Singapore has a well-developed house cleaning industry with dozens of licensed agencies and independent platforms offering one-off, weekly, fortnightly, and monthly services. Most households choose between part-time cleaners arranged through an agency, subscription-based platform services, or ad-hoc bookings for deep cleans and end-of-tenancy jobs.
Types of House Cleaning Services Available
Regular part-time cleaning is the most common arrangement. Agencies such as Helpling, Sendhelper, and Whissh connect households with vetted cleaners on flexible schedules, typically charging between $20 and $28 per hour. A standard 3-room HDB flat usually needs two to three hours per visit.
Deep cleaning is a separate, more intensive service covering areas skipped in routine cleans: inside ovens and fridges, grout lines, ceiling fans, and behind large appliances. Prices for a deep clean of a 3 to 4-room flat typically range from $150 to $350 depending on the scope and the company used.
End-of-tenancy or move-out cleaning is priced higher still, often $250 to $500 or more for a full apartment, because it includes restoring the unit to a condition that satisfies landlord and property agent inspections. Some companies provide a re-clean guarantee if the first visit does not pass inspection.
How to Choose a Reputable Service
Check whether the agency employs its cleaners directly or operates as a marketplace. Direct employment agencies handle payroll, insurance, and replacement cleaners if someone calls in sick. Marketplace platforms like Helpling or Sendhelper connect you with independent contractors, which can mean lower hourly rates but less consistency between visits.
Ask whether cleaners are covered by work injury compensation insurance. Reputable agencies will confirm this without hesitation. Reading recent reviews on Google, Facebook, or Carousell listings gives a more realistic picture than testimonials on a company’s own website. Look specifically for comments on punctuality, consistency of the assigned cleaner, and how complaints were handled.
Many agencies offer a trial clean at the standard rate before committing to a package. This is a practical way to assess whether the cleaner suits your home before signing a three or six-month contract.
What to Expect on Pricing
Hourly rates for regular part-time cleaning in Singapore generally run from $20 to $30 per hour, with a minimum booking of two to three hours. Some agencies charge a one-time registration fee between $15 and $30. Subscription packages can reduce the effective hourly rate by 10 to 15 percent compared to ad-hoc bookings. Public holidays attract surcharges, commonly 50 percent above the standard rate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to provide cleaning supplies and equipment?
Most part-time cleaners expect the household to supply a mop, vacuum cleaner, and basic cleaning products. Deep cleaning companies typically bring their own commercial-grade equipment and chemicals. Confirm this when booking to avoid confusion on the day.
Are the cleaners background-checked?
Established agencies conduct identity verification and reference checks before placing cleaners. Marketplace platforms vary in their screening standards, so review the platform’s stated vetting process before booking. Asking for the same cleaner each visit also helps build familiarity and trust over time.
Can I book a one-time clean without a recurring contract?
Yes. Most agencies and platforms in Singapore accept one-off bookings for standard, deep, and move-out cleans. Recurring contracts are optional and usually offered at a slight discount to encourage regular bookings.
