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How to Set Up Your Cleaning Business for Success in 3 Steps
Starting a cleaning business can be one of the most rewarding paths to financial independence and flexibility. Yet, as with any business, success comes from laying a strong foundation early on. Here are three crucial steps to help you start your cleaning business in a profitable and sustainable way.
Following these guidelines will not only set you apart from competitors but also help you attract high-quality, loyal clients right from the start.
1. Establish a Strong Foundation with Clear Policies and Agreements
A common mistake new cleaning business owners make is starting without clear policies. Many business owners feel that formal policies might scare clients away, but the opposite is true: well-thought-out policies help clients see you as a professional and trustworthy service provider. Some essential policies to consider include:
Payment Policies – Decide if you’ll require payment upfront, offer online payments, or take cash only. This clarity minimizes misunderstandings.
Cancellation Policies – Cancellations are inevitable, but a cancellation policy helps you avoid last-minute no-shows, which can disrupt your schedule and affect income.
Service Limitations – Define the scope of work (e.g., basic cleaning vs. detailed cleaning). This sets client expectations and prevents unrealistic demands.
Creating a professional image with these policies can help you avoid issues like underpayment, unnecessary demands, or missed payments. When clients understand the terms upfront, they’re more likely to respect your business and see your work’s value, setting the stage for a smooth experience for both sides.
2. Develop an Efficient Pricing and Service Model
Setting the right price is one of the biggest challenges for new cleaning business owners. Underpricing might seem like a way to attract clients, but it often results in a lower-quality client base that’s more focused on price than value. To avoid this, start with a clear pricing structure that reflects the value of your work.
Consider using two service levels: Standard Cleaning and Detailed Cleaning. Offer the Detailed Clean as the first-time service for all clients to ensure the home meets your standards. This approach helps manage expectations, as clients know they’re receiving a thorough clean initially, setting a high standard for future visits.
A pricing model that factors in both the physical cleaning work and the necessary non-cleaning tasks—like travel, client communication, and schedule management—will ensure you earn a fair wage. Remember, setting a solid pricing model now makes it easier to grow in the future without needing frequent adjustments.
3. Focus on Building a Reliable Client Base with Recurring Clients
One of the best ways to achieve steady income is by focusing on recurring clients. While it’s tempting to take any job that comes your way initially, recurring clients give you reliable, predictable income, which is invaluable as you grow. For example, weekly or biweekly clients offer a steady stream of work and income, saving you from having to continually find new clients.
When building your client base, prioritize building relationships over transactional exchanges. Connect with potential clients face-to-face or by phone for an initial conversation. This not only helps you pre-screen them but also shows you’re invested in creating a relationship. Strong client relationships are essential for referrals, which are often more effective than any paid advertising you could use.
As you gain more recurring clients, you’ll be able to work a steady schedule that’s easier to manage. Over time, these clients will likely refer you to others, allowing your business to grow organically.
Final Thoughts
Starting a cleaning business is a fantastic way to take control of your income and schedule. By establishing clear policies, setting up a profitable pricing model, and focusing on recurring clients, you’ll build a strong foundation for a business that’s not only profitable but also rewarding. These strategies will also save you from many common pitfalls, allowing you to focus more on your work and client relationships and less on administrative headaches.
Ready to Start Your Own Profitable Cleaning Business?
If you’re ready to take control of your income, schedule, and success, grab my How to Start a House Cleaning Business Start-Up Guide. This guide is packed with everything you need to start a strong, professional cleaning business, including:
Essential business forms like client agreements, detailed cleaning checklists, a walkthrough sheet, and much more to help you run your business efficiently and professionally.
Bonus! A FREE copy of How to Price Cleaning Jobs for Profit guide is included to give you insights on setting rates that maximize your earnings from the very beginning.
And Much More!
With over 30 years of experience, I’ve designed this guide to help you attract high-paying clients, streamline your business, and build a profitable business. Don’t miss this opportunity to start your journey with the tools you need for success!
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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!
