Starting a cleaning business is a fantastic way to create a flexible, profitable career without needing a big upfront investment. With the right approach, you can start making money quickly and build a business that works around your lifestyle. Whether you want to work just a few hours a day and earn more than a full-time income (like I did!) or eventually expand and hire a team, the opportunities are limitless.

You can even keep your 9-to-5 job while you build your client base, giving you the security of steady income as you grow.

Ready to start your own cleaning business? Get a head start with my free Cleaning Business Start-up Checklist—download it below to make sure you’re covering all the essential steps!

One of the best parts about owning a cleaning business is the freedom it offers. You’re in control—you set your hours, choose your clients, and decide how much work you take on. Imagine having the flexibility to be there for your kids or spend more time doing the things you love, while still making a great living. It’s all possible when you set your business up for success from the start.

You don’t need any prior experience, but you do need a willingness to learn and work hard. Many people think all they need to start is some cleaning supplies, business cards, and flyers, but there’s a lot more to it if you want to avoid frustration and create a business that thrives.

Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

1. Determination and Willingness to Learn – Success in the cleaning business takes effort and dedication. There will be challenges and mistakes along the way, but those setbacks are part of the learning process. The key is to stay committed, keep pushing forward, and use every experience as an opportunity to improve and refine your skills. With determination and a mindset focused on growth, you'll be able to overcome obstacles and build a business that thrives.

2. Legal Setup – Make sure your business is set up properly by registering it, getting the necessary permits and licenses, and opening a business bank account. Don’t forget to get business insurance to protect yourself. You can check with your local Small Business Development Center (SBDC) or SCORE chapter for more info, or visit the IRS website for guidelines.

3. Defining Your Niche – Choose a specific cleaning service to focus on, whether it’s residential, commercial, post-construction, or something specialized like window or carpet cleaning. Narrowing your focus helps you stand out in the market.

4. Market Research – Research your local competitors to understand what services they offer, what they charge, and where you can provide better value. This will help you carve out your own space in the industry.

5. Marketing Strategy – Build an online presence using social media, local business listings, and Facebook Business Page. This helps you reach potential clients without spending money on advertising.

6. Branding – Develop a strong, professional brand with a consistent logo and messaging. A memorable brand can help you stand out and build trust with clients.

7. Competitive Pricing – Set your prices based on what’s fair for your local market, but make sure you’re charging enough to stay profitable. Don’t sell yourself short—your services are valuable! Undercharging is one of the biggest mistakes new and sometime even experienced cleaning business owners make. Remember to base your price on the Results and Value you provide.

8. Customer Service – Prioritize excellent communication and professionalism to build lasting client relationships. Happy clients will refer you to others and keep coming back. One of the most important aspects of providing good customer service is having clearly defined Policies. Polices help to not only look professional but set boundries and client expectations. You can get a Free Copy of my Policies here

9. Quality Control – Whether you’re working solo or with a team, ensure that the quality of your work is always top-notch. Consistency is key to keeping clients satisfied.

10. Referral Program – Offer incentives like discounts or bonus services for clients who refer new customers. Word-of-mouth referrals are one of the best ways to grow your business.

11. Reviews and Testimonials – Ask satisfied clients for feedback and proudly display those reviews on your Facebook Business Page and marketing materials. They’re a great way to build trust with potential clients.

Starting your own cleaning business can truly be life-changing—it’s a way to take control of your time, choose your schedule, and build a business that works for you. You get to be your own boss, set your own hours, and create financial stability that benefits not only you but your entire family.

Whether you want to work part-time and still bring in a full-time income or eventually expand and grow a team, the flexibility and income potential are huge.

Imagine the freedom to prioritize what matters most in your life. Want to be more present for your kids? No problem. Need to carve out time for hobbies or personal growth? Owning a cleaning business lets you balance your work and personal life like never before.

And the best part? The demand for reliable, trustworthy cleaning services is constantly growing, so there’s no better time to get started.

Don’t wait for the “perfect” moment—because there’s no such thing! The only thing standing between you and your new business is taking that first step.

If you’re ready to get started, be sure to check out my How To Start A House Cleaning Business Start-Up Guide. It’s packed with everything you need to set up your cleaning business for success, including the must-have forms, policies, and strategies that helped me grow my business and earn more while working less.

Get started today and take the first step toward the flexible, rewarding career you’ve been dreaming of!

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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!