Deep Clean vs Regular Clean
Many people aren't sure what makes a deep clean different from regular cleaning. This guide breaks down exactly what to expect.
Regular Cleaning
Typically Includes
- Surface wiping and dusting
- Vacuuming and mopping floors
- Bathroom clean (toilets, sinks, baths)
- Kitchen surfaces and appliances (exterior)
- Tidying and organising
- Bin emptying
Time Required
For a 3-bedroom home: 2-3 hours
Frequency
Weekly, fortnightly, or monthly
Deep Cleaning
Much More Intensive
A deep clean goes beyond surface cleaning to tackle:
- Built-up grime and grease
- Hard-to-reach areas
- Inside appliances
- Behind and under furniture
- Detailed work on fixtures
Time Required
For a 3-bedroom home: 5-8 hours (or multiple cleaners)
Frequency
Every 3-6 months, or as a one-off before regular cleaning begins
Room-by-Room Deep Clean Breakdown
Kitchen Deep Clean
Appliances Inside and Out:
- Oven interior, racks, and trays
- Microwave (including turntable)
- Fridge interior, shelves, and drawers
- Dishwasher filter and interior
- Extractor hood and filters
- Washing machine drum and drawer
Surfaces:
- Inside all cupboards and drawers
- Cabinet fronts and handles
- Splashbacks (degreased)
- Worktops (moved appliances)
- Sink and drains
Other:
- Light fixtures
- Window sills
- Skirting boards
- Bin interior
- Floor (moved appliances)
Bathroom Deep Clean
Fixtures:
- Toilet (including behind and base)
- Bath (including underneath edge)
- Shower cubicle (including tracks and head)
- Taps descaled and polished
- Sink (including overflow and pipes)
Surfaces:
- All tiles cleaned
- Grout cleaned or treated
- Mirrors
- Cabinets inside and out
- Light fittings
Other:
- Extractor fan
- Door and handles
- Floor corners
- Radiators or towel rails
Bedroom Deep Clean
Furniture:
- Wardrobes inside (shelves and rails)
- Drawers inside
- Under bed area
- Mattress vacuumed
Surfaces:
- All furniture surfaces
- Light fixtures
- Window sills and frames
- Door frames and tops
Soft Furnishings:
- Curtains (dusted or vacuumed)
- Carpet edges and corners
- Upholstery vacuumed
Living Room Deep Clean
Furniture:
- Behind and under sofas
- Cushions (vacuumed and flipped)
- Shelving units (items removed)
- TV units and electronics
Surfaces:
- All surfaces (including ornaments)
- Light fixtures
- Skirting boards
- Picture frames
- Door handles and switches
Floors:
- Carpets (edged and corners)
- Hard floors (including under rugs)
- Rugs (vacuumed both sides)
What's Usually NOT Included
Standard deep cleans don't typically include:
- Exterior windows
- Carpet shampooing (separate service)
- Wall washing
- Ceiling cleaning
- Laundry or ironing
- Organising or decluttering
- Garden areas
- Garages
These can often be added for an additional fee.
When You Need a Deep Clean
One-Off Situations
- Moving into a new home
- Before putting property on market
- Before/after hosting events
- Pre-baby preparation
- Post-illness sanitisation
Before Regular Cleaning Begins
A deep clean provides the baseline that regular cleaning maintains.
Periodic Refresh
Even with regular cleaning, deep cleaning every few months tackles what daily cleaning misses.
Choosing a Deep Clean Provider
Questions to Ask
- What exactly is included?
- How long will it take?
- How many cleaners will attend?
- Are products and equipment included?
- Is there a satisfaction guarantee?
- What are your reviews like?
Pricing Factors
- Size of property
- Current condition
- Number of rooms
- Specific requirements
- Location
Getting the Most from Your Deep Clean
Before the Team Arrives
- Declutter surfaces and floors
- Secure valuables
- Make a list of priorities
- Ensure access to all areas
- Note any sensitive items or surfaces