Ever dreamed of starting a business with low costs, high demand, and room to scale? Then launching a cleaning business might be your most practical (and profitable) decision in 2025.
According to a recent report by Expert Market Research, the global cleaning services market reached a value of USD 74.3 billion in 2023, and it’s expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.6% between 2024 and 2032. This surge is driven by rising hygiene awareness, increased outsourcing of cleaning services, and the growing demand from both residential and commercial sectors.
What’s surprising is that the majority of this booming market is still dominated by small cleaning companies and solo professionals, not giant corporations. That means there’s a massive opportunity for new entrepreneurs to step in, claim their niche, and build a recurring income stream with minimal overhead.
In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to start a successful cleaning company from scratch, including licensing, setup costs, tools, marketing, and how to grow it into a steady, full-time income—even if you’re starting with zero experience or capital.
Is Starting a Cleaning Business Worth It in 2025?
Short answer: Absolutely. The cleaning industry is booming—and it’s not slowing down.
Industry Growth
- The U.S. commercial cleaning industry is worth over $97 billion.
- Residential cleaning demand continues to grow, especially among dual-income households and retirees.
Who Needs Cleaning Services?
- Homeowners
- Realtors (for staging)
- Airbnb hosts
- Office spaces
- Schools and healthcare facilities
Key Benefits
- Low startup cost, like many service businesses such as lawn care
- Flexible scheduling that fits around other commitments
- Recurring clients that create steady monthly income
- High profit margins with minimal operating expenses
Downsides
- Physically demanding work
- Client churn risk
- Need to maintain consistent quality
Choosing the Right Cleaning Business Model
There isn’t one-size-fits-all. Your model should reflect your skills, resources, and goals.
Common Business Models
- Residential Cleaning – Houses, apartments, deep cleaning, move-outs
- Commercial Cleaning – Offices, stores, clinics
- Niche Cleaning – Windows, carpets, post-construction, Airbnb turnover
Service Type
- Solo Cleaner – Perfect for low-budget startups
- Staffed Teams – More scale, more complexity
- Franchise – Higher cost, but built-in brand trust
Frequency
- One-time deep cleans
- Weekly/Biweekly maintenance contracts
Legal Setup: What Licenses Are Needed to Start a Cleaning Business?
Getting legal is crucial for gaining client trust and protecting yourself.
Key Steps
- Get an EIN (Employer Identification Number)
- Choose your structure: LLC is recommended for liability protection
- Register your business name with your state
- Apply for business licenses & permits (varies by state)
- Get bonded and insured: Liability + workers’ compensation
License Requirements by State (Sample Table)
| State | Business License Required? | Special Permits |
| California | Yes | Local city permits |
| Texas | Yes | Optional registration |
| Florida | Yes | Janitorial service permit |
Pro Tip: Always check with your local city or county office for the most up-to-date licensing information. Florida, for instance, has specific guidelines for janitorial permits and is also known for having a strong small business ecosystem, as noted in this overview of business opportunities in the state.
How Much Does It Cost to Start a Cleaning Business?
Budget Breakdown
| Expense | Shoestring Budget | Standard Budget |
| Cleaning Supplies & Tools | $150 | $600 |
| Business Registration | $50 | $200 |
| Insurance | $200 | $400 |
| Marketing Materials | $100 | $300 |
| Website & Email | $50 | $100 |
| Total | $550 | $1,600 |
Hidden Costs to Watch
- Transportation
- Client rescheduling
- Product restocking
Essential Supplies & Tools for a Cleaning Business
Must-Have Cleaning Supplies
- Microfiber cloths
- Mop & bucket
- Vacuums (HEPA filter for commercial jobs)
- Eco-friendly chemicals (optional but in demand)
- Protective gloves & masks
Where to Buy
- Bulk: Costco, Sam’s Club
- Online kits: Amazon, ULINE, CleanFreak
Inventory Tips
- Use a simple spreadsheet to track usage
- Refill weekly to avoid delays
Creating Your Cleaning Business Plan
A clear plan guides your growth.
Key Sections
- Mission & vision
- Service offerings
- Target market
- Marketing strategy
- Pricing structure
- Financial forecasts
Branding: Name, Logo & Business Cards That Convert
Picking a Name
- Use words like “clean,” “shine,” “sparkle,” “maid”
- Check domain availability
- Avoid overused phrases
Logo & Business Card Tools
- Canva
- Looka
- Vistaprint (for printing)
Essentials for Business Card
- Name
- Phone number
- Website
- Services offered
Setting Up Operations: Pricing, Scheduling & Tools
Pricing Options
- Hourly – $25 to $50/hr
- Flat rate – Great for recurring jobs
- Square footage – Common in commercial cleaning
Top Software Tools
- Jobber
- Housecall Pro
- Square Appointments
Contracts
- Always use signed agreements
- Include cancellation policies and payment terms
How to Get Clients for Your Cleaning Business
Free Tactics
- Local Facebook groups
- Flyers & door hangers
- Ask for referrals
Digital Marketing
- Google My Business setup
- SEO blog articles
- Social proof: Google & Yelp reviews
Paid Options
- Facebook & Instagram ads to target local homeowners and renters
- Local Google Ads for “cleaning services near me” with strong intent-based keywords
- Use the top social media platforms for business marketing to focus your ad spend where it performs best
Network With
- Real estate agents
- Airbnb hosts
- Office managers
How to Scale & Grow Your Cleaning Business
Key Growth Moves
- Hire help: Use Indeed or local job boards
- Upsell services: Window cleaning, organizing, laundry
- Automate admin: Booking, invoicing, follow-ups
- Create systems: SOPs, onboarding, checklists
Recurring Revenue
- Offer discounts for weekly/monthly plans
- Bundle services into packages
Bonus: How to Start a Cleaning Business with No Money
Yes, it’s possible!
Tips to Get Started
- Start with just basic supplies from home
- Ask clients for a deposit
- Use free tools (Google Docs, Canva, Wix)
- Walk door-to-door to pitch services
Resources: Templates, Tools & Downloads
- Free Business Plan Template
- Cleaning Service Invoice Template
- Service Agreement Template
- State License Checklist
- Free Pricing Calculator (Google Sheet)
FAQs
Do I need a license to start a cleaning business?
Yes, almost all states require registration, and many require a cleaning-specific business license.
How much can I make from a cleaning business?
Solo cleaners often earn $3,000–$6,000/month. Teams or commercial services can bring in $10K–$30K+ monthly.
How do I start from home?
Register your business, start marketing locally, and use your home as your HQ.
Is an LLC better than a sole proprietorship?
Yes—LLCs protect your personal assets and are recommended.
Conclusion
Starting a cleaning business can be one of the most affordable and profitable ventures today. Now that you know how to start a cleaning company, from licenses to clients to growth, you’re ready to take action.
Your future business is just one clean start away. Stay consistent, deliver exceptional service, and use the tools and tips provided here to build a brand people trust.
Need help organizing your next steps? Bookmark this guide and download the templates. We built them to make your journey faster, smarter, and easier.
Alex Bennett is an entrepreneur whose practical tips have helped thousands improve their careers and grow with confidence.