How much should I pay my cleaner per hour?

How Much Should You Pay Your Cleaner in London?

Wondering how much to budget for a house cleaner in London? You're not alone. The going rate can vary, but for regular cleaning tasks—like dusting, vacuuming, and wiping down surfaces—most people pay between £16 and £20 per hour. If you prefer to pay by the visit instead, expect to pay roughly the same range, depending on the size of your flat or house. A typical cleaning session lasts around 2 to 4 hours, so a standard visit might cost between £32 and £80.

Several factors influence the final price. Experience matters—cleaners with years of work under their belt or those offering eco-friendly products may charge a bit more. Location within London also plays a role; central or affluent areas like Kensington or Hampstead often see higher rates than outer boroughs.

Keep in mind that one-off deep cleaning services—ideal for spring cleaning or after a renovation—usually cost more. These sessions involve detailed work like scrubbing ovens, cleaning behind appliances, or sanitising bathrooms, so hourly rates can climb above £25 depending on demand and complexity.

If you're hiring regularly, some cleaners offer discounted rates for weekly or fortnightly visits. It's always worth asking. Many also use apps or online platforms to manage bookings, making it easier to compare prices and read reviews.

Ultimately, paying a fair hourly rate not only ensures reliable service but also supports a skilled professional doing essential work. As with most services, you tend to get what you pay for—so it pays to balance cost with quality.