Simplest Guide to Starting a Cleaning Business with No Experience
Starting a cleaning business might sound intimidating, especially if you have zero professional experience — but it’s one of the easiest, most affordable businesses you can launch. You don’t need a degree, fancy tools, or years of expertise. You just need a plan, basic supplies, and the motivation to start small and grow. Here’s exactly how to do it step-by-step.
1. Find Your First Client
Your first client doesn’t have to come from a paid ad or big marketing campaign. Start with people who already know and trust you — friends, family, or neighbors. Offer to clean their homes or offices, even if it’s a one-time job.
- Ask around in your network — family friends, coworkers, church groups.
- Post on local Facebook groups or community boards offering affordable, reliable cleaning services.
- Start small — one job done well can lead to two, then five, then ten through referrals.
Don’t overthink it — most early clients aren’t expecting perfection; they just want someone dependable who shows up and does a solid job.
2. Begin with Basic Supplies
You don’t need to invest hundreds of dollars in equipment. Start with essentials, and upgrade later as your income grows.
- Must-haves: mop, broom, cleaning rags, disinfectant spray, all-purpose cleaner, glass cleaner.
- Let clients use their own vacuum — this saves money and prevents cross-contamination.
- Add specialized tools only when you start getting bigger or commercial jobs.
Buy quality where it counts, but focus on what’s needed for your first few jobs. Reinvest profits as you grow.
3. Create Simple Cleaning Checklists
Professionalism builds trust. Create a short checklist for each cleaning job to stay organized and show clients you’re thorough.
- Example tasks: dusting, wiping mirrors, vacuuming carpets, mopping floors, disinfecting counters.
- Ask clients about their top priorities before each job.
- Leave a handwritten thank-you note or feedback card after the job — small gestures make a big impact.
4. Focus on Retaining Clients
Getting new clients takes effort — keeping existing ones is what creates consistent income. Build long-term relationships by being reliable and communicative.
- Show up on time, every time.
- Respond quickly to messages or rescheduling requests.
- Do small follow-ups after each job to ensure satisfaction.
A loyal client base will become your best form of marketing through word-of-mouth referrals.
5. Overcome the Common Fears
Fear #1: “I Won’t Get Any Clients.”
Every “no” just gets you closer to a “yes.” There’sa huge demand in this industry — people are constantly looking for better cleaning providers.
Fear #2: “I Don’t Know How to Price My Services”
Start somewhere reasonable. Research local cleaning rates, charge modestly at first, and raise your prices as your confidence and experience grow.
Fear #3: “I’m Not an Expert Cleaner Yet”
No one starts out perfect. You’ll learn as you go. Focus on showing up consistently, learning new tricks, and improving over time. Even industry veterans began from zero.
Fear #4: “What If I Get a Difficult Client?”
Not every client will be ideal — and that’s okay. Handle complaints calmly, offer to fix mistakes, and move on if the relationship isn’t a fit.
Final Thoughts
Every cleaning business owner starts the same way — with no experience and a willingness to learn. Start small, do great work, and build from there. Within months, you could have steady clients, repeat income, and full control over your schedule. Take that first step today — you’ll thank yourself later.