House Cleaning & Maid Services in Chicago, IL

House Cleaning in Chicago

Residents of "The Windy City" can choose from prominent cultural attractions, a thriving art scene, excellent restaurants, and a diverse shopping scene. People living in Chicago, Illinois, enjoy the sparkling waters of mighty Lake Michigan during warm weather, and plenty of snow during winter.

No matter what season it is, homeowners can reap the benefits of hiring a cleaning service. Whether they're gearing up for spring cleaning to wash away winter's muck, or getting ready for a special occasion, homeowners can choose from a variety of Chicago-based businesses. Look for an insured cleaning service with a valid business license, which the city requires for all businesses.

Common Chicago Service Areas

From Lincoln Park to Near South Side, Chicago is home to a variety of lively neighborhoods, each of which is serviceable by nearby cleaning and maid service companies. Chicago's cleaners serve a large area, including the following popular neighborhoods and suburbs:

1. Edgewater — Locals describe the Edgewater neighborhood as an idyllic spot to live. Tree-lined streets, hip shopping, easy-access public transportation, and plenty of beaches along the lake are major bonuses to this neighborhood, which is peppered with 19th century homes and high-rise apartments. Cleaning services typically cost more in this kind of area.
2. Hyde Park — Hyde Park boasts some of the best views of the skyline, along with a healthy real estate market filled with charming Victorians, posh condominiums with views of the lake, and luxury rentals in a formal hotel. Residents enjoy a growing restaurant scene in addition to a variety of cultural attractions, including The Smart, Frank Lloyd Wright's Robie House, and The Court. Cleaning services run on the pricier side in this type of neighborhood.
3. Northbrook — Nestled 25 miles north of downtown's hustle and bustle, Northbrook offers the best of suburban living combined with easy access to the city. With five forest preserves and plenty of shopping opportunities, residents enjoy various recreational opportunities. The suburb contains modest ranches, colonial-style homes, and relatively affordable mid-rise apartments and cleaning service options.

Local Cost Information for Typical Cleaning Tasks in Chicago

Whether you're looking for one-time cleaning services before a big event or holiday, or you're interested in longer term services, having a ballpark idea about pricing helps make planning a little easier. Some services, such as hiring a cleaning or maid service, include hourly charges or charges per square foot. The following table lists some of the most common services, and it compares Chicago's prices with the national average.

As the above table demonstrates, homeowners in Chicago typically pay lower than average prices for many cleaning services. Although the average cost of professional power washing is higher than the national average, most Chicago homeowners pay between $256 and $511.

Licensing & Insurance Requirements for Chicago Cleaning Services

In Chicago, cleaning businesses apply for a license through the City of Chicago's Small Business Center. Cleaning and maid services must renew the license every two years. The City of Chicago typically charges $250 for business licenses in the personal services category.

Working for a basic cleaning or maid service doesn't typically require extensive training, although some specialties may require certification. For example, cleaning services that specialize in green cleaning can pursue certification through companies such as Betco or GSF USA. Additionally, cleaning companies may opt to attain Cleaning Industry Management Standards (CIMS) certification through the International Sanitary Supply Association (ISSA) to gain a competitive edge.

Having general liability insurance is crucial for cleaners to protect their business and their clients. Most potential clients look for cleaning services that are bonded and insured. Additionally, any cleaning service with employees is required to have workers’ compensation insurance.

How Cleaning and Maid Services Affect the Look of a Home in Chicago

Professional cleaning and maid services can make a profound impact on the interior and exterior appearance of a Chicago home. Power washing the exterior after one of the city's harsh winters makes the home look nearly new and more attractive than a home with grit and grime. Similarly, hiring a cleaning service for the interior helps homeowners put their best foot forward while keeping the floors shining and the windows gleaming. Chicago homeowners can find cleaning services for everything from standard maid services to outdoor power washing and deep cleaning carpets.