How to start a cleaning business

Published Monday 8 June 2026

Table of contents

• Why start a cleaning business?
• Types of cleaning businesses
• How much does it cost to start a cleaning business?
• How much can you earn running a cleaning business?
• How to start a cleaning business step by step
• Simplify your cleaning business finances with Xero

Key takeaways

• A cleaning business is one of the most affordable ventures to start, with initial costs as low as a few hundred euro for domestic cleaning.
• Choosing the right business structure, getting insured, and registering with Revenue are essential first steps before you take on clients.
• Residential, commercial, and specialist cleaning each offer different earning potential, so research your local market before deciding on a niche.
• Setting competitive prices, building an online presence, and delivering exceptional service are the fastest ways to grow your client base.

Why start a cleaning business?

Ireland's cleaning services market continues to grow as demand from homes, offices, and short-term rental properties rises. If you're looking for a practical, low-cost way to become your own boss, a cleaning business is worth serious consideration.

There are clear advantages to getting started:

• Low startup costs. You can run the business from home, and your main outlay is equipment and supplies. Second-hand purchases keep costs even lower.
• Flexible hours. You can begin part time while holding down another job, then scale up as your client base grows.
• Steady demand. The global cleaning services market was valued at over $442 billion in 2025 and is projected to grow at 7.3% annually. Cleaners are needed year-round, even during economic downturns, with real potential for repeat business and long-term contracts.

Of course, there are challenges too. Cleaning is physically demanding, and the market is competitive. Pricing pressure can squeeze your margins if you don't position yourself carefully.

But if you're reliable, detail-oriented, and good with people, you have what it takes to build a successful cleaning business in Ireland.

Types of cleaning businesses

Before you start, it helps to decide which type of cleaning you want to focus on. Your choice shapes your startup costs, equipment needs, and target market.

Cleaning businesses generally fall into 3 categories:

• Residential cleaning. This covers private homes and apartments. You won't need a large team or specialist equipment, making it the easiest category to enter.
• Commercial cleaning. This involves servicing offices, retail spaces, and other business premises. Commercial contracts often require industrial equipment, trained staff, and a more formal tendering process.
• Specialist cleaning. This includes niche services such as carpet and upholstery cleaning, window cleaning, oven cleaning, post-construction cleaning, move-in and move-out cleaning, event venue cleaning, and eco-friendly or green cleaning.

Specialist services help you stand out from competitors and typically command higher prices. They may require additional training or certification, but the investment can pay off quickly.

How much does it cost to start a cleaning business?

One of the biggest draws of a cleaning business is the low barrier to entry. Your startup costs depend on whether you focus on domestic or commercial cleaning.

For a domestic cleaning business, you can get started for as little as €500 to €2,000. This covers basic supplies, insurance, and initial marketing. If you already own a car, your costs will be even lower.

A commercial cleaning operation typically requires a larger investment, in the range of €3,000 to €10,000. You'll need industrial-grade equipment such as floor polishers, carpet extractors, and commercial vacuum cleaners. You may also need a van to transport equipment between sites.

Common startup expenses include:

• cleaning supplies and equipment
• public liability insurance
• vehicle costs or van lease
• website and branding
• marketing materials such as flyers, business cards, and online adverts
• accounting and legal fees

Keep costs down by buying second-hand equipment and building your own website with a website builder platform. You can always upgrade as the business grows.

How much can you earn running a cleaning business?

Earnings vary depending on your niche, location, and whether you work alone or employ staff. Understanding the revenue potential helps you plan realistically.

Domestic cleaners in Ireland typically charge between €15 and €25 per hour. If you work full time as a sole operator, you could earn around €25,000 to €40,000 per year before expenses.

Commercial cleaning businesses with employees and multiple contracts can generate significantly higher revenue, often in the range of €50,000 to €100,000 or more annually. Specialist services like post-construction or deep cleaning tend to command premium rates.

Your actual take-home pay depends on your overheads, pricing model, and how efficiently you manage your schedule. As your business grows and you bring on staff, your role shifts from doing the cleaning to managing the operation, which can increase your earning potential considerably.

How to start a cleaning business step by step

Getting your cleaning business off the ground takes some planning, but the process is straightforward. Here are 9 steps to help you launch with confidence.

1. Do your market research

Before you invest any money, take time to understand your local market. Good research helps you find gaps you can fill and avoid costly mistakes.

Start by looking at what cleaning services already operate in your area. Check their pricing, reviews, and the types of clients they serve. Talk to friends, neighbours, local businesses, and short-term rental hosts to find out what's missing.

Identify your target market early. Will you clean private homes, commercial premises, or both? Is there demand for specialist services such as eco-friendly cleaning or post-construction work? The more specific your niche, the easier it is to market yourself.

2. Write a business plan

A solid business plan gives your venture direction and helps you stay on track. It's also essential if you're applying for a startup loan or grant.

Your plan should cover your business goals, the services you'll offer, your target market, and your pricing strategy. Include a financial forecast that estimates your startup costs, monthly overheads, and the point at which you expect to break even.

Think about what makes your business different. Your unique selling point could be eco-friendly products, flexible scheduling, or specialist services that competitors don't offer. Use a business plan template to structure your thinking.

3. Choose your business structure

Your business structure affects your tax obligations, personal liability, and how you manage your finances. There are 4 main options to consider in Ireland.

• Sole trader. This is the simplest structure. You keep all the profits and report them on your personal tax return. However, you're personally liable for any debts or claims against the business.
• Partnership. If you're starting with someone else, a partnership lets you share ownership and responsibilities. Draw up a partnership agreement that covers profit sharing, capital contributions, and decision-making.
• Company. Registering as a limited company with the Companies Registration Office (CRO) provides limited liability protection. Your personal assets are kept separate from business debts, and it's easier to attract investment.
• Franchise. Buying into a cleaning franchise gives you brand recognition, training, and a proven business model. However, franchise fees can be high, and you may have limited control over how you run the business.

Learn more about choosing the right business structure for your situation.

4. Check legal requirements and get insured

Before you take on your first client, make sure you've covered the legal and regulatory basics. Getting this right from the start protects you and builds trust with customers.

Register as a sole trader or company with Revenue. If your turnover exceeds the value-added tax (VAT) threshold (currently €37,500 for services), you'll need to register for VAT. You should also register your business name with the CRO.

Insurance is essential. At a minimum, you'll need public liability insurance to cover accidental damage to a client's property. If you plan to hire staff, employer's liability insurance is a legal requirement. Consider professional indemnity insurance as well, particularly for commercial or specialist work.

If you're hiring employees, familiarise yourself with your obligations under the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC), including minimum wage, working hours, and leave entitlements.

5. Buy cleaning supplies and equipment

Now it's time to kit yourself out. Whether you buy new or second-hand, invest in reliable equipment that can handle regular use.

For a domestic cleaning business, you'll need the basics:

• vacuum cleaner
• mop, bucket, and broom
• disposable gloves, cloths, sponges, and scourers
• dusters, window squeegees, and spray bottles
• face masks and hand sanitiser

For commercial work, you may also need industrial vacuum cleaners, floor polishers, and safety signage.

Use quality commercial-grade cleaning products rather than supermarket brands. A good cleaning products supplier may offer training and usage guidance. Keep a small stock on hand, but don't overbuy.

Consider making eco-friendly products your point of difference. Cruelty-free, hypoallergenic, and chemical-free options appeal to environmentally conscious clients and help you stand out.

If you need a vehicle, eye-catching signage with your business name, logo, and contact details is one of the best investments you can make. People notice you everywhere you go, especially in traffic.

6. Set your pricing

Getting your pricing right is crucial. Charge too little and you'll struggle to cover costs. Charge too much and you'll lose clients to competitors.

There are 3 common pricing models for cleaning businesses:

• Hourly rate. Simple and transparent. Works well for domestic cleaning where the scope can vary between visits.
• Flat rate per job. Ideal for one-off services like deep cleans, move-out cleans, or post-construction work. Quote after an initial assessment.
• Contract or retainer. Best for regular commercial clients. Agree a fixed fee for a set schedule of services.

Research what competitors charge in your area. Price competitively, but don't be the cheapest option. Focus on value instead: offer packages, bundle services, or include extras that justify your rates.

Test your prices with early clients and adjust based on their feedback and demand. Create a quote template for larger jobs so you can respond quickly and professionally.

7. Build your online presence

Most potential clients will search online before choosing a cleaner. A strong online presence makes it easy for them to find and trust you.

Start with a simple, mobile-friendly website. Include your services, pricing, service area, and contact details. Add a page for testimonials as you collect them.

Set up a Google Business Profile so you appear in local search results and on Google Maps. Encourage happy clients to leave reviews, as these carry significant weight with new customers.

Create business pages on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram. Share before-and-after photos, cleaning tips, and seasonal offers to stay visible and build trust with your local community.

8. Market your business and get clients

With your online presence in place, it's time to actively promote your business and build your client base. A clear marketing plan helps you focus your efforts and budget.

Start with your personal network. Ask friends and family to spread the word. Drop flyers in letterboxes with an introductory offer. Attend local community events and introduce yourself to estate agents, property managers, and short-term rental hosts.

Networking is one of the most effective ways to win business. Build relationships with people who have an existing client base and can refer you. A strong referral from a trusted source is worth more than any advert.

Deliver exceptional service from day one. Small touches make a big impression. Consider a handwritten thank-you note, a follow-up message after the first clean, or a discount for clients who refer others. Word of mouth remains the most powerful form of advertising for local service businesses.

Collect testimonials and reviews from satisfied clients. Display them on your website and social media profiles. Positive reviews build credibility and help new customers choose you with confidence.

9. Manage operations and plan for growth

Once your business is up and running, think about how to work smarter and scale over time.

Document your cleaning processes in detail. Written procedures reduce training time when you bring on new staff and help you maintain consistent quality across every job.

When you're ready to grow, you can hire subcontractors or take on employees. Subcontractors bring their own equipment and are available quickly, but they cost more and quality can vary. Building your own team gives you more control. It does come with additional responsibilities, including payroll, tax, and employment law compliance.

As your business grows, consider adding specialist services like carpet cleaning, post-construction cleaning, or commercial contracts. Specialist work commands higher rates and faces less competition. Invest in training and better equipment to support these new services.

Keep a close eye on your finances as you grow. Tracking your income and expenses carefully makes it easier to spot opportunities, manage cash flow, and plan your next move.

Simplify your cleaning business finances with Xero

Starting a cleaning business takes planning, hard work, and attention to detail. With the right preparation, you can build a venture that delivers steady income and real flexibility.

Xero's accounting software helps you stay on top of invoicing, expenses, and tax obligations so you can focus on growing your business. Track your cash flow, send professional invoices, and keep your records organised from day one. Get one month free.

FAQs on how to start a cleaning business

Here are some frequently asked questions about starting a cleaning business in Ireland.

Do you need qualifications to start a cleaning business in Ireland?

No formal qualifications are required to start a domestic cleaning business in Ireland. However, completing a course in professional cleaning or health and safety can boost your credibility and help you win commercial contracts.

How do you get your first cleaning clients?

Post in local Facebook community groups and neighbourhood apps where people actively look for service providers. List your business on directories like GoldenPages.ie and local online classifieds. Pair digital outreach with old-school tactics like introductory discount flyers to build momentum quickly.

Is a cleaning business profitable?

Yes, cleaning businesses tend to be profitable because overheads are low relative to revenue. Your margins improve as you build a base of regular clients who rebook without you spending on marketing. Profitability depends on how tightly you manage expenses, how quickly you fill your schedule, and whether you upsell specialist services alongside standard cleans.

What insurance do you need for a cleaning business?

At a minimum, you'll need public liability insurance. Policies for domestic cleaners typically start from around €200 to €400 per year, depending on the level of cover. If you plan to hire staff, add employer's liability insurance. Get quotes from an insurance broker who specialises in small business cover to find the right balance of cost and protection.

Can you start a cleaning business with no money?

It's possible to start on a very tight budget if you already own basic cleaning supplies and a vehicle. You could begin by offering domestic services to people in your neighbourhood using supplies you have at hand, then reinvest your early earnings into better equipment and marketing.