Introduction

Whether you’re a busy professional, a parent juggling at work and kids at home, or simply someone who value a spotless home, hiring a house cleaner can be a life-changing decision. But before you book, one important question comes to everyone’s mind: How much do house cleaners charge per hour?

The answer depends on various things like rates vary depending on location, experience, services offered, and the type of cleaning you need. From basic house cleaning to deep cleaning, move-out cleaning, or special services like carpet cleaning, house cleaning for seniors, it all depends on your needs. For example, if you’re looking for house cleaning services in Abbotsford, you’ll notice pricing can differ from other cities due to local demand and service quality.

As a cleaning expert with Mesh Maids, we know how pricing can change based on your needs. In this guide, you’ll get a clear breakdown of house cleaning services hourly rates for 2025, what affects those prices, and how to get the best value for your money.

Factors Affecting House Cleaning Hourly Rates

Factors Affecting House Cleaning Hourly Rates

Hiring house cleaning services may feel overwhelming, but understanding the costs is actually makes it quite simple. House cleaners don’t have the same rate because pricing is shaped by the factors like what service you need, and where you live. If you’re wondering “How much do house cleaners charge per hour?”, the right and true answer is: it depends on the mix of factors below.

1. Location

Where you live is one of the biggest factors influencing cleaning rates. When people ask, “How much do house cleaners charge per hour?”, the answer varies greatly depending on the cost of living, demand, and accessibility in your area.

  • Urban areas (like Vancouver, Toronto, or other major cities) often have higher hourly rates because of elevated living costs, higher wages, and strong demand for cleaning services.
  • Suburban or rural areas tend to have more competitive pricing due to lower overheads, reduced demand, and less overcrowded.

Example Rates:

  • Vancouver, BC: $40–$55 per hour
  • Small-town BC: $25–$40 per hour

2. Experience & Expertise

Just like in any profession, skill and experience influence pricing. An experienced, well-trained cleaner can finish the same job in less time while delivering superior results, which is why they may charge more per hour.

  • Beginner or part-time cleaner$20–$30/hour: It is usually suitable for light cleaning tasks, with a slower pace and limited specialized skills.
  • Experienced cleaner$35–$50/hour: Experienced cleaners offers efficient cleaning, better time management, and consistent quality results.
  • Specialized cleaner$50+/hour: Experts in areas like eco-friendly cleaning, luxury homes, allergen-free services, or post-construction cleaning. Their rates reflect the extra skill, tools, and care required.

Hiring expertise is often worth the investment, as a seasoned professional can save you both time or replacement costs (if any).

3. Type of Cleaning Service

Not all cleaning services are equal in terms of time, effort, and skill required. The type of service you choose directly impacts how much you pay per hour.

Type of CleaningAverage Rate per Hour
House Cleaning (Weekly, Bi-weekly, Monthly)$25–$45
Deep cleaning$35–$55
Move-in/move-out$40–$60
House Cleaning for Seniors$50–$70
Special cleaning (spring/ carpet)$50–$80+
  • Regular maintenance: This is mainly for quick and routine cleaning to keep your home tidy.
  • Deep cleaning: This type of cleaning is more thorough in tackling hidden dirt and buildup in kitchens, bathrooms, and hard-to-reach places.
  • Move-in/move-out: It includes house cleaning and restoring the home for the next occupant.
  • Carpet cleaning: Carpet cleaning is done with eco-friendly products and is sustainable.
  • House cleaning for seniors: Best option for seniors, who need assistance for house cleaning.

4. Frequency of Cleaning

How often you book cleaning services impacts the hourly rate. Many companies, including Mesh Maids, reward regular customers with lower rates.

  • Weekly cleaning: Lowest hourly rate, as less buildup means faster service each visit.
  • Bi-weekly cleaning: Slightly higher rate, as more dust and mess accumulate between sessions.
  • One-time cleaning: Highest rate due to the extra time needed for detailed cleaning in a home that may not be maintained regularly.

Regular bookings not only save you money but also keep your home consistently fresh and easier to maintain.

5. Size & Condition of the Home

The bigger your home and the messier its condition, the more time and effort it takes to clean—directly influencing how much you’ll pay per hour.

  • Smaller apartments: Require fewer hours and lower costs; ideal for one cleaner.
  • Large homes: More square footage, multiple bathrooms, and extra rooms require more cleaners or extended hours.
  • Extremely messy or neglected homes: May require deep cleaning, specialty tools, and stronger cleaning solutions, which increases both time and cost.

A well-maintained home is generally faster (and cheaper) to clean, which is why regular upkeep pays off in the long run.

According to the reports of Expert Market Research, The Canada cleaning services market reached a value of more than USD 1.42 Billion in 2024. The Canada cleaning services market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 3.80% between 2025 and 2034, reaching a value of USD 2.06 Billion by 2034.

Average House Cleaning Hourly Rates in 2025

RegionLow RateHigh RateAverage
Vancouver, BC$40$55$47
Toronto, ON$38$50$44
Calgary, AB$35$48$42
White Rock, BC$40$55$47
Surrey, BC$22$25$23
North Vancouver, BC$23$25$24

Mesh Maids Tip: While hourly rates are helpful, flat-rate pricing can sometimes save you money, especially for deep cleaning.

Hourly Rate vs Flat Rate: Which is Better?

How much do professional cleaners charge per hour? Hourly Rate v/s Flat rate pricing

When booking professional cleaning services, one of the first decisions you’ll need to make is whether to pay by the hour or choose a flat rate. Both pricing methods have their pros and cons, and the right choice depends on your home’s size, your cleaning needs, and your budget. As people often ask, “Which is better?”, here’s a detailed comparison to help you make an informed decision.

Hourly Rate

An hourly rate means you pay for the actual time your cleaner spends in your home.

Advantages


Flexible for small jobs – Perfect if you only need a few specific areas cleaned, like your kitchen or bathrooms. You can hire a cleaner for as little as 2–3 hours.

Easy to understand – You’re simply paying a set rate per hour, and you can adjust the hours based on your budget or time needs.

Drawbacks

Can be unpredictable – If the cleaner takes longer than estimated (due to extra mess or unexpected tasks), the total cost could exceed your budget.

Requires oversight for efficiency – If you’re paying hourly, you may want to be present to ensure the cleaner focuses on your priority areas and works within the planned time.

Best For:

Small or targeted cleaning tasks

Testing a new cleaner before committing to regular service

You need a last-minute cleaning

Flat Rate Pricing

With flat rate pricing, you’re charged a set price for the entire job instead of paying by the hour. The rate is usually based on your home’s size, number of rooms, and the type of cleaning you book.

Why it Works Well:

  • No surprises – You know the total cost upfront, making it easier to budget.
  • Better for deep or whole-home cleans – Great when you need every room taken care of without watching the clock.
  • Less need for oversight – Since the cleaner is paid for the job, not the time, you don’t have to worry about how long it takes.

What to Consider:

  • Less flexibility for small jobs – If you only need one or two areas cleaned, a flat rate may cost more than hourly pricing.
  • Scope matters – Flat rates usually cover a standard checklist. Extras like inside appliances or detailed organization may be additional.

Best Suited For:

  • Full home deep cleans
  • Move-in/move-out cleanings
  • Busy homeowners who want a set price with no surprises
  • Anyone who prefers a hassle-free, all-in-one service

At the end of the day, it really depends on your needs. If you want flexibility for smaller or last-minute tasks, hourly pricing may be the better fit. But if you’re looking for a stress-free, all-in-one clean with no surprise costs, a flat rate is often the way to go. The best option is simply the one that works for you at that time.

How to Get the Best Value from Your House Cleaner

1. Be Clear About Your Needs

Before booking a cleaning service, take a few minutes to make your priority list. Decide which areas are most important to you — for example:

  • Kitchen (countertops, appliances, floors)
  • Bathrooms (toilets, sinks, showers)
  • Living spaces (dusting, vacuuming, organizing)

Sharing this list with your cleaner ensures they focus on your top priorities first. This is especially helpful if you’re paying by the hour and want to make sure the most important tasks get done within your budget.

2. Declutter Before the Cleaner Arrives

Cleaning services are more effective when surfaces are clear. If your cleaner has to spend the first 20 minutes picking up toys, clothes, dishes, or personal items, that’s less time they can spend scrubbing, vacuuming, and polishing.

You don’t need to deep clean ahead of time — just tidy up and put items back in their place. This simple step can save you money and help your cleaner work faster and more efficiently.

3. Book Regularly

A well-maintained home is quicker (and cheaper) to clean than one that’s left for weeks between visits. When dirt and grime are addressed regularly, cleaners can focus on upkeep rather than heavy-duty scrubbing.

For example:

  • Weekly cleaning: Often the lowest hourly rate, since the job is lighter.
  • Bi-weekly cleaning: Still efficient and cost-effective for most households.

Regular cleaning also prolongs the life of surfaces, flooring, and furniture — saving you money in the long term.

4. Ask About Packages

Many professional companies, including Mesh Maids, offer package deals or discounted rates when you commit to a weekly or bi-weekly schedule. These packages can:

  • Lower your hourly rate
  • Guarantee your preferred time slot
  • Provide consistency with the same cleaner or cleaning team

If you know you’ll need regular help, booking a package is one of the easiest ways to get better value without compromising on quality.

5. Ask About Bundle Packages

If you need more than just basic cleaning, consider bundle packages that combine multiple services into one booking. Many cleaning companies — including Mesh Maids — offer bundles that might include:

  • Deep cleaning + carpet cleaning
  • Move-out cleaning + window cleaning
  • Post-renovation cleaning + carpet shampooing

By booking these together, you usually save money compared to hiring separate services at different times. Bundles also mean the cleaning team can work more efficiently since they’re already in your home and have all the necessary tools on hand.

For example, with Mesh Maids a deep clean + carpet shampoo bundle might save you 15–20% compared to booking them separately.

Questions You Should Ask Before Hiring a House Cleaner

Before you book a cleaning service, it’s important to ask the right questions so you know exactly what to expect. This not only helps you find the right fit for your home but also ensures you’re getting value for your money — especially when wondering, how much do house cleaners charge per hour?

1. Are your cleaners insured and background-checked?

This is one of the most important questions to ask. Professional companies like Mesh Maids ensure every cleaner is fully insured and background-checked. This protects you in case of accidental damage and gives you peace of mind knowing your home is in safe, trustworthy hands.

2. Do you bring your own supplies, or should I provide them?

Most reputable cleaners bring their own professional-grade cleaning products and tools. At Mesh Maids, we use eco-friendly solutions that are safe for families and pets.

3. How do you handle fragile items?

From delicate antiques to expensive electronics, fragile items require extra care. Experienced cleaners are trained to work around these with caution. You should always point out any particularly valuable or breakable pieces before cleaning begins so they receive special attention.

4. Is the rate per cleaner or total per hour?

This question can save you from billing surprises. Some companies quote a total hourly rate regardless of the number of cleaners. For example, if two cleaners are working for two hours at $40/hour each, the total is $160.

5. Do you offer a satisfaction guarantee?

A satisfaction guarantee shows a company’s confidence in its work. Many trusted cleaning services, including Mesh Maids, offer rescheduling for any missed spots at no extra cost if you’re not happy with the results. This ensures you always get the quality you pay for.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring a Cleaner

Even if you’ve found a reputable company, a few small oversights can lead to misunderstandings, unexpected costs, or disappointment with the results. Here are the most common mistakes homeowners make when hiring a cleaner — and how to avoid them.

1. Not confirming the rate type (per cleaner vs per job)

One of the biggest misunderstandings happens when clients don’t clarify whether the rate is per cleaner per hour or a flat rate for the whole job. For example, if you’re wondering how much do house cleaners charge per hour, knowing whether that rate applies to each cleaner or the entire team is essential for budgeting accurately.

2. Skipping a written agreement

A verbal agreement might seem convenient, but it leaves room for confusion. Always get the terms in writing — including the scope of work, rate, payment terms, and cancellation policy. Reputable companies like Mesh Maids provide a clear service agreement so everyone is on the same page.

3. Not communicating special requests

If you have specific needs — such as eco-friendly cleaning products, avoiding certain areas, or focusing extra time on bathrooms or the kitchen — communicate these clearly before the cleaning begins. This ensures the cleaners bring the right supplies and allocate enough time for your priorities.

4. Assuming all services are included

Not every cleaning company includes deep tasks like oven cleaning, fridge cleaning, or carpet cleaning in a standard package. Always confirm which services are included in your booked package and ask for the cost of any extras. This avoids last-minute surprises and keeps your bill within budget.

Can House Cleaning be claimed on taxes?

In Canada, you normally can’t claim regular house cleaning services on your taxes because they’re considered personal living expenses under CRA rules. However, there are a few clear exceptions:

Disability or Senior Support Programs

Certain provincial programs (like Ontario’s Seniors’ Home Safety Tax Credit or BC’s Home Renovation Tax Credit for Seniors and Persons with Disabilities) sometimes cover cleaning or related home support services.

Home Office Deduction


If you’re self-employed or work from home and have a dedicated workspace, you can claim a portion of cleaning costs as part of your business-use-of-home expenses.

Landlords and Rental Property Owners


Cleaning services used for maintaining or preparing a rental property are considered a valid business expense. If you hire cleaners between tenants, for routine upkeep, or to maintain the property’s condition for rental purposes, these costs can be deducted from your rental income.

Medical Expense Tax Credit (METC)


Some medical-related home support services, including cleaning, may qualify if prescribed by a medical practitioner and paid to an eligible provider.

Professional Cleaning Services by Mesh Maids — Transparent Pricing, No Surprises

At Mesh Maids, we believe in no hidden fees, no guesswork, just exceptional cleaning with every visit.

Our hourly rates start at $45/hour in Abbotsford for house cleaning services, with discounts for recurring clients. We also offer eco-friendly cleaning.

Whether you need:

  • Weekly maintenance cleaning
  • A one-time deep clean
  • Move-out cleaning to get your deposit back
  • Carpet cleaning

Contact us, we tailor our pricing to your home and needs.

Conclusion

In 2025, house cleaning hourly rates in Canada range from $25 to $55 per hour, depending on your location, home size, and service type.

While it’s hard to choose the cheapest option, remember: to choose the best for you. A good cleaner doesn’t give you stress. It saves you time, and even money in the long run by doing the job right.

At Mesh Maids, we provide clear, fair pricing and best quality. Book your cleaning with Mesh Maids, so you can enjoy a spotless home without the guesswork.