Steps to Starting a Successful Cleaning Business in the UK

Starting a cleaning business in the UK can be one of the most rewarding ways to become your own boss — especially if you love organisation, have an eye for detail, and enjoy helping others maintain spotless spaces. The demand for reliable domestic and commercial cleaners continues to rise, creating huge opportunities for both part-time and full-time entrepreneurs.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you build a cleaning business that actually lasts.

1. Choose Your Cleaning Niche

Decide on the type of cleaning services you’ll offer.
Some of the most popular options include:
• Domestic / residential cleaning
• End-of-tenancy and Airbnb cleans
• Office or commercial cleaning
• Carpet, oven, or window cleaning

Starting with one or two core services helps you specialise and stand out before expanding into other areas.

2. Register Your Business

Choose your structure — sole trader or limited company — and register with Companies House or HMRC.
Having an official registration builds credibility and makes it easier to open a business bank account, apply for contracts, and manage taxes properly.

Tip: Even if you’re starting small, register early. It makes your business look serious and trustworthy.

3. Get the Right Insurance

Insurance is non-negotiable in the cleaning industry.
At minimum, you’ll need:
• Public Liability Insurance – to cover damages or accidents on a client’s property
• Employer’s Liability Insurance – if you plan to hire staff
• Professional Indemnity Insurance – for added protection against claims

These ensure you and your clients are protected at all times.

4. Set Up Your Pricing and Packages

Do market research in your local area to find out what other cleaning companies charge.
Most cleaning businesses in the UK price by the hour, the room, or by property size.

Example:
• Domestic cleaning: £15–£25 per hour
• Deep cleaning: £150–£300 per property

Offer clear, transparent quotes so clients know exactly what they’re paying for.

5. Create a Professional Image

Your presentation sells your business before you even speak.
That means:
• A simple logo and brand colours
• Branded uniform or apron
• A clear, mobile-friendly website
• Social media pages (Instagram, TikTok, Facebook) showing your work

Clean visuals = client confidence.

6. Market Your Services Locally

Use a mix of online and offline marketing:
• Register on free UK directories (Yell, Bark, Nextdoor, Google Business Profile)
• Post before-and-after pictures on social media
• Offer referral discounts or loyalty rewards
• Partner with local landlords or estate agents

Consistency is the secret. The more people see your brand, the more trust you build.

7. Build a Reliable Team (When You’re Ready)

As you grow, consider hiring part-time cleaners or subcontractors.
Always run background checks, train your team on cleaning standards, and create clear checklists so every clean meets your quality promise.

8. Focus on Systems and Repeat Clients

A successful cleaning business isn’t built on one-time jobs — it’s built on repeat clients.
Use simple systems to track bookings, send reminders, and collect payments automatically.
Tools like Turno, Jobber, or even Google Sheets can make a huge difference.

Final Thoughts

Starting a cleaning business in the UK doesn’t require massive capital — just discipline, consistency, and the right guidance. With structure and mentorship, you can turn a simple service into a profitable brand that supports your lifestyle and creates jobs for others.

Ready to Start Yours?

If you’re serious about launching your own cleaning business but don’t know where to begin, Alabestha — the UK’s No. 1 Cleaning Business Coach — can guide you through every step.
From registration to branding, client acquisition, and team setup, she’ll help you build a business that actually works.

Send an email to alabestha@4dsphere.com to join the Business-in-a-Box Mentorship Program today!