Not sure whether you need a deep clean or a standard clean? We break down exactly what each includes, when to book each, and how prices compare in Vancouver.
When booking a cleaning service, you'll often be asked whether you want a 'standard' or 'deep' clean. The difference isn't just about intensity — it's about what's included, how long it takes, and how much it costs. Here's exactly what you need to know.
What Does a Regular Cleaning Include?
A regular (maintenance) clean is designed for a home that is already reasonably tidy. It covers the visible surfaces that get dirty with daily use:
- Vacuum all carpets and rugs
- Mop hard floors
- Clean and disinfect toilets, sinks, and counters
- Scrub showers and bathtubs
- Wipe kitchen counters and stovetop
- Clean outside of kitchen appliances
- Dust furniture and accessible surfaces
- Empty trash bins
- Clean bathroom mirrors
- Change bed linens (if provided)
What Does a Deep Clean Include?
A deep clean covers everything in a regular clean, plus the areas that are typically skipped during maintenance visits:
- Everything in a standard clean, plus:
- Inside the oven and microwave
- Inside the refrigerator
- Inside kitchen cabinets and drawers
- Baseboards, door frames, and window sills
- Light fixtures and ceiling fans
- Behind and under appliances (fridge, stove, washer/dryer)
- Grout scrubbing in bathrooms
- Inside wardrobes and storage (if requested)
- Window tracks and blinds
- Walls and light switches
When to Book Each Type
Book a regular clean when:
- Your home is already reasonably clean
- You want ongoing weekly or bi-weekly maintenance
- You're maintaining a home that was recently deep cleaned
Book a deep clean when:
- It's been more than 3 months since a thorough clean
- You are moving into a new home
- You're moving out and want your deposit back
- You are hosting a major event
- You have just finished a renovation
- You're starting a new regular cleaning schedule (deep clean first)
Price Comparison in Vancouver (2025)
| 1-bedroom | $80–$130 (regular) | $130–$200 (deep) |
| 2-bedroom | $110–$160 (regular) | $180–$280 (deep) |
| 3-bedroom | $150–$220 (regular) | $250–$380 (deep) |
| 4-bedroom | $200–$280 (regular) | $320–$480 (deep) |
Pro tip: Start with a deep clean, then switch to regular bi-weekly maintenance. This strategy gets your home to a high standard quickly and keeps it there at a lower ongoing cost.
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Get started — it's freeFrequently asked questions
What is the difference between a deep clean and a regular clean?
A regular clean maintains a clean home — surfaces, floors, bathrooms, kitchen. A deep clean goes further: inside appliances, baseboards, grout, behind furniture, inside cabinets. Deep cleans typically take 2–3× longer.
Should I get a deep clean before regular cleaning?
Yes. If your home has not been professionally cleaned recently, a deep clean first brings it to a baseline. Then regular maintenance cleans keep it there at a lower cost per visit.
How long does a deep clean take?
A deep clean for a 2-bedroom home typically takes 4–6 hours. A 3-bedroom home may take 6–8 hours. Some cleaners work in pairs to reduce this time.
How much more does a deep clean cost than a regular clean?
Deep cleans typically cost 1.5–2.5× more than a standard clean because of the additional time and effort. In Vancouver, a deep clean of a 2-bedroom home averages $180–$280 vs $110–$160 for a standard clean.