Commercial cleaning is usually sold as a monthly contract based on square footage, how often the space is cleaned and what tasks are included. Our U.S. estimate for janitorial labor is about $40–$59 per cleaner-hour in 2026.
Write a Clear Scope of Work
- Areas and square footage, number of restrooms and break rooms
- Tasks by frequency: nightly (trash, restrooms, vacuum), weekly (dusting high surfaces), monthly or quarterly (floor scrubbing, carpet extraction, windows)
- Who supplies paper goods, soap and trash liners
- Security: keys, alarm codes, sign-in, background checks
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Contract Terms to Check
- A short notice period to cancel (30 days is common)
- Quality inspections and how missed tasks are fixed
- Proof of general liability, workers' compensation and a janitorial bond
- Price increases: when and how much
Day Porter vs Night Cleaning
Night cleaning is common and cheaper to schedule. Day porters keep busy spaces (lobbies, restrooms, medical offices) tidy during business hours.
Find commercial and janitorial companies by state.