How Long Does It Take to Deep Clean a 1-bedroom Flat?

Hiring a cleaning service or doing it yourself for a regular clean? Either way, knowing how long it takes to deep clean a one-bedroom flat can help you plan your time and budget better.

This guide breaks it down task by task so you know what to expect before you pick up the phone—or a mop.

What is deep cleaning in a 1 bedroom flat?

Deep cleaning goes beyond standard surface cleaning. It targets built-up grime, hidden dirt, and bacteria that accumulate over time. It often includes areas not covered in a weekly clean, like behind appliances, inside cupboards, and limescale build-up in bathrooms.

Which areas are included in a deep clean for a one-bed flat?

A proper deep clean should include every room and surface in the property, including:

• Kitchen – cupboards (inside and out), oven, hob, extractor fan, fridge, sink, tiles, floor
• Bathroom – toilet, shower screen, bathtub, sink, mirrors, tiles, grout, and upholstery.
• Living room & bedroom – skirting boards, carpets or floors, windows (inside), furniture surfaces
• Hallways – light switches, doors, floors, corners, and cobwebs

Optional add-ons might include carpet shampooing or window cleaning outside.

How long does each cleaning task typically take?

Here’s a general breakdown of how long each room might take to deep clean:

What factors can affect the total time required?

Several things can speed up or slow down the process:

• Level of dirt or neglect – More grime = more time.
• Pets – More hair and odours to remove.
• Carpet vs hard flooring – Carpets often take longer.
• Furnished or unfurnished – Furnished flats take more effort.
• DIY or professional – Professionals are faster due to experience and equipment.

How much time does a professional cleaner need to deep clean a 1-bedroom flat?

A professional team of one or two cleaners usually takes 4 to 5 hours to deep clean a standard one-bedroom flat. This can extend to 6 hours if the condition is poor or if extra services (like steam cleaning or fridge defrosting) are requested.

How long does DIY deep cleaning take for a 1-bedroom flat?

If you’re going it alone without commercial-grade tools or products, expect to spend between 6 to 8 hours—or more if you’re thorough. If you plan to do it over a weekend, split the work into two days to thoroughly clean your home and avoid burnout.

Is it faster to hire a professional cleaning service?

Yes. Professionals bring experience, speed, and the right tools. What might take you a full day can often be completed in half the time by a professional cleaner.

Plus, they know where dirt hides—no second-guessing or trial and error, thanks to their regular clean techniques. Want to know why hiring experts makes all the difference? Read more in our article: Discover the Benefits of Professional Cleaning Services for Your Home and Office.

Can you deep clean a 1-bedroom flat in one day?

Absolutely. A single cleaner can finish the job in a day, especially if there are no major stains or build-up.

However, for a thorough clean (especially if moving out), it’s best to allow for 3 to 6 hours to clean. at least 5–6 hours Or hire a team from cleaning companies to get it done faster.

How do you make the process more efficient?

Whether DIY or professional, here’s how to save time:

• Declutter first – Cleaning around clutter wastes time.
• Use the right products – Specialised cleaners cut through grime faster.
• Follow a checklist – Avoids redoing areas or missing spots.
• Work top to bottom to ensure you thoroughly clean every area. – Dust falls, so clean upper areas first.
• Focus on time-consuming areas first – e.g., kitchen appliances, bathroom grout.

What’s the best way to book a deep cleaning service in your area?

Look for local cleaners with positive reviews on Google or Trustpilot, especially those offering end of tenancy cleaning.

• Positive reviews on Google or Trustpilot can help you choose the best cleaning companies for your needs
• Transparent pricing and time estimates
• Specialisation in end-of-tenancy or deep cleaning
• A checklist is included with their end of tenancy cleaning service.
• Insurance and satisfaction guarantees

Pro tip: Search for “deep cleaning services near me” or include your location, e.g., “deep clean 1 bed flat Edinburgh,” to get tailored results.

Looking for trusted professionals? Check out our full guide: Stop Googling ‘End of Tenancy Cleaning Near Me’ – Here’s Edinburgh’s Best.

Conclusion: Is a professional deep clean worth the time?

If your goal is speed, precision, and guaranteed results—yes. A professional clean gets it done in fewer hours with better results.

Whether you’re moving out, hosting guests, or just want a reset, a deep clean of your 1 bedroom flat typically takes 4 to 8 hours depending on who does it and how dirty the space is.

Ready to save time and stress? Book a trusted deep cleaning service near you and tick it off your to-do list in one go.

Frequently Asked Questions on “How Long Does It Take to Deep Clean a 1-bedroom Flat?”

How long should it take to clean a 1-bedroom flat?

A one-bedroom flat usually takes between 3 to 5 hours to clean thoroughly when done by a professional team of one or two cleaners. The total time depends on the condition of the property and whether it’s a standard or deep clean.

How long does it take to deep clean a bedroom?

For a medium-sized bedroom, deep cleaning generally takes about 15 to 25 minutes. Larger bedrooms may take up to 40 minutes, especially if they haven’t been cleaned in a while or need extra attention to detail.

How long does it take to clean out a one bedroom apartment?

Cleaning out a one-bedroom apartment can take 1 to 2 hours if it’s in decent condition and only needs a basic clean. For deeper cleans or neglected spaces, expect it to take significantly longer.

What does a cleaner do in 2 hours?

In a 2-hour session, a cleaner can typically cover all main areas of a one-bedroom flat, including the kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, living room, and hallway.

This usually includes wiping surfaces, vacuuming, mopping, and cleaning fixtures.