How much to pay a cleaner for 3 hours?

 How much should you pay a cleaner for three hours? Well, it depends—on where you live, what you need done, and who’s doing the job. But if you’re in Perth and wondering what a fair rate is (without overpaying or undercutting someone’s livelihood), let’s break it down.

How much does a cleaner cost per hour in Perth?

In Perth, the average cost of hiring a cleaner typically ranges from $35 to $60 per hour. So, for a standard 3-hour job, you're looking at:

  • Low-end: $105 (3 × $35)

  • Mid-range: $135 (3 × $45)

  • High-end: $180 (3 × $60)

Why the range? A few things influence it:

  • Type of service (standard clean vs. deep clean)

  • Day/time (after-hours or weekend = more $$$)

  • ABN/insured pros vs. under-the-table casuals

  • Cleaning supplies (are they bringing them or using yours?)

Tip: If someone quotes you under $30/hour, check if they’re insured or GST-registered—it might signal a red flag.

Is 3 hours enough to clean a house?

Yes—if we’re talking a regular-sized home and a standard clean. Here’s what 3 hours can typically cover:

  • Kitchen wipe-down (including stove & benches)

  • Bathroom scrub

  • Vacuum and mop of all floors

  • Dusting and general tidy-up

But if your home hasn’t been cleaned in weeks (hello, school holidays!) or you’re prepping for a rental inspection, 3 hours may barely scratch the surface.

That’s where professional cleaners shine—they work fast, know what to prioritise, and aren’t distracted by the “oh, I’ll just reorganise the pantry” trap.

What makes cleaning costs go up?

Here’s what nudges the price above the $50/hour mark:

  • Pet hair & odours: Extra time, special products.

  • Mould or hard water stains: Often needs spot treatment.

  • Cluttered rooms: Cleaning around stuff takes longer.

  • Eco products: Some cleaners use greener (but pricier) products.

  • Urgency: Same-day or last-minute bookings cost more.

And yes, weekend cleaning usually comes with a premium. Just like Uber on New Year’s Eve.

Should you pay a cleaner a flat rate or hourly?

In most cases, hourly is the norm—especially for smaller or ad hoc jobs. But for larger cleans (like end-of-lease or spring cleaning), some pros offer a flat rate for peace of mind.

A quick comparison:

Billing TypeBest ForProsCons
Hourly     Ongoing or flexible jobs   Pay only for time used        May take longer than expected
Flat rate     Vacate/spring cleans   Upfront price clarity       Might not cover extras

Some Perth services give you a flat rate with a time cap—e.g., 3 hours with two cleaners. After that, extra charges apply. So read the fine print.

Can a 3-hour clean make a visible difference?

Absolutely—especially if you’re strategic about what gets done. Professional cleaners know how to triage a space, and in 3 hours, they can:

  • Make the bathroom sparkle

  • Get floors looking brand-new

  • Create that “fresh house” smell

It’s not just about hygiene—it’s mental clarity. A clean space literally changes how you feel in it.

Anyone who's tried to work from home in a messy living room knows what I’m talking about.

Is $150 for 3 hours too much?

Not really—if you’re hiring a legit pro.

Let’s say you book a certified, insured cleaner with reviews, who brings their own gear, and nails the job in 3 hours. $150 works out to $50/hour—a fair mid-to-premium rate in Perth. You’re paying for:

  • Time

  • Products

  • Insurance

  • Their tax/GST

  • Peace of mind

Remember: cheap cleaning isn’t cheap if it’s done poorly. You’ll end up redoing it—or worse, losing your bond if it’s a vacate clean.

How do Perth cleaning prices compare to other Aussie cities?

Let’s stack it up:

CityAvg Hourly Rate3-Hour Cost
Perth$35–$60$105–$180
Sydney$40–$70$120–$210
Melbourne$38–$65$114–$195
Brisbane$35–$60$105–$180
Adelaide$33–$55$99–$165

Perth sits around the national average, so if you're quoted within that range, you're likely not being ripped off.

How can you get the best value from a 3-hour clean?

Here’s how to make those 180 minutes count:

  • Declutter first: Less “stuff” = more cleanable space.

  • Prioritise rooms: Tell the cleaner what matters most.

  • Be home (if possible): Quick questions = fewer delays.

  • Ask about add-ons: Some include extras like inside fridge/microwave.

  • Stick to a schedule: Regular cleans are cheaper long-term.

Also, look for services that specialise in office cleaning Perth they often offer residential cleans too and bring that same efficiency.

FAQ: Quick answers to common questions

Q: Can I negotiate the rate with a cleaner?
A: Yes, especially for ongoing bookings. Some may offer a discount for weekly or fortnightly cleans.

Q: Do cleaners in Perth bring their own supplies?
A: Most pros do—but always confirm. Some charge extra for special products.

Q: How do I know if a cleaner is legit?
A: Look for reviews, an ABN, insurance, and clear pricing. Trust your gut—if it feels dodgy, it probably is.

At the end of the day, you’re not just buying a service—you’re buying back your time, reducing stress, and creating space to breathe. Whether you’re prepping for guests or clawing back your Sunday, a 3-hour clean might be the small investment that makes a big difference.

And if you're planning a move or end-of-lease soon, this guide on how much a vacate clean costs in Perth offers a solid reference.

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