Make Money with Cleaning: Your Quick Guide to a Profitable Side Hustle

Ever thought a mop and bucket could pay the bills? You don’t need a degree or a big loan to start making money with cleaning. All it takes is a few supplies, some basic know‑how, and a plan to get the word out. Let’s break down the steps so you can start earning in days, not months.

Getting Started: What You Need

First, gather the right tools. A good vacuum, microfiber cloths, a bucket, an all‑purpose cleaner, and a decent set of gloves are enough to handle most jobs. You don’t have to buy premium brands – cheap, reliable products work fine for a start.

Next, sort out the paperwork. Register as a sole trader or limited company, whichever feels easier. A basic public liability insurance policy protects you if something goes wrong on a client’s property – it’s cheap and worth the peace of mind.

Set your rates before you knock on doors. A common approach is to charge per hour for small jobs (like bathroom clean‑ups) and per square metre for larger spaces (like whole‑house deep cleans). Look at local competitors, add a 10‑15% margin for your effort, and you have a baseline.

Finding Clients and Pricing Right

Word‑of‑mouth works wonders in the cleaning world. Offer a free or discounted first clean to friends, family, or neighbours and ask them to spread the news. A quick text or social media post with a photo of a sparkling kitchen can attract attention fast.

Online platforms are another low‑cost channel. List your service on local marketplace apps, community boards, or free classified sites. Keep your description short, focus on the benefits (time saved, healthy home), and include a clear call‑to‑action: “Book a 2‑hour clean for £30 today!”

When you land a job, over‑deliver. Arrive on time, bring all supplies, and leave the place looking better than you found it. Happy clients leave reviews, and reviews bring more work. A simple follow‑up email asking for a 5‑star rating can boost your credibility.

Boost your earnings by upselling. After a basic clean, suggest add‑ons like oven deep‑clean, carpet shampoo, or window washing. Most people are willing to pay a little extra for a truly spotless home, especially when you explain the health benefits.

Schedule smartly. Group jobs in the same neighbourhood to cut travel time. Aim for 3‑4 jobs a day for a part‑time side hustle; this balances income with energy and keeps quality high.

Finally, keep track of income and expenses. A simple spreadsheet or free accounting app helps you see profit margins and plan growth. When the numbers look good, consider reinvesting in better equipment or expanding to commercial contracts.

Cleaning isn’t just chores – it’s a solid way to make money on your own terms. With the right tools, clear pricing, and a bit of hustle, you can turn a simple cleaning gig into a steady cash stream. Ready to grab that mop and start earning?