How this calculator works
House cleaners usually quote one of three ways: an hourly rate, a rate per square foot or square metre, or a flat price for each room. The calculator reproduces each of those quotes for a single visit so you can compare them. Multiplying the visit price by the number of cleanings in a year gives the annual cost, and dividing that by twelve gives the monthly average, which is the figure that matters when comparing a quote against a budget.
Formula
by the hour: visit = hourly rate x hours. by area: visit = rate per m2 x area in m2. by room: visit = rooms x price per room + bathrooms x price per bathroom + kitchen charge. cost per year = visit x cleanings per year; cost per month = cost per year / 12.
Worked example
A cleaner who charges $35 an hour and takes 3 hours charges $105 a visit. Cleaned every two weeks, that is 26 visits, $2,730 a year and about $227.50 a month. The same home quoted by area at $0.20 per square metre for 150 m2 comes to $30 a visit, which is far lower, so check whether the quote covers the same tasks.
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Frequently asked questions
Should the quote include supplies?
Many cleaners bring their own products and include them in the price; others charge extra or expect yours. Ask which it is, and add the cost of supplies to the visit price if you provide them.
Is a first clean more expensive?
Often yes. A deep clean of a home that has not been professionally cleaned takes longer, and many companies quote a higher first visit before settling into the regular price.
How do I compare an hourly quote with a flat quote?
Ask each cleaner for the expected hours and tasks, then run both through the hourly basis here. A flat quote that assumes two hours is not cheaper than an hourly quote for three hours if the work is the same.
Should I tip a house cleaner?
Tipping is optional and varies by region. If you do tip, add it to the visit price before comparing quotes so the totals stay comparable.