How to use this calculator
Start by selecting the home size using the preset buttons, or type a custom square footage. Then set the number of bedrooms and bathrooms using the plus and minus controls. These room counts affect the estimated cleaning time because kitchens, bathrooms, and bedrooms each require focused attention.
Choose the type of cleaning you will be doing. Standard cleans are for regular maintenance visits. Deep cleans take significantly longer and cover areas like baseboards, light fixtures, and behind appliances. Move in and move out cleans are thorough top to bottom jobs for empty homes. Post construction cleans are the most intensive, dealing with dust, debris, and residue left by contractors.
Check any add-ons that apply, set your target hourly rate, and choose whether you work solo or with a partner. The calculator will show you a suggested flat rate price, the time estimate, and what your annual revenue could look like with recurring clients.
How to estimate cleaning time
Cleaning time depends on three main factors: the total square footage, the number and type of rooms, and the level of cleanliness the client expects. A good starting point is roughly one hour per 500 to 700 square feet for a standard clean. Larger homes tend to have more open space (hallways, living areas) that cleans faster per square foot than compact apartments.
Bathrooms are the most time-intensive rooms because of the scrubbing, disinfecting, and detail work involved. Budget about 20 minutes per bathroom for a standard clean and up to 40 minutes for a deep clean. Kitchens are similar, especially if you are cleaning inside appliances. Bedrooms are quicker, averaging about 15 minutes each for dusting, vacuuming, and making beds.
Condition matters more than size in many cases. A well maintained home that gets cleaned biweekly will take far less time than a home that has not been cleaned in months. For first time clients, add a buffer of 20% to 30% to your estimate until you know the home.
Pricing strategies for cleaning businesses
The most common pricing approach is flat rate per visit, which works well for both cleaners and clients. Calculate your target hourly rate, estimate the time, and multiply. As you gain experience and work faster, your effective hourly rate increases without having to raise prices.
Offering frequency discounts is a proven way to encourage recurring bookings. Weekly clients are worth a 10% to 15% discount because they provide steady income and the home stays cleaner between visits, meaning faster work. Biweekly clients typically receive a 5% to 10% discount. One time and deep cleans should carry a premium because they require more effort and you have no guarantee of repeat business.
Resist the urge to compete on price alone. Clients who choose the cheapest cleaner tend to be the most demanding and least loyal. Instead, focus on reliability, quality, and communication. Clients willingly pay more for someone they trust with access to their home.
Building recurring clients
Recurring clients are the foundation of a sustainable cleaning business. A single biweekly client paying $150 per visit generates $3,900 per year. Ten of those clients brings in $39,000 annually, and twenty clients puts you near $78,000. The math becomes very compelling once you start stacking recurring appointments.
The easiest way to convert one time clients into recurring ones is to mention it during the initial walkthrough. Let them know your availability and explain that recurring clients get a discount. Many people are already thinking about regular cleaning but need someone to make it easy for them.
Consistency is what keeps recurring clients. Show up on time, deliver the same quality every visit, and communicate proactively about schedule changes. A simple text the day before confirming the appointment goes a long way. Clients who never have to worry about their cleaner rarely switch.
Frequently asked questions
How much should I charge per square foot for house cleaning?
Most house cleaning businesses charge between $0.05 and $0.15 per square foot for a standard clean. The rate varies depending on your local market, the condition of the home, and whether you include supplies. Deep cleans and move in or move out cleans typically run 50% to 80% higher than standard rates.
Should I charge hourly or a flat rate for cleaning?
Flat rates are generally better for both you and the client. Clients prefer knowing the total cost up front, and flat rates reward you for working efficiently. Estimate how long the job will take, multiply by your target hourly rate, and quote that as your flat rate.
How long does it take to clean a 2,000 square foot house?
A standard clean of a 2,000 square foot home with 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms typically takes one person about 2.5 to 3.5 hours. A deep clean can take 4 to 5 hours. A two-person team can finish in roughly 60% of the solo time.
How much discount should I give for recurring cleaning clients?
A weekly client discount of 10% to 15% is standard in the cleaning industry. Biweekly clients typically receive 5% to 10% off. Monthly clients usually pay the base rate with no discount. These discounts are worthwhile because recurring clients provide predictable income and require less marketing effort.