Eco-Friendly Cleaning Quotes: Are Green Cleaners More Expensive?
Introduction: Eco-Friendly Cleaning Is Growing Fast in Australia
More Australians are choosing eco-friendly cleaning services — not just for the environment, but to protect their family, pets, indoor air quality, and long-term health.
But there’s one question almost everyone asks:
“Are eco-friendly cleaners more expensive?”
The answer is: sometimes yes, sometimes no — and it depends on what you’re actually paying for.
This guide breaks down the cost differences, what “eco cleaning” really means, what’s included, and how to compare green cleaning quotes without overpaying. Whether you’re in Sydney, Brisbane, Perth, Melbourne, Canberra, Hobart, Darwin or anywhere in Australia, this will help you choose the best option for your home and budget.
1. What Does Eco-Friendly Cleaning Actually Mean?
A lot of cleaning companies use the term “eco-friendly,” but not all of them mean the same thing.
True eco-friendly cleaning includes:
✔ Non-toxic cleaning products
✔ Biodegradable chemicals
✔ No harsh fumes
✔ Plant-based formulas
✔ Low-allergen cleaning methods
✔ Reduced water usage
✔ Microfibre cloth systems
✔ Green-certified products (GECA, ECOLOGO, etc.)
✔ Refillable containers (less plastic waste)
What eco-friendly cleaning does NOT mean:
❌ using vinegar and water for everything
❌ cleaning “less deeply”
❌ fewer tasks or shortcuts
❌ lower quality
Eco cleaning is simply a safer, more sustainable way of achieving the same — or better — results.
2. Are Eco-Friendly Cleaners More Expensive? Here’s the Truth
Generally, eco cleaners are slightly more expensive, but the difference is not huge.
Typical price difference:
- Standard cleaning products: Base price
- Eco-friendly products: +$10 to $35 per clean
Why the small increase?
- Eco products cost more to manufacture
- Many are certified and imported
- Plant-based formulas are more expensive
- Some companies use higher-quality tools and cloths
- Waste reduction systems add operational cost
But the difference is usually small compared to the total cleaning price.
Example:
Regular clean: $140
Eco clean: $155
Most people find the added cost worth the benefits — especially families with children, dogs, allergies, or asthma.
3. Eco Cleaning Is Often Cheaper Than People Expect
Many Australians assume eco cleaners charge premium rates, but this is becoming outdated.
As eco products become more common:
✔ More companies offer eco options
✔ Prices are becoming competitive
✔ Many cleaners no longer charge extra
✔ Some offer eco-only packages
In cities like Melbourne and Brisbane, eco cleaning has become mainstream — not a luxury extra.
4. What’s Included in an Eco-Friendly Clean?
Eco-friendly cleaning still includes all the normal cleaning tasks.
Typical inclusions:
- Vacuuming
- Mopping
- Bathroom cleaning
- Kitchen cleaning
- Surface wipe-down
- Dusting
- Bedroom tidy
- Sink & tap polishing
- Stove surface cleaning
Eco-specific extras may include:
✔ Air-safe, non-toxic deodorisers
✔ HEPA-filter vacuums
✔ Allergy-friendly dusting systems
✔ Plant-based disinfectants
✔ Child-safe cleaning methods
What’s NOT usually included:
❌ Oven cleaning with harsh chemicals
❌ Heavy grease removal with industrial products
❌ Mould removal with chemical agents
Some of these need stronger products, which are not always eco-friendly.
5. Why More Australians Are Choosing Eco Cleaning
Beyond the environmental benefits, many families choose eco-friendly cleaning because:
✔ Safer for kids
No toxic residues on tables, floors or toys.
✔ Better for asthma & allergies
Fewer irritants, no harsh fumes, better indoor air quality.
✔ Better for pets
No harmful chemicals on floors where pets walk, play, or sleep.
✔ A healthier home
Less chemical exposure over time.
✔ Better smell
Eco products usually smell fresh and natural — not “chemical strong.”
✔ Sustainable and ethical
Supporting cleaners who use responsible, environmentally conscious systems.
6. When Eco-Friendly Cleaning Might Cost More
Eco cleaning may cost more if:
✔ Your home needs a deep clean
Eco products take more time for tough grime.
✔ You need heavy-duty scrubbing
Grease, mould, and old stains may require premium eco products.
✔ It’s your first clean
Eco cleaners often start with a deep clean before switching to regular eco maintenance.
✔ You request specific certified brands
GECA, ECOLOGO, or premium imported products cost extra.
But even in these cases, the price difference is usually small.
7. How to Compare Eco-Friendly Cleaning Quotes
To avoid paying more than necessary, always compare 3–5 eco cleaning quotes.
Here’s what to look for:
✔ 1. Do they list the eco products used?
Make sure they’re truly eco-friendly, not just labelled “green.”
✔ 2. Are the inclusions clear?
A proper checklist avoids misunderstandings.
✔ 3. Is the pricing flat-rate or hourly?
Flat-rate is more predictable.
✔ 4. Do they offer a satisfaction guarantee?
✔ 5. Do they bring their own eco supplies?
They should — otherwise it’s not a full eco clean.
✔ 6. Do they have strong reviews?
✔ 7. Are there extra charges for oven, blinds, windows, etc.?
✔ 8. Do they offer eco-only or hybrid options?
Some cleaners let you choose eco products for certain rooms (like kitchens and bathrooms).
8. When Should You Not Choose Eco Cleaning?
Eco cleaning is excellent for most homes — but there are a few exceptions.
❌ 1. Heavy mould problems
This usually requires stronger chemicals.
❌ 2. Strong grease build-up
Eco degreasers work, but take longer.
❌ 3. Deep oven cleaning
Harsh oven chemicals are often needed.
❌ 4. Full end-of-lease bond cleaning
Real estate expectations sometimes require stronger agents.
In these cases, a hybrid approach may work better.
9. Eco Cleaning Is Often Better Value Long-Term
Even if eco cleaning costs slightly more upfront, it can save you money long-term.
✔ Carpets last longer
Fewer harsh chemicals = less fibre damage.
✔ Surfaces last longer
Gentler products protect paint, stone, and wood.
✔ Better indoor air quality
Less dust and fewer irritants.
✔ Reduced allergies
Fewer medical triggers, less irritation.
Small improvements add up over months and years.
Final Thoughts
Eco-friendly cleaning isn’t just a trend — it’s quickly becoming the preferred option for Australian households who want a safer, cleaner, healthier home.
While eco cleaners can be slightly more expensive, the difference is usually small — and the benefits far outweigh the cost.
By comparing quotes properly and knowing what to expect, you can hire a green cleaner who offers excellent value, high-quality results, and a healthier environment for your family, your pets, and your home.
