How Much Does House Cleaning Cost Per Hour? Here’s What to Expect
Keeping a home clean takes time and energy, and many people hire professionals to help. But one of the first questions that comes up is: House Cleaning Rates per Hour? The answer depends on several factors, but knowing the average costs can help you plan your budget and set the right expectations.
Across Canada and the U.S., most cleaning services charge by the hour. The average hourly rate usually falls between $25 and $90 per cleaner, with the price varying based on whether you hire an independent cleaner or a professional cleaning company. Some services also charge per square foot, per room, or offer flat rates.
In this article, we’ll break down what affects cleaning costs, how standard and deep cleaning rates compare, and what you should expect to pay for different situations. By the end, you’ll know how to estimate your own cleaning costs and how to get the best value for your money.
Average Hourly Cost for House Cleaning
The average cost of hiring a house cleaner varies, but most people can expect to pay between $25 and $90 per hour. The exact rate depends on the type of cleaner and the level of service.
- Independent cleaners usually charge on the lower end, often $25 to $50 per hour. They are a budget-friendly choice but may not always carry insurance or offer guarantees.
- Professional cleaning companies generally charge more, between $50 and $90 per hour, because they have trained staff, insurance, and standardized services.
In addition to hourly pricing, many cleaners also charge per visit. A typical cleaning session costs anywhere from $120 to $280, depending on the size of your home and how much work is required.
Understanding these averages gives you a baseline. From there, other factors such as home size, frequency, and type of cleaning will influence your final cost.
Factors That Influence Cleaning Rates
Not all homes or cleaning needs are the same, which is why prices can vary so much. Here are some of the main factors that affect hourly cleaning rates:
- Location – Rates tend to be higher in large cities or areas with a higher cost of living. For example, cleaners in Toronto or Vancouver often charge more than those in smaller towns.
- Home size – A small apartment takes less time to clean than a large family home. The bigger the space, the more hours (and cleaners) required.
- Type of cleaning – Standard cleaning (dusting, vacuuming, mopping) is less expensive than deep cleaning, which covers baseboards, inside appliances, or scrubbing bathrooms. Move-in and move-out cleanings usually cost more, too.
- Condition of the home – A tidy home with minimal clutter is quicker and cheaper to clean compared to one that requires extra time for heavy buildup.
- Frequency of cleaning – One-time cleanings are priced higher per visit, while weekly or biweekly services often come with discounts.
Knowing these factors helps you understand why quotes may differ from one service to another, and it ensures you compare fairly when choosing a cleaner.
Standard Cleaning vs Deep Cleaning
When looking at house cleaning rates, it helps to understand the difference between standard cleaning and deep cleaning. The level of work involved directly affects the hourly price.
- Standard cleaning usually covers the basics: dusting, vacuuming, sweeping, mopping, wiping counters, and cleaning bathrooms. The average hourly rate for this type of service is $25 to $40 per cleaner. Standard cleaning is best for weekly or biweekly visits that keep your home tidy.
- Deep cleaning goes much further. It includes tasks like scrubbing baseboards, washing windows, cleaning inside appliances, sanitizing grout, and tackling hard-to-reach areas. Because it requires more time and effort, the hourly rate is higher, typically $30 to $60 per cleaner, sometimes more in larger homes.
Most homeowners schedule deep cleaning a few times a year, especially during spring cleaning, before hosting events, or when moving in or out. After a deep clean, regular standard cleanings are easier and faster to maintain.
Knowing the difference helps you decide what level of service you need, and it makes it easier to compare quotes from different providers.
How Much To Pay A Cleaner For 3 Hours?
Many people book shorter cleaning sessions, especially if they live in apartments or only need help with a few key areas. So, how much should you expect to pay for a 3-hour cleaning job?
If the average hourly rate is $25 to $90, then a 3-hour session will typically cost between $75 and $270. The final price depends on who you hire and the type of cleaning:
- Independent cleaners (at $25–$50/hr) → about $75 to $150 for 3 hours
- Cleaning companies (at $50–$90/hr) → about $150 to $270 for 3 hours
- Deep cleaning sessions → often at the higher end, especially if special equipment or supplies are needed
For small apartments or light weekly cleanings, three hours may be enough to cover kitchens, bathrooms, and basic tidying. However, for larger homes or deep cleaning, you may need more time or more than one cleaner.
Always confirm what’s included in the estimate so you know exactly what will be covered in those three hours.
Individuals vs Cleaning Companies
When hiring house cleaners, you’ll often choose between an independent cleaner and a professional cleaning company. Both options can do a good job, but the costs and benefits are different.
- Independent cleaners usually charge less, often $25 to $50 per hour. They may offer more flexibility in scheduling and can sometimes tailor their services more closely to your needs. However, they may not carry insurance, which means you could be responsible if something gets damaged or an accident happens in your home.
- Cleaning companies generally charge more, usually $50 to $90 per hour. Their rates are higher because they have trained staff, insurance coverage, and standardized processes. Companies also tend to be more reliable if you need a replacement cleaner or want a team for faster service.
Choosing between the two often comes down to your priorities. If budget is your main concern, an independent cleaner may be a good fit. If you want peace of mind, liability protection, and consistency, a professional cleaning company is often worth the extra cost.
Other Pricing Models
While many cleaning services charge by the hour, it’s not the only way rates are set. Some companies and independent cleaners use different pricing models that may work better depending on your home and needs.
- Flat rate per visit – Instead of billing by the hour, some cleaners charge a set fee for the entire job. For example, a one-time cleaning of a small apartment might cost $120 to $150, while a larger home might range from $200 to $350. This option is good if you want to know the total cost upfront.
- Per square foot pricing – Common for large homes or deep cleaning, rates can range from $0.05 to $0.20 per square foot. For example, a 2,000 sq. ft. home could cost $100 to $400, depending on the level of service.
- Per room pricing – Some cleaners charge based on the number of rooms. A kitchen or bathroom may cost more because of the extra detail required, while bedrooms and living rooms are usually priced lower.
These models can sometimes save you money, especially if your home is small or if you only need a few rooms cleaned.
Estimating Your Own Cleaning Costs
Once you know the average hourly rates and different pricing models, you can start estimating how much cleaning your home might cost. The final price depends on your home’s size, condition, and the level of cleaning you need.
For example:
- Small apartment (1–2 bedrooms) – Standard cleaning may take 2–3 hours, costing around $75 to $200, depending on who you hire.
- Medium home (3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms) – Expect 3–5 hours of work, with prices ranging from $150 to $400.
- Large home (4+ bedrooms, multiple bathrooms) – This may take 5–8 hours or a team of cleaners, costing $300 to $700 or more.
Deep cleaning, move-in/move-out services, or add-ons like inside appliances will increase the price. Some companies may also charge extra for pets, high ceilings, or very cluttered spaces.
To get the most accurate estimate, request a written quote from at least two or three providers. Be clear about your needs and ask exactly what’s included in the service. This way, you avoid surprise costs and can confidently choose the option that fits your budget.
Tips to Save Money and Get the Best Value
House cleaning services can add up, but there are ways to keep costs reasonable while still getting great results. Here are some practical tips to save money and maximize value:
- Book recurring cleanings – Many companies offer discounts for weekly or biweekly services. Regular visits also keep your home easier to maintain.
- Declutter before the cleaners arrive – Picking up clothes, dishes, or toys ahead of time allows cleaners to focus on actual cleaning instead of tidying, which saves time and money.
- Compare at least 2–3 providers – Prices and services can vary widely. Getting multiple quotes ensures you find the best balance of cost and quality.
- Bundle services – Some companies offer packages that combine standard cleaning with extras like window washing or deep cleaning at a reduced rate.
- Be clear about priorities – If you’re on a budget, let the cleaners know what areas matter most. Focusing on kitchens and bathrooms, for example, can make a big difference without paying for a full-house clean.
With these steps, you’ll get the most value from your cleaning service without overspending.
Final Thoughts
House cleaning rates per hour can vary, but most homeowners pay between $25 and $90 per cleaner, depending on location, type of service, and who they hire. Independent cleaners often cost less, while professional companies charge more for the added reliability, training, and insurance. Deep cleaning or move-in/move-out jobs will also come at a higher rate.
Understanding average prices and the factors that influence them makes it easier to budget and choose the right option for your home. Whether you prefer hourly rates, flat fees, or per-room pricing, knowing what to expect helps you avoid surprises.
If you’re looking for dependable cleaning services in Surrey, consider ProClean’s House Cleaning Surrey. Their professional team offers both hourly and custom packages to keep your home spotless and stress-free. Reach out today to book a service that fits your schedule and budget.
Follow us on our socials here:
Find out more articles that can help you below:
What Is the Average House Cleaning Rate
