On average, it takes between 30 minutes to 2 hours to clean a standard office, depending on its size, layout and the level of use.
Office cleaning might seem straightforward, but the time it takes can vary significantly. A small open-plan space with a few desks and a kitchenette may be done in under an hour, while larger corporate buildings with multiple floors, meeting rooms and restrooms require more time, sometimes needing a team of cleaners working in shifts. Understanding how long it takes helps businesses plan effectively and maintains a hygienic working environment.
What Affects The Time It Takes To Clean An Office?
Several factors influence how long it takes to clean an office. The most obvious is size. A 500-square-foot office used by a handful of staff will naturally take far less time to clean than a 5000-square-foot space used by multiple departments. The number of workstations, shared facilities and high-touch areas also affects cleaning time.
Office layout also plays a part. Open-plan offices are generally quicker to clean because they allow for smoother movement and less obstruction. In contrast, offices with lots of individual rooms, partitions or staircases take longer because they require more detailed attention and movement of equipment.
The condition of the office can also dramatically affect how long cleaning takes. Offices that are cleaned daily or several times a week are typically quicker to clean than those left for long periods between sessions. Dirt, dust, stains and accumulated waste take longer to remove than light daily use mess.
How Often Should An Office Be Cleaned?
Most offices benefit from daily or weekly cleaning, but frequency depends on the nature of the work and the number of people using the space. High-traffic offices, customer-facing spaces or those with kitchen facilities and restrooms should be cleaned at least once a day.
According to a survey by the British Cleaning Council, 68% of UK businesses now schedule office cleaning at least once per week, an increase compared to previous years. This reflects growing awareness around hygiene, especially in shared workspaces.
Some areas require more regular attention than others. Kitchens and restrooms should be cleaned daily, while carpets, windows and upholstery may be cleaned weekly or monthly, depending on usage.
What Is Included In A Standard Office Clean?
A routine office clean usually involves dusting desks and surfaces, sanitising high-touch areas such as door handles and light switches, vacuuming or mopping floors, emptying bins and cleaning restrooms and kitchenettes. Some services also include restocking toiletries and cleaning internal windows or meeting rooms.
Deep cleaning tasks such as carpet shampooing, descaling kettles and coffee machines, and washing external windows are usually scheduled less frequently but do require additional time.
Professional contract cleaning companies often work from customised checklists based on the client’s needs. This ensures consistency and efficiency, helping to keep the time taken for each clean within a predictable range.
How Many Cleaners Are Usually Needed In An Office?
The number of cleaners assigned to a job significantly affects how long it takes. A single cleaner may take up to 2 hours to clean a medium-sized office thoroughly. A team of two or three can usually complete the same job in less than half the time.
Larger offices or those with specialised requirements may require dedicated daytime cleaners or evening shifts to ensure all areas are maintained without disrupting business operations. Professional cleaning companies often rotate staff or divide tasks by room or floor to keep cleaning times efficient and manageable.
Can Offices Be Cleaned Outside Of Working Hours?
Yes, and in many cases, it is preferable. Cleaning an office outside of working hours allows cleaners to move more freely and ensures employees are not disturbed. Early mornings, evenings or weekends are the most common times for office cleaning, particularly in busy environments where daily disruption must be avoided.
This flexibility helps reduce cleaning time overall, as cleaners can work more efficiently when the space is empty. It also helps ensure a thorough job is done without the risk of missing areas due to people being at desks or using facilities.
Why Does Cleaning Time Matter?
Knowing how long it takes to clean your office helps with scheduling, budgeting and ensuring staff health and safety. A rushed clean may miss key areas and lead to the spread of germs, while overly long cleaning sessions can be inefficient and unnecessary.
Businesses often find that regular, professional cleaning leads to a more pleasant and productive work environment. Employees tend to feel more valued and are less likely to take sick days when working in a well-maintained office.
Final Thoughts
In most cases, cleaning an office takes between 30 minutes and 2 hours, depending on the size, layout and specific needs of the space. By working with experienced professionals and scheduling regular cleans, businesses can ensure a safe, comfortable and welcoming environment for staff and visitors alike. Whether it is a compact office in Leeds or a large multi-floor facility in London, a clean workplace starts with a clear plan and a reliable cleaning team.