Cleaning Time Estimator

Estimate how long any cleaning job will take. Enter property details, add-on services, and team size for accurate time estimates with room-by-room breakdowns.

Property Details
Add-On Services
Team & Experience

How Long Does Cleaning Actually Take?

Accurate time estimates help you price jobs profitably, schedule your team efficiently, and set the right expectations with clients.

Cleaning Time by Property Type

The time it takes to clean varies significantly based on size, layout, and cleaning type. Here are benchmarks for a single experienced cleaner doing a standard clean:

  • Studio or 1-bedroom apartment: 1 to 1.5 hours
  • 2-bedroom home (1,000-1,500 sq ft): 1.5 to 2.5 hours
  • 3-bedroom home (1,500-2,500 sq ft): 2.5 to 3.5 hours
  • 4-bedroom home (2,500-3,500 sq ft): 3.5 to 5 hours
  • 5+ bedroom home (3,500+ sq ft): 5 to 8 hours

Why Accurate Time Estimates Matter

If you underestimate cleaning time, you either rush the job (hurting quality) or eat into your profit margin. If you overestimate, you price yourself out of the market. Professional cleaning companies use time estimates as the foundation for their pricing models.

Factors That Affect Cleaning Time

  • Number of bathrooms and kitchens (the most time-intensive rooms)
  • Cleaning type: deep cleans take 1.8x longer than standard
  • Current condition: a neglected home can take 1.7x longer
  • Add-on services like oven, fridge, or window cleaning
  • Cleaner experience level and familiarity with the property
  • Team size and coordination efficiency

How to Estimate Cleaning Time Accurately

Start with base times for each room type, then apply multipliers for cleaning depth and property condition. Add time for special services and adjust for your team's experience level.

For recurring clients, track actual cleaning times for the first 2-3 visits. Experienced cleaners often reduce their time by 10-15% once they learn a property's layout.

Time Estimator FAQ

How long does it take to clean a 3-bedroom house?
A standard clean of a 3-bedroom house (approximately 1,500-2,000 sq ft with 2 bathrooms) typically takes one experienced cleaner about 2.5 to 3.5 hours. A deep clean can take 4.5 to 6 hours. With a two-person team, you can cut that time by roughly 40-45%.
How much faster is a cleaning team vs one cleaner?
A two-person team typically finishes in about 58% of the solo time due to 15% coordination overhead per additional cleaner. A three-person team finishes in roughly 42% of solo time. The more cleaners you add, the less efficient each additional person becomes.
Why does deep cleaning take longer than standard cleaning?
Deep cleaning takes about 1.8x longer because it includes scrubbing grout, cleaning behind and under appliances, washing baseboards, detailed dusting of light fixtures, descaling faucets, and sanitizing all high-touch surfaces.
How can I clean faster without cutting corners?
Work top-to-bottom and left-to-right in every room. Carry all supplies in a caddy. Spray cleaning solutions and let them dwell while working on other tasks. Establish a consistent routine so muscle memory takes over. With experience, cleaners can reduce time by up to 15%.

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