A deep clean transforms your apartment or condo from lived-in to pristine—but the cost varies wildly depending on size, condition, and what's included. Understanding what you'll actually pay helps you budget accurately and avoid sticker shock when comparing quotes. Here's the breakdown.
Price Ranges by Apartment Size
Deep cleaning is priced primarily on square footage. A studio or one-bedroom apartment (500–800 sq ft) typically runs $150–$300, while a two-bedroom (900–1,200 sq ft) costs $250–$500. Three-bedroom units (1,400–1,800 sq ft) jump to $400–$750 or higher. These are baseline estimates for standard apartments in average condition with no major neglect.
Condo pricing follows similar logic, though variable layouts and amenities (like multiple bathrooms or in-unit laundry) can push costs up 10–20% within the same square footage bracket.
What "Deep Clean" Actually Includes
The term "deep clean" isn't standardized, so clarify exactly what's covered before hiring. Most services include:
- Baseboards, crown molding, and all trim wiped down
- Light fixtures and ceiling fans dusted
- Inside kitchen cabinets and appliance interiors (oven, microwave, fridge)
- Grout lines scrubbed
- Window sills and tracks cleaned
- Behind and under furniture moved
- Carpet shampooing or tile grout sealing (sometimes extra)
What's not always included: shampooing upholstered furniture, deep duct cleaning, or carpet stain removal. Ask for a written scope before committing.
Factors That Increase Cost
Several variables can push your bill higher than the base range:
Current condition. A neglected apartment requires more labor. Excessive clutter, stains, pet odors, or mold spotting warrant 25–50% additional charges or might exceed a cleaner's scope entirely.
Pet hair and odor. If you have cats or dogs, expect a $50–$150 upcharge depending on severity and the cleaning method needed.
Move-out cleaning. Landlord-required move-out deep cleans often cost 15–30% more because they demand inspection-ready standards and documentation.
Accessibility. High-rise units with elevator fees or hard-to-reach areas (excessive clutter, blocked cabinets) add time and cost.
Additional services. Window washing, post-construction debris removal, or specialized stain treatment can add $100–$300 separately.
How to Get Accurate Quotes
Never rely on phone quotes alone. Most reputable cleaners offer free in-person or photo-based estimates so they can assess your space's actual condition. When requesting quotes, provide:
- Exact square footage (check your lease or listing)
- Number and type of rooms
- Any pet or odor issues
- Current clutter level (honest answers help)
- Your deadline (rush jobs cost more)
- Whether move-out inspection is involved
Compare at least three quotes. Mercoly helps you find and compare trusted apartment and condo cleaning providers side-by-side, making it easier to spot fair pricing in your market.
Timeline & Scheduling
A standard deep clean takes 4–8 hours for a two-bedroom apartment, depending on size and condition. Most cleaners can schedule within 2–7 days. Move-out cleans sometimes require 8–12 hours and may need a full day or split across two visits.
Book during off-peak times (mid-week, non-summer months) if you have flexibility—pricing may drop slightly, and availability is better.
When to DIY vs. Hire
Deep cleaning is labor-intensive. If you're paying someone $300–$600, that's often worth it for the time saved and professional results, especially before a move or lease renewal. DIY only makes sense if you have significant free time and physical capability.
Money-Saving Tips
- Bundle services: combining move-out cleaning with carpet shampooing sometimes costs less than booking separately.
- Ask about "turnover specials" if you're between tenants.
- For regular maintenance, schedule monthly light cleans instead of annual deep cleans—it costs less overall and keeps buildup minimal.
- Get everything in writing with a signed estimate before work begins.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is deep cleaning worth the cost before moving out? Yes—most landlords perform walk-throughs and charge tenants $500–$2,000 for professional cleaning if you don't do it yourself, making a $300–$600 upfront deep clean a smart investment.
Q: How often should I deep clean my apartment? Most apartments benefit from a professional deep clean 1–2 times per year; more if you have pets, children, or allergies.
Q: What's the difference between standard cleaning and deep cleaning? Standard cleaning handles surfaces and floors; deep cleaning includes inside appliances, baseboards, grout, light fixtures, and areas behind furniture.
Ready to compare quotes from vetted cleaners in your area? Get started today and lock in fair pricing for your apartment or condo.