How I Start a Cleaning Business from First Job to First

Turning a Mop into a Movement

So you're asking yourself, "How I start a cleaning business?" Maybe you're great at organizing, love a freshly scrubbed space, or you're just ready to work for yourself. The cleaning industry is one of the most accessible ways to become your own boss—and the demand has never been higher.

At The CoBuilders, we've helped hundreds of independent cleaners grow from side hustlers to full-time pros through our platform. Whether you’re starting from scratch or leveling up your skills, this guide walks you through the essentials.

Step 1: Decide What Type of Cleaning Business to Start

Before anything else, figure out who you want to serve and what kind of work you want to do.

Here are a few paths you can take:

Residential Cleaning – Homes, apartments, move-ins/outs, Airbnbs
Commercial Cleaning – Offices, buildings, retail spaces
Specialty Cleaning – Carpet, window, post-construction, or eco-cleaning
Niche Services – Hoarding clean-outs, vacation rental turnovers, green cleaning

If you're just starting out, residential cleaning is usually the easiest to break into. You can start small with basic tools and grow from there.

Step 2: Choose Your Business Structure

Will you be a solo cleaner, part of a team, or looking to build a company with employees? In the beginning, most people start as:

Sole proprietors (simple and low-cost to register)
Or, you can register as an LLC for more legal protection

Pro tip: Check with your state or city for business license requirements. You may need insurance or bonding, especially for commercial contracts.

Step 3: Gather Your Supplies and Tools

You don’t need to spend thousands to get started, but quality gear goes a long way. For most cleaning jobs, here’s what you’ll want:

All-purpose cleaner and disinfectant
Glass cleaner
Floor cleaner (or multi-surface)
Microfiber cloths and sponges
Mop, broom, and vacuum
Gloves and protective gear
A sturdy cleaning caddy or bag

Want to stand out? Offer eco-friendly cleaning using non-toxic products.

Step 4: Set Your Rates and Services

One of the biggest questions: How much should I charge?

Start by researching what other cleaners in your area charge. Most residential cleaning services charge:

You can charge by the hour, by the job, or set flat rates. Just make sure to account for travel time, supplies, and effort.

Step 5: Get Your First Clients

You don’t need a fancy website to get started, but you do need to put yourself out there. Here’s how:

Ask friends and family to spread the word
List your services on Nextdoor, Craigslist, or Facebook groups
Create a free Google Business Profile
Offer a new-client discount or referral incentive
Ask early clients for reviews to build credibility

It takes just a few happy customers to start building a steady stream of work.

Step 6: Use The CoBuilders to Grow Faster (and Smarter)

One of the smartest moves you can make? Join a platform that connects you directly with clients—without the hassle of doing everything alone.

When you partner with The CoBuilders, you get:

One-time and long-term cleaning contracts
The flexibility to work as an independent contractor
Tools to manage your bookings and payments
A trusted brand name behind you
Support, guidance, and a team rooting for your success

Think of it as the Uber of cleaning—but better. You stay your own boss, but you don’t have to hustle solo.

Apply to join The CoBuilders network here →

Final Thoughts: Starting Small, Dreaming Big

If you’ve ever thought, “How I start a cleaning business?”—now you’ve got a clear path forward. You don’t need a ton of money. You don’t need to hire a team on day one. All you need is motivation, a few supplies, and the right support system.

Whether you clean two homes a week or aim to build a six-figure service, The CoBuilders is here to help you grow, connect, and thrive.