Move Out Cleaning Cost Calculator
Get an instant free estimate for a guaranteed move-out clean to help secure your security deposit.
How is Move Out Cleaning Cost Calculated?
Quotes are primarily based on the Number of Bedrooms and Bathrooms and total Square Footage. Kitchens and bathrooms are high-labor areas. "Extras" like inside ovens and fridges are charged separately because they take 30-45 minutes each.
Calculate Your Estimate
Project Location
Choose which state the project is located.
Home Details
Size and condition heavily influence cleaning time.
Deep Clean Add-ons:
Key Factors Influencing Cleaning Rates
Condition
A well-maintained home is "Standard". A home with grease buildup, pet hair, or extensive dust is "Heavy Duty" and costs 30-50% more due to the scrubbing time required.
Carpet Cleaning
Steam cleaning carpets is not standard housekeeping. It requires a specific machine and technician, often adding $100-$300 to the total bill.
Average Cost by Home Size
| Home Type | Approx Size | Average Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 Bedroom | 600 - 900 sq ft | $180 – $250 |
| 2 Bedroom Apt | 900 - 1200 sq ft | $250 – $350 |
| 3 Bedroom House | 1500 - 2200 sq ft | $350 – $500 |
| 4+ Bedroom Large Home | 2500+ sq ft | $500 – $800+ |
How to Estimate Move Out Cleaning Cost Manually
Move-out cleaning is often a flat rate based on home size and bedroom/bathroom count, assuming the home is empty. Extras like carpet cleaning and appliance interiors are added à la carte.
Step 1: Determine Base Size Rate
Use a rate of $0.12 - $0.15 per sq ft for the general living areas (vacuuming, mopping, dusting baseboards).
Step 2: Add Wet Rooms
Kitchen: Included in base, but oven/fridge interiors add ~$75.
Bathrooms: Add $50 per bathroom for scrubbing tub/shower/toilet.
Step 3: Hourly Cap Check
Professional cleaners aim for $50-$60 per man-hour. If your home takes 2 cleaners 4 hours (8 man-hours), the bill should be around $400 - $480.
Step 4: Use the Formula
(Sq_Ft × $0.12) + (Baths × $40) + Extras = Total
Example: For a 1,000 sq ft Apt with 2 Baths + Fridge Clean:
(1,000 × $0.12) + (2 × $40) + $35 (Fridge) = $235.00 Total
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the home need to be completely empty?
Ideally, yes. 'Move-out' cleaning assumes all furniture and boxes are gone. If cleaners have to work around items, they may charge a 'Move-in/Occupied' rate which is higher.
Is carpet cleaning included?
Standard vacuuming is included. Steam cleaning (hot water extraction) is a separate service that typically costs an extra $0.20 - $0.30 per square foot.
Do you clean the windows?
Interior glass (easy reach) is often an add-on. Exterior window cleaning is almost always a separate job requiring different equipment and insurance.
Will this guarantee my security deposit back?
A professional clean helps significantly, but we cannot guarantee deposit return as landlords may deduct for damages (nails in walls, carpet burns) that cleaning cannot fix.
Do I need to provide supplies?
No. Professional move-out cleaners bring their own vacuums, mops, and commercial-grade cleaning solutions. If you have specific allergy concerns, let them know roughly.
How long does a move-out clean take?
A standard 2-bedroom apartment takes a crew of two about 2-3 hours. A large 4-bedroom home can take a crew of three 5-6 hours (15+ man-hours).
Do you clean inside the cabinets?
Yes, for a move-out clean, wiping inside empty cabinets and drawers is standard. They must be empty of shelf liner and debris.
What about the garage?
Garages are usually 'broom swept' only. Removing oil stains or power washing the floor is a separate pressure washing service.
Is there a cancellation fee?
Most services require 24-48 hour notice. Cancellations made same-day often incur a fee (e.g., $50 or 50% of job) because the crew's slot cannot be refilled.
Does the electricity need to be on?
Yes! Cleaners need electricity for vacuums and lights, and water for mopping/bathrooms. If utilities are off, they cannot guarantee a proper clean.