Cleaning Costs: Real Prices, What Affects Them & How to Save

Ever wonder why one quote says £80 for a window clean and another says £150? The answer is simple – every cleaning job is different, and the price reflects those differences. In this guide we break down the most common cleaning services, give you typical price ranges for 2025, and share practical ways to keep the bill from blowing up.

Factors That Influence Cleaning Prices

First up, size matters. A two‑bedroom flat will cost less than a four‑bedroom house because there’s less floor space, fewer windows and fewer rooms to tackle. Square footage is the baseline most companies use to calculate their rates.

Second, the type of cleaning you need changes the cost. A regular weekly tidy‑up is cheaper than a deep clean that scrubs every nook, removes built‑up grease, and tackles hard‑to‑reach spots. Deep cleaning often includes carpet shampooing, oven degreasing and bathroom mould removal – all of which add labor and specialised products.

Third, location plays a role. Urban areas with higher living costs tend to have higher service fees. Some firms also add travel charges if they have to drive a long distance to reach you.

Fourth, the condition of the property matters. If a home has been neglected, has pet stains, or just finished a renovation, you’ll pay extra for the extra effort required. Builder’s cleans, for example, can cost 30‑50% more because they involve removing dust, plaster, and leftover construction debris.

Finally, the cleaning products you choose affect the price. Eco‑friendly or specialist chemicals are more expensive than standard detergents, so companies that promise green cleaning usually quote higher rates.

Tips to Keep Your Cleaning Bill Low

Now that you know what drives the numbers, here are simple ways to save:

• Bundle services. Ask for a package that includes regular cleaning plus occasional deep cleans. Most companies give a discount for recurring work.
• Pick a weekday. Weekends are busier, so cleaners often charge a premium. Mid‑week slots are usually cheaper.
• Do a quick prep. Clear away clutter, pick up toys and put away dishes before the cleaner arrives. Less time spent on prep means lower labor costs.
• Compare quotes. Get at least three estimates. Look for hidden fees like travel charges, equipment rentals or extra‑hour rates.
• Ask about DIY options. For simple tasks like wiping windows or cleaning a microwave, a DIY solution can cut down the number of hours a professional needs to spend.

Typical price snapshots for 2025 (UK):

• Window cleaning – £30‑£70 for a standard two‑storey house, £90‑£150 for large properties with high‑rise windows.
• Deep cleaning – £150‑£300 for a three‑bedroom home; adds £50‑£100 for extra services like oven degreasing.
• Upholstery or fabric couch cleaning – £50‑£120 per sofa, depending on size and stain level.
• Carpet cleaning – £30‑£80 per room; professional steam cleaning costs more but lasts longer.
• Builder’s clean – £0.50‑£0.80 per square foot, plus any waste removal fees.

Those numbers give you a baseline to spot a good deal or a price that’s way out of line. Remember, the cheapest quote isn’t always the best – check reviews, confirm what’s included, and see if the company uses the cleaning products you prefer.

Bottom line: cleaning costs aren’t a mystery once you understand the variables. Use the tips above to negotiate, plan smarter, and get a spotless home without breaking the bank.