How to Start a Cleaning Business 2025: The Proven Global Guide

Wondering how to start a cleaning business? You are entering a global industry with steady demand and low startup barriers.

This guide is for anyone looking to launch a cleaning service from home, online, or as a full-scale operation.

We will walk you through the steps to start a cleaning business, covering licenses, tools, startup costs, profitability, and more.

See also: Proven steps to start a successful business.

Key Takeaway

1. Choose a specific cleaning niche that matches your budget, skills, and local demand.
2. Register your business, get the right licenses, and invest in basic tools to start professionally.
3. Use low-cost marketing channels like WhatsApp, Google Business, and referrals to find clients.
4. Start lean, deliver quality consistently, and reinvest profits to grow your cleaning service.

How to Start a Cleaning Business (Anywhere in the World)

Understanding the exact steps to start a cleaning business helps you avoid costly mistakes and move with clarity. These steps apply whether you are launching a cleaning service from home, online, or on a larger commercial scale.

Step 1: Choose a Niche and Define Your Services

The first step to starting a cleaning business is deciding what kind of cleaning service you want to offer. This decision will affect your equipment, pricing, marketing, and even licensing.

Questions to ask:

• Will you focus on homes, offices, or post-construction sites?
• Are there gaps in your local market (e.g. eco-cleaning, Airbnb services)?
• Do you want to run the business full-time or as a side hustle?

Create a clear list of the services you will offer. Keep your service menu simple at the start and add more as your client base grows.

Step 2: Conduct Market Research

Market research helps you understand your competition, pricing benchmarks, and target audience.

What to research:

• What cleaning services are in high demand in your area or online?
• Who are your competitors, and what do they charge?
• Are there underserved locations or niches?

How to research:

• Use Google Maps, Facebook groups, and local business directories
• Study competitor websites and social media pages
• Ask friends, property managers, or business owners what they need

Add findings to your business plan. Solid market research gives your cleaning service a competitive edge from day one.

Step 3: Create a Business Plan

A well-thought-out business plan will keep you focused and help you secure funding if needed. It also forces you to think strategically about your pricing, growth, and operations.

Your cleaning business plan should include:

• Executive summary
• Market analysis
• Services and pricing
• Startup and operational costs
• Revenue projections
• Marketing strategy
• Team structure and roles
• Growth plan

You can save time with our ready-to-use Comprehensive Business Plan Template, designed for forward-thinking entrepreneurs.

Step 4: Choose a Legal Structure and Register the Business

Registering your business protects your name, gives you legal recognition, and allows you to open a business bank account.

Common legal structures globally:

• Nigeria: Sole Proprietorship, Business Name, or Limited Liability via the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC)
• USA: Sole Proprietor, LLC, S Corp
• UK: Sole Trader or Limited Company via Companies House
• South Africa: Sole Proprietor or Pty (Ltd)

Other registration tasks:

• Tax Identification Number (TIN) or EIN
• Business bank account
• Local or municipal operating permits
• Liability insurance and bonding (especially for commercial cleaning)

Tip: If you need guidance with CAC registration or choosing the right business structure in Nigeria, our Ask an Expert service can walk you through the process.

Step 5: Get the Required Licenses and Insurance

Licensing and insurance are essential for trust, legal compliance, and protecting your business from lawsuits or damages.

Licenses and permits may include:

• Business operation permit (local council or state)
• Health and safety clearance for industrial cleaning
• Pest control permits (if offering fumigation services)
• Vehicle registration for branded work vans

Insurance types to consider:

• General liability insurance
• Workers’ compensation (if hiring staff)
• Equipment insurance
• Bonding (for trust when working in client homes)

Always check local laws. In many countries, a cleaning business without the right documents cannot bid for commercial contracts.

Step 6: Calculate Your Startup and Operating Costs

Before you launch, you need a clear picture of how much money you will need to start and keep the business running.

Typical startup costs:

• Equipment and cleaning supplies
• Licenses and insurance
• Uniforms and branding
• Transportation (vehicle, fuel)
• Website and marketing materials
• Staff wages (if hiring)

Here is a simple breakdown for different startup levels:

Business Level	Estimated Startup Cost	Monthly Operating Cost
Home-based solo cleaner	₦200K – ₦500K	₦50K – ₦100K
Small team operation	₦700K – ₦1.5M	₦150K – ₦300K
Franchise model	₦10M+ or $20,000+	Varies based on size

Step 7: Buy the Right Cleaning Equipment and Supplies

Your tools will depend on the services you offer. Start small and buy quality tools that last.

Essentials include:

• Mops, brushes, buckets
• Vacuum cleaner or industrial sweeper
• Microfibre cloths
• Disinfectants and cleaning chemicals
• Gloves, aprons, boots
• Storage containers

Specialised tools for niche services:

• Carpet extractor
• Steam cleaner
• Window cleaning poles
• Scrubber-dryers for large commercial spaces

You can source these locally or online. Sites like Jumia, GZ Supplies (Nigeria), Amazon, or even local janitorial distributors offer a good range.

Step 8: Build Your Brand and Set Up Marketing

Branding creates trust and sets you apart. Your brand includes your name, logo, colours, uniforms, and tone of voice.

Marketing channels to consider:

• Word of mouth and referrals
• Google Business Profile (for local SEO)
• Flyers, car branding, and uniforms
• Social media (especially Instagram, Facebook, WhatsApp)
• Cleaning before-and-after photo content

Marketing tip: To reach a targeted audience of business owners and property managers, consider placing your service in front of thousands through our Entrepreneurs.ng advertising packages.

Step 9: Launch Your Cleaning Service

Once your business is registered, your pricing is clear, and your tools are in place, you are ready to launch. Start with family, friends, or neighbours. Offer discounted first-time rates in exchange for reviews or referrals.

Track every job, learn from client feedback, and improve your systems. Whether you are working solo or managing a team, focus on building a reputation for professionalism and reliability.

Step 10: Automate and Scale Your Cleaning Business

Once you gain traction, look for ways to grow. You can expand by hiring staff, investing in better equipment, or targeting new market segments.

Ways to scale:

• Offer monthly contracts for offices
• Upsell add-on services (e.g. laundry, pest control)
• Use tools like Jobber, Calendly, or SweepSouth for scheduling
• Build systems for quoting, invoicing, and follow-up
• Train your staff using simple checklists and quality assurance steps

If you want a proven strategy to scale profitably, the Entrepreneurs Success Blueprint is designed to help entrepreneurs move from survival to structure, and from structure to scale.

Why Starting a Cleaning Business Is a Smart Move

The cleaning business is one of the most accessible ways to enter entrepreneurship with low capital, flexible options, and consistent global demand.

Whether you plan to offer a home-based cleaning service or target corporate clients, the market is wide open.

A Growing Industry With Global Reach

The cleaning service industry continues to grow across continents. In the United States alone, the cleaning services market is expected to reach over 88 billion US dollars in the next few years, according to IBISWorld.

In Nigeria, urbanisation and increased outsourcing by homes and offices are driving demand for both residential and commercial cleaning. Similar patterns are emerging in South Africa, the UK, Canada, and across the Gulf region.

Recurring Revenue From Repeat Clients

Unlike many other service businesses, cleaning is not a one-time service. Most clients, especially in commercial or residential deep cleaning, sign up for weekly or monthly contracts. This recurring revenue model gives you predictable income and long-term relationships.

Low Cost To Start, Easy To Scale

You can start a cleaning business with basic supplies and expand gradually. From a solo operation, you can grow into a full team, add specialised services like post-construction cleaning, or even franchise your model.

Here’s a basic comparison of startup costs by business size:

Business Type	Estimated Startup Cost	Description
Home-based solo cleaning	₦200,000 – ₦500,000	Basic tools, local marketing
Small commercial cleaner	₦700,000 – ₦1,500,000	Equipment, transport, permits
Franchise operation (global)	₦10M+ or $20,000+	Brand, training, system, territory licence

Room for Specialisation

Cleaning businesses can branch into profitable niches such as eco-friendly cleaning, medical facility sanitation, industrial equipment cleaning, or short-let (Airbnb) maintenance.

These specialisations allow for higher pricing and targeted marketing.

Types of Cleaning Businesses You Can Start

When researching how to start a cleaning business, one of the most important decisions is choosing the type of cleaning service you want to offer.

Your choice should depend on your budget, location, target market, and the level of involvement you are comfortable with.

Below are the most common types of cleaning businesses you can start, each with its own operational style, cost, and income potential.

Residential Cleaning

This involves cleaning private homes, apartments, or short-term rentals like Airbnb properties. It is ideal for entrepreneurs starting from home or with limited capital.

Examples of services:

• Weekly or biweekly home cleaning
• Deep cleaning (kitchens, bathrooms, floors)
• Move-in/move-out cleaning
• Airbnb turnover service

Who it suits:
Solo cleaners or small teams; flexible hours; local client base

Commercial Cleaning

Commercial cleaning focuses on office spaces, warehouses, schools, banks, and government buildings. It requires more equipment and staff but offers higher earnings through contracts.

Examples of services:

• Office janitorial services
• After-hours cleaning
• Cleaning of high-traffic areas (lobbies, lifts)
• Retail outlet sanitation

Who it suits:
Entrepreneurs with team management skills; suited for scaling and recurring revenue

Specialised Cleaning

This niche attracts premium rates and requires specific tools or training. It is ideal for those looking to stand out in the cleaning service market.

Popular niches include:

• Post-construction cleaning
• Medical facility cleaning
• Industrial equipment sanitation
• Carpet and upholstery cleaning
• Pest control and fumigation (regulated in many countries)

Eco-Friendly or Green Cleaning

This model focuses on using non-toxic, biodegradable products. It appeals to environmentally conscious clients and is gaining popularity in urban centres.

Who it suits:
Entrepreneurs who want to build a brand around sustainability

Important considerations:
Source green-certified products, highlight eco-value in your marketing

Online or Drop-Service Cleaning Business

This is a low-overhead model where you operate the business online and subcontract jobs to local cleaners. You handle marketing, booking, and customer service, while the cleaner does the work.

Best for:
Entrepreneurs with marketing skills, digital tools, or who want to manage remotely

Comparison Table: Types of Cleaning Businesses

Type of Cleaning Business	Startup Cost Range	Revenue Potential	Key Tools Needed	Ideal for
Residential Cleaning	Low (₦200K – ₦500K)	Moderate with scale	Basic tools, transport	Solo entrepreneurs
Commercial Cleaning	Medium (₦700K – ₦1.5M)	High (contract-based)	Staff, industrial vacuums	Team operations
Specialised Cleaning	High (₦1M – ₦3M)	Very High (premium rates)	Special equipment, PPE	Skilled or trained operators
Green Cleaning	Medium (₦500K – ₦1M)	High in urban areas	Eco-friendly products	Sustainability-focused brands
Drop-Service Model	Very Low (₦100K – ₦300K)	Varies by bookings	Website, CRM, virtual team	Remote operators

Choosing the right type of cleaning business depends on how much money you want to invest, how involved you want to be, and the market demand in your location.

Cleaning Business Plan

Creating a business plan is a vital step when learning how to start a cleaning business. It gives you a clear roadmap, improves your decision-making, and helps you secure funding or partnerships if needed.

A well-structured cleaning business plan outlines your services, target market, operational needs, pricing, and growth strategy.

Why You Need a Cleaning Business Plan

A business plan is more than a document. It gives your cleaning service clarity and direction from the start. It helps you:

• Set realistic goals
• Estimate startup and operating costs
• Define your pricing strategy
• Plan your marketing and team structure
• Identify potential challenges and solutions

Investors, banks, and even some corporate clients will often request to see your business plan before doing business with you.

Key Sections of a Cleaning Business Plan

Below is a breakdown of what to include in your plan. This structure works for home-based, commercial, online, or drop-service models.

Section	What to Include
Executive Summary	Overview of your cleaning business, goals, and services
Business Description	Legal structure, ownership, mission, and vision
Market Analysis	Industry trends, competitors, and target customer profile
Services Offered	List of services and any niche focus (e.g. eco-cleaning, Airbnb)
Pricing Strategy	Your pricing model and rate comparisons with competitors
Marketing Plan	Promotion channels, branding, and advertising strategy
Operational Plan	Tools, staffing, scheduling, logistics
Financial Plan	Startup costs, revenue projections, profit margins
Growth Strategy	Plans to scale, expand services, or introduce automation

If you want a ready-made version, you can use our Comprehensive Business Plan Template for Entrepreneurs. It is fully editable and designed to fit cleaning businesses in any country.

Sample Revenue Projection Table

Here’s a simple sample of what a first-year income projection might look like for a solo residential cleaning business:

Month	Clients Served	Avg. Job Rate	Total Monthly Income	Running Total
January	10	₦15,000	₦150,000	₦150,000
February	15	₦15,000	₦225,000	₦375,000
March	18	₦15,000	₦270,000	₦645,000
April	20	₦15,000	₦300,000	₦945,000

This simple projection can be adapted to suit commercial clients, international currencies, or different niches.

Licensing and Legal Requirements for Cleaning Businesses

One of the most important steps to start a cleaning business is meeting the legal and licensing requirements of your country or city. Compliance builds trust with clients and helps you avoid fines, delays, or lost contracts.

Licensing varies by region, so it is important to check local government rules. Below are general legal requirements to guide you, including examples from Nigeria, the US, the UK, and South Africa.

Business Registration

Registering your cleaning service gives you legal recognition and protects your brand name. It also allows you to open a business bank account and operate formally.

Common structures:

Country	Legal Structures	Registration Body
Nigeria	Business Name, Limited Liability Company (LLC)	Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC)
United States	Sole Proprietor, LLC, S Corporation	State Government / IRS
United Kingdom	Sole Trader, Limited Company	Companies House
South Africa	Sole Proprietor, Pty (Ltd)	CIPC – Companies and Intellectual Property

Tip: In Nigeria, registering with the CAC is straightforward. You can handle it yourself or get help from professionals. If you need support, our Ask an Expert service can guide you through it or reach us through our business registration service.

Tax Identification and Bank Account

After registration, apply for a Tax ID (called TIN in Nigeria, EIN in the US). This is used to pay taxes and can be required for some contracts.

Also, open a business bank account to separate your personal and business income. This improves credibility and keeps your financial records clean.

Business Permits and Local Licenses

Depending on your country or region, you may need additional permits from your state, city, or municipality to operate a cleaning business.

Examples of permits include:

• Local government operating permits
• Health and sanitation approval (especially for medical or industrial cleaning)
• Environmental or chemical handling clearance
• Vehicle branding permit if your cleaning van has your logo

Before you begin work, contact your local council or regulatory office to find out what is required.

Insurance and Bonding

Insurance protects your cleaning business from damage claims, accidents, or lawsuits. Bonding gives clients confidence that you are trustworthy, especially when working on-site.

Common types of insurance for cleaning businesses:

Insurance Type	What It Covers
General Liability	Property damage or injury during cleaning
Workers’ Compensation	Injuries to your staff while working
Property or Equipment	Damage or theft of your tools
Fidelity Bond	Covers employee theft at client sites

Commercial clients will often ask for proof of insurance before signing a contract. In some countries, insurance is mandatory by law for certain jobs.

Business Contracts and Agreements

It is smart to have written service agreements with your clients. These protect both sides and help avoid misunderstandings about scope, payment, or cancellation.

A good contract should cover:

• Services to be performed
• Frequency of work
• Payment terms
• Cancellation policy
• Dispute resolution

You can use templates or have a legal advisor draft a custom agreement for your business.

Equipment Needed to Start a Cleaning Business

If you are looking into how to start a cleaning business, having the right equipment is essential. The tools you choose will affect the quality of service you deliver, your efficiency, and your overall professionalism.

Whether you are running a cleaning service from home or managing a commercial team, your equipment must match your service offering.

Basic Cleaning Equipment

These are the essential tools you need to launch most residential and small commercial cleaning services.

Equipment	Purpose	Average Cost (Local)	Notes
Vacuum cleaner	For carpets, rugs, and upholstery	₦50,000 – ₦150,000	Upright or canister types
Mops and buckets	Floor cleaning and sanitisation	₦5,000 – ₦15,000	Microfibre is more efficient
Cleaning cloths/microfibres	Wiping surfaces and glass	₦2,000 – ₦10,000 (per pack)	Lint-free and washable
Cleaning chemicals	Disinfectants, degreasers, all-purpose cleaners	₦10,000 – ₦30,000 (monthly)	Choose based on services
Brooms and dustpans	General sweeping and pre-cleaning	₦3,000 – ₦8,000	Basic but essential
Brushes and scrubbers	For tiles, grout, and hard stains	₦2,000 – ₦6,000	Manual and hand-held
Gloves and aprons	Personal hygiene and protection	₦1,000 – ₦5,000	Disposable or reusable
Spray bottles	Product application	₦500 – ₦1,000 each	Use for chemicals and water

This list supports most entry-level cleaning businesses. You can expand as your services grow.

Specialised Equipment for Niche Services

If you offer specialised cleaning services such as carpet care, post-construction, or commercial contracts, additional tools will be needed.

Specialised Equipment	Use Case	Estimated Cost (Local)
Steam cleaner	Deep sanitising of surfaces and upholstery	₦70,000 – ₦200,000
Carpet extractor	Deep carpet cleaning	₦100,000 – ₦300,000
Window cleaning pole kits	High-rise and exterior window cleaning	₦50,000 – ₦120,000
Scrubber dryer machine	Large floor surfaces (commercial jobs)	₦300,000 – ₦1,000,000+
Fogger machine	Disinfection and fumigation	₦80,000 – ₦250,000
PPE and safety gear	For industrial or hazardous environments	₦10,000 – ₦50,000

Invest in these tools only if they match your cleaning business plan and service niche. Specialised equipment allows you to charge higher rates and win more corporate clients.

Software and Digital Tools

Running a cleaning business also involves scheduling, communication, invoicing, and customer follow-up. These tools support your operations:

Software Tool	Function	Example Platforms
Scheduling and booking	Manage appointments	Jobber, Calendly
Invoicing and payments	Send quotes and receive payment	Wave, Zoho, QuickBooks
CRM	Manage client information	HubSpot, Zoho CRM
Communication	Team updates and client contact	WhatsApp Business, Slack

These tools are especially useful if you plan to run your cleaning business online or offer services across multiple locations.

How Much Money Do You Need to Start a Cleaning Business

A key question for most aspiring entrepreneurs is how much money is needed to start a cleaning business.

The answer depends on the type of cleaning service you want to offer, the country you are operating in, and whether you are starting from home, online, or through a commercial setup.

This section breaks down the costs by startup level, showing what to expect when planning your budget.

Cost Breakdown by Business Size

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to starting a cleaning service. Here is a comparison of typical startup costs for different types of operations.

Business Type	Estimated Startup Cost (Local Currency)	Description
Home-based solo cleaner	₦200,000 – ₦500,000 / $300 – $1,000	Basic tools, personal transport, flyers
Small team cleaning company	₦700,000 – ₦1,500,000 / $1,500 – $3,000	Staff, uniforms, equipment, digital tools
Online drop-service model	₦100,000 – ₦300,000 / $100 – $500	Website, CRM, subcontractor agreements
Commercial cleaning outfit	₦2,000,000+ / $5,000+	Advanced tools, branding, vehicle, insurance
Franchise setup	₦10,000,000+ / $20,000+	Franchise fee, training, territory licence

Typical Startup Expenses

Use the table below to estimate specific costs involved in starting your cleaning business. This applies globally, with minor variations based on location and scale.

Expense Category	Example Items	Estimated Cost Range
Equipment and supplies	Vacuum, mops, cleaning agents, gloves	₦100,000 – ₦500,000
Business registration	CAC, LLC, sole trader license	₦20,000 – ₦50,000
Insurance and bonding	Liability insurance, workers’ compensation	₦50,000 – ₦150,000 annually
Branding and materials	Logo, flyers, uniforms, vehicle branding	₦50,000 – ₦300,000
Digital tools	Website, invoicing software, CRM	₦30,000 – ₦100,000
Staff wages (optional)	Salaries, onboarding, training	Varies by location
Marketing and promotion	Online ads, print ads, referral incentives	₦50,000+

If you are starting a cleaning business with no money, you can begin with borrowed or second-hand tools and grow through referrals. Focus on offering quality service and reinvest profits into equipment and marketing.

Marketing and Branding Your Cleaning Business

No matter how good your service is, clients will not hire you if they do not know you exist. Learning how to market and brand your cleaning business is critical for building trust, attracting new customers, and standing out in a competitive market.

Whether you are running a cleaning business from home or launching an online cleaning service, your marketing must be strategic and consistent.

Build a Strong Brand Identity

Branding gives your cleaning business a professional image and helps people remember you. It sets the tone for how you are perceived in the market.

Key branding elements:

Brand Element	Purpose
Business name	Easy to remember, relevant to cleaning
Logo and colour scheme	Builds visual recognition
Tagline or slogan	Communicates value or specialty
Uniforms and ID cards	Increases trust when entering client spaces
Branded vehicle wrap	Turns transport into mobile advertising

Create a brand that reflects reliability, cleanliness, and professionalism. If you need help developing your brand assets, explore the business tools and design resources available on the Entrepreneurs.ng shop.

Marketing Channels That Work for Cleaning Businesses

Use a mix of online and offline strategies to attract new clients and build awareness.

Local SEO and Google Business Profile

List your cleaning service on Google Business so clients near you can find you when they search for cleaning services in their area.

• Optimise your profile with photos, services, location, and hours
• Ask satisfied clients for reviews
• Use keywords like “cleaning service near me” in your profile description

Social Media Marketing

Use social platforms to promote your cleaning business visually and directly to local or targeted audiences.

Platform	Strategy
Instagram	Post before-and-after photos, stories, highlights
Facebook	Join local groups, run paid ads, request referrals
WhatsApp Business	Share updates and promos with clients and contacts
TikTok	Create simple cleaning hacks to attract attention

Make your content personal and relatable; learn everything you can about digital marketing. People want to hire someone they can trust, not just a business.

Flyers, Posters, and Local Advertising

Print materials still work well for local cleaning businesses.

• Place flyers in gated estates, shopping centres, and churches
• Partner with dry cleaners, hardware stores, or estate agents
• Use branded uniforms and cards to build recognition

If you want your cleaning business promoted directly to an audience of business owners and decision-makers, explore our advertising packages. They are ideal for service providers looking to build trust and visibility with real buyers.

Referral and Loyalty Programs

Word-of-mouth is powerful in the cleaning industry. Encourage your clients to refer you by offering a discount on their next cleaning job or a free add-on service.

• Give clients a few referral cards to hand out
• Offer loyalty discounts for repeat clients (e.g. 5th cleaning free)
• Send reminders or thank-you notes via WhatsApp

This is especially useful when you are starting a cleaning business from home or working with no budget.

Track and Improve Your Marketing

Use simple tools to track where your clients are coming from. Ask every new customer how they found you. Invest more in the channels that bring results and refine what does not work.

How to Start a Cleaning Business Online or From Home

Starting a cleaning business from home or launching it online is one of the most affordable ways to enter the industry. With limited resources, you can build a professional service and grow using digital tools and simple systems.

Whether you are offering cleaning services directly or running a drop-service model, this guide will show how to start lean and scale gradually.

Starting a Cleaning Business From Home

You can run a home-based cleaning business with minimal investment by using your personal space as your headquarters and storage area.

Setup for a Home-Based Operation

Area	What You Need
Storage space	A shelf or cupboard to store cleaning products
Basic equipment	Vacuum, mops, brushes, gloves
Mobile phone and notebook	Client communication and appointment tracking
Simple marketing material	Flyers, WhatsApp messages, branded shirts

Tips:

• Start with clients in your neighbourhood
• Offer early-bird discounts to build trust
• Set clear work boundaries and scheduling policies

Starting a Cleaning Business Online

Running a cleaning business online allows you to operate without physical presence, subcontract jobs, or manage bookings digitally. This model is known as drop-servicing or remote cleaning management.

Steps to Launch Online

1. Choose Your Niche and Location
   Focus on a city or target group (e.g. office buildings, Airbnbs, student apartments).
2. Build an Online Presence
   • Buy a domain and set up a simple website with service pages and pricing
   • Add a booking form or WhatsApp chat button for quick contact
   • Set up a Google Business Profile and optimise for local search
3. Find Reliable Subcontractors or Freelancers
   Partner with local cleaners who are trained, insured, and available on call. You handle the booking; they handle the cleaning.
4. Use Scheduling and Payment Tools
   Automate appointments, invoices, and client reminders with tools like Calendly, Paystack, or Stripe.
5. Focus on Digital Marketing
   • Run Facebook or Google ads in target areas
   • Optimise your site for keywords like “office cleaning in Lagos” or “book cleaning online”
   • Collect reviews and feature them on your homepage

Home-Based vs Online Cleaning Business Comparison

Feature	Home-Based Cleaning	Online Cleaning Business
Startup cost	₦200,000 – ₦500,000	₦100,000 – ₦300,000
Tools needed	Cleaning equipment, storage space	Website, booking system, internet
Physical presence	Yes	Not required
Delivery model	You do the cleaning	You assign cleaners to jobs
Profit margin	Moderate	High (once automated)
Scalability	Local	Multi-location

Success Tips for Home and Online Models

• Start lean, then reinvest in systems and marketing
• Build relationships with clients through WhatsApp updates and follow-ups
• Use feedback to refine your offers and upsell new services
• Keep digital records for every job and payment

Both the home-based and online cleaning models offer high flexibility and room for growth. If you are unsure which model suits you best, you can get personalised guidance with the Ask an Expert service from Entrepreneurs.ng.

How to Start a Cleaning Business With No Money

Starting a cleaning business with no money is possible if you are willing to start small, leverage what you already have, and grow as you earn.

Many successful cleaning service providers began with just basic tools and word-of-mouth referrals.

If you are determined and resourceful, you can turn limited resources into a profitable cleaning business.

Use What You Already Have

The first step is to audit your personal supplies and space. You may already own basic tools that can be used to clean your first few homes or offices.

Item	Household Alternative
Cleaning cloths	Old t-shirts or towels
Disinfectants and soap	Multipurpose liquid soap and vinegar mix
Bucket and mop	Manual sponge mop and basin
Broom and dustpan	Existing home set
Phone for marketing	WhatsApp, Facebook, Google My Business

Use your living space as your base of operations and focus on nearby clients to avoid transport costs.

Offer Free Trials to Get Testimonials

When you have no money for advertising, use your time and skill to win clients.

• Offer to clean for a friend or neighbour in exchange for a testimonial or referral
• Take before-and-after photos of your work
• Ask clients to post about your service on their social media
• Use their reviews in your own online promotions

This method builds social proof fast and helps you land your first paying client.

Start With Manual Marketing

You do not need paid ads to promote your cleaning service. Focus on grassroots marketing and direct outreach.

Free Marketing Method	How to Use It Effectively
WhatsApp Status and Groups	Post client reviews, prices, contact info
Facebook Local Groups	Share service offers, photos, and testimonials
Google Business Profile	Register your cleaning service for local search
Referral messages	Ask friends to recommend you
Flyers (if you can print 10)	Place in local stores or markets

This strategy works especially well when starting a cleaning business from home or as a solo cleaner.

Rent or Borrow Equipment

If you need better tools for bigger jobs, ask to borrow or rent them for a small fee. Equipment rental outlets or other cleaners may offer daily rates.

Alternatively, you can:

• Partner with an existing cleaner who owns the tools
• Use client-provided supplies (common with residential cleaning)
• Offer limited services that do not require machines (e.g. dusting, wiping, organising)

This allows you to deliver quality without making a large upfront investment.

Reinvest Every Naira or Dollar

Once you begin earning, reinvest a portion of every job into growing your cleaning business.

First Profits Should Go To	Reason
Better tools and cleaning supplies	Improve service quality
Flyers or business cards	Build local visibility
Branded clothing or aprons	Look professional and build trust
Transport allowance	Serve more clients farther from home
Simple website or online ads	Start generating leads online

By staying disciplined, you can scale your cleaning business in phases, without borrowing money.

Top Mistakes to Avoid When Starting a Cleaning Business

Starting a cleaning business is straightforward, but success depends on avoiding the common mistakes that trap new entrepreneurs.

These errors can delay growth, hurt your reputation, or lead to unnecessary expenses. Knowing what to avoid helps you build a professional cleaning service from day one.

Underpricing Your Services

Many new cleaning business owners charge too little to win clients. This strategy might bring in short-term work but will not cover your costs or sustain your business.

Tip: Price based on the value you provide, your time, and local industry standards. Research your competitors and adjust your pricing accordingly. Do not compete on price alone—focus on service quality and consistency.

Ignoring Legal and Licensing Requirements

Skipping registration, permits, or insurance might save time initially, but it exposes you to legal trouble, fines, or rejection from bigger contracts.

Tip: Even if you are starting a cleaning business from home, make sure it is registered and insured. Clients trust legally compliant service providers.

Not Defining Your Target Market

Trying to serve everyone dilutes your marketing and service delivery. You risk looking unprofessional or inconsistent.

Tip: Choose a specific audience—such as residential clients, small offices, Airbnb hosts, or schools. Tailor your branding, pricing, and advertising to them.

Poor Time and Team Management

Being late, missing appointments, or disorganised scheduling can ruin your reputation. Hiring unreliable staff without training can also lead to complaints and refunds.

Tip: Use tools like Google Calendar, Jobber, or WhatsApp reminders to manage your bookings. Create a checklist or simple training guide if you are working with a team.

Lack of Follow-Up With Clients

Many new cleaning businesses lose repeat customers by failing to stay in touch or ask for feedback.

Tip: After every job, send a follow-up message asking if the client is satisfied. Politely request a testimonial or review. A simple thank-you message makes a lasting impression.

Neglecting Branding and Presentation

Showing up with mismatched clothes, no business cards, or using dirty equipment damages your brand even if you do good work.

Tip: Dress in clean, branded clothing. Keep your tools organised. Always present yourself and your team as professionals.

Overlooking Marketing and Online Presence

Depending only on word-of-mouth without any online visibility limits your reach and growth.

Tip: Create a Google Business Profile, set up a simple website or landing page, and use WhatsApp and social media to promote your cleaning service. Share real client testimonials and photos of your work.

Mistake	Consequence	Solution
Pricing too low	Unsustainable business	Research and set profit-based pricing
Skipping registration and insurance	Legal issues and loss of contracts	Register your business and get insured
No defined target audience	Unclear messaging and service	Focus on a specific customer segment
Poor scheduling or timekeeping	Missed jobs and negative reviews	Use scheduling apps and reminders
No client follow-up	Low repeat business	Send feedback messages and thank-you
Weak branding and appearance	Loss of trust and credibility	Invest in presentation and consistency
Ignoring marketing	Limited visibility and growth	Use free and low-cost digital tools

Avoiding these mistakes can fast-track your reputation and revenue, especially when you are still growing your cleaning business with no money or limited resources.

Is the Cleaning Business Profitable?

Yes, the cleaning business is profitable and one of the most consistent service-based ventures around the world.

Whether you run a solo cleaning service from home or manage a commercial team, the potential for steady income and high margins is real.

Profitability depends on how you structure your services, manage costs, and retain clients. Here is a breakdown of what drives profit in the cleaning industry.

Low Operating Costs, High Return Potential

Cleaning businesses typically have low overhead. You do not need a storefront, expensive machinery (at the beginning), or large inventory.

Your main costs are supplies, transport, and labour, making your profit margin higher than many other service industries.

Expense Category	Percentage of Revenue (Estimate)
Labour and wages	30% – 50%
Supplies and tools	10% – 20%
Transportation	10% – 15%
Marketing and admin	5% – 10%
Profit margin	20% – 40%

A well-run solo residential cleaning business can achieve net margins of 30% or more. Commercial cleaning companies often operate on lower margins but make up for it through volume and contracts.

Recurring Revenue From Repeat Clients

Most clients, especially businesses and homeowners, require ongoing cleaning. Weekly or monthly bookings create a predictable cash flow that boosts profitability over time.

Let us say you charge ₦20,000 per cleaning and have 20 clients booked twice a month:

• Monthly income = ₦20,000 x 20 x 2 = ₦800,000
• Estimated profit (30%) = ₦240,000

As you add more contracts, build a small team, or offer value-add services like window cleaning or fumigation, your profit grows.

Factors That Increase Profitability

To improve profitability, focus on:

• Efficiency: Use systems to reduce time per job and serve more clients
• Client retention: Offer loyalty discounts or packages to keep repeat clients
• Upselling: Add niche services like carpet care, deep cleaning, or pest control
• Marketing: Fill your schedule consistently through digital marketing and referrals
• Automation: Use apps for scheduling, payments, and reminders to reduce admin time

Case Study Snapshot

A home-based cleaner in Nairobi launched with two clients in their apartment block. Within six months, they had 12 regular clients paying KSh 2,500 per visit, two times a month. That’s KSh 60,000 monthly in recurring income, achieved with basic supplies and no employees.

In Nigeria, small-scale cleaning businesses in cities like Abuja and Lagos often report earnings between ₦150,000 and ₦500,000 monthly within their first year, depending on location, consistency, and client base.

When Does Profit Kick In?

For most cleaning businesses, breakeven can happen within the first three months if:

• Startup costs are kept low
• Marketing is done consistently
• The business owner does some of the cleaning themselves
• There is a clear plan to reinvest profits and grow

Profitability is not only achievable, it is scalable.

Conclusion

Starting a cleaning business is a practical and profitable venture for anyone willing to begin small, stay consistent, and deliver quality service.

Whether you are launching from home, online, or building a full-scale operation, the opportunities are real and growing.

By following the right steps, choosing the right niche, and avoiding costly mistakes, you can build a cleaning service that earns steady income and grows with time. Stay focused, keep learning, and reinvest in your brand and systems.

If you are ready to move forward, explore our Entrepreneur’s Success Blueprint, get expert help through Ask an Expert, or download the ready-to-use business plan template to start strong.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What do I need to start a cleaning business?

To start a cleaning business, you need basic cleaning equipment (like mops, vacuum, disinfectants), business registration, a pricing model, and a marketing plan.

If you’re starting a cleaning business from home or online, you also need a mobile phone and internet access. Legal requirements vary by country but often include business permits, insurance, and tax registration.

How much money do I need to start a cleaning business?

You can start a small cleaning business with as little as ₦200,000 or $300. Home-based or solo operations require fewer tools and lower overhead.

Commercial cleaning or franchise models may cost between ₦2M–₦10M or $5,000–$20,000+, depending on equipment, staff, and scale.

How profitable is the cleaning business?

A cleaning business is very profitable, especially with recurring clients. Solo cleaners can earn between ₦150K and ₦500K monthly or $1,000–$5,000, depending on location and frequency of jobs.

Margins are typically between 20%–40% after covering expenses like supplies and transportation.

Do I need a license to start a cleaning business?

Yes, in most countries, cleaning businesses require registration and sometimes local operating permits.

In Nigeria, register through the CAC. In the US or UK, register as a sole proprietor, LLC, or limited company and get the relevant city or state permits. Insurance and bonding are often required, especially for commercial contracts.

What are the steps to start a cleaning business?

The steps include:

1. Choose your niche
2. Conduct market research
3. Write a business plan
4. Register the business and get a license
5. Buy or rent cleaning equipment
6. Build a brand and start marketing
7. Launch and scale with customer feedback

Can I start a cleaning business with no money?

Yes, you can start a cleaning business with no money by using household supplies, offering free trial cleanings in exchange for referrals, promoting through WhatsApp and Facebook groups, and reinvesting your first income into equipment. Focus on clients nearby to reduce transport costs.

What types of cleaning businesses can I start?

You can start a home cleaning service, office janitorial service, post-construction cleaning, Airbnb cleaning, green cleaning, carpet and upholstery care, car interior cleaning, or a digital cleaning booking platform. Each type has different tools, clients, and income potential.

How do I find clients for my cleaning business?

Use local marketing and online tools:

• Create a Google Business Profile
• Promote on WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram
• Ask for referrals and reviews
• Hand out flyers and network with estate managers or business owners
• Use our advertising packages to reach thousands of entrepreneurs

Do I need to hire staff to start?

No. Many people start solo and only hire staff when demand increases. Start small, track your workload, and bring in help when you’re ready to scale. If you hire, ensure proper training and legal compliance.

What should I charge for cleaning services?

Rates vary by location and service. For residential jobs, charge per hour or per room (₦10K–₦25K or $20–$50 per visit).

For commercial cleaning, charge per square metre or by contract. Use competitor pricing and your expenses to create profitable rates.

What is the best way to market a cleaning business?

• Set up a website or landing page
• Share photos and testimonials online
• Offer discounts for referrals or repeat clients
• Optimise your business profile for local search
• Explore affordable advertising via Entrepreneurs.ng

Can I run a cleaning business online?

Yes. You can create a digital platform where clients book cleaning services, then assign jobs to local cleaners. This is known as a drop-service model. You manage bookings, payments, and quality, while subcontractors do the work.

Is a cleaning business good for beginners?

Yes, the cleaning business is one of the easiest for beginners. It has low startup costs, no formal education requirements, and flexible working hours. It’s a great way to enter entrepreneurship while earning steady income.

How do I write a cleaning business plan?

A cleaning business plan includes your service description, market analysis, pricing, equipment list, startup costs, and growth strategy. You can create one from scratch or download our Comprehensive Business Plan Template.