Why Getting Multiple Cleaning Quotes Can Save You Hundreds
Introduction: Cleaning Prices in Australia Aren’t Standard — and That’s Why Quotes Matter
If you’ve ever tried hiring a cleaner in Australia, you’ve probably noticed one thing immediately: no two cleaners charge the same price.
One cleaner might quote $120, another $180, and a third $260 — all for what appears to be the same service.
So who’s right?
And how do you know if you’re being overcharged?
The answer is simple: always get at least three cleaning quotes.
This one step can save you hundreds of dollars a year, prevent unexpected add-ons, and help you find the best cleaner for your home — not just the cheapest.
In this guide, you’ll learn exactly why comparing quotes matters and how it protects your time, budget, and peace of mind.
1. Cleaning Prices in Australia Can Vary by up to 40%
This is the biggest reason to request multiple quotes.
Across Australia, two cleaners offering the exact same service can differ in price by 30–40%, depending on:
âś” location
âś” experience
âś” cleaning method
âś” whether products/equipment are included
âś” whether they work alone or in a team
âś” business costs
âś” insurance
For example:
- Cleaner A may charge $150 for a 2-bedroom spring clean
- Cleaner B may charge $230
- Cleaner C may charge $189 but include the oven
If you only get one quote, you’ll never know if your price is fair.
2. Some Quotes Look Cheap — But Are Missing Inclusions
The big trap in cleaning quotes is that a low number doesn’t always mean low cost.
Many cleaners lower the base price, then charge extra for essentials like:
- Oven cleaning
- Windows
- Bathroom deep scrubbing
- Dusting blinds
- Inside cupboards
- Wall marks
- Balcony cleaning
- Carpet steam cleaning
A $120 quote can become $260 very quickly.
When you compare three quotes, you can instantly see who’s hiding extras and who’s offering real value.
3. Getting Multiple Quotes Stops You From Overpaying
Overpriced quotes often rely on the customer not knowing the average price.
When you receive 3–5 quotes, you’ll quickly see the “price average” and know what’s fair.
Example:
Quotes for a 3-bedroom general clean:
- Quote 1: $165
- Quote 2: $195
- Quote 3: $125
In this example:
➡ The $125 quote is suspiciously cheap
➡ The $195 quote may include extra services
➡ The $165 quote is closest to the true average
Without comparing, you might accidentally pick the most expensive option — or the cheapest with low-quality service.
4. You Can Compare Inclusions, Not Just Price
The most important part of comparing quotes isn’t the cost — it’s the inclusions.
Three quotes for a “deep clean” might include completely different things.
Example:
Cleaner A ($220):
âś” Bathrooms deep cleaned
âś” Kitchen detailed
âś” Oven included
❌ No window tracks
❌ No skirting boards
Cleaner B ($260):
âś” Everything from A
âś” Window tracks
âś” Skirting boards
Cleaner C ($180):
âś” Very basic
❌ No oven
❌ No grout scrubbing
❌ No skirting boards
Cleaner C is “cheaper,” but Cleaner A or B gives far better value.
Multiple quotes help you see who offers the best deal.
5. It Helps You Avoid Low-Quality or Unprofessional Cleaners
Cheap quotes aren’t always scams — but many are red flags.
If a cleaner is dramatically cheaper than others, it could be because:
⚠They’re inexperienced
⚠They don’t use proper products
âš They rush the job
⚠They don’t have insurance
⚠They don’t offer a guarantee
⚠They don’t include many tasks
⚠They rely on “upselling” after starting
âš They operate without an ABN
Comparing quotes quickly exposes these low-quality cleaners.
6. You Can Use Quotes to Negotiate Better Deals
Many Australians don’t realise this — but cleaning companies are often open to negotiation.
If you receive multiple similar quotes, you can say:
“I’ve had another quote for $160 with oven cleaning included.
Can you match or improve that?”
Most cleaners will:
âś” match the price
âś” add an inclusion
âś” or reduce the first-time clean cost
You cannot negotiate effectively if you only have one quote.
7. It Helps You Identify the Most Professional Cleaner
When you compare 3–5 quotes, you can quickly judge professionalism.
A professional cleaner will:
âś” Provide a detailed quote
âś” List inclusions clearly
âś” Offer a satisfaction or bond-back guarantee
âś” Reply quickly
âś” Have insurance
âś” Show reviews
âś” Provide an ABN
Unprofessional cleaners often send:
❌ very short messages
❌ vague wording
❌ “starting from” prices
❌ no inclusions list
❌ cash-only demands
❌ no reviews
Comparing quotes reveals who is trustworthy.
8. It Helps You Choose Based on Value — Not Just Price
The cheapest cleaner is rarely the best.
The most expensive cleaner isn’t always worth the cost.
The cleaner who provides the most value for your money is the one who:
âś” meets your needs
âś” includes most tasks
âś” charges fairly
âś” has strong reviews
âś” uses good products
âś” communicates clearly
âś” offers a guarantee
Without comparing quotes, you won’t know who truly offers the best value.
9. It Protects You From Hidden Fees and Upselling
Many overpriced or unprofessional cleaners hide fees until the job begins.
By comparing quotes, you can check for:
- Travel fees
- Weekend fees
- Equipment fees
- Removal of rubbish fees
- Additional bathroom fees
- Balcony fees
- Carpet cleaning upsells
- Heavy grease surcharges
Comparing quotes instantly exposes hidden fees.
10. It Gives You Peace of Mind
When you compare multiple quotes:
âś” You know the price is fair
✔ You know what’s included
✔ You know you’re dealing with professionals
âś” You avoid surprises
âś” You get the best results for your budget
Peace of mind is worth every second spent comparing.
Final Thoughts
Getting three or more cleaning quotes is one of the smartest ways to save money, avoid scams, and find a cleaner who suits your needs. It ensures transparency, reveals true pricing, protects you from overpaying, and gives you confidence in your decision.
In a market where prices vary wildly, comparing quotes isn’t optional — it’s essential.
