Average House Cleaning Prices in Ontario

Ontario is a large province, and house cleaning costs can vary based on location, type of service, and the size of your home. The key to understanding these costs is to know the differences between various cleaning services. Whether you’re scheduling a regular cleaning or a special service like a move-out clean, knowing what to expect in terms of cost will help you plan accordingly.

Weekly, Bi-Weekly, and Move-Out Cleaning Prices

Cleaning services in Ontario generally fall into three main categories: weekly, bi-weekly, and one-time cleaning (including move-out cleaning). The price for each of these services varies, and understanding what each service includes can help you determine the best option for your needs.

Weekly Cleaning Costs

For homeowners or tenants who prefer regular maintenance, weekly cleaning is a popular option. It involves a basic cleaning routine that can include dusting, vacuuming, and cleaning high-traffic areas like the kitchen and bathroom.

• Price Range: The average cost of weekly cleaning in Ontario is between $100 and $180 for a standard 3-bedroom home.
• Inclusions: Typical services include vacuuming, dusting, mopping floors, and cleaning bathrooms and kitchens.
• Frequency of Service: As the cleaning occurs every week, the tasks are lighter since the home stays relatively clean between visits.

Bi-Weekly Cleaning Costs

Bi-weekly cleaning is another popular option for homeowners or tenants who need their house cleaned but want to save money compared to weekly cleaning. It allows for a bit more time to accumulate dirt and dust, so the cleaning may take a little longer.

• Price Range: Expect to pay between $120 and $200 for a bi-weekly cleaning service in Ontario.
• Inclusions: Services are similar to weekly cleaning but may include additional tasks like scrubbing surfaces or cleaning baseboards. Some companies offer discounts for regular bi-weekly bookings.
• Best for: Homes that require a moderate level of cleaning but don’t accumulate too much dirt within two weeks.

Move-Out Cleaning Costs

Move-out cleaning services are typically more expensive than regular cleaning because they often include a deeper level of cleaning to ensure the property is spotless for new tenants or owners.

• Price Range: Move-out cleaning services in Ontario can cost between $200 and $350, depending on the size and condition of the home.
• Inclusions: Deep cleaning tasks like window washing, baseboard cleaning, appliance cleaning, and detailed bathroom cleaning are common in move-out cleans.
• For Tenants & Landlords: This type of cleaning is popular for both tenants who want to ensure they get their deposit back and landlords preparing a property for new tenants.

Factors Affecting Cleaning Prices in Ontario

Cleaning costs are not one-size-fits-all, and several factors can impact the price you pay. From the size of your home to the type of service you request, understanding these factors can help you get a more accurate estimate.

Hourly vs Fixed Cleaning Rates

• Hourly Rates: Some cleaning services charge by the hour, which is common for general cleaning or specialized services. Hourly rates for cleaning in Ontario typically range from $25 to $45 per hour.
  • Advantages: Hourly rates provide flexibility and are great for smaller cleaning jobs.
  • Disadvantages: If the cleaner takes longer than expected, your costs can increase.
• Fixed Rates: For services like deep cleaning or move-out cleaning, many companies offer fixed rates. These rates are typically based on the square footage of your home or the complexity of the cleaning.
  • Advantages: Fixed rates give you a clear idea of how much you’ll be paying upfront, avoiding any surprises.
  • Disadvantages: If your home is smaller or in better condition than expected, you may feel like you’re overpaying.

Square Footage of Your Home

The size of your home plays a significant role in determining the price of cleaning services. Larger homes require more time and resources to clean, which leads to higher costs. Here’s an estimated breakdown based on home size:

• 1-2 Bedroom Homes: Typically between $80 and $150 for regular cleaning.
• 3-4 Bedroom Homes: Expect to pay between $100 and $200 for standard cleaning services.
• 5+ Bedroom Homes: Larger homes often cost between $180 and $350, depending on the complexity of the cleaning.

Condo vs House Cleaning

Cleaning services for condos are typically less expensive than house cleaning because condos are smaller and generally require less time. Additionally, condos often have fewer rooms and fewer outdoor spaces to maintain.

• Condo Cleaning: Prices range from $90 to $160 for a standard clean.
• House Cleaning: Larger homes with more square footage and additional cleaning tasks, such as yard work, will generally be priced higher.

Seasonal Pricing Trends

In Ontario, demand for cleaning services tends to increase in the spring and summer months, particularly in cities like Oakville and Mississauga, which leads to slightly higher prices during these times. On the other hand, during the winter months, cleaning prices may drop as demand decreases.

Tipping & Taxes for Cleaning Services in Ontario

Are Tips Customary for Cleaners in Ontario?

While tips are not mandatory, they are appreciated. Cleaners in Ontario typically receive tips of 10-15% of the total service price, depending on how satisfied you are with the work. If you’re booking a regular cleaning service or have a cleaner who consistently does a great job, consider rewarding them for their hard work.

Does HST Apply to Cleaning Services in Ontario?

Yes, HST (Harmonized Sales Tax) is applied to most cleaning services in Ontario. The current rate is 13%, and this tax is typically added to the final invoice. Be sure to confirm with the cleaning company whether HST is included in the quoted price.