What's The Price For A Cleaner These Days?

Helen
Aug 21, 2023
3 min read

Regular General Cleaning Service Costs (Pay Per Hour)

Striking the perfect balance between a manageable cost and a quality service is imperative when enlisting the services of a cleaner. It harks back to the age-old adage, "YOU GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR" Within this blog post, we shall explore the pivotal factors that contribute to shaping the pricing landscape for cleaners in the year 2023. We will also answer some of the most frequently asked questions and give you some handy tips to manage your expectations and get the most out of your cleaner.

Jump To Section: Managing Expectations | How Prices Are Determined | Beware of Low-Priced Services | How Much Should I Pay?

Managing Your Expectations

Managing expectations is paramount when it comes to hiring a cleaner. It's all too easy to envision an extensive checklist of tasks when what constitutes a fair workload may differ. Often, customers underestimate the time required for a thorough clean.

Notably, kitchens and bathrooms stand out as focal points that demand meticulous attention. These high-traffic areas not only require cleaning but also disinfection. Devoting around 65% of a cleaner's time to tackle these zones is a common practice for achieving the desired cleanliness and hygiene standards.

Getting Started: Deep Cleaning

A deep clean sets the standard for future maintenance. Whether you choose to initiate this process yourself or enlist your cleaner's assistance, it's an investment that paves the way for consistent cleanliness.

Being Realistic

Realism is essential. If you expect your cleaner to accomplish an extensive list of tasks within a limited timeframe, disappointment may ensue. For instance, a standard-sized kitchen might require around 30 minutes for a basic clean, and for a deep clean could take up to 4hrs when you factor in oven cleaning and extraction systems.

Factor in Irregular Cleaning Needs

A comprehensive cleaning service extends beyond routine tasks. Make sure you account for additional non-regular cleaning requirements, such as washing doors, cleaning skirting boards, tending to light fixtures, and banishing cobwebs. While these tasks might not be on the agenda during every visit, they play a pivotal role in maintaining your space's overall appeal. We advise anyone seeking a cleaner to factor in time to complete these extra nonregular tasks.

Prepare Your Cleaner for Specific Needs

Clear communication is key. Inform your cleaner of any specific requirements you have for an upcoming session. By sharing these details in advance, you prevent any last-minute surprises and ensure that your cleaner arrives fully prepared.

Find out more about managing expectations

How Prices Are Determined

So let's delve into the components that contribute to pricing:

1. Minimum Wage:

The UK's national minimum wage, set at £10.42 per hour for those aged 21 and above, acts as a baseline. However, it's evident that this figure doesn't encompass today's economic realities.

2. Travel Costs:

Unless your cleaner resides on your street, transportation expenses are a factor.

3. Equipment and Supplies:

Cleaning materials and tools come at a price. Your cleaner accounts for these expenses, whether by incorporating them into the fee or you providing them directly.

4. Insurance:

A trustworthy cleaner should hold valid insurance. This safeguards against damages and unexpected disputes, reinforcing the importance of this element in the overall cost.

5. Tax and Profit:

Taxes and profits are inherent components. Ensuring compliance with tax regulations and maintaining a healthy business all contribute to the final sum.

Beware of Low-Priced Services

While a low price might be tempting, caution is advised. Underpriced services might compromise quality and safety. When seeking a private cleaner, thorough vetting, insurance, references, and training are crucial. Opting for a professional cleaning company can offer peace of mind, as they manage these aspects on your behalf.

So How Much Should I Be Paying?

Let's dive right in and tackle the question at hand: what's the right amount to pay for a cleaner? Our advice is to exercise caution when dealing with companies or individuals charging less than £12 per hour. For a fair balance between experience and quality, we recommend considering rates between £13 and £17 per hour.

You might be thinking that this falls on the expensive side. However, when you consider the myriad costs that cleaners shoulder, the pricing isn't as steep as it may seem. Cleaning is far from a walk in the park, especially when dealing with challenging tasks like mould removal and delicate surfaces. Furthermore, meticulous attention to detail is imperative, elevating the importance of skilled and dedicated cleaners.

Conclusion

Now that we've dissected the intricacies of general cleaning service costs, you're better equipped to navigate this landscape. Remember that pricing isn't just about numbers; it's about the value you receive and the peace of mind that comes with knowing your space is cared for. Approach service providers with careful consideration, balancing costs with quality and safety. Your home deserves the best, and finding the right cleaner is an investment that pays off in the long run.