Understanding Cleaning Service Costs: What You Need to Know
If you’re like most homeowners or business owners, you value cleanliness but may not always have the time or energy to keep your space looking spotless. Hiring a professional cleaning service can be a game-changer, but understanding the costs involved can sometimes be a challenge.
My name is Ryan Caldwell, and I’m a University of California, Berkeley graduate with a bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science. I’ve owned and operated a successful commercial cleaning company in Oregon for the past 11 years. As a writer and editor for Janitorial Service Bids, I focus on helping clients understand what they’re paying for when hiring professional cleaning services, while also promoting eco-friendly and sustainable solutions.
Whether you’re looking for a one-time deep clean or ongoing maintenance, understanding cleaning service costs can help you make an informed decision and budget more effectively. Let’s break down the key factors that influence cleaning service prices.
Factors That Affect Cleaning Service Costs
The cost of hiring a cleaning service can vary widely depending on several factors. It’s essential to understand what goes into pricing so you can choose a service that meets your needs and fits your budget.
1. Type of Cleaning Service
Not all cleaning jobs are the same, and the type of service you require will impact the price. Some of the most common services include:
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Standard Cleaning: Basic cleaning tasks like dusting, vacuuming, mopping, and bathroom sanitation.
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Deep Cleaning: A more thorough clean that includes areas not covered during a standard cleaning, such as baseboards, grout, and inside appliances.
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Move-In/Move-Out Cleaning: Specialized cleaning designed to prepare a property for new occupants.
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Eco-Friendly Cleaning: Services using environmentally safe products, which may cost more due to higher material expenses.
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Specialized Cleaning: Carpet cleaning, window washing, and upholstery cleaning are typically billed separately.
2. Size of the Space
The size of your home or office plays a significant role in determining the cost of cleaning services. A larger property requires more time and resources to clean, resulting in a higher price.
Most companies price their services based on square footage or the number of rooms to be cleaned. For example:
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Small Apartments (Under 1,000 sq. ft.): $80 – $150 per visit.
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Standard Homes (1,500 – 2,500 sq. ft.): $150 – $300 per visit.
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Large Homes (Over 3,000 sq. ft.): $300 – $500+ per visit.
Commercial cleaning is usually billed per square foot, with rates ranging from $0.05 to $0.25 per square foot, depending on the complexity of the job.
3. Frequency of Service
Cleaning companies often provide discounts for recurring services. If you opt for regular cleanings, such as weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly, you can expect to pay less per visit compared to a one-time service.
For example:
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One-Time Deep Clean: $200 – $400.
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Weekly Service: $100 – $150 per visit.
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Bi-Weekly Service: $120 – $180 per visit.
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Monthly Service: $150 – $250 per visit.
Choosing a consistent cleaning schedule can be both economical and convenient, especially if you want to maintain a consistently clean environment.
4. Location
Where you live can also impact cleaning service costs. Larger metropolitan areas with a higher cost of living typically have higher cleaning rates. For example, cleaning services in San Francisco or New York City will generally cost more than those in smaller towns or rural areas.
In Oregon, where I run my company, cleaning rates are usually in the mid-range compared to larger urban centers. However, high-demand areas such as Portland can be more expensive than smaller cities or towns.
5. Additional Services and Customization
Sometimes, you may need extra services not included in a standard cleaning package. These can include:
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Carpet cleaning
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Window washing
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Appliance cleaning (e.g., ovens, refrigerators)
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Laundry services
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Sanitization and disinfection services
Adding these extras will increase the total cost, but the convenience of having everything done by one company can be well worth it.
How to Save Money on Cleaning Services
It’s entirely possible to enjoy the benefits of professional cleaning services without breaking the bank. Here are some tips I often share with my clients:
Compare Quotes
Always obtain quotes from multiple cleaning companies to find the best rate for your needs. Don’t just focus on price—consider the company’s reputation, experience, and the quality of their services.
Choose Recurring Services
As I mentioned earlier, opting for regular cleanings can lower your overall cost. Many companies offer discounted rates for weekly or bi-weekly plans.
Bundle Services
If you require additional services like carpet cleaning or window washing, ask about bundling them with your regular cleaning package. Many companies provide discounts when services are combined.
Negotiate
Never be afraid to discuss pricing with a cleaning company. While some companies have fixed rates, others may be open to negotiating depending on the scope of work and your long-term commitment.
Are Professional Cleaning Services Worth the Cost?
From my experience running a commercial cleaning company, I can confidently say that professional cleaning services are worth the investment for most clients.
You’re not just paying for a clean home or office—you’re paying for convenience, expertise, and peace of mind. A professional team can handle tasks more efficiently and thoroughly than most individuals can manage on their own. Plus, for those who opt for eco-friendly cleaning solutions, the added benefit of health and environmental safety makes the investment even more valuable.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the costs associated with professional cleaning services is essential to making an informed decision. By considering factors like service type, property size, frequency, location, and additional services, you can find a cleaning plan that suits your needs and budget.
If you’re looking to improve your home or workplace’s cleanliness and hygiene, hiring a professional cleaning service can be an excellent choice. And as someone who has been in the industry for over a decade, I can assure you that a quality cleaning service is worth every penny.
About the Author
Ryan Caldwell is a University of California, Berkeley graduate with a bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science. As the owner of a successful commercial cleaning company in Oregon for 11 years and a writer and editor for Janitorial Service Bids, Ryan specializes in eco-friendly cleaning solutions, workplace health improvements, and sustainable janitorial services.
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