How to start a cleaning business

Published Friday 15 May 2026

Table of contents

• Why start a cleaning business?
• Types of cleaning businesses
• How much do cleaners earn in the UK?
• How to start a cleaning business in 7 steps
• How much does it cost to start a cleaning business?
• Manage daily operations and plan for growth
• Simplify your cleaning business finances with Xero
• FAQs on starting a cleaning business

Key takeaways

• The UK cleaning industry is worth an estimated £58.9 billion, offering strong and consistent demand for new businesses entering the market.
• You can start a domestic cleaning business for under £500, making it one of the most accessible ventures for first-time entrepreneurs.
• Registering as a sole trader, getting public liability insurance, and setting competitive prices are essential early steps to protect yourself and attract clients.
• Cloud accounting software like Xero helps you track expenses, send invoices, and manage cash flow from day one, so you can focus on growing your client base.

Why start a cleaning business?

A cleaning business is one of the most accessible and in-demand ventures you can start in the UK. With low startup costs, flexible working hours, and a steady stream of potential clients, it suits both first-time entrepreneurs and experienced business owners looking for a reliable income.

The UK cleaning industry is worth an estimated £58.9 billion, according to the British Cleaning Council's 2022 report. That figure reflects just how much demand there is for cleaning services across homes, offices and specialist settings. Whether you want to work part-time around other commitments or build a full-scale operation, there's room to grow.

Here are some of the key advantages:

• Low startup costs; you can begin with basic supplies and build from there.
• Flexible scheduling that lets you choose your own hours and working patterns.
• Consistent demand from homeowners, landlords, offices, and commercial premises.

There are challenges to consider too. The market can be competitive, particularly in urban areas. You may need to work unsociable hours to fit around clients' schedules. Physical demands are real, and building a client base takes time and persistence. Planning ahead and understanding your target market will help you navigate these early hurdles.

If you're exploring other home-based options, take a look at the Xero guide on how to start a business from home.

Types of cleaning businesses

Choosing the right type of cleaning business helps you target the right customers and set appropriate prices. Most cleaning businesses in the UK fall into three main categories, with a growing fourth niche gaining traction.

Residential cleaning

Residential cleaning covers regular housekeeping for private homes and flats. Services typically include vacuuming, dusting, mopping, bathroom cleaning, and kitchen cleaning. Many residential cleaners build a roster of recurring weekly or fortnightly clients, which creates a predictable income.

Commercial cleaning

Commercial cleaning involves servicing offices, retail spaces, warehouses, and other business premises. Contracts tend to be larger and longer-term, often requiring early morning or evening work. You may need additional equipment, and some contracts require employer's liability insurance and health and safety documentation.

Specialist cleaning

Specialist cleaning covers niche services such as end-of-tenancy deep cleans, carpet and upholstery cleaning, post-construction cleaning, and window cleaning. These services often command higher rates because they require specific equipment or expertise.

Eco-friendly cleaning

Eco-friendly cleaning is a growing niche in the UK market. Using non-toxic, biodegradable products, and sustainable methods appeals to environmentally conscious homeowners and businesses. Positioning yourself as a green cleaning service can help you stand out in a crowded market and attract clients willing to pay a premium.

How much do cleaners earn in the UK?

Earnings for cleaners in the UK vary depending on whether you work as an employee or run your own business. Self-employed cleaners typically earn more per hour, though they also cover their own costs and tax obligations.

Here's a general breakdown of UK cleaning earnings:

• Employed cleaners typically earn £10–£15 per hour, depending on location and employer.
• Self-employed cleaners usually charge £15–£25 per hour, with London rates often sitting at the higher end.
• Sole traders running a domestic cleaning business can expect annual earnings of around £25,000–£35,000, depending on hours worked and client volume.
• Commercial cleaning contracts and specialist services can push earnings higher, particularly as you take on staff and scale.

Your actual income depends on factors like your location, the type of cleaning you offer, how many hours you work, and whether you employ others. Building a steady client base is the biggest factor in reaching consistent earnings.

How to start a cleaning business in 7 steps

Starting a cleaning business involves some straightforward planning and practical steps. Follow these seven steps to get your business up and running with confidence.

1. Research your market and competition

Understanding your local market is the first step to building a successful cleaning business. Look at what cleaning services are already available in your area, what they charge and where the gaps are.

Consider these questions:

• What types of cleaning are in demand locally; residential, commercial, or specialist?
• Who are your main competitors, and what do they offer?
• Is there an underserved niche, such as eco-friendly cleaning or end-of-tenancy services?

Talk to potential customers, browse local listings and check review sites. This research will help you identify your target market and shape your pricing.

2. Write a business plan

A business plan sets out your goals, target market, services, pricing, and financial projections. It keeps you focused and is essential if you need to apply for funding.

Your plan should cover:

• The services you'll offer and your target customers.
• Your pricing strategy and projected income.
• Startup costs and ongoing expenses.
• How you'll market your business.
• Your goals for the first year.

You can use the free Xero business plan template to get started quickly. For more detailed guidance, read the Xero guide on how to write a business plan.

If you need funding, check out the guide on how to get a startup business loan and the budgeting and forecasting guide.

3. Choose your business structure

Your business structure affects how you pay tax, your personal liability, and how much paperwork you need to manage. Most cleaning businesses start as sole traders, but there are other options.

• Sole trader. The simplest structure. You keep all profits after tax and report your income through Self Assessment. Register with HMRC at gov.uk.
• Partnership. Works if you're starting the business with someone else. Each partner shares the profits and responsibilities.
• Limited company. Separates your personal and business finances. It involves more admin, including filing with Companies House, but can offer tax advantages as you grow. Read about choosing the right business structure on the Companies House blog.
• Franchise. Lets you operate under an established cleaning brand. You pay franchise fees but benefit from brand recognition, training, and marketing support.

For a detailed comparison, see the Xero guide on business structures.

4. Register your business and get insurance

Once you've chosen your structure, register your business with HMRC (sole trader or partnership) or Companies House (limited company). Picking a memorable business name matters too; read the Xero guide on how to come up with a business name for tips.

Insurance protects you, your clients and your employees. These are the main types to consider:

• Public liability insurance. Covers claims from clients or members of the public for injury or property damage caused by your work. This is considered essential for any cleaning business.
• Employers' liability insurance. A legal requirement as soon as you hire staff. It covers claims from employees who are injured or become ill because of their work.
• Professional indemnity insurance. Protects you if a client claims your work caused them a financial loss, for example, damage to an expensive item.

You may also need specific licences depending on your location and services. Check the government licence finder for details.

5. Buy cleaning supplies and equipment

You don't need a large investment to get started with domestic cleaning. A basic kit of quality cleaning products, cloths, a vacuum cleaner and a mop will cover most residential jobs.

Here's what to consider when stocking up:

• Start with versatile, multipurpose products to keep costs low.
• Invest in durable, reliable equipment that will last.
• Consider eco-friendly products if that's part of your brand positioning.
• For commercial or specialist work, you may need industrial-grade equipment such as floor buffers, pressure washers, or carpet cleaning machines.

Track your supply expenses from day one. Using Xero accounting software makes it easy to record purchases and claim expenses at tax time.

6. Set your prices

Setting the right prices is key to covering your costs and staying competitive. Most domestic cleaners in the UK charge between £15 and £25 per hour, while commercial and specialist services can charge more.

You have two main pricing approaches:

• Hourly rates. Straightforward and work well for regular domestic cleaning.
• Flat fees. Work better for one-off jobs like end-of-tenancy or deep cleans, where you can assess the scope of work in advance.

When setting your prices, factor in:

• Your travel time and fuel costs.
• Cleaning supplies and equipment wear.
• Insurance and any business running costs.
• The going rate in your local area.
• Your desired hourly earnings.

Review your prices regularly as your costs and experience grow. Being transparent about pricing builds trust with clients.

7. Market your business and find clients

Getting your first clients takes effort, but a clear marketing strategy makes the process faster. A mix of online and offline tactics works best for most cleaning businesses.

Start with these practical steps:

• Set up a simple, professional website. Read the Xero guide on creating a business website for guidance.
• Create profiles on local directory sites and platforms like Google Business Profile.
• Ask satisfied clients for reviews and referrals.
• Use social media to showcase your work and connect with local communities.
• Print business cards and flyers for letterbox drops in your target areas.

Word of mouth is powerful in the cleaning industry. Delivering reliable, high-quality service is the best long-term marketing strategy you have.

For more ideas, check out the Xero guide on small business marketing.

How much does it cost to start a cleaning business?

You can start a domestic cleaning business for under £500. Commercial cleaning businesses typically require a higher initial investment, but costs remain relatively low compared to many other industries.

Here's a breakdown of typical startup costs for a domestic cleaning business:

• Cleaning products and supplies: £50–£150.
• Vacuum cleaner and basic equipment: £100–£300.
• Public liability insurance: £40–£100 per year.
• Business cards, flyers, and basic marketing: £50–£150.
• Simple website: £0–£200 (free options are available).
• Transport costs (fuel or public transport): variable.

For a commercial cleaning business, expect higher equipment costs:

• Industrial cleaning equipment (floor buffers, carpet cleaners): £500–£2,000.
• Larger stock of commercial-grade cleaning products: £200–£500.
• Employers' liability insurance (if hiring staff): £50–£150 per year.
• Vehicle costs for transporting equipment: variable.
• Uniforms and branded workwear: £100–£300.

These are estimates, and your actual costs will depend on the scale and type of service you plan to offer. Keeping detailed records of every expense from the start helps you track spending and claim allowable deductions. For a broader look at planning your finances, read the Xero guide on startup business costs and financing your business.

Manage daily operations and plan for growth

Running your cleaning business efficiently day to day sets the foundation for long-term growth. Putting simple systems in place early saves time and prevents problems as your client base expands.

Here are some priorities for daily operations:

• Schedule jobs carefully to minimise travel time between clients.
• Keep a checklist for each type of clean to maintain consistent quality.
• Track your income and expenses weekly to stay on top of cash flow.
• Communicate clearly with clients about expectations, access arrangements, and any issues.

As demand grows, you might consider hiring staff. When you do, you'll need employers' liability insurance and must meet your obligations around workplace pension contributions, holiday pay, and minimum wage. Read the Xero guide on starting a business for more on building your team.

Scaling your business could also mean:

• Expanding into commercial cleaning or specialist services.
• Investing in better equipment to take on larger contracts.
• Hiring and training reliable staff to take on more clients.
• Using payroll software to manage employee wages and compliance.

Planning for growth doesn't mean rushing. Build your reputation, refine your processes and expand at a pace that keeps quality high.

Simplify your cleaning business finances with Xero

Managing your finances well gives you the confidence to focus on growing your cleaning business. Xero's cloud accounting software helps you stay organised from day one.

With Xero, you can:

• Send professional invoices and get paid faster.
• Track expenses and snap receipts on the go.
• Reconcile bank transactions automatically.
• Monitor your cash flow in real time.
• Stay on top of Making Tax Digital (MTD) requirements for VAT.

Whether you're a sole trader managing everything yourself or growing a team, Xero simplifies the financial side of your business so you can spend more time with clients.

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FAQs on starting a cleaning business

Here are answers to some of the most common questions about starting a cleaning business in the UK.

Do I need qualifications to start a cleaning business?

No formal qualifications are required to start a cleaning business in the UK. You can begin with basic cleaning skills and a willingness to deliver a reliable service. That said, training in areas like health and safety, COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health) or specialist cleaning techniques can help you stand out and win higher-paying contracts.

Do I need to register a cleaning business?

Yes, you need to register with HMRC if you're self-employed as a sole trader or in a partnership. If you set up a limited company, you'll also need to register with Companies House. You can register as a sole trader on gov.uk or register a company through Companies House.

What insurance do I need for a cleaning business?

Public liability insurance is considered essential for any cleaning business, as it covers claims for injury or property damage. If you hire staff, employers' liability insurance is a legal requirement. Professional indemnity insurance is also worth considering if you handle valuable items or offer specialist services.

How do I find my first cleaning clients?

Start by telling friends, family and neighbours about your new business and asking for referrals. Set up a Google Business Profile, create a simple website and list your services on local directories. Offering an introductory discount or free trial clean can help you build an initial client base and gather reviews.

Is a cleaning business profitable?

A cleaning business can be highly profitable due to low overheads and consistent demand. Self-employed domestic cleaners in the UK typically earn £25,000–£35,000 per year, and earnings can grow significantly as you take on more clients or expand into commercial and specialist services. Keeping your costs low and your client retention high is the key to strong profitability.