Guide to Starting a Successful Cleaning Business: Lessons from Experience

Starting a cleaning business can be a fantastic venture, but like all businesses, it has its challenges.

A few years ago, I started a local cleaning business and had immediate success with it. Although I closed that business after about 2 years to pursue other ventures, I look back on that time with a smile.

Running a cleaning business was a lot of fun. It was great exercise and I got to spend my days listening to audiobooks and podcasts while I worked. The clients were (mostly) great and I enjoyed working in beautiful homes.

The money was good too – you can definitely earn a great living as a house cleaner if you have your own business!

Here are some tips for success I recently shared with a fellow entrepreneur who is just starting a new cleaning biz.

1. The Magic of Social Media

One of the first game-changers for me was harnessing social media. Through Facebook ads, I began reaching a wider audience. However, my real breakthrough came when I teamed up with local influencers. This didn’t just bring in my first handful of clients, but also gifted me with top-tier photos for my marketing campaigns.

2. The Joy of Independence

In my experience, clients treasure their autonomy. I launched a website where they could effortlessly book their slots, no calls or chats required. Making things easier for my clients truly set my business apart.

3. Crafting a Story That Resonated

Instead of just pitching cleaning services, I repositioned it as an act of self-care. By drawing parallels to other self-care routines, like salon visits or dentist appointments, I made it relatable and guilt-free. It’s all about finding a narrative that your customers can connect with.

4. Continuous Learning is Key

Even though I had some experience, there was always something new to learn. I regularly consulted YouTube to discover and master novel cleaning techniques. A checklist became my holy grail, ensuring consistency and thoroughness with each job.

5. Quality Over Quantity

I learned the hard way that cheap tools don’t last. Investing in better, more durable equipment not only improved my workflow but also added a dash of joy to my daily grind.

6. Embracing Feedback

I made it a point to ask clients for their reviews and referrals. These little pushes post-service often led to invaluable feedback and new business leads. It’s a small step but an essential one for growth.

7. Entertainment on the Go

My trusty earbuds became a constant companion. Whether I was diving into an audiobook, jamming to tunes, or taking a quick call, they ensured I was always plugged in.

8. Taking Care of Myself

The physical toll of cleaning often caught me off-guard. To combat this, I indulged in self-care rituals like spa days and yoga. Small comforts, like knee pads, made a world of difference during those long hours.

9. Guarding My Mental Space

Interacting with clients wasn’t always a walk in the park. Whenever I faced a difficult situation, I reminded myself not to take it to heart. Such encounters are often fleeting, and it’s crucial not to let them cloud our perspective.

In wrapping up, my journey through the cleaning business world was filled with ups and downs. But with determination, the right tools, and a resilient mindset, I found both prosperity and personal growth. If you’re on this path or considering it, remember to strike a balance between serving your clients and caring for yourself. It’s the secret to lasting success.