Office Cleaning Cost: 2024 Pricing Guide ($.09-$.17 per sq ft)

I. Introduction

Office cleaning costs in 2024 average $.12 per square foot, ranging from $.09 to $.17 per square foot, with prices varying based on office size, cleaning frequency, and service type. For a typical 2,000 sq ft office, you’re looking at about $240 per cleaning session. But don’t worry, I’ve got your back – after flipping dozens of commercial properties, I’ve learned every trick in the book to keep your workspace sparkling without breaking the bank.

Let’s face it: a clean office isn’t just about impressing clients (though that’s a sweet bonus). It’s about creating a healthy, productive environment where your team can thrive. But before we dive into the nitty-gritty of scrubbing costs, let’s break down what affects your cleaning bill:

1. Size matters: The bigger your office, the more you’ll pay (but often at a lower rate per square foot).
2. Frequency is key: Daily cleaning costs less per session than weekly or monthly visits.
3. Service level: Basic tidying up is cheaper than deep cleaning or specialized services.
4. Location, location, location: Prices vary by region – expect to pay more in bustling city centers.
5. Special needs: Got medical equipment or sensitive tech? That’ll bump up the price.

In this guide, we’ll dig into all these factors, compare top cleaning services, and share some insider tips to keep your office pristine without emptying your wallet. Whether you’re a startup in a cozy loft or a corporate giant with multiple floors, I’ve got you covered. So roll up those sleeves (figuratively, of course – we’re hiring cleaners for a reason!), and let’s dive into the world of office cleaning costs.

II. Comprehensive Cost Breakdown

Now, let’s talk numbers. I know you’re itching to figure out exactly how much this cleaning business is going to cost you. Don’t worry, I’ve crunched the numbers so you don’t have to.

A. Per Square Foot Pricing

The gold standard in the cleaning world is pricing per square foot. Here’s what you can expect in 2024:

• Basic cleaning: $.09 – $.12 per sq ft
• Standard cleaning: $.12 – $.15 per sq ft
• Deep cleaning: $.15 – $.17 per sq ft

But what does this mean for your office? Let’s break it down:

Commercial Cleaning Cost Comparison

Office Size (sq ft)	Frequency (per week)	Estimated Cost per Visit	Monthly Cost (4 weeks)
500-1,000	2 times	$50	$400
1,000-2,500	3 times	$75	$900
2,500-5,000	5 times	$100	$2,000
5,000-10,000	5 times	$150	$3,000
10,000-20,000	Daily	$250	$5,000

Remember, these are ballpark figures. Your actual cost might vary based on those factors we discussed earlier.

B. Hourly Rates

Some cleaning companies charge by the hour instead of square footage. In 2024, you can expect to pay:

• $25 – $50 per hour for basic cleaning
• $50 – $75 per hour for standard cleaning
• $75 – $100 per hour for deep cleaning or specialized services

Pro tip: Hourly rates can be great for small offices or one-time deep cleans, but for regular service, per-square-foot pricing often works out cheaper.

C. Monthly Costs

Optional Cleaning Services

Optional Cleaning Services	Average Price
Kitchen Appliances	$10 – $37 per appliance
Floor Stripping/waxing	$0.29 – $0.47 per square foot
Scrubbing Tile Flooring	$0.12 – $0.22 per square foot
Floor Buffing	$0.06 -$0.13 per square foot

Office Cleaning Cost Per Hour

Office Cleaning Hourly Cost
National Average	$75/hour
Cost Range	$50-$90/hour
Low-end Price	$45-$50/hour
High-end Price	$85-$125/hour

Remember, these are just estimates. Your actual costs will depend on how often you clean and what services you need.

Want to get a more precise estimate? Use our interactive calculator below! Just input your office size, preferred cleaning frequency, and service type, and we’ll crunch the numbers for you.

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s dig deeper into what’s really driving these costs. Trust me, understanding this can save you big bucks in the long run.

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III. Factors Influencing Office Cleaning Costs

Alright, let’s roll up our sleeves and dig into what really affects your cleaning bill. After years in the business, I’ve seen it all, and I’m here to break it down for you.

A. Office Size

It’s no surprise that bigger offices cost more to clean. But here’s the kicker – larger spaces often get a better rate per square foot. Why? It’s all about efficiency. Cleaning a 10,000 sq ft office doesn’t take ten times as long as a 1,000 sq ft space. Cleaners can get into a rhythm, use larger equipment, and work more efficiently.

B. Cleaning Frequency

How often you clean can make a big difference:

• Daily cleaning: Lowest per-visit cost, but highest monthly total
• Weekly cleaning: Higher per-visit cost, but lower monthly total
• Monthly cleaning: Highest per-visit cost, but lowest monthly total

Pro tip: Daily cleaning might seem expensive, but it can actually save you money in the long run by preventing buildup and extending the life of your carpets and surfaces.

C. Type of Cleaning Services

Not all cleaning is created equal. Here’s a quick rundown:

• Basic cleaning: Trash removal, light dusting, vacuuming
• Standard cleaning: Everything in basic, plus mopping, bathroom cleaning, kitchen tidying
• Deep cleaning: Everything in standard, plus carpet shampooing, window washing, furniture cleaning

D. Location

Location, location, location – it’s not just for real estate! Cleaning costs vary widely by region:

• Urban areas: Higher costs due to increased labor and transportation expenses
• Suburban areas: Moderate costs
• Rural areas: Lower costs, but potentially fewer service options

E. Special Requirements

Got a unique space? That might affect your costs:

• Medical offices: Higher costs due to stringent sanitation requirements
• Tech companies: Special care for sensitive equipment can increase prices
• Open floor plans: Generally easier (and cheaper) to clean than offices with many separate rooms

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IV. Types of Office Cleaning Services

Now that we’ve covered the “why” of cleaning costs, let’s talk about the “what.” Different cleaning services can drastically affect your bill – and your office’s cleanliness.

A. Standard Cleaning

This is your bread-and-butter cleaning service. It typically includes:

• Vacuuming carpets and mopping hard floors
• Dusting surfaces (desks, shelves, etc.)
• Emptying trash and replacing liners
• Cleaning and sanitizing bathrooms
• Wiping down kitchen surfaces

Expect to pay around $.12 per square foot for standard cleaning. It’s perfect for maintaining a clean office day-to-day.

B. Deep Cleaning

Think of deep cleaning as your office’s spa day. It goes beyond the basics to really refresh your space:

• Everything in standard cleaning, plus:
• Carpet shampooing or steam cleaning
• Thorough dusting of high and hard-to-reach areas
• Cleaning inside microwaves and refrigerators
• Wiping down baseboards and door frames
• Sanitizing all surfaces, including rarely-touched areas

Deep cleaning usually costs between $.15 – $.17 per square foot. I recommend doing this quarterly to keep your office in top shape.

C. Specialized Services

Sometimes, you need a little extra TLC. Specialized services might include:

• Window washing (especially for high-rise offices)
• Floor waxing and buffing
• Upholstery cleaning
• Post-construction cleanup

These services are usually priced separately, often by the hour or as a flat fee. Expect to pay $50 – $100 per hour for most specialized cleaning services.

Office Cleaning Services Cost Comparison

Cleaning Service	Average Cost per Visit (USD)
Basic Cleaning (Dusting, Mopping)	$100
Deep Cleaning (Carpet, Upholstery)	$250
Window Cleaning	$150
Restroom Cleaning	$180
Sanitization Services	$300
Floor Stripping & Waxing	$350
Carpet Shampooing	$200
Kitchen Cleaning	$120
Disinfection Services	$280
Trash Removal & Recycling	$90

This table breaks down what’s included in each type of cleaning service and the average cost per square foot. Use it to decide what level of service your office needs.

Commercial  Cleaning Cost Per Sq Ft

Cleaning Space/Square Feet	Average Cost
0–1,000 sq. ft	$150–$389
1,001–2,000 sq. ft	$175–$410
2,001–5,000 sq. ft	$250–$599
5,001–10,000 sq. ft	$380–$650
10,001–20,000 sq. ft	$750–$1,150
20,001–30,000 sq. ft	$1,350–$1,560
30,001–35,000 sq. ft	$1,600–$1,875
35,001–40,000 sq. ft	$1,800–$1,900
40,001–45,000 sq. ft	$2,575–$2,200
45,001–60,000 sq. ft	$2,600–$2,500

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V. Top Office Cleaning Service Providers

After flipping dozens of properties, I’ve worked with just about every cleaning service out there. Here’s the lowdown on some of the top players in the game:

A. Comparison of rates and services

1. Jani-King
   • Cost: $.10 – $.15 per sq ft
   • Pros: Nationwide coverage, customizable services
   • Cons: Quality can vary by franchise
2. ServiceMaster Clean
   • Cost: $.12 – $.17 per sq ft
   • Pros: Advanced cleaning technologies, strong reputation
   • Cons: Can be pricier than some competitors
3. ABM Industries
   • Cost: $.11 – $.16 per sq ft
   • Pros: Comprehensive services, focus on sustainability
   • Cons: Primarily serves larger businesses
4. Anago Cleaning Systems
   • Cost: $.09 – $.14 per sq ft
   • Pros: Eco-friendly options, flexible contracts
   • Cons: Limited availability in some areas
5. Jan-Pro
   • Cost: $.10 – $.15 per sq ft
   • Pros: Proprietary cleaning system, strong training program
   • Cons: Franchise model can lead to inconsistencies

B. Unique selling points

Each of these companies has something special to offer:

• Jani-King: Known for their flexible franchise model, allowing for both local expertise and national support.
• ServiceMaster Clean: Offers specialized services for different industries, from healthcare to education.
• ABM Industries: Provides integrated facility solutions beyond just cleaning.
• Anago Cleaning Systems: Focuses on green cleaning practices and customizable service plans.
• Jan-Pro: Uses a color-coded cleaning system to prevent cross-contamination.

Use this tool to compare different providers side-by-side. Select the companies you’re interested in, and see how they stack up in terms of price, services offered, and customer ratings.

Remember, the cheapest option isn’t always the best. Consider factors like reliability, thoroughness, and customer service when making your choice.

VI. COVID-19 Cleaning Protocols

The pandemic changed the game for office cleaning. Even as we move forward, many of these enhanced protocols are here to stay – and for good reason.

A. Enhanced cleaning and disinfection procedures

Post-COVID cleaning isn’t just about looks – it’s about health and safety. Here’s what you should expect:

• More frequent cleaning of high-touch surfaces (doorknobs, light switches, elevator buttons)
• Use of EPA-approved disinfectants effective against viruses
• Increased attention to shared spaces like break rooms and conference areas
• Implementation of electrostatic spraying for comprehensive disinfection

B. Impact on pricing

These enhanced procedures do come at a cost. On average, expect to pay about 10-20% more for COVID-conscious cleaning. But consider it an investment in your team’s health and peace of mind.

This infographic illustrates the key differences between pre-COVID and post-COVID cleaning protocols, highlighting the additional steps and precautions now taken.

VII. How to Save Money on Office Cleaning Services

Now, I know what you’re thinking – “This all sounds great, but how can I keep my office clean without breaking the bank?” Don’t worry, I’ve got some tricks up my sleeve.

A. Negotiating contracts

• Ask for a long-term contract discount
• Bundle services for a better rate
• Request a price match if you find a lower quote

B. Adjusting cleaning frequency

• Consider cleaning high-traffic areas daily and others less frequently
• Implement a “clean desk policy” to reduce clutter and cleaning time

C. Providing cleaning supplies

• Bulk buy supplies and provide them to your cleaning service
• Choose cost-effective, multi-purpose cleaners

D. Employee involvement in basic cleaning tasks

• Encourage staff to clean up after themselves in common areas
• Implement a rotating schedule for basic daily tasks like emptying trash

Print out this checklist and work through it with your team. You might be surprised at how much you can save!

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VIII. Long-term Benefits of Professional Office Cleaning

Let’s talk about why professional cleaning is more than just a necessary expense – it’s an investment in your business.

A. Improved employee productivity

A clean office isn’t just nice to look at – it actually boosts productivity. Studies show that a tidy workspace can increase productivity by up to 5%. That might not sound like much, but it adds up fast.

B. Enhanced workplace health and hygiene

Regular professional cleaning reduces sick days. Fewer germs mean fewer colds, flus, and other illnesses making the rounds in your office.

C. Positive impact on client impressions

First impressions matter. A spotless office tells clients and partners that you’re professional, detail-oriented, and care about your image.

Correlation Between Clean Offices and Productivity/Health

Aspect	Impact of Clean Office Environment	Correlation with Productivity & Health
Reduced Sickness	Fewer germs and allergens lead to reduced sick leave	Positive correlation with fewer absences and improved health
Improved Air Quality	Clean air filters and ventilation reduce airborne toxins	Strong correlation with better cognitive performance and concentration
Organized Workspace	Clutter-free spaces enhance focus and reduce stress	Positive impact on mental clarity and task efficiency
Reduced Stress Levels	Clean, well-maintained environments promote calmness	Linked to lower stress and better employee morale
Higher Job Satisfaction	A clean and safe environment fosters a sense of well-being	Strong positive correlation with employee satisfaction
Enhanced Concentration	Cleanliness reduces distractions, allowing better focus	Direct correlation with higher productivity and fewer errors
Fewer Accidents and Injuries	Regular cleaning reduces hazards like spills or clutter	Reduced risk of workplace injuries, promoting safety and uptime
Boosted Employee Morale	Clean, inviting spaces create a positive atmosphere	Increased morale leads to better collaboration and engagement
Improved Mental Health	Clean, well-lit spaces reduce anxiety and depression	Positive correlation with mental well-being and work-life balance
Increased Energy Levels	Cleaner environments are less fatiguing, leading to more energy	Correlated with higher energy levels and sustained productivity

This graph shows the relationship between office cleanliness, employee productivity, and reduced sick days. The trend is clear – cleaner offices lead to happier, healthier, more productive teams.

IX. DIY vs. Professional Cleaning: Cost Comparison

Now, I know some of you might be thinking about taking on the cleaning yourselves to save a few bucks. Let’s break down when that makes sense – and when it doesn’t.

A. Pros and cons of each approach

DIY Cleaning:

Pros:

• Potentially lower direct costs
• More control over cleaning products and methods

Cons:

• Time-consuming for staff
• May not be as thorough or efficient as professional cleaning
• Potential liability issues if employees are injured while cleaning

Professional Cleaning:

Pros:

• Consistent, high-quality results
• Frees up staff time for core business activities
• Access to professional-grade equipment and products

Cons:

• Higher direct costs
• Less control over exactly when cleaning happens

B. Cost breakdown for DIY cleaning

Let’s crunch the numbers for a 2,000 sq ft office:

• Cleaning supplies: $100-$200 per month
• Staff time: 10 hours per week at $20/hour = $800 per month
• Total: $900-$1,000 per month

Compare this to professional cleaning at $.12 per sq ft, which would cost about $240 per cleaning or $960 per month for weekly service.

C. When to choose professional services

Professional cleaning usually makes sense when:

• Your office is larger than 1,000 sq ft
• You need specialized cleaning (like for medical offices)
• Staff time is better spent on core business activities
• You want consistent, professional results

This chart visually compares the costs, time investment, and results of DIY vs. professional cleaning for different office sizes.

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X. Frequently Asked Questions

Let’s tackle some of the questions I hear most often about office cleaning costs.

[Accordion-style FAQ section addressing common questions]

Q: How often should I have my office cleaned?

A: For most offices, weekly cleaning is a good baseline. However, high-traffic areas like reception, bathrooms, and kitchens may need daily attention. Adjust based on your office’s specific needs and budget.

Q: Are green cleaning services more expensive?

A: Initially, green cleaning might cost 10-20% more. However, many businesses find that the long-term benefits – like improved air quality and reduced sick days – outweigh the extra cost.

Q: How can I ensure I’m getting a fair price for cleaning services?

A: Always get quotes from at least three reputable companies. Be sure each quote includes the same services so you’re comparing apples to apples. Don’t be afraid to negotiate or ask for a price match.

Q: Should I tip my office cleaners?

A: Unlike residential cleaning, tipping isn’t typically expected for commercial cleaning services. However, if you receive exceptional service, a holiday bonus or occasional tip can be a nice gesture.

Q: How do I choose the right cleaning company for my office?

A: Look for a company with experience in your industry, good reviews, proper insurance, and a willingness to customize their services to your needs. Don’t just go for the cheapest option – quality and reliability are crucial.

XI. Customer Testimonials and Case Studies

Don’t just take my word for it – here’s what some real businesses have to say about their office cleaning experiences.

“Switching to professional cleaning saved us money in the long run. Our team is more productive, and sick days are down 30%!”

“We were hesitant about the cost at first, but the difference in our office environment is night and day. It’s an investment that pays off.”

“Our cleaning service adapted quickly to our COVID-19 concerns. Their enhanced protocols have helped our team feel safe coming back to the office.”

XII. Conclusion

A. Recap of key points

We’ve covered a lot of ground, so let’s recap the key takeaways:

• Office cleaning costs typically range from $.09 to $.17 per square foot in 2024.
• Factors like office size, cleaning frequency, and location all impact your final price.
• Professional cleaning offers benefits beyond just cleanliness, including improved productivity and health.
• While DIY cleaning might seem cheaper, it often doesn’t pay off for offices larger than 1,000 sq ft.
• COVID-19 has changed cleaning protocols, but the investment in enhanced cleaning is worth it for employee safety and peace of mind.

B. Final thoughts on choosing the right cleaning service

Remember, the cheapest option isn’t always the best value. Look for a cleaning service that understands your specific needs, has experience in your industry, and can grow with your business. Don’t be afraid to ask for references or trial periods.

Investing in quality office cleaning is more than just a line item in your budget – it’s an investment in your team’s productivity, health, and overall job satisfaction. A clean office sets the stage for success, impresses clients, and shows your team that you care about their work environment.

So go ahead, get those quotes, and take the first step towards a cleaner, healthier, more productive office. Your team (and your bottom line) will thank you.

Before you go, don’t forget to download our free Office Cleaning Checklist. It’s a great tool to ensure you’re covering all your bases, whether you’re working with a professional service or managing cleaning in-house.

Remember, a clean office is a productive office. Here’s to your success!

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