How to start a cleaning business in the UK: The complete guide

If you're looking to trade the daily grind for something more flexible and financially rewarding, starting your own cleaning business could be exactly the fresh start you're craving.

With a growing number of busy households and businesses across the UK desperate for reliable cleaning help, the opportunity has never been clearer.

But getting started isn't always straightforward. You've probably asked yourself: "How do I start a cleaning business?", "What do I need to get going?", "Can I run this from home?"

On top of that, many budding business owners wrestle with questions like whether they need insurance, how to find their first customers or what licences (if any) are necessary.

This guide will take you through everything – from deciding on your niche to registering with HMRC, setting prices, handling legal basics and getting those all-important first clients.

1. Deciding what type of cleaning business to start

Before you buy a mop or print your first flyer, it's worth taking the time to determine what kind of cleaning business you actually want to run.

The cleaning industry is broad, and the type of business you choose will influence everything from your working hours to your start-up costs – even the type of clients you'll attract.

This section will help you figure out where you fit best, whether you're looking to keep things simple or build something bigger down the line.

Domestic, commercial or specialist?

First, decide whether you want to focus on domestic cleaning, commercial cleaning or a specialist service. Each comes with its own pros, cons and specific requirements.

Domestic cleaning

Domestic cleaning means working in private homes, either as a regular cleaner or providing one-off services like deep cleans or end-of-tenancy work.

It's one of the easiest routes into the industry – and the most popular option if you're looking into how to start a small cleaning business.

Many people choose domestic cleaning because:

• you can start on your own with very little equipment

• clients often supply their own cleaning products

• it offers regular, recurring work if you build a loyal client base

• you can work local jobs close to home

That said, you'll be responsible for earning your clients' trust – so professionalism, reliability and word-of-mouth recommendations really matter.

Commercial cleaning

Commercial cleaning involves cleaning business premises:

• Offices

• Shops

• Schools

• GP surgeries

• Communal areas in apartment buildings

These contracts tend to be more lucrative, but they can also be more complicated to manage. Here are some things to consider with commercial cleaning:

• Clients may expect higher standards and formal contracts.

• Work often takes place early mornings, evenings or weekends.

• You might need extra equipment, such as floor polishers or industrial vacuum cleaners.

• Some jobs require you to meet health and safety regulations or rules around safeguarding.

Commercial cleaning is ideal if you want to grow a team or take on several jobs at once – but it can be harder to break into without experience.

Specialist cleaning

If you want to stand out from the crowd, you might explore a niche area of cleaning (see Choosing your niche below). These can include:

• carpet and upholstery cleaning

• oven or appliance cleaning

• end-of-tenancy cleans

• hoarding or trauma cleaning (requires training and insurance)

• eco-friendly cleaning (using sustainable, non-toxic products)

Specialist services can be more profitable, particularly if there's a clear demand in your area. However, they may require extra training, insurance or specialist equipment – so be prepared to invest a little more to get started.

Starting solo vs hiring a team

Many people start their cleaning business as a one-person operation, as it:

• keeps costs low

• lets you build relationships directly with clients

• gives you full control of how and when you work

If you're looking to understand how to start a small cleaning business with limited resources, this is often the best way to begin.

But if your ambition is to scale quickly – or if you're targeting larger contracts – you may need help.

Hiring staff (either on a freelance or employed basis) can allow you to take on more work and grow faster, but it does add extra responsibilities. That includes things like:

• insurance

• payroll

• training

• managing customer service across a team

A good middle-ground option is to start solo, build up a steady income and then bring in additional cleaners as your client base expands.

Choosing your niche

Even within domestic or commercial cleaning, it helps to have a clear focus. Specialising doesn't mean turning away work – it just helps you market your business more effectively and build a reputation in your chosen area.

Here are a few niches to consider:

• End-of-tenancy cleaning: Often pays well and has high demand in rental-heavy areas.

• Eco-friendly cleaning: Appeals to environmentally conscious clients – especially younger homeowners and businesses.

• Pet-friendly cleaning: Great for households with dogs or cats where hair and odours can be a challenge.

• Post-renovation cleaning: Builders and property developers often outsource final cleaning before handing over properties.

• Holiday lets and Airbnb cleaning: Quick turnaround cleans with a focus on reliability and presentation.

If you're not sure which niche to choose, start by thinking about your skills, preferences and the demand in your local area.

• Do landlords often need end-of-tenancy cleans?

• Are there lots of dog owners in your neighbourhood?

• Is there a shortage of reliable Airbnb cleaners?

You don't need to commit forever – many businesses evolve over time – but having a clear niche from the start can make you more memorable and easier to recommend.

2. Can you start a cleaning business from home?

Yes – and not only is it possible, it's how many successful cleaning businesses begin.

Running your cleaning business from home allows you to control your start-up costs, stay flexible and keep things manageable as you learn the ropes.

If you're wondering how to start a small cleaning business without investing in premises or staff upfront, starting from home is a practical, low-risk approach. Let's break down what's involved.

What do you actually need to get started?

The good news is: very little. Here's what a home-based cleaning business typically looks like in the early days:

• A small space for supplies: A cupboard, garage or under-stairs storage is enough to house cloths, sprays, a vacuum cleaner and other basics.

  If you're offering eco-friendly cleaning, like Mahira Kalim's brand Spruce, consider reusable containers and sustainable storage solutions that match your values.

• Somewhere to handle admin: A table and a laptop will do. You'll need to manage bookings, send invoices and track your income. As you grow, tools like accounting apps (Sage, QuickBooks or FreeAgent, for example) can make this easier.

• A way to get to jobs: If you're working locally, many cleaners use their own car or public transport to reach clients. You don't need a branded van at the start – although it's something you could add later for marketing.

• Phone and email: Use a mobile and set up a dedicated email address for your business – something simple and professional like "hello@yourcleaningname.co.uk". This makes you easier to contact and builds trust.

Do you need permission to run a business from home?

In most cases, no. If you're not seeing customers at your home and you aren't causing disruption to neighbours, you can usually run a home-based business without needing formal approval.

That said, there are a few exceptions to be aware of:

• If you rent your home, check your tenancy agreement. Some landlords don't allow tenants to run businesses from the property, although cleaning businesses are unlikely to be a concern.

• If you live in council or housing association accommodation, it's worth speaking to your housing officer. Many are supportive, especially if you're setting up a low-impact business.

• If you plan to employ other people who'll be working from your home or using it as a base, speak to your local council – just in case.

Why starting from home works so well

While a big part of starting from home is the money you save, there are other benefits, too.

You have the space to build at your own pace, test your pricing, improve your skills and get to know your ideal clients before committing to bigger decisions.

Many cleaning professionals build solid businesses this way. As an example, Lynsey Crombie, the "Queen of Clean", began by sharing tips and videos from her own home – growing an online following that eventually led to books and national TV appearances.

While her business model is different from a typical cleaning service, it's a reminder that a modest start can still lead to remarkable results.

And if you're aiming to offer something more specialised – like eco-cleaning, end-of-tenancy work or services for busy professionals – starting from home gives you full control over how your brand develops.

3. What do you need to start a cleaning business?

One of the main reasons people choose to start a cleaning business is that the entry costs are low. You don't need a degree, a shop-front or a van full of expensive kit to get up and running.

However, there are a few core things you'll want to have in place to give your business the best possible foundation.

This section walks through what you need to launch your business professionally – from tools and supplies to admin essentials and early planning.

Cleaning supplies and equipment

You'll need to carry your own basic tools, especially for domestic or specialist jobs. Most people start with household-standard equipment and upgrade as they grow.

Essentials include:

• microfibre cloths

• sponges and scrubbers

• a good vacuum cleaner (corded or cordless)

• a mop and bucket

• all-purpose cleaner, glass cleaner and disinfectant spray

• protective gloves

• a caddy or crate for carrying products to jobs

You don't have to go industrial right away. However, if you're offering a niche like carpet cleaning, oven cleaning or post-renovation cleans, you may want to invest in professional-grade tools – or hire equipment on a job-by-job basis to start.

If you're taking the eco-friendly route, as Mahira Kalim did with Spruce, you might choose plant-based products, reusable bottles and biodegradable cloths. This can help you appeal to environmentally conscious customers – a growing segment of the market.

Business basics

As well as your cleaning kit, there are a few back-office essentials that help you run your business smoothly and professionally:

• Phone and email: Use a mobile you can easily access during working hours and set up a dedicated business email. This gives a more professional impression – especially if you start marketing online.

• Calendar or booking system: Start with a diary or calendar app to manage appointments. Later, you can explore scheduling tools like Jobber or Google Calendar integrations.

• Invoicing and payments: For simple jobs, handwritten invoices or email templates are fine. As things pick up, apps like SumUp, Square or FreeAgent can help you stay on top of payments and records.

• Transport: Many cleaners work locally and use their own car. If you're working in cities or built-up areas, you might be able to use public transport – especially in the early stages.

Insurance

This is one area in which you shouldn't cut corners.

At a minimum, you should have public liability insurance, which protects you if a client's property is accidentally damaged or someone gets hurt while you're working.

Other policies to consider:

• Employers' liability insurance – needed by law if you hire anyone, even casually

• Personal accident insurance – useful if you're working solo and rely on your income

• Tools and equipment cover – especially if you invest in more expensive kit

There are plenty of small-business insurers that cater to cleaning businesses. Prices are generally affordable and can be paid monthly.

Professional credibility

While not strictly necessary, these extras can help you win trust – particularly if you're just getting started and competing with more established cleaners:

• DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check: Many domestic clients will feel more confident hiring someone who has a clear criminal record check.

• Uniforms or branded clothing: Helps you look professional and makes a good impression.

• Business cards or flyers: Handy for networking or marketing in your local area.

Some cleaning professionals – especially those going after larger contracts – also complete short health and safety or COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health) training courses. It's not essential for domestic work but can be a plus for commercial or specialist services.

Mindset and readiness

While tools and insurance are important, your attitude matters too. Starting a cleaning business takes more than just turning up and scrubbing surfaces. You'll be responsible for customer service, timekeeping, marketing and managing your finances.

That's why many people start small – offering a few hours a week, perhaps to friends or neighbours – and grow from there. It allows you to gain confidence, improve your systems and refine your service without overwhelming yourself.

As Pete Dowds, co-founder of Mopp, found when he scaled a tech-based cleaning service to over 10,000 users – meeting demand is only part of the story.

Delivering quality and building trust is what keeps customers coming back, whether you're a solo cleaner or running a larger operation.

4. Registering your cleaning business in the UK

Once you've decided on your services and gathered your supplies, it's time to make things official. Registering your cleaning business properly means you're complying with UK law, ready to pay the right tax and can operate with confidence.

It might sound like a headache, but the process is simpler than perhaps you expect – especially if you're starting small. Here's how to get set up legally and financially, step by step.

Choose a business name

You can use your own name (for example, "Jane Smith Cleaning Services") or create something brandable and unique. Ideally, pick a name that's:

• simple and easy to spell

• not already in use by another cleaning company

• easy to remember and suitable for a website or social media handle

Tip: Do a quick Google and Companies House search to check that your name isn't taken. You can also search domain names to see if the matching website address is available.

Lynsey Crombie – now known nationally as the "Queen of Clean" – is a good example of how a memorable brand can make a big difference, especially if you're planning to grow your presence online.

Decide on your business structure

In the UK, most new cleaning businesses choose one of the following two structures:

Sole trader

This is the simplest and most popular route for people starting out alone. You keep all the profits and are responsible for your own tax.

If you're wondering how to start a small cleaning business quickly and with little admin, this is your best bet.

Pros:

• Easy to register

• Fewer accounting responsibilities

• Full control over the business

Cons:

• You're personally liable for any debts or legal issues

Limited company

This structure separates you from your business legally, which can offer some protection – and it can make you look more established to clients. However, there's more paperwork involved, and you'll need to file annual accounts.

Pros:

• Limited liability

• Potential tax efficiencies (depending on income)

• May look more professional to bigger clients

Cons:

• More admin and accounting costs

• Information about your business is published publicly

If you're planning to scale – perhaps building a team or targeting commercial contracts – you might decide to form a limited company from the outset, as Pete Dowds did when he co-founded Mopp. But if you're starting small and solo, registering as a sole trader is perfectly fine.

Register with HMRC

If you're operating as a sole trader, you'll need to register for Self Assessment with HMRC so you can declare your earnings and pay income tax and National Insurance.

You can do this online at GOV.UK. It's free and only takes a few minutes.

If you're setting up a limited company, you'll register via Companies House instead, and then set up your corporation tax registration with HMRC.

It's also worth noting:

• if your turnover exceeds £90,000 a year, you'll need to register for VAT

• even if you're below the threshold, you can choose to register voluntarily – this makes sense if you deal with VAT-registered clients or spend a lot on equipment

Open a business bank account

If you're a sole trader, you're not legally required to open a separate bank account – but it's strongly recommended.

Keeping your business income and expenses separate from your personal finances makes life easier come tax time.

For limited companies, a business account is essential. Many online banks (including Starling, Monzo and Tide) now offer free or low-cost business accounts, as do the traditional high-street banks.

Set yourself up for success

At this stage, you don't need an accountant – but it's worth keeping good records from day one. Use a basic spreadsheet or try out free accounting software. This helps you:

• track income and expenses

• prepare for tax returns

• understand your cash flow

As your business grows, hiring an accountant or bookkeeper can help free up your time and make sure you're obeying the law.

By getting your business properly registered from the beginning, you avoid future hassle and create a more trustworthy impression with clients.

It's a simple but important part of turning your idea into a real, sustainable business – whether you're aiming to stay small or build something bigger in time.

5. Setting your pricing and services

Knowing what to charge – and exactly what you're offering for that price – is one of the trickiest parts of starting a cleaning business.

Price too low and you'll struggle to earn a living. Price too high without the right offer and you may struggle to win clients.

This section will help you understand how to structure your services clearly and confidently, and how to set prices that reflect your time, effort and professionalism.

Start by understanding your costs

Before setting any prices, take stock of your basic outgoings. These might include:

• cleaning supplies and equipment

• insurance

• travel (fuel or public transport)

• marketing (flyers, website, social media ads)

• admin tools (booking apps, invoicing software)

Even if you're working from home and keeping things lean, you'll still need to make sure your pricing covers your overheads – and allows for profit.

Choose how you'll charge

There are two common ways cleaning businesses price their services:

1. Hourly rate

This is the simplest option, especially for regular domestic cleaning. You charge a flat rate per hour, and the client books a number of hours each week or fortnight.

Hourly rates vary by location but typically range from £12 to £25+ per hour. In London or major cities, you might charge more due to higher demand and cost of living.

2. Fixed-price jobs

For one-off or specialist work – like deep cleans, end-of-tenancy cleans or carpet cleaning – it often makes more sense to charge per job.

These rates depend on factors like property size, condition and whether equipment or products are included.

For example:

• a standard end-of-tenancy clean for a 2-bedroom flat might range from £120 to £180

• oven cleaning could be £45 to £70, depending on the type of appliance

If you're offering a niche like eco-friendly or post-renovation cleaning, clients may expect to pay a little more for the added value or complexity.

Case in point: Mahira Kalim, founder of Spruce, positioned her eco-cleaning products at a premium price point – but customers were happy to pay for ethical and sustainable credentials. If you build a brand around quality or values, you can often reflect that in your pricing.

Define your services clearly

Clients want to know exactly what they're paying for. Even if you're starting small, take time to outline your standard cleaning packages and what's included.

Example service tiers for domestic cleaning:

• Standard clean – for example, dusting, hoovering, bathroom wipe-down, kitchen surfaces

• Deep clean – for example, inside cabinets, skirting boards, limescale removal

• Add-ons – oven, fridge, windows, ironing

Make it clear whether:

• you provide the cleaning products (if so, are they eco/standard?)

• there's a minimum number of hours per booking

• clients can cancel or reschedule (and with how much notice)

The more transparent you are, the fewer surprises – and the more trust you build.

Should you offer discounts or packages?

When you're just starting out, introductory offers can help get your first few clients through the door. For example:

• 10% off the first clean

• book four cleans, get the fifth free

• referral bonuses for existing clients

But be careful not to rely too heavily on discounts – you want to attract people who value your work, not just bargain-hunters.

Focus on delivering a great service, and you'll find word-of-mouth becomes your most powerful (and free) marketing tool.

In fact, Lynsey Crombie – the "Queen of Clean" – built her brand on trust, consistency and helpful advice rather than gimmicky promotions. While her business is more content-focused, the principle holds true: reputation is everything in this industry.

Adjust as you grow

Don't feel locked into your initial rates. As you gain experience, invest in training or equipment, or build a loyal client base, you can review your pricing.

Just be sure to communicate any changes clearly and professionally – ideally with some notice and a reminder of the value you bring.

6. Understanding your legal requirements

Starting a cleaning business in the UK doesn't involve mountains of red tape – but there are a few important legal and insurance considerations to get right from the beginning.

Taking care of these early on protects both you and your clients, and helps you present your business as professional and trustworthy.

Whether you're a solo domestic cleaner or planning to take on commercial contracts, here's what you need to know.

Do you need a licence to run a cleaning business?

In most cases, no. However, there are a few exceptions and considerations depending on the type of work you do:

• Cleaning public spaces or commercial buildings: You may need to comply with additional health and safety regulations or risk assessments, particularly when working around staff or customers.

• Using specialist chemicals: If you use certain industrial-strength or hazardous products, you may need training in COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health).

• Handling waste or biohazards: If you plan to offer trauma cleaning, medical clean-up or sharps disposal, you'll need licences and specialist training.

For standard domestic and light commercial cleaning, though, you won't need formal licences – just good working practices and insurance.

What insurance do you need?

Even if you're working on your own, insurance is essential. Accidents happen – and without the right cover, you could be left personally responsible for any damage or injury.

Here are the main types of cover to consider:

Public liability insurance (essential)

This protects you if you accidentally damage a client's property or someone is injured as a result of your work. It's usually the first policy any cleaning business buys, and clients may ask to see proof before hiring you.

Example: You're cleaning a client's home and knock over an expensive lamp, or someone trips over your vacuum cord. Public liability insurance covers the cost of repair or injury claims.

Employers' liability insurance (needed by law if you hire anyone)

If you employ staff – even part-time or casually – this cover is a legal requirement in the UK. It protects you if an employee becomes ill or injured as a result of their work.

Tools and equipment insurance

If you've invested in professional tools or machines, this cover can help you recover costs if they're stolen or damaged.

Personal accident insurance

For solo business owners, this cover offers some financial protection if you can't work due to injury.

You can buy stand-alone policies or look for cleaning business packages from insurers that cater specifically to self-employed professionals and tradespeople.

Health and safety responsibilities

Even if you're the only person in the business, you still have a duty to work safely and reduce risk – both to yourself and your clients.

Here are some simple practices to follow:

• Store and label all chemicals properly.

• Never mix cleaning products (especially bleach and ammonia).

• Use gloves and ventilate rooms when working with sprays.

• Check that equipment is safe and working correctly.

• Be mindful of trip hazards – cables, buckets, wet floors.

If you're working with commercial clients, they may ask you to provide a risk assessment or proof that you follow safe working practices.

There are free templates online you can use for this, or you can take a basic health and safety awareness course.

In larger businesses, like Pete Dowds' Mopp, this kind of professional assurance was key to winning client trust at scale. Even for small operators, showing that you take safety seriously can set you apart from casual competitors.

Client agreements and terms of service

While not a legal requirement, having clear terms of service protects you from misunderstandings. These don't need to be overly formal – just a simple document or email that outlines:

• what's included in your cleaning service (and what isn't)

• your rates and how/when you expect clients to pay

• your policy for cancelling or rescheduling an appointment

• how clients should report issues (and how you handle them)

Some cleaners also ask clients to sign a service agreement before starting regular work. It's a good idea if you're offering longer-term or higher-value contracts.

Data protection

Even if you're only storing names, addresses and phone numbers, the law says you must protect that information under the UK's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).

Keep client details secure, don't share them and avoid storing personal info on unsecured devices or notepads that you could easily lose. If you send marketing emails or texts, always get permission first.

7. Marketing your cleaning business

Even if you're the best cleaner in town, you won't get far if no-one knows you exist. Don't see marketing as slick ads or expensive campaigns.

Instead, think of it as getting your services in front of the right people in your area and showing them why they should choose you.

This section breaks down how to build a steady stream of customers using both online and offline methods, all tailored to suit a small or home-based cleaning business.

Build a brand that people trust

Your "brand" is more than just a logo. It's how people perceive your business. That includes your name, your tone of voice, your appearance and even how quickly you respond to messages.

Start by thinking about how you want people to describe you:

• Friendly and reliable?

• Thorough and professional?

• Eco-conscious and ethical?

The clearer your identity, the easier it is for customers to remember – and recommend – you.

Take Lynsey Crombie, the "Queen of Clean". Her brand is built around helpfulness, consistency and cleaning know-how.

While your business might not revolve around social media, adopting a clear, recognisable style (whether it's a logo, a uniform or even a tone of voice) helps people feel confident in hiring you.

Get found online

Even if you're running a local, in-person service, most people will still search for cleaners online. Being visible in those searches is key.

Here's where to start:

1. Google Business Profile

This is free and incredibly valuable. Set up your profile with:

• your business name

• your location (even if you don't list your home address)

• the services you offer

• your opening hours or availability

• photos of your work

• client reviews

This helps you appear in local search results like "cleaners near me" – and those reviews go a long way in building trust.

2. Simple website

You don't need anything fancy. A one-page site with your services, contact info, prices and a few testimonials is enough. Tools like Wix, Squarespace or Carrd make it easy to set up without needing to code.

3. Social media

Local Facebook groups and Instagram are great for showcasing your work. Share before-and-after photos (with permission), tips and customer shoutouts. Instagram in particular is powerful for building visual trust.

Just look at how Spruce (founded by Mahira Kalim) uses its Instagram feed – clean, on-brand visuals, thoughtful captions and a clear message about sustainability. That kind of consistency, even on a small scale, can make a big impact.

Offline marketing still works

Not everything has to happen online – especially if you're serving a tight local area.

Flyers and postcards

Distribute them in your neighbourhood, pin them to noticeboards in cafés, shops or community centres or include them in local welcome packs if your area has one.

Word of mouth

This is your most powerful tool. Tell friends, family and neighbours that you're available for work. Ask happy customers to recommend you to other people. You could even offer a small discount or free add-on service for referrals.

Local networking

Attend local business meet-ups or join networking platforms. You may connect with landlords, letting agents or small businesses that need regular cleaning.

Partnering with other services

Cleaners often work in tandem with estate agents, removals companies or tradespeople. A good working relationship with another local service provider can lead to regular, referred work – particularly for specialist cleaning like end-of-tenancy jobs.

Collect and showcase reviews

Social proof is everything when someone's choosing a cleaner. Ask satisfied clients to leave a review on Google, Facebook or your website. If they're not sure what to say, you can prompt them with a quick message like:

"Thanks so much for the lovely feedback! If you're happy with the service, I'd really appreciate a quick review on Google to help others find me."

Over time, these build a picture of your reputation – and people are far more likely to hire a cleaner with five to 10 glowing reviews than someone with none.

Keep it consistent, not complicated

Marketing doesn't need to be overwhelming. Focus on doing a few things well:

• Be easy to find online.

• Communicate clearly and professionally.

• Deliver a great service every time.

• Ask for (and share) reviews.

• Let people know you're available.

When Pete Dowds launched Mopp, his growth came from making it easy to book cleaning services online. While you may not be building a platform like Mopp, the takeaway is the same: make it easy for people to find you, trust you and book you.

8. Finding and keeping customers

Getting your first few customers can feel like the biggest hurdle – and in truth, it often is. But once you've completed a handful of successful jobs, the process becomes much easier.

Cleaning is a trust-based service: if you show up on time, do what you say, and do it well, word spreads.

This section will help you build up your initial client base, earn trust quickly and retain the kind of customers who bring in consistent income and recommend you to others.

Start close to home

Most cleaning businesses begin with a few local clients – and that's often all you need to get going.

Here are some proven ways to land your first jobs:

• Ask friends and family if they need help – or if they know someone who does. Don't be shy about putting the word out on WhatsApp or Facebook.

• Post in local Facebook groups, community forums or apps like Nextdoor. Be sure to follow group rules and keep your post simple, friendly and clear about what you offer.

• Leaflets and flyers still work, especially in areas with a lot of residential housing or student lets. Include your services, contact details and a short testimonial or introductory offer if you have one.

• Join local directories like Yell, Bark or Checkatrade. These can generate leads, although some may charge for access – so review carefully and track where your enquiries are coming from.

Many successful businesses, including those like Mopp, found early traction by making it easy to find and book local cleaners.

While you don't need a tech platform, you do need to be findable, responsive, and clear about your availability.

Offer a memorable first impression

Once someone does enquire, how you respond can make all the difference. People are often hiring a cleaner for the first time and may feel nervous about letting someone into their home or workspace.

Things that build trust early on:

• Respond promptly and politely.

• Be clear about your prices, availability and what's included.

• Offer a DBS check or references if you have them.

• Turn up on time to the first job, with the right tools and a professional appearance.

Even a small detail – like using branded T-shirts or a simple welcome email – can help reassure clients and make them feel they've made the right choice.

Turn one-off jobs into regular bookings

Not every client will need you every week – but many will if you make it easy and appealing. Here's how to encourage repeat work:

• Offer a small discount for weekly or fortnightly bookings.

• Follow up after a one-off clean with a message like: "Thanks again for booking – I'd be happy to keep things looking great with a regular clean. Let me know if you'd like to set something up."

• Send reminders for future services – for example, oven cleaning every six months or a spring deep clean.

You don't need a complicated CRM or email system to do this. Just a spreadsheet and calendar reminders can help you keep in touch and follow up with clients at the right time.

Encourage referrals

Word of mouth is the most powerful and cost-effective way to grow a cleaning business – especially in close-knit communities. Most people would rather hire someone a neighbour or friend has recommended than search online.

Some ways to boost referrals:

• Offer an incentive – something like "Recommend a friend and get 20% off your next clean".

• Print simple referral cards to leave behind after a job.

• Include a thank-you note after a job, reminding customers that you appreciate referrals.

This worked for Lynsey Crombie too, who built her brand initially through small, relatable content that encouraged sharing. Even if you're not building a social media audience, the principle of being shareable still applies.

Deliver consistency

Getting clients is one thing. Keeping them is what builds long-term income.

You don't need to go above and beyond every time – but you do need to be consistent. That means:

• showing up on time

• doing what was agreed, to a high standard

• respecting people's homes or workplaces

• communicating clearly if there's a delay, an issue or a need to reschedule

If something goes wrong – and it will, occasionally – how you handle it matters more than the mistake itself. A polite apology, quick resolution or goodwill gesture (like a free fridge clean) can turn a mistake into loyalty.

Grow at your own pace

Once you've built up a core group of loyal customers, you can choose to:

• keep things small and manageable, focusing on work that fits your schedule and income needs

• add team members, invest in better equipment or take on new types of clients (like commercial or end-of-tenancy work)

• expand into a niche – for example, eco-cleaning, as Spruce has done, or Airbnb cleans in a high-turnover area

The right direction depends on your goals, capacity and lifestyle. But the key to growth is always the same: happy customers, steady demand and a strong reputation.

9. Growing your cleaning business

Once you've got your first few clients and systems in place, it's natural to start thinking about how to grow. That might mean increasing your income, expanding your services or eventually stepping back from hands-on cleaning altogether.

Growth doesn't need to be dramatic or overnight. In fact, many successful cleaning business owners grow gradually – taking on more work when they're ready and building a team at their own pace. The key is to grow with purpose, not pressure.

When to consider expanding

Here are some common signs you might be ready to grow:

• You're fully booked and turning away work

• You're doing more admin than actual cleaning

• Customers are asking for services you don't yet offer

• You want to reduce the physical workload without losing income

Growth could mean increasing your prices, adding team members, offering new services – or all three. It's up to you to decide what fits your lifestyle and business goals.

Hiring help

The most obvious way to grow is to bring in other people to help with the workload. You have a few options:

• Subcontracted cleaners (self-employed, paid per job)

• Casual workers (often hourly, part-time)

• Employed staff (on payroll, with full rights)

Hiring subcontractors is often the easiest route for a small business – you stay in control, while others carry out some of the work under your brand. Just make sure they're reliable, are insured and understand your standards.

As soon as you hire anyone (even casually), you'll need employers' liability insurance (see Understanding your legal requirements above), and you'll be responsible for following basic employment laws. Many business insurance providers offer starter packages that include this.

It's what helped companies like Mopp scale quickly – standardising their services while maintaining quality across a growing network.

You don't need to copy their model, but you can learn from the idea of building strong systems before bringing others on board.

Put systems in place for your operations

Good systems save you time, reduce mistakes and make it easier to delegate. Start small:

• Use calendar apps or job management tools to schedule appointments.

• Set up templates for quotes, invoices and customer messages.

• Keep a list of supplies so it's easy to restock.

• Track income and expenses (free apps like Wave, or simple spreadsheets, are a good start).

Once your business grows, you might look into specialist software for cleaning businesses, like Jobber or ServiceM8. These tools can help manage bookings, payments and team schedules all in one place.

Improve your brand and materials

As your customer base grows, so should your brand identity. This doesn't mean a full rebrand – just consistent, professional touchpoints that make your business feel more established.

Consider investing in:

• branded uniforms or T-shirts

• a basic logo and visual style

• business cards or vehicle signage

• a more polished website with testimonials and photos

It's how companies like Spruce carved out a distinct space – offering eco cleaning products in stylish, recognisable packaging.

Whether you're selling services or products, the principle's the same: people trust businesses that look consistent and credible.

Add new services

Expanding your offer can help you earn more per client – without needing to find more customers. Here are some ideas:

• Deep cleaning packages (for example, spring clean, move-in/move-out cleans)

• Specialist services (for example, carpet, oven or upholstery cleaning)

• Laundry or ironing add-ons

• Eco-cleaning options with natural products

• Airbnb or holiday let turnovers with linen changes and restocking

Not every add-on has to be permanent – you can test them seasonally or run them as limited offers to see what clients respond to.

Think about your long-term goals

What does "success" look like for you?

• Do you want a small, stable income and flexible hours?

• A team of cleaners and a regular commercial contract?

• A brand you can eventually sell?

Clarifying your end goal can help you make better decisions about what kind of growth makes sense.

Some business owners, like Pete Dowds with Mopp, had ambitions to scale fast and sell. Others – like solo cleaners building around family life – grow at a more gradual pace, eventually bringing in support to reduce their workload. There's no right answer.

Keep delivering excellent service

No matter how big your business gets, quality is what keeps customers coming back. As you grow, make sure your standards don't slip.

Check in regularly with clients, keep communication open and train any team members to match your approach.

It's the combination of good systems and a personal touch that turns a local cleaning service into a business people trust – and recommend.

10. Last words

Starting a cleaning business is one of the most achievable routes into self-employment. With relatively low start-up costs, flexible hours and demand in nearly every town and city across the UK, it's a practical and empowering way to take control of your work life.

But as you've seen throughout this guide, success doesn't come from cleaning alone. It comes from getting the basics right – registering properly, setting fair prices, marketing consistently and building strong relationships with your clients.

These are the foundations of any reliable, professional cleaning business, whether you're going solo or planning to grow a team.

If you're wondering where to begin, here's a quick recap of your first few steps:

1. Decide what kind of cleaning business you want to run – domestic, commercial or specialist? Solo or with a team?

2. Start small and smart – work from home, keep costs low, focus on building trust.

3. Get insured and register with HMRC – it's quicker and easier than most people expect.

4. Set clear pricing and services – know what you offer and how much it's worth.

5. Start local marketing – build your online presence and spread the word in your community.

6. Deliver great service consistently – reliability and professionalism will set you apart.

It's also worth remembering that every cleaning business owner starts somewhere.

• Lynsey Crombie began by sharing home cleaning tips and built a nationwide brand.

• Pete Dowds launched Mopp as a simple idea and sold it to an international company within 18 months.

• Mahira Kalim turned an idea for eco cleaning products into a stocked brand in major retailers.

Whether you want to stay local or think bigger, there's room to shape your business around your values and goals.

Most importantly, don't wait until everything is perfect to begin. Your first few jobs might feel nerve-wracking. You'll learn on the go. You'll make mistakes. But with each clean, each happy client, and each repeat booking, you'll gain confidence – and momentum.

So if you're still asking yourself "How do I start a cleaning business?", the answer is: start here, start now and keep going.

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