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Ready to turn your love for a tidy space into a profitable hustle? Whether you’re looking for a flexible side gig or aiming to build a full-time income, learning how to start a home cleaning business can open doors to financial freedom and independence.
In this guide, you’ll get the exact steps, tools, and insider tips to launch your cleaning business with confidence—even if you’re starting with zero experience.
Choose the Right Cleaning Business Model for Your Lifestyle
Before grabbing a mop or scrubbing a tub, take a moment to figure out how you want to structure your business. Do you plan to start solo or immediately bring on help?
Starting on your own is ideal if you’re keeping startup costs low or testing the waters. But if you’re serious about scaling and building a team, begin thinking about processes early on.
Next, decide on your specialty. Will you clean small apartments, family homes, or vacation rentals? Focusing on a niche allows you to target specific clients more easily.
For example, offering quick-turnover cleanings for Airbnb hosts is a very different process from deep cleaning a family home once a month. Pick a path that matches your schedule and energy level.
Register Your Business and Handle the Legal Basics
This step may feel intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. Starting with a simple sole proprietorship under your name is totally fine.
If you want a business name, register it with your city or county. You should also apply for an EIN (Employer Identification Number) through the IRS—it’s free and helps keep your personal info separate.
Set up a business bank account so you can keep your finances organized from day one. It’ll save you a headache come tax time.
Check your local requirements to see if a business license is needed for home cleaning services in your area. In many places, you can get started with just a registration form and a small fee.
Create a Clear List of Services and Prices
The more specific you are about what’s included in your cleaning services, the easier it is for clients to book you.
Focus on the basics first: dusting, vacuuming, mopping, kitchen wipe-downs, and bathroom cleanings.
Offer add-ons like oven scrubbing, baseboard detailing, or inside window cleaning for an additional fee.
When it comes to pricing, research what cleaners in your area charge. Many beginners start at $25–$35 per hour depending on location.
You can switch to flat rates later once you know how long tasks take. Just remember—don’t underprice yourself. You’re providing a valuable service that saves your clients time and stress.
It’s tempting to load up on every cleaning gadget out there, but you only need a few essentials to start.
Invest in a sturdy vacuum with attachments, a microfiber mop, and a bucket. A good set of microfiber cloths is non-negotiable—they clean surfaces without leaving streaks or lint behind.
Stick with trusted, affordable products that smell fresh but not overpowering.
Brands like Method, Mrs. Meyer’s, and Fabuloso are customer favorites. Carry everything in a tote or plastic bin you can clean out after each job. As you grow, you can create a restock list to stay organized.
Build a Simple Yet Professional Brand
You don’t need a website or business cards right away, but you should have a name and consistent image.
Choose a business name that reflects your style and is easy to remember. Something like “Tidy Nest Cleaning” or “Bright Space Services” works well.
Set up a free Google Business profile so people can find you in local searches. Create a Facebook page where you can post updates, share reviews, and let your community know you’re available.
Use free tools like Canva to design a basic flyer or post that you can share online or pin to a community board.
Land Your First Clients with Local Marketing
Your first clients will likely come from your existing network, so let friends and family know you’re open for business. Offer a discount for first-time customers to encourage trial bookings.
After each job, ask for reviews and referrals—word-of-mouth is gold in the cleaning world.
Local Facebook groups are a great place to promote your services. Be sure to include a short list of what you offer, your availability, and how people can contact you.
If possible, take before-and-after photos of your work to show off your skills. Real results build trust faster than words.
Follow a Consistent Cleaning Routine
Having a step-by-step cleaning system helps you work faster and makes sure nothing gets missed. Start in one room and work your way through it top to bottom.
Dust surfaces first, then clean glass and mirrors, wipe countertops and appliances, and save the floors for last.
Many pros follow the same pattern for every job: start with the bathroom, move to the kitchen, then tackle bedrooms and common areas.
This method keeps you organized and reduces backtracking. It also helps you build muscle memory, which makes you more efficient over time.
Make Payments Smooth and Stress-Free
Make it easy for clients to pay you by offering multiple options. Many customers prefer digital payments through apps like Venmo, Zelle, or Cash App.
You can also use Square to accept credit cards or send digital invoices via tools like Invoice Generator.
Just be clear about when payment is expected. Some cleaners ask for payment on the day of service; others invoice at the end of the week. Whichever you choose, communicate it clearly to avoid confusion.
Protect Yourself with Insurance and Agreements
You may not need business insurance on day one, but it’s smart to get coverage as soon as you’re booking regular jobs.
General liability insurance can protect you if something breaks or a client claims damages. It usually costs $25–$50 per month for solo cleaners.
Consider having a simple service agreement that outlines what’s included in each cleaning, cancellation policies, and payment terms.
If you’re hiring helpers, look into bonding and workers’ comp insurance. Even if you’re just starting, a little protection now can prevent major stress later.
Turn One-Time Clients Into Regulars
The real money in cleaning comes from repeat clients. Offer weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly plans at a slight discount to encourage regular bookings.
Use Google Calendar or a free CRM app like HubSpot to track appointments and follow-ups.
Want to really stand out? Leave a personal touch behind after every cleaning—a handwritten thank-you note, a small chocolate, or a fresh-smelling sachet.
These tiny gestures help clients remember you and keep your schedule full.
Grow Smart Without Burning Out
As your schedule fills up, you may want to raise your prices or bring on help. Before hiring anyone, create a checklist of your cleaning routine and go over it together. Consistency is key to keeping customers happy.
Use software like Jobber, ZenMaid, or even Google Sheets to manage bookings, payments, and customer notes.
Scaling doesn’t have to mean chaos. Add new services gradually and stay focused on quality over quantity.
Conclusion
Starting a home cleaning business from scratch is 100% doable with a little planning and a lot of heart. You don’t need a huge budget or fancy website—just your supplies, your skills, and a game plan.
If you’ve been wondering how to start a home cleaning business, now you know exactly where to begin. Stay consistent, treat every home like your own, and you’ll be surprised how quickly your side hustle turns into steady income.
How to Start a Home Cleaning Business FAQ
How do I start my own cleaning business from scratch?
Start by choosing your business structure (solo or team), then register your business and open a separate bank account. Gather basic supplies like a vacuum, mop, and cleaning products. Set your service list and pricing, then promote yourself locally through Facebook groups, word-of-mouth, or flyers. Keep it simple and focus on building trust with your first few clients.
Is house cleaning a good business to start?
Yes, house cleaning is a great business to start—especially if you want low startup costs and flexible hours. Demand for cleaning services is steady, and you can start small with just a few regular clients. It’s also easy to scale as you gain experience and referrals.
How much does it cost to start up a cleaning business?
You can start a basic home cleaning business for around $300–$800. This covers essential supplies, business registration, and simple marketing materials like flyers. If you already own a vacuum and some tools, your startup costs could be even lower.
How much should I charge for 5 hours of cleaning?
Rates vary by location, but most cleaners charge $25–$35 per hour. For five hours of work, that’s $125 to $175. If you’re just starting out, stay competitive but don’t undervalue your time—especially if you’re doing deep or detailed cleaning.
