Whether you need help with weekly housework, a one-off deep clean or regular domestic cleaning, hiring a cleaner can save you hours every month.
But how much should you expect to pay?
In 2026, the average hourly rate for a domestic cleaner in the UK is between £18 and £30 per hour. Prices vary depending on where you live, the type of cleaning you need and whether you hire an independent cleaner or a cleaning company.
Here’s everything you need to know before booking.
Average cleaner hourly rates
| Cleaning service | Average hourly rate |
|---|---|
| Domestic cleaner | £18–£25 |
| Cleaning company | £20–£30 |
| Deep cleaning | £25–£40 |
| End of tenancy cleaning | Usually fixed price |
| Carpet cleaning | Usually fixed price |
| Oven cleaning | Usually fixed price |
London and the South East typically have the highest cleaning rates.
What affects the hourly rate?
Your location
Where you live has a big impact on the price.
Cleaning services in London are often £5–£10 per hour more expensive than in smaller towns.
Type of cleaning
Not all cleaning jobs are priced the same.
For example:
Regular domestic cleaning
Usually the most affordable option.
Typical tasks include:
- Vacuuming
- Dusting
- Mopping
- Kitchen cleaning
- Bathroom cleaning
- General tidying
Deep cleaning
Deep cleaning is more thorough and usually costs more because it includes areas that aren’t cleaned regularly.
This may include:
- Skirting boards
- Inside cupboards
- Behind appliances
- Limescale removal
- Internal doors
- Detailed bathroom cleaning
Specialist cleaning
Services such as:
- Carpet cleaning
- Oven cleaning
- Upholstery cleaning
- End of tenancy cleaning
are normally quoted as a fixed price rather than by the hour.
Independent cleaner or cleaning company?
Both have advantages.
Independent cleaner
Pros:
- Often lower hourly rates
- Same cleaner each visit
- More flexibility
Cons:
- May have limited availability
- Usually no replacement if they’re ill or on holiday
Cleaning company
Pros:
- Fully insured
- Replacement cleaners available
- Easier booking process
- Often provide their own equipment
Cons:
- Usually slightly more expensive
Do cleaners bring their own products?
It depends.
Some cleaners provide:
- Cleaning products
- Vacuum cleaner
- Mop
- Cloths
Others expect you to provide everything.
Always check before booking.
How many hours do I need?
This depends on the size of your home.
A rough guide is:
| Property | Typical cleaning time |
|---|---|
| 1-bedroom flat | 2–3 hours |
| 2-bedroom house | 3–4 hours |
| 3-bedroom house | 4–5 hours |
| 4-bedroom house | 5–6 hours |
Homes with pets, children or heavy clutter may take longer.
Should you hire a cleaner weekly or fortnightly?
Many homeowners choose:
Weekly cleaning
Best if you:
- Have children
- Have pets
- Work full time
- Want the house consistently clean
Fortnightly cleaning
A popular option for smaller households that keep on top of daily cleaning.
Monthly cleaning
Usually combined with regular cleaning done by the homeowner.
What should be included?
A standard domestic clean often includes:
✔ Vacuuming
✔ Dusting
✔ Mopping
✔ Cleaning bathrooms
✔ Cleaning kitchens
✔ Emptying bins
✔ Wiping surfaces
Additional tasks such as ironing, internal windows or changing bed linen may cost extra.
How to save money
Book regular visits
Many cleaners offer lower hourly rates for ongoing weekly or fortnightly clients.
Keep the house tidy
Cleaning takes less time when surfaces are clear.
Putting away clothes and toys before the cleaner arrives can reduce the number of hours needed.
Compare several quotes
Always ask:
- Is VAT included?
- Are products included?
- Is there a minimum booking?
- Is the cleaner insured?
- Are there cancellation fees?
Frequently Asked Questions
Is £20 an hour reasonable for a cleaner?
Yes.
Around £20–£25 per hour is a common rate for domestic cleaning in many parts of the UK.
Do cleaners charge by the hour?
Many domestic cleaners do.
Specialist services such as carpet or oven cleaning are usually priced per job.
Should I tip my cleaner?
Tipping isn’t expected in the UK, but some customers choose to give a tip or a small gift at Christmas to recognise good service.
How often should I hire a cleaner?
Weekly or fortnightly cleaning is the most common arrangement, although the best schedule depends on your home, lifestyle and budget.
Final thoughts
Hiring a cleaner isn’t just about having a tidy home—it’s about saving time and making everyday life a little easier.
With hourly rates starting from around £18, regular cleaning is often more affordable than many people expect.
Before booking, compare a few local cleaners, check genuine customer reviews and make sure you understand exactly what’s included in the price.
Find a trusted cleaner
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Author: manager
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