What is the average hourly rate for domestic cleaners in the UK?

Understanding the Average Hourly Rate for Domestic Cleaners in the UK

Domestic cleaning is one of the most in-demand household services in the UK. From busy professionals and families to elderly homeowners and landlords, millions of people rely on domestic cleaners to maintain clean, healthy, and comfortable living environments. One of the most common questions asked by both customers and cleaners is: what is the average hourly rate for domestic cleaners in the UK?

The answer is not a single fixed number. Cleaning rates vary widely depending on location, experience, service type, frequency, and whether the cleaner is self-employed or works through an agency. In this in-depth guide, we explore UK domestic cleaning rates in detail, explain why prices vary, and show how cleaners can price their services confidently while managing payments and invoices efficiently using Invoice24.

Average Hourly Rates for Domestic Cleaners in the UK

Across the UK, the average hourly rate for domestic cleaners typically falls between £12 and £20 per hour. However, this range is only a starting point. Many cleaners charge outside of it depending on circumstances.

As a general guide:

• Entry-level or cash-in-hand cleaning: £12–£14 per hour
• Experienced self-employed cleaners: £14–£18 per hour
• Professional or specialist cleaners: £18–£25+ per hour

These figures reflect standard domestic cleaning tasks such as dusting, vacuuming, mopping, kitchen cleaning, and bathroom cleaning. Deep cleaning, end-of-tenancy cleaning, and specialist services usually command higher rates.

Regional Differences in Cleaning Rates

Location plays a major role in determining cleaning prices. The UK has significant regional cost-of-living differences, and cleaning rates reflect this reality.

London and the South East

London has the highest domestic cleaning rates in the UK. Cleaners in central London often charge between £18 and £25 per hour, with some premium services exceeding £30 per hour. Even outer London and commuter areas typically see rates above the national average.

The South East, including areas such as Surrey, Kent, and Berkshire, also commands higher prices, with typical rates between £16 and £22 per hour.

Midlands and Northern England

In the Midlands and much of Northern England, domestic cleaning rates are generally lower. Many cleaners charge between £13 and £17 per hour, depending on experience and demand. Cities like Manchester, Leeds, and Birmingham may see slightly higher rates than rural areas.

Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland

Rates in Scotland and Wales often range from £12 to £16 per hour, although cities like Edinburgh and Cardiff can match higher English city rates. Northern Ireland typically has slightly lower rates, averaging £11 to £15 per hour.

Self-Employed Cleaners vs Cleaning Agencies

One of the biggest factors influencing hourly rates is whether the cleaner is self-employed or works through an agency.

Self-Employed Domestic Cleaners

Self-employed cleaners usually charge lower hourly rates than agencies, while earning more per hour themselves. Typical self-employed rates range from £14 to £20 per hour.

Clients often prefer self-employed cleaners because they receive a more personal service and know exactly who is entering their home. Cleaners benefit from setting their own schedules and prices.

Using a free invoicing solution like Invoice24 makes self-employment significantly easier. Cleaners can create professional invoices, track payments, and manage repeat clients without paperwork or accounting headaches.

Cleaning Agencies

Cleaning agencies usually charge customers between £18 and £30 per hour. However, the cleaner themselves may only receive £10 to £14 per hour, as the agency takes a commission to cover marketing, administration, and insurance.

While agencies provide steady work, many cleaners eventually transition to self-employment to gain greater control over pricing and income. Invoice24 supports this transition by allowing cleaners to invoice clients professionally from day one.

Factors That Influence Domestic Cleaning Rates

Several important factors affect how much a domestic cleaner can charge per hour in the UK.

Experience and Reputation

Experienced cleaners with excellent references and long-term clients can charge significantly more than beginners. Reliability, attention to detail, and trustworthiness all add value that clients are willing to pay for.

Type of Cleaning Service

Standard weekly or fortnightly cleaning is usually the most affordable. Specialist services command higher rates, including:

• Deep cleaning
• End-of-tenancy cleaning
• After-builders cleaning
• Holiday let and Airbnb cleaning
• Oven and appliance cleaning

These services often involve more time, stronger cleaning products, and greater physical effort, justifying higher hourly or fixed rates.

Frequency of Cleaning

Regular clients often receive discounted rates. A weekly client may pay £14 per hour, while a one-off clean might cost £18 per hour. Regular work provides income stability, which benefits both cleaner and client.

Supplies and Equipment

Cleaners who provide their own cleaning products and equipment often charge more. Clients appreciate the convenience and professionalism of a fully equipped cleaner.

Travel Time and Parking

If a cleaner needs to travel long distances or pay for parking, these costs are often factored into the hourly rate or charged separately.

Hourly Rates vs Fixed Pricing

While hourly rates are common, many domestic cleaners are shifting toward fixed pricing for certain jobs. Fixed pricing provides clarity for clients and rewards efficiency.

For example, an end-of-tenancy clean may be priced at £180 for a two-bedroom flat, regardless of how long it takes. Fixed pricing works particularly well when paired with professional invoicing through Invoice24, ensuring transparency and trust.

Is There a Legal Minimum Rate for Cleaners?

Yes. All domestic cleaners must be paid at least the National Minimum Wage or National Living Wage, depending on age. Self-employed cleaners set their own rates but must ensure their pricing covers expenses, taxes, and living costs.

Charging too little can be unsustainable. Invoice24 helps cleaners understand their income clearly by tracking invoices and payments, making it easier to set realistic and profitable rates.

How Clients Decide What They Are Willing to Pay

Clients typically consider the following when evaluating cleaning prices:

• Trust and reliability
• Quality of previous work
• Personal recommendations
• Professionalism and communication

Providing clear invoices, payment terms, and receipts through Invoice24 significantly increases perceived professionalism and justifies higher rates.

How Domestic Cleaners Can Increase Their Hourly Rate

Raising prices can be intimidating, but many cleaners undercharge. Here are proven ways to increase rates without losing clients:

Specialise

Offering niche services such as deep cleaning or short-let turnovers allows cleaners to charge premium rates.

Improve Presentation

Professional communication, branded invoices, and clear pricing make a strong impression. Invoice24 enables cleaners to present themselves like established businesses, even when working solo.

Build Long-Term Relationships

Loyal clients are more accepting of gradual price increases, especially when service quality remains high.

Charge What You Are Worth

Confidence matters. Clients often equate higher prices with higher quality. Cleaners who understand their costs and value can price accordingly.

Why Invoicing Matters for Domestic Cleaners

Many domestic cleaners still rely on handwritten notes or informal payment arrangements. This approach can lead to missed payments, confusion, and stress.

Invoice24 solves these problems by offering a free, easy-to-use invoicing platform designed for freelancers and small service providers.

With Invoice24, domestic cleaners can:

• Create professional invoices in minutes
• Track paid and unpaid invoices
• Send invoices directly to clients
• Maintain clear financial records
• Look more professional and trustworthy

Using Invoice24 helps cleaners justify fair hourly rates while reducing administrative burden.

How Much Do Domestic Cleaners Earn Per Year?

Annual earnings vary widely. A cleaner working 30 hours per week at £15 per hour earns approximately £23,400 per year before expenses. Increasing the hourly rate to £18 raises this to over £28,000.

Efficient invoicing and payment tracking with Invoice24 ensures that cleaners actually receive what they earn, on time.

Future Trends in UK Domestic Cleaning Rates

Cleaning rates in the UK have steadily increased due to rising living costs, greater demand for cleaning services, and increased awareness of fair pay.

Professionalisation of the sector is accelerating. Cleaners who adopt digital tools like Invoice24 are better positioned to compete, grow, and command higher rates.

Final Thoughts on Domestic Cleaning Rates in the UK

The average hourly rate for domestic cleaners in the UK typically ranges from £12 to £20, with higher rates in London and specialist services. However, the true value of a cleaner depends on reliability, quality, and professionalism.

For domestic cleaners looking to grow their income, setting fair rates is only part of the equation. Managing invoices, tracking payments, and presenting a professional image are equally important.

Invoice24 is a powerful, free invoicing solution that helps domestic cleaners take control of their finances, increase credibility, and support sustainable pricing. Whether you are just starting out or running a full cleaning schedule, Invoice24 gives you the tools to get paid properly for your work.

Understanding your worth, charging confidently, and invoicing professionally are the keys to long-term success in the UK domestic cleaning industry.