When hiring a professional cleaning company, a common question is how long the cleaning process will take. The time required can vary depending on several key factors, including the size of the home, the level of cleaning required, and the number of cleaners involved. Here’s what to expect when scheduling a professional house cleaning service.

1. Factors Influencing Cleaning Time

Several factors determine the duration of a house cleaning session:

  • Size of the Home: Larger homes naturally require more time to clean. For example, a small apartment or one-bedroom house might only take a couple of hours, while a multi-story home with several bedrooms and bathrooms can take significantly longer.
  • Level of Cleaning Required: The type of cleaning service requested also affects the time needed. A standard cleaning, which includes tasks like dusting, vacuuming, and mopping, will take less time than a deep cleaning, which involves scrubbing, detailed cleaning of appliances, and cleaning areas that are not regularly maintained.
  • Condition of the Home: A well-maintained home that is regularly cleaned will take less time than a home that has been neglected. Homes with a lot of clutter, dirt, or pet hair will require more time to clean thoroughly.
  • Number of Cleaners: The more cleaners assigned to the job, the faster it will be completed. Many cleaning companies send teams of two or more cleaners to increase efficiency and reduce the overall time required.

2. Average Time for Standard Cleaning

For a standard cleaning of a typical home, here are some general time estimates:

  • Small Apartment (1-2 Bedrooms, 1 Bathroom): 1.5 to 3 hours
  • Medium-Sized Home (3-4 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms): 3 to 4 hours
  • Large Home (5+ Bedrooms, 3+ Bathrooms): 4 to 6 hours

These estimates assume a team of two cleaners. If only one cleaner is working, the time required may double.

3. Average Time for Deep Cleaning

Deep cleaning involves more detailed and thorough work, including cleaning areas that are often overlooked during standard cleanings. This type of cleaning usually takes longer:

  • Small Apartment (1-2 Bedrooms, 1 Bathroom): 3 to 4 hours
  • Medium-Sized Home (3-4 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms): 4 to 6 hours
  • Large Home (5+ Bedrooms, 3+ Bathrooms): 6 to 8 hours

Deep cleaning may also include specialized tasks like cleaning inside appliances, scrubbing grout, or washing windows, all of which add to the time required.

4. Move-In/Move-Out Cleaning

Move-in or move-out cleaning is another service that typically requires more time. This type of cleaning is comprehensive and is often needed when a home is being prepared for new occupants. The time required depends on the size and condition of the home but generally falls within these ranges:

  • Small Apartment (1-2 Bedrooms, 1 Bathroom): 4 to 5 hours
  • Medium-Sized Home (3-4 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms): 6 to 8 hours
  • Large Home (5+ Bedrooms, 3+ Bathrooms): 8 to 10 hours

5. Tips for Reducing Cleaning Time

If you want to reduce the amount of time a professional cleaning takes, consider these tips:

  • Declutter Before Cleaning: Remove personal items, toys, and clutter from surfaces and floors. This allows cleaners to focus on actual cleaning tasks rather than tidying up.
  • Communicate Priorities: Let the cleaning team know if there are specific areas you want them to focus on or skip. This helps them allocate their time effectively.
  • Maintain Regular Cleaning: Homes that are cleaned regularly require less time for each cleaning session. Consider setting up a regular cleaning schedule to keep your home in good condition.

6. Conclusion

The time it takes for a professional cleaning company to clean a house varies based on several factors, including the size of the home, the level of cleaning required, and the number of cleaners. By understanding these factors and communicating your needs clearly, you can ensure the cleaning process is efficient and meets your expectations. Whether you need a standard cleaning or a deep clean, professional cleaners can tailor their services to fit your schedule and requirements.


If you’re in the Northamptonshire area and need expert cleaning services tailored to your needs, get in touch with Natly Services. We’re here to help you keep your home spotless and comfortable. For more cleaning tips and insights, be sure to visit our blog.

Similar Posts