How Much Should I be Paying For My Professional Cleaning Service?
- richlangfordeditor
- 36 minutes ago
- 3 min read
At ILC Commercial Cleaning Limited, we thought it would be helpful to take a closer look at the current cleaning costs across the UK — covering both smaller local providers and leading national companies — and share our perspective on where professional cleaning rates are likely to head as we move into 2026.
Taking into account current economic conditions, labour costs, and inflation, the cost of hiring a professional cleaning company in 2026 will naturally vary based on factors such as location, service type, and contract size. However, by reviewing today’s market trends, we can outline some realistic price expectations to help businesses plan their budgets effectively.
Here’s a simple breakdown to guide your planning:
1. Office Cleaning Costs (2026 Estimates)
Professional commercial cleaning companies in the UK typically charge per hour or per square metre for offices.
Hourly Rate (per cleaner)
Small offices: £19 – £25 per hour
Medium to large offices: £22 – £30 per hour
Premium / out‑of‑hours cleaning: £25 – £40 per hour
Per Square Foot / Metre
Average: £1.50 – £3.00 per m² (depending on frequency and building type)
Factors affecting cost:
Location — London and the South East cost about 15–25% more
Frequency — daily cleaning often reduces the rate per visit
Tasks included — (bins, toilets, kitchen, carpets, high‑level dusting, etc.)
Contract length — longer contracts may get discounts
2. Warehouse / Industrial Cleaning Costs
Warehouse environments require specialised equipment and health & safety compliance, which increase costs.
Typical costs for 2026:
General warehouse cleaning: £25 – £40 per hour
High‑level / machine scrubbing / deep cleans: £40 – £60 per hour
Floor machine cleaning / pressure washing: £1.50–£4.00 per m²
3. Deep Cleaning or One‑Off Cleans
If you’re after a full deep clean:
Small office (under 100 m²): £250 – £400
Medium office (100–500 m²): £400 – £900
Large commercial sites: £900 – £3,000+
4. 2026 Price Outlook
Inflation, energy costs, and labour shortages are expected to keep wages rising, so expect a 5–10% increase per year from current rates (as of 2024–2025). By 2026, that means roughly:
£20–£35/hour for standard office cleaning
£30–£50/hour for specialised or warehouse cleaning
5. Tips for Getting the Best Value
Get at least 3 quotes from reputable cleaning contractors.
Check for insurance, accreditations, and references
Clearly define your Scope of Work (SOW) — what’s cleaned, how often, and any specialist tasks.
Avoid “per‑visit” quotes without detail — always confirm duration and included tasks.
Planning Ahead with Confidence
As we move further into 2026, it’s clear that the UK cleaning industry continues to evolve — with costs shaped by higher wage standards, sustainability goals, and rising service expectations. The positive news is that professional cleaning remains one of the most cost-effective ways for businesses to protect their assets, support staff wellbeing, and maintain a strong professional image.
At ILC Commercial Cleaning Limited, we work closely with every client to deliver tailored cleaning solutions that balance quality, reliability, and value. Whether you manage a small office, a large commercial facility, or require specialist cleaning services, our experienced team can design a plan that fits your budget and operational needs.
Get a Bespoke Quote for Your Business
If you’re looking to review your cleaning contract or plan ahead for the year, our team would be delighted to help. We offer transparent cost breakdowns and flexible service options — so you know exactly what you’re paying for and what to expect.
📞 Call us on 01922 621117
📧 Email us at richard@ilovecleaning.com
🌐 Visit www.ilovecleaning.com
Let’s keep your business spotless, professional, and ready for what’s ahead in 2026.
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