How to Start a Cleaning Business with No Money
Think starting a cleaning business with no money is impossible? Think again!
Today, I will walk you through a step-by-step guide to launching your own cleaning business with little to no investment. All you need is a work ethic, enthusiasm, and a sprinkle of hustle.
Ready to get started?
Let’s go!
Is It Possible to Start a Cleaning Business With a Limited Budget?
Absolutely!
A cleaning business is one of the most affordable businesses to start.
However, costs can vary depending on the type of cleaning services you offer.
Let’s break down the three main types of cleaning businesses:
1. Domestic Cleaning (Best for Low Startup Costs)
✅ No specialist training needed
✅ No expensive equipment required
✅ Insurance is the only essential cost (£40-£100 per year for a sole trader)
Money-Saving Tip: You can have clients provide their own cleaning products, vacuums, and supplies, reducing your startup costs even further!
2. Commercial Cleaning (Higher Costs but Bigger Contracts)
???? Costs depend on the type of cleaning (office cleaning is cheaper than industrial cleaning)
???? May require specialized equipment (e.g., floor buffers, polishers)
???? Training may be needed for specialist services
3. Specialized Cleaning (Higher Investment, Higher Profits)
Some services, like biohazard cleaning or hoarding cleanup, require extensive training and equipment, making them more expensive to start but highly profitable compared to standard commercial cleaning.
This is why market research is essential—you need to find the best opportunity in your area and what suits your life.
???? Want to learn how to conduct market research for your cleaning business? Join my free 6-day email challenge, where we cover market research on Day 3! Sign up here.
How to Start a Domestic Cleaning Business for Free
Let’s say you want to start with domestic cleaning, the easiest and most cost-effective option. You have spent £100 on insurance, and you’ll have clients supply the products. Now, how do you find your first customers?
1. Tell Everyone You Know
Your personal network is your first marketing tool!
Let friends, family, neighbours, and co-workers know you’re starting a cleaning business. Ask them to spread the word and leave reviews for you.
2. Post on Social Media
Before investing time and money in a website, use free social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Post a simple advertisement stating your services and ask people to share it.
???? Pro Tip: If you’d like a ready-made ad template, join the private Facebook group – Profitable & Productive Cleaning Business Owners
3. Advertise in Local Shops & Community Centers
Print a small postcard ad and ask local shops, churches, and community centres to display it for you. Many will do this for free or a minimal fee.
4. Offer Discounts or Free Trials
To attract your first clients, offer an introductory deal, such as:
- Buy 3 hours, get 1 free
- First 30 minutes free for new clients
- 10% off first booking for referrals
This gets people in the door and builds trust quickly.
5. Collect Reviews & Testimonials
Reviews are gold in this business! Ask every client for a written testimonial.
If you’ve watched my video on how to do a domestic quote, you’ll know I take a testimonial folder with me to every quote. Having real, handwritten testimonials builds instant credibility!
6. Consider Eco-Friendly Cleaning for Extra Appeal
If you want to stand out, offer eco-friendly cleaning services. You can even make your own cleaning products at home for a fraction of the cost!
I’ve compiled some DIY recipes—Sign up for the Maid In Business newsletter to access them and all new workbooks and slides as they come out
My Personal Story: Starting with £500 and Scaling to a Team of 45
I started my first cleaning and ironing business with just £500, which covered:
✅ A steam iron
✅ Uniform
✅ A 4-week newspaper ad (back in 2008 when social media ads weren’t a thing!)
From that small start, I scaled to a team of 45 cleaners serving hundreds of clients monthly and making multi-six-figure turnover.
If I can do it, so can you!
Ready to Start Your Cleaning Business?
If you’re thinking about launching your cleaning business (or if you already have one but aren’t making £30,000+ per year), I have something special for you!
Click HERE: Join the FREE 6-Day Cleaning Business Startup Challenge!
You’ll receive an email every day for 6 days covering:
✅ Business setup
✅ Market research
✅ Pricing strategies
✅ Attracting clients
✅ Automating your business
✅ Becoming the boss!
Sign up here and start your cleaning business with confidence!
Your dream cleaning business is waiting—let’s make it happen!