How to Open a Cleaning Business: A Real-World Guide for First-Time Entrepreneurs

Start Small, Work Smart, and Build a Business You’re Proud Of

If you’re thinking about how to open a cleaning business, there’s good news: you don’t need a huge investment, a storefront, or even a team to get started. What you do need is a plan, some hustle, and the right support.

Cleaning services are one of the few businesses that are always in demand. Whether it’s homes, offices, or short-term rentals—everyone needs a reliable cleaner. And that means there’s plenty of room for you to step in and build something of your own.

At The CoBuilders, we help independent cleaners open, grow, and scale their businesses across the U.S. Here’s what you need to know to launch your cleaning company and land your first paying clients.

Step 1: Define Your Cleaning Niche

Not all cleaning services are the same. Before you register your business, get clear on the type of cleaning you want to offer.

You can choose from:

• Residential cleaning – homes, apartments, condos
• Move-in/move-out cleaning – for landlords or realtors
• Short-term rental turnovers – Airbnb and vacation rentals
• Office or commercial cleaning – storefronts, clinics, co-working spaces
• Post-construction cleanup – after remodels or builds

💡 Start with what you know or where you see the most local demand. Many cleaners begin with residential work and expand from there.

Step 2: Set Up Your Business

Once you’ve chosen your niche, it’s time to make it official. Registering your business helps build trust and ensures you’re operating legally.

What you’ll need:

• A business name
• Register your business (as a Sole Proprietor or LLC)
• A local business license (check your city/county requirements)
• General liability insurance to protect your work
• A business bank account to keep personal and business finances separate

Most of these steps are simple and can be done online.

Step 3: Buy Your Starter Supplies

You don’t need a truckload of gear. Focus on high-quality essentials you can use across job types.

Basic cleaning toolkit:

• Microfiber cloths and sponges
• Mop and broom
• Vacuum cleaner
• Disinfectant and multi-surface cleaners
• Glass and mirror spray
• Gloves and a supply tote or caddy

Want to stand out? Offer eco-friendly or pet-safe product options.

Step 4: Price Your Services

This is where many new cleaners struggle—but it doesn’t have to be complicated.

General pricing guidelines:

Pro Tip: Use tools like SCRUBGPT to auto-generate fair, local pricing based on home size, service type, and client requests.

Step 5: Find Your First Clients

You don’t need a fancy website to get started. Focus on visibility and building trust.

Try this:

• Tell your network (friends, family, neighbors)
• Post in local Facebook and Nextdoor groups
• Create a free Google Business Profile
• Hand out simple flyers or cards near apartment complexes
• Ask for reviews from your first few clients—they’re marketing gold

Word-of-mouth still works wonders in this industry. The better your service, the faster your reputation grows.

Step 6: Use Tools That Help You Work Smarter

Managing quotes, appointments, payments, and communication gets overwhelming—fast. That’s where SCRUBGPT by The CoBuilders becomes a game-changer.

SCRUBGPT helps you:

• Generate fast, accurate quotes
• Create custom checklists for each job
• Send reminders and confirmations to clients
• Track appointments and payments
• Collect reviews and manage customer feedback

Think of it as your built-in virtual assistant, helping you stay professional and efficient—without hiring extra help.

Step 7: Grow with The CoBuilders Platform

Once you're ready for more clients and consistent income, joining The CoBuilders platform gives you access to pre-qualified cleaning jobs—so you can grow without spending all your time on marketing.

What you get:

• One-time and recurring job opportunities near you
• The ability to work as an independent contractor
• Tools like SCRUBGPT to manage operations
• A national brand that adds trust and visibility
• Fast payouts, support, and real business-building resources

👉 Apply to join The CoBuilders and get access to everything you need to grow smart and stay in control.

Final Thoughts: Your Cleaning Business Starts With One Clean Job

If you’ve been wondering how to open a cleaning business, don’t wait for the “perfect time.” The best way to start is to… start.

With low overhead, a simple plan, and tools that help you stay organized and professional, you can open your cleaning business this month—and build real income doing work you’re proud of.

And with The CoBuilders and SCRUBGPT on your side, you don’t have to do it alone.

Share This