When you're managing an apartment or condo, keeping it clean doesn't have to mean spending hours with a mop or hundreds of dollars monthly on professional services. The real question is whether assembling your own cleaning arsenal or outsourcing to pros makes sense for your space, schedule, and budget.
The DIY Cleaning Supplies Approach
Going the DIY route works best if you have time, a realistic cleaning schedule, and don't mind staying on top of weekly tasks. You'll need to invest in quality supplies upfront, but most apartments can stay clean-ready with a modest toolkit.
Essential supplies for apartment cleaning:
- All-purpose cleaner (Windex, Method, or store-brand work equally well—budget $3–8 per bottle)
- Disinfectant spray or wipes ($4–12 per container)
- Glass cleaner ($2–6)
- Bathroom scrub brush and toilet brush ($5–15 total)
- Microfiber cleaning cloths and mop pads ($10–20 for a pack)
- Vacuum or lightweight cordless model ($100–400 for a decent apartment-sized vacuum)
- Broom, dustpan, and mop ($20–40 combined)
- Floor cleaner suitable for your flooring type—laminate, tile, or hardwood ($5–10)
- Degreaser for kitchen surfaces ($4–8)
- Rubber gloves, sponges, and trash bags ($8–15)
Total startup cost: $160–550, depending on whether you already own basics like a vacuum.
The real advantage of DIY cleaning is control and consistency. You know exactly what products touch your surfaces, and you can tackle spills immediately rather than waiting for a scheduled appointment. For a typical 1-2 bedroom apartment, dedicating 1.5 to 2 hours per week to basic cleaning keeps things fresh without overwhelming effort.
Professional Cleaning Services: What to Expect
Hiring professional apartment cleaners removes the task entirely but requires choosing a reliable provider and paying ongoing fees. Average costs for professional cleaning in residential buildings range from $150–400 for a one-time cleaning, or $75–200 per visit for recurring weekly or bi-weekly service.
Several factors affect pricing:
- Apartment size: A 600 sq ft studio costs less than a 1,200 sq ft two-bedroom
- Current condition: Move-out deep cleans or heavily soiled spaces cost 30–50% more
- Service frequency: Weekly service typically discounts to $15–20 per hour per cleaner; monthly or one-time cleanings run higher per visit
- Building access: Some condos require background checks or specific time windows, which cleaners may adjust pricing for
- Included services: Basic cleaning (dusting, vacuuming, bathrooms) differs from add-ons like window washing, appliance cleaning, or carpet shampooing
Professional cleaners shine when you lack time, manage multiple properties, or have mobility limitations. They're also practical for seasonal deep cleans between your regular maintenance.
DIY vs Professional: The Real Comparison
Choose DIY if:
- You're home regularly and can maintain a weekly routine
- Your apartment stays relatively clean between deeper cleans
- You want to save money long-term (supplies cost far less than monthly professional service)
- You prefer eco-friendly or specific cleaning products
Choose professional if:
- Your schedule doesn't accommodate regular cleaning (travel-heavy job, young kids, health issues)
- You live in a larger unit where DIY takes 4+ hours weekly
- You need deep cleans monthly or quarterly beyond basic maintenance
- Budget allows for convenience (professional service typically costs $40–100+ per month recurring)
The hybrid approach works for many apartment dwellers: handle weekly tidying and spot-cleaning yourself, then book a professional deep clean quarterly ($200–400) to tackle grout, baseboards, and appliance interiors. This balances cost and time while keeping your space fresh.
Finding the Right Professional Service
If you decide to hire, look for services that specialize in apartments or condos—they understand common challenges like small bathrooms, shared hallways, and building restrictions. Check reviews on Google, Yelp, or platforms where you can compare and hire trusted providers in your area. Verify they're insured and bonded, especially if they're handling keyed access to your unit.
Request quotes from at least two providers and clarify exactly what's included: do they bring their own supplies, do they clean inside appliances, and what happens if something breaks? Reputable companies provide written estimates and stand behind their work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I professionally clean my apartment? A: For most apartment dwellers, monthly or quarterly deep cleaning combined with weekly DIY maintenance strikes the right balance—but it depends on household size and activity level.
Q: Do professional cleaners use safe products in small apartments? A: Most reputable services offer eco-friendly options and ventilate properly, but confirm their product list beforehand and mention any allergies or sensitivities.
Q: What's the average cost difference between one-time and recurring professional cleaning? A: One-time cleans typically cost 40–60% more per visit than recurring weekly service, since the relationship and efficiency lower per-visit labor costs.
Compare quotes from trusted cleaning providers in your area using Mercoly to find the best fit for your apartment's needs and budget.