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How Long Does a Deep Clean Actually Take?

  • Writer: Michelle Allegrezza
    Michelle Allegrezza
  • 23 hours ago
  • 2 min read

One of the most common questions homeowners ask before booking a professional cleaning is:

“How long does a deep clean actually take?”

The short answer?👉 It depends on your home, its condition, and the level of detail needed.

But don’t worry — below is a clear, realistic breakdown so you know exactly what to expect (and why a deep clean is worth the time).

What Is a Deep Clean (and Why It Takes Longer)?

A deep clean goes beyond surface-level tidying. It focuses on

White empty bathtub with a wall surround in a bathroom. A dark floor mat is visible at the bottom left. Bright lighting creates shadows.
AFTER

built-up dirt, grime, and neglected areas that don’t get attention

Old bathtub with stained surface and moldy caulk in corner, beige walls, and tiled floor. Worn gray bath mat on the left.
BEFORE

during regular maintenance visits.

Unlike standard cleaning, a deep clean includes:

  • Detailed scrubbing

  • Edge, corner, and baseboard work

  • High-touch surface disinfection

  • Extra time in kitchens and bathrooms

  • Floor detailing beyond quick passes

Think of it as a reset, not just a refresh.

(Photos Taken From A Sparkling Homes Deep Clean)


Average Deep Cleaning Time by Home Size

Here’s a general guideline for professionally performed deep cleans:

Home Size

Estimated Time

1–2 bedrooms

4–6 hours

3 bedrooms

5–7 hours

4 bedrooms

6–9 hours

Large homes (5+ beds)

8+ hours

⏱️ These times may be split between multiple cleaners working together.



Room-by-Room: Where the Time Goes

🧽 Kitchen (1.5–3 hours)

Kitchen with granite countertop, towel folded like a bow on a dishwasher handle, paper towel holder, chairs, and window blinds in the background.

The kitchen often takes the longest due to grease and heavy use.

Deep cleaning includes:

  • Degreasing cabinets and surfaces

  • Scrubbing stovetops and backsplashes

  • Cleaning inside microwave

  • Sanitizing sinks and counters

  • Detailed floor cleaning

🚿 Bathrooms (45–75 minutes each)

Bathrooms require careful disinfection and buildup removal.

Tasks include:

  • Scrubbing toilets, tubs, and showers

  • Removing soap scum and hard water

  • Polishing fixtures and mirrors

  • Cleaning tile and grout

  • Floor detailing

🛋 Living Areas & Bedrooms (30–60 minutes per room)

Spacious living room with beige carpet, dark leather sofas, and decorative pillows. Dim lighting, blacked-out windows, and wall art. Cozy mood.

These spaces focus on dust, detail, and floor care.

Deep cleaning typically covers:

  • Wet Wiping/Dusting furniture and décor

  • Cleaning baseboards and edges

  • Vacuuming carpets and rugs

  • Mopping hard floors

  • Tidying visible clutter

🚪 Entryways & Floors (30–60 minutes)

Especially important during winter months.

This includes:

  • Salt and residue removal

  • Edge and corner vacuuming

  • Under-furniture cleaning (as accessible)

  • Proper floor care to protect finishes

(Photos taken from Sparkling Home Cleans)

Why Deep Clean Times Vary So Much

Several factors can affect how long a deep clean takes:

  • How long it’s been since the last professional cleaning

  • Number of pets or children

  • Winter mess (salt, snow, slush)

  • Level of clutter

  • Size and layout of the home

👉 Homes starting recurring service usually need a deep clean first to set the baseline.


Is a Deep Clean Worth the Time?

For most families, absolutely.

A deep clean:

  • Makes maintenance cleaning more effective

  • Keeps mess from building up

  • Saves time long-term

  • Reduces stress

  • Protects surfaces and floors

Many clients tell us their home feels lighter and easier to manage after a deep clean.


Ready to Book Your Deep Clean?

If you want to start fresh — whether it’s the new year, before hosting, or before recurring service — a professional deep clean is the best place to begin.

Book your deep clean today and let us handle the details.


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