GuidesJanuary 2, 20266 min read

Maid Service vs House Cleaning: What is the Difference?

By Affordable Cleaning Today Team

When searching for "maid service near me" or "house cleaning near me," you might wonder: what is the difference? While these terms are often used interchangeably, they actually refer to different levels of service. Understanding the distinction can help you choose exactly what your home needs.

What is House Cleaning?

House cleaning focuses on the core sanitization and maintenance of your home. It is what most people think of when they hire a cleaning company.

House Cleaning Typically Includes:

  • Dusting all surfaces and furniture
  • Vacuuming carpets and rugs
  • Mopping hard floors
  • Bathroom sanitization (toilets, sinks, showers, tubs)
  • Kitchen cleaning (counters, stovetop, sink)
  • Trash removal
  • Mirror and glass cleaning

What is Maid Service?

Maid service goes beyond standard cleaning to include personal household assistance. Think of it as house cleaning PLUS help with daily household tasks that keep your home running smoothly.

Maid Service Adds:

  • Making beds and changing linens
  • Laundry services (wash, dry, fold)
  • Dish services (loading/unloading dishwasher, hand washing)
  • Light organization and tidying
  • Putting away items
  • All standard house cleaning tasks

Side-by-Side Comparison

TaskHouse CleaningMaid Service
Dusting and surfacesYesYes
Vacuuming and moppingYesYes
Bathroom sanitizationYesYes
Kitchen cleaningYesYes
Trash removalYesYes
Making bedsNoYes
Changing linensNoYes
Laundry servicesNoYes
DishesNoYes
Light organizationNoYes

How Much Does Maid Service Cost?

At Affordable Cleaning Today, maid service is available as a $40 add-on to any cleaning service. This makes it easy to customize exactly what you need.

Example Pricing:

Pit Stop Cleaning (2 hrs)$146+
+ Maid Service Add-on+$40
Total$186+

*Final pricing based on home size and condition.

Which Should You Choose?

Choose House Cleaning If:

  • You primarily need sanitization
  • You handle laundry and dishes yourself
  • You want the most affordable option
  • Your home just needs a good clean

Choose Maid Service If:

  • You want help with daily household tasks
  • You are busy and need laundry/dishes done
  • You want beds made and linens changed
  • You want a fully maintained home

Questions to Ask When Hiring

Whether you choose house cleaning or maid service, here are important questions to ask any cleaning company:

  • Are your cleaners background-checked?
  • Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?
  • Do you bring your own supplies and equipment?
  • Can I request the same cleaner each time?
  • Do you have experience with pets in the home?
  • What is your cancellation policy?

Get Maid Service in Tampa Bay

At Affordable Cleaning Today, we offer both professional house cleaning and maid service throughout Tampa Bay, including Lutz, Land O Lakes, Wesley Chapel, Trinity, and New Port Richey. Our cleaners are background-checked, and we are licensed, bonded, and insured.

Ready to Get Started?

Get a free quote for house cleaning or maid service. No contracts required.

Get Your Free Quote

Or call us: (727) 228-6075