How much to charge for deep cleaning
A deep clean takes longer than a maintenance clean — so the price has to come from time, not a guess. Here's a method you can repeat.
1. Define what "deep" means for you
Customers' expectations vary. Write a checklist and put it in every quote. Typical deep-clean items: baseboards, doors and frames, light switches, vents, cabinet fronts, inside microwave, blinds, behind reachable furniture. Decide which items are add-ons (inside oven, inside fridge, interior windows, inside cabinets).
2. Find your deep-clean multiplier
Compare labor hours on deep cleans with standard cleans of similar homes. Example: standard 1,800 sq ft = 3.0 labor hours; deep = 5.1 labor hours → multiplier 1.7. Use your own ratio.
3. Price it
| Example | Amount |
|---|---|
| Labor 5.1 hrs × $25 | $127.50 |
| Supplies (more for deep) | $10.00 |
| Travel + overhead share | $20.00 |
| Cost | $157.50 |
| Price at 30% margin ($157.50 ÷ 0.70) | $225.00 |
| Add-on: inside oven (0.75 hr) | + (0.75 × $25 ÷ 0.70) ≈ $26.79 |
4. Protect yourself on condition
- Ask for photos or do a walkthrough before quoting first-time deep cleans.
- Quote a range or an hourly cap for heavy buildup, and say so in writing.
- Offer a recurring maintenance price after the deep clean — it's faster for you and simpler for the client.
Related: pricing per square foot · free quote calculator (has a service-type multiplier).
Examples on this page use made-up numbers to show the math. They are not market rates or recommendations — use your own costs and local market. Not financial or tax advice.
Cleaning business? Customers often find local cleaners on Google Maps — the same maker runs a free Google Business Profile checklist.
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FAQ
How much more should a deep clean cost than a regular clean?
Base it on time. Time a few deep cleans against regular cleans of similar homes; the ratio is your multiplier. Many cleaners find it noticeably higher than 1, but your own timing is what counts.
What should a deep clean include?
Write your own list and share it in the quote. Common items: baseboards, door frames, inside microwave, cabinet fronts, light switches, vents, behind/under reachable furniture. Inside oven/fridge and interior windows are often add-ons.
Should move-out cleaning cost more than deep cleaning?
Empty homes are easier to access but often expect inside cabinets, appliances and closets. Price from your checklist and timing, not a guess.