9 Proven Ways To Get Clients For Your Cleaning Business

If there’s one thing I’ve learned in over 30 years of running a cleaning business, it’s that word-of-mouth referrals are gold. Nothing brings in new clients like a personal recommendation from someone they trust.

Building these types of referrals might sound simple, but it requires a few intentional actions to keep clients coming back and raving about you to friends, family, and neighbors. Let’s dive into the steps that helped me grow my client base without spending big on ads or fancy marketing.

1. Deliver Consistent, High-Quality Service

First things first: consistency is key. Your clients need to feel confident that every time they walk into their home after you’ve cleaned, it will meet or exceed their expectations. Aim for a level of service that doesn’t just satisfy but impresses, every single time. When clients know they can rely on you to deliver consistently excellent results, they’ll be more inclined to recommend you.

2. Build Strong Relationships with Your Clients

Word-of-mouth referrals aren’t just about cleaning well; they’re about building trust and connections. Take the time to get to know your clients. A simple chat about their family, pets, or home concerns can go a long way. This approach not only shows that you care but also makes clients feel comfortable with you in their home—a factor that’s crucial for referrals. People are more likely to refer someone they genuinely like and trust.

3. Be Proactive in Addressing Issues

No matter how thorough you are, mistakes happen. When they do, handle them quickly and professionally. If a client points out an issue, don’t get defensive. Instead, listen carefully, apologize if necessary, and fix it as soon as possible. Showing that you take feedback seriously and are committed to making things right will strengthen your client relationships and show clients that their satisfaction is your top priority.

4. Have Clear Policies in Place

One of the biggest factors that helped me run my business smoothly—and gain referrals—was implementing clear, professional policies. Clients appreciate knowing exactly what to expect, from payment terms to cancellation policies. These policies not only help avoid misunderstandings but also make your business appear more trustworthy and reliable.

👉 Pro tip: Clear policies and boundaries are way easier to implement when your pricing is solid and consistent. If you’re still charging by the hour or winging your quotes, that’s a huge red flag for clients — and it’s probably hurting your referrals too.

5. Ask for Referrals—But Do It the Right Way

Many business owners feel uncomfortable asking for referrals, but there’s a right way to go about it. When you’ve completed a job and your client is happy, don’t be afraid to mention that you’re looking to grow your business and would appreciate any referrals they might have. Keep it casual and genuine; people appreciate honesty and are often willing to help out. You could say something like, “I love working with clients like you. If you know anyone else who might need cleaning, I’d be grateful for any referrals.”

6. Reward Referrals with Discounts or Free Services

To encourage your clients to refer you, consider offering a small incentive for each new client they bring in. This could be a discount on their next cleaning or a free add-on service, like an extra room or even a small smount on a gift card. It’s a simple way to say thank you and gives your clients an extra reason to spread the word about your services.

7. Stay Top of Mind with Simple Follow-Ups

Once you finish a job, follow up with your clients a day or two later to make sure they’re satisfied. A quick text or call shows that you’re attentive and value their feedback. Plus, it keeps you top of mind without being intrusive. It’s these little gestures that can turn one-time clients into long-term, loyal clients who naturally refer you.

8. Join Local Groups and Networks

Connecting with your community can lead to organic word-of-mouth referrals. Join local social media groups or community organizations where you can offer tips and advice related to cleaning or simply engage with the group. Remember, this isn’t about direct selling—it’s about building relationships. When people in your community recognize you as a local expert, they’re much more likely to think of you when they or someone they know needs a cleaning service.

9. Be Grateful and Show Appreciation

When clients refer you, make sure they know how much it means to you. A handwritten thank-you note, a quick call, or a small discount on their next service can go a long way in showing appreciation. This extra effort leaves a lasting impression, reinforcing that they made the right choice in referring you and making them more likely to do it again.

Building a referral-based cleaning business may take a little time and effort, but it’s worth it. The clients you attract through referrals tend to be loyal, respectful, and great to work with because they’re already primed with trust and familiarity. By delivering excellent service, nurturing relationships, setting up solid policies, and encouraging referrals, you’ll be well on your way to growing your business with ease and enjoying long-term success.

👉 Ready to tighten up your pricing so it actually supports this kind of referral-worthy business? Grab the Flat-Rate Confidence Guide here — and start quoting like the pro you are.

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For over 30 years, Trisha built and ran her own successful cleaning business, handpicking her schedule and consistently earning $5,000+ a month—all while working part-time as a solo cleaner. Now, she’s here to help you do the same! Whether you’re just starting solo or already have a small team, Trisha’s vast experience can help you grow your business and boost profits without adding more hours. She'll teach you how to avoid common mistakes new cleaning business owners make and run your business profitably from day one. With over three decades of experience, learning from Trisha is the fastest, most reliable way to launch or scale your thriving cleaning business!