Hiring a cleaning service in the Algarve? One of the biggest concerns is getting fair pricing. You want quality service at a reasonable cost, without unexpected fees or inefficiencies. But with most companies charging either hourly rates or a fixed price, how do you know which one is the fairest option?
The truth is, fixed pricing often provides more transparency and value, but let’s compare both options so you can make the best choice for your needs.
Hourly Rate Pricing – When Does It Make Sense?
Most cleaning services in the Algarve charge by the hour, meaning you pay for the time spent rather than the actual results. While this approach seems simple, it has some downsides.
✅ When Hourly Pricing Might Work for You:
- If you only need a small cleaning task done, like wiping down surfaces or light dusting.
- If you’re comfortable with price variations and don’t mind the final cost depending on how long the cleaning takes.
❌ The Downsides of Hourly Pricing:
- Uncertain final cost – If the job takes longer than expected, you pay more.
- Less efficiency – Some cleaners may work slower, increasing the total price.
- Not great for deep cleans – The more detailed the job, the longer it takes, which can quickly add up in cost.
If you have a flexible budget and a simple job, hourly pricing might work. But for larger cleaning tasks, it’s often not the most cost-effective choice.
Fixed Pricing = A More Predictable and Fair Approach
With fixed pricing, you pay a set rate based on the size of your space and the cleaning requirements—not on how long the job takes. This approach ensures cost transparency and guarantees a thorough clean without rushing or cutting corners.
✅ Why Fixed Pricing is Often the Fairer Choice:
- No hidden surprises – You know the exact cost upfront.
- Quality over speed – The focus is on completing the job properly, not just on the clock.
- Better for deep cleans & rentals – Ideal for Airbnb properties, villas, and family homes where a complete clean is expected.
❌ When Fixed Pricing Might Not Be Ideal:
- If you only need a quick touch-up, a fixed price may be higher than a short hourly booking.
- If you don’t have a clear idea of what needs cleaning, pricing might require a consultation.
Real-World Comparison: Fenix Cleaning vs. Competitor Pricing
To illustrate the difference, let’s take the example of a 2-bedroom Airbnb apartment in the Algarve. Suppose a guest checks out, leaving behind the usual post-stay mess—crumbs in the kitchen, smudged glass doors, used linens, and a bathroom needing a deep clean.
With a competitor’s hourly pricing model, the estimated time to clean would be 5-6 hours at €15-€20 per hour, meaning the final cost could range between €75 and €120, depending on the cleaners' speed and unexpected delays. If extra time is needed, the price increases.
With Fenix Cleaning’s fixed pricing model, you pay a flat rate of €55-€70, ensuring a complete, high-quality clean without worrying about how long it takes. The focus is on achieving spotless results, not counting the hours. Let’s compare a standard cleaning for a 2-bedroom Airbnb in the Algarve under both pricing models:
Features
Fenix Cleaning (Fixed Pricing) ✅ Competitor (Hourly Pricing) ❌
Transparent, upfront cost
✅ Yes ❌ No (Cost varies by time spent)
No hidden fees
✅ Yes ❌ No (Final price depends on hours worked)
Focus on quality, not time
✅ Yes ❌ No (More time = More cost)
Best for deep cleans & rentals
✅ Yes ❌ No (Longer cleans cost more)
Risk of inefficiency
❌ No ✅ Yes (Slower cleaning = Higher cost)
With hourly pricing, if the job takes longer than expected, you pay more. With fixed pricing, you get guaranteed results for a predictable cost.
How to Choose the Right Pricing for Your Needs
- For full-home, deep, or rental cleanings → Fixed pricing is more predictable and fair.
- For light, quick cleanups → Hourly pricing could work if the job is truly small.
- If you want guaranteed results without time pressure → Fixed pricing is the best option.
At Fenix Cleaning, we believe in fair, transparent pricing. That’s why we use a fixed price model—so you always know what to expect and never pay for slow work or inefficiency. Our focus is on delivering the best results, no matter how long it takes.
Looking for a Fair Cleaning Quote? Let’s Talk!
Not sure what works best for you? Contact us, and we’ll help you find the most cost-effective cleaning solution for your home, business, or rental property in the Algarve.
Book today and enjoy hassle-free, transparent pricing!