How much does house cleaning cost?
Starting at $35 per hour on average
Updated on July 9, 2026
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Keeping your home clean is one of those tasks that never quite disappears from the to-do list, and for many Canadians, hiring a professional cleaner is a practical, time-saving solution. Whether you live in a downtown Toronto condo, a Vancouver townhouse, or a suburban home in Calgary, cleaning costs can vary quite a bit depending on where you are, what you need, and how often you book.
This guide breaks down realistic pricing across Canada, explains what drives costs up or down, and helps you make a confident, informed decision before you hire. Based on market research and Taskrabbit platform insights, you can generally expect to pay $35 per hour for home cleaning services.
Average cost for cleaning services in major Canadian cities
Cleaning rates across Canada reflect local labour markets, cost of living, and demand. Cities like Toronto and Vancouver consistently sit at the higher end of the pricing spectrum, while smaller markets and prairie cities tend to be more affordable.
| City | Avg hourly rate | Avg invoice total |
|---|---|---|
| Toronto | $27 | $116 |
| Montreal | $25 | $104 |
| Vancouver | $25 | $102 |
| Calgary | $24 | $107 |
| Winnipeg | $23 | $77 |
| Ottawa / Gatineau | $21 | $80 |
| Windsor/London | $17 | $50 |
| Halifax | $22 | $82 |
| Quebec City | $18 | $82 |
What impacts the cost of house cleaning?
Several variables influence what you will ultimately pay for a professional clean. Understanding these factors helps you budget more accurately and avoid unexpected charges.
Type of cleaning service
The scope of work is one of the biggest cost drivers. A routine maintenance clean is priced very differently from a detailed deep clean or a move-out service.
Standard cleaning: Regular upkeep that covers vacuuming, mopping, dusting surfaces, wiping down bathrooms and the kitchen, and general tidying. Best suited for weekly or bi-weekly bookings to keep a home consistently clean.
Deep cleaning: A more thorough service that addresses built-up grime on baseboards, tile grout, behind appliances, inside light fixtures, and other areas that standard cleaning skips. Often recommended as a starting point before beginning recurring cleans, or every few months as a reset.
Move-in cleaning: A top-to-bottom clean performed before you settle into a new home. Typically includes wiping inside cabinets and drawers, cleaning appliances inside and out, and preparing all surfaces before your belongings arrive.
Move-out cleaning: Designed to leave a rental or sold property in excellent condition for the next occupant. Particularly important for renters in Canada who need to meet lease-end cleaning requirements to recover their security deposit.
One-time cleaning: A single visit for homes that need a refresh before guests, a special occasion, or a busy stretch. No ongoing commitment required.
Seasonal or spring cleaning: A periodic deep refresh that includes decluttering, detailed dusting, and tackling areas that accumulate neglect over a long Canadian winter.
Home size and layout
Larger homes simply take more time, and time is what most cleaners are billing for. A one-bedroom apartment might take one to two hours, while a four-bedroom home with multiple bathrooms could take four to six hours or more.
Homes with multiple levels, open-concept layouts with large floor areas, or extra bathrooms will typically cost more than a straightforward bedroom count might suggest.
Frequency of bookings
Booking recurring cleans is one of the most effective ways to reduce your per-visit cost. A home that is cleaned weekly or bi-weekly requires less effort each visit because it stays in better shape between appointments. Many cleaners and cleaning companies in Canada offer discounted rates for recurring bookings compared to one-time visits.
Condition of the home
A home that has not been professionally cleaned in several months, or one with significant grease buildup in the kitchen or soap scum accumulation in the bathroom, will take longer to clean. That additional time is typically reflected in a higher invoice. Being upfront with your cleaner about the current state of your home helps them quote accurately and avoids surprises on the day.
Accessibility
Canada's urban housing stock is heavily weighted toward condos, apartments, and townhouses, and the type of building you live in can affect cleaning logistics. Condos with elevator wait times, limited parking for a cleaner's vehicle, or restricted access hours can add time to a job.
Supplies and equipment
Some cleaners bring their own products and equipment, while others expect you to have supplies on hand. If you have preferences around eco-friendly or fragrance-free products, which is increasingly common, confirm whether your cleaner can accommodate this and whether there is an additional cost for specialty supplies.
Number of cleaners
For larger homes or time-sensitive jobs, a team of two or more cleaners may be sent. This speeds up the work but typically increases the total hourly cost since you are paying for multiple people. Confirm whether the quoted rate is per person or per job.
Pets
Homes with cats or dogs often require extra vacuuming passes to address pet hair and dander, and cleaners may need to use specific products to address odours. This additional effort is frequently reflected in a higher rate or a longer estimated time.
Add-on services
Many cleaners offer optional extras beyond the scope of a standard clean. These are priced separately and can add anywhere from $15 to $80+ per add-on, depending on the task. Common add-ons include:
inside oven cleaning
inside refrigerator or freezer cleaning
interior cabinet cleaning
blind and shutter cleaning
wall washing
balcony or patio cleaning (particularly relevant for condo dwellers)
window interior cleaning
How long does a house cleaning take?
Most cleaners estimate their pricing based on expected hours. The time required depends on both the type of service and the size of your home.
By home size
Small apartments and condos (under 700 sq ft): 1 to 2 hours
Medium homes and townhouses: 2 to 3.5 hours
Large homes (3+ bedrooms, multiple bathrooms): 3.5 to 6+ hours
By type of clean
Standard clean: 1 to 3 hours
Deep clean: 3 to 6+ hours
Move-out clean: 4 to 8 hours, depending on property size and condition
Typical costs for common cleaning services
Here is a quick reference for the most frequently booked cleaning services and what they tend to cost in the Canadian market. Remember, these figures reflect approximate costs across Canada and should be treated as general guidance, as final cost will vary depending on the factors discussed above.
| Service | Estimated cost (per visit) |
|---|---|
| Deep cleaning | $175–$400 |
| Carpet cleaning | $100–$300 |
| Garage cleaning | $80–$180 |
| Move-in cleaning | $175–$400 |
| Move-out cleaning | $175–$450 |
| Standard cleaning | $120–$200 |
| Short-term rental/Airbnb turnover clean | $80–$200 |
House cleaning costs by home size
If you are trying to estimate what a clean might cost before getting a quote, the size and configuration of your home is a practical starting point.
Number of rooms and bathrooms
1 bedroom, 1 bathroom: $130–$190 estimated average cost
1 bedroom, 2 bathrooms: $150–$210
2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom: $160–$240
2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms: $185–$270
3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom: $195–$300
3+ bedrooms, 2+ bathrooms: $240–$420+
By square footage
Some cleaners, particularly independent professionals and larger cleaning companies, price by square footage rather than room count.
Up to 1,000 square feet: $120–$300 estimated average cost
1,000–1,500 square feet: $160–$380
1,500–2,000 square feet: $210–$500
2,000+ square feet.: $260–$800+
Hidden or unexpected cleaning costs to watch for
Most cleans are straightforward, but certain situations can lead to additional charges. Being aware of these in advance helps you plan your budget more accurately.
Last-minute or same-day bookings: Urgent requests may carry a premium, particularly during busy periods or in high-demand urban areas.
Late cancellations: Many cleaners and cleaning companies charge a cancellation fee if you cancel with less than 24 to 48 hours' notice, since they may not be able to fill the slot.
Clutter and pre-clean prep: If a cleaner needs to spend time moving items, organising surfaces, or clearing space before they can begin actual cleaning, you may be charged for that additional time.
Biohazard or specialty cleaning: Issues like mould, sewage, or significant pest-related messes require specialised services and are priced separately and significantly higher than standard cleaning.
Tax: Depending on the province, HST or GST will be added to your invoice. Always ask whether the quote is inclusive or exclusive of tax.
Parking costs: In dense urban areas like downtown Toronto or Vancouver, a cleaner may pass along the cost of paid parking, particularly if street parking is not available near your building.
How much do cleaning supplies cost?
Whether you are cleaning yourself or supplementing what a hired cleaner brings, having basic supplies on hand is a good idea. Here is a general sense of what common products cost at major Canadian retailers:
All-purpose cleaning spray (e.g., Lysol, Method, PC brand): Starting at approximately $4 to $7
Glass and window cleaner (e.g., Windex): Starting at approximately $4 to $6
Mop (basic to mid-range): Starting at approximately $15 to $30
Floor cleaner solution (e.g., Swiffer, Bona): Starting at approximately $8 to $12
Broom and dustpan set: Starting at approximately $12 to $25
Dish soap (e.g., Dawn, Palmolive): Starting at approximately $3 to $5
Paper towels or reusable cleaning cloths: Starting at approximately $3 to $8
Tips to save on home cleaning services
Hiring a cleaning service doesn’t have to be a significant budget strain. With some planning and smart habits, you can get excellent results while keeping costs manageable.
Book recurring cleans rather than one-off visits. Many cleaners and cleaning companies offer discounts of 5% to 20% for weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly recurring bookings compared to one-time rates.
Do a quick tidy before your cleaner arrives. Putting away clutter, clearing countertops, and picking up from the floor means your cleaner can focus on actual cleaning rather than organising, which saves time and therefore money.
Be clear about your priorities. If you are on a budget, tell your cleaner which rooms or tasks matter most. Focusing effort on high-traffic areas like the kitchen and bathrooms rather than paying for a full-home clean every visit can reduce costs.
Confirm in advance who is responsible for supplies. If you already have quality cleaning products at home, offering to supply them can reduce costs if some cleaners charge for bringing their own. Alternatively, if you don’t have supplies and the cleaners bring their own at no extra charge, this may be the better option.
Get multiple quotes. Prices vary meaningfully between individual cleaners and cleaning companies, even within the same city. Comparing a few quotes before committing helps you understand the local market rate.
Ask about seasonal promotions. Some cleaning services offer promotional rates in January or after the holiday season when demand is lower.
Bundle add-on services. If you need several extras like oven cleaning and fridge cleaning, booking them together in a single visit is typically more cost-effective than scheduling them separately.
DIY vs. hiring home cleaning help
Deciding whether to clean your home yourself or bring in a professional depends on your time, budget, living situation, and the nature of the job.
When to DIY
Cleaning your own home makes the most sense when the job is manageable, the budget is limited, or you simply prefer to handle it yourself. Here are the most common situations where DIY cleaning is the practical choice:
You have a small apartment or condo and can manage routine upkeep in under an hour or two.
Your budget is tight and you only need basic maintenance cleaning done regularly.
You enjoy cleaning or find it a useful way to decompress.
The task is simple and straightforward, such as a quick tidy before guests arrive.
You are a renter who wants to maintain the property between professional cleans to minimise lease-end costs.
You prefer to use specific products, particularly eco-friendly or unscented options, and want full control over what is used in your home.
When to hire cleaning help
Bringing in a cleaner makes the most sense when the job is too large, too time-sensitive, or too specialized to handle on your own. Here are the most common situations where hiring help is the practical choice:
You are moving out of a rental property and need to meet the cleaning standards set out in your lease to recover your damage deposit.
You are moving into a new home and want a thorough clean before your belongings arrive.
The job involves a deep clean after a long period without professional attention, such as post-renovation dust or accumulated grime.
You have a large home with multiple bathrooms and floors that would take most of a day to clean yourself.
Your schedule is consistently demanding and cleaning keeps getting pushed aside.
You have mobility limitations or health concerns that make intensive cleaning difficult or inadvisable.
You are managing a short-term rental property and need reliable, consistent turnovers between guests.
Frequently asked questions about home cleaning services
Tipping is not mandatory, but it is a kind gesture that many Canadians extend for quality work. A tip of 10% to 15% of the invoice total is a common benchmark for a job well done. For recurring cleaners who do consistently excellent work, some clients choose to give a larger tip at the end of the year as a bonus.
This depends on your household. Many Canadians with busy schedules opt for bi-weekly cleans as a practical middle ground between cost and cleanliness. Families with young children or pets may prefer weekly visits. A monthly clean works well for those who maintain tidiness between visits. If you have never had a professional clean, starting with a deep clean and then transitioning to recurring standard cleans is a common and sensible approach.
Absolutely. Many Canadian cleaners and cleaning companies now offer green cleaning options using environmentally friendly, low-toxicity products. This is increasingly popular, particularly among households with young children, allergy sufferers, or pets. Some cleaners may charge a small premium for specialty products, so confirm this when booking.
If you live in a condo or strata building, check whether there are any building rules about service providers accessing the property, elevator booking requirements for cleaners carrying equipment, or restrictions on certain cleaning products being used in shared spaces.
It is also important to understand the expectations and responsibilities when it comes to cleanliness upon moving in and moving out.
Move in: Landlords are generally responsible for ensuring a unit is clean and in good repair before a new tenant moves in. If your new unit was not cleaned to a reasonable standard before your move-in date, you may have grounds to request a professional clean at the landlord's expense, depending on your province's tenancy legislation.
Move out: In most provinces, landlords can deduct the cost of professional cleaning from your damage deposit if the unit is not returned in a reasonably clean condition.
