Get matched with top cleaning & maid services pros in Los Alamos, CA

As a general rule of thumb, avoid handwashing dishes whenever possible—especially if you have a full sink. Using a dishwasher saves water and better sanitizes your dishes. However, if you have delicate dishwear, high-end glassware, or fragile plastics, you should opt to handwash it to avoid cracks, chips, or warping from the high heat of a dishwasher.

Cleaning floors is a relatively easy DIY job, but paying for a professional cleaning service is worthwhile if you don’t have the time to dedicate to cleaning or if you have particularly dirty floors, deep-set stains, or wooden floors that you might damage during the cleaning process. A professional house cleaner will have the tools and experience necessary to remove dirt, pet hair, debris, and even stains and discoloration from your floors without damaging them. The service is also relatively affordable, making it a great investment if you don’t have the time or tools to do it yourself.

Acrylic tubs are easy to clean with simple items you already have around the house. You can use dish soap, hydrogen peroxide, cream of tartar, or borax to clean an acrylic bathtub. Avoid mixing any household cleaners, including common ingredients like vinegar and bleach, as this can create toxic fumes. It’s also best to start with a spot test of any cleaners you use.

House cleaners typically charge by the hour, with average rates ranging from $40 to $50 per hour per cleaner. The total cost depends on factors like the size of your house, the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, and the specific services you request.

A standard cleaning session generally costs between $120 and $240. However, the price can be significantly higher for very large homes or comprehensive services. Keep in mind that add-on services, such as cleaning windows or ovens, will cost extra.

Deep cleaning is more expensive than a standard session—often at least twice the price—because it involves more time and effort, such as moving furniture to clean underneath and reaching difficult areas. Due to the cost, some recommend hiring professionals for seasonal deep cleans while managing regular weekly or biweekly upkeep yourself.