing cancer treatment, The Maids offer comfort and support at a time when families need it most. Kerlew’s involvement with local Chambers of Commerce across Bergen County also ensures that his company is present at the heart of community conversations—whether it’s through volunteering, sponsorships, or lending a hand where it’s needed.
“Whether it’s personally visiting customers, answering calls at all hours, or replying to texts within minutes, I make sure people know they can count on me,” Kerlew said. “That personal connection is at the heart of what makes us different.”
For Kerlew, success is not measured in sparkling countertops alone but in the web of relationships and opportunities his business has helped build.
“The greatest gratification I get is from knowing we’re dynamic enough to serve the community at large,” he explained. “That goes beyond cleaning services. It includes the partnerships we’ve fostered, the vendors we’ve referred, the career opportunities we’ve created, and the events we’ve supported. Each of those touchpoints adds up to something much bigger than just a clean home.”
This fall, The Maids of East Bergen County continue to do what they do best: lighten the load for local families while proving that sometimes, all it takes to brighten a community is a little elbow grease and a lot of heart.
For more information, visit maids.com/344, call 201-636-0005, or follow them on Instagram @themaidsineastbergen_nj.