Starting out as a solo cleaner is a great leap into entrepreneurship, but it comes with a big question: where to find cleaning clients? You might already have the skills to deliver a sparkling clean, but the real challenge lies in getting a steady stream of customers.
Finding cleaning clients isn’t just about luck. It’s about knowing where to look and how to stand out. Should you try handing out flyers? Join online platforms? Or focus on word-of-mouth referrals? There are so many options, that it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.
But don’t worry. We’re here to help you. In this guide, you’ll learn exactly where to find cleaning clients and how to keep them coming back for more.
Define your cleaning business model
Before you start searching for clients, it’s important to decide what type of cleaning business you want to run. Specialising in a specific type of cleaning will help you target the right clients and stand out from competitors.
Think about your skills, availability, and what’s most in demand in your local area. Here are some popular options to consider:
House cleaning services
This is one of the most common and sought-after types of cleaning. It includes regular domestic cleaning, deep cleaning, and seasonal tasks like spring cleaning. These services are popular with busy families, professionals, and those who need extra help keeping their homes in order. Flexible hours and repeat bookings make it a great choice for many cleaners.
Airbnb or holiday rental cleaning
If you’re in a tourist hotspot or an area with lots of short-term rentals, finding Airbnb cleaning jobs can be a lucrative option. Airbnb hosts need reliable cleaners to ensure their properties are guest-ready. This type of work often requires quick turnarounds and attention to detail, but it can offer steady income if you’re comfortable with fast-paced schedules.
Office cleaning
Cleaning offices, shops, or other commercial spaces offers another avenue for business. These jobs are usually scheduled outside regular working hours, such as in the evenings or early mornings, and can pay higher rates. However, you may need specific tools or products for larger spaces.
By narrowing your focus and choosing the right type of cleaning service, you’ll make it easier to attract clients who are a perfect match for what you offer. Consider local demand, your availability, and pricing to determine the best fit for your business.
Start your cleaning business the right way
Before offering cleaning services, it’s essential to handle the legal and administrative setup. Getting this right ensures compliance with UK regulations and shows clients you’re professional and reliable.
Register your business
If you’re starting as a solo cleaner, register as a sole trader with HMRC. This is simple and perfect for independent workers. For those planning to expand, registering as a limited company may be a better option. Keep track of income and expenses and file a Self-Assessment tax return yearly.
Get insured
Insurance protects you and your clients. The key types include:
- Public Liability Insurance: Covers damage to property or accidents while working.
- Personal Accident Insurance: Protects your income if you can’t work due to injury.
Stay on top of taxes
As a self-employed cleaner, you’ll need to pay taxes and National Insurance contributions. Set aside a portion of your income (20–30%) for these. Keep receipts for deductible expenses like cleaning supplies and travel.
Sorting out admin can be overwhelming, but joining Wecasa can make it easier. The platform helps with bookings, invoicing, and payments, so you can focus on delivering great service. Sign up as an independent cleaner to learn more.
Where to find cleaning clients
Finding clients is the most important part of growing your cleaning business. With so many options available, the challenge is knowing where to focus your efforts. To help you get started, here are actionable strategies to attract new clients, starting with the easiest and most effective solution:
Use Wecasa to attract clients quickly
If you’re looking for the fastest way to find cleaning clients, Wecasa is the perfect platform to help you grow your business. Wecasa connects independent cleaners with a steady stream of clients actively searching for professional cleaning services.
Here’s why Wecasa is the top choice for solo cleaners:
- No Marketing Hassles: Wecasa does the hard work of finding clients for you. No need to worry about ads, flyers, or building an online presence from scratch.
- Simple Bookings and Payments: The platform manages all bookings and payments, so you can focus on delivering excellent cleaning services.
- Freedom and Flexibility: You decide your availability and the services you want to offer. Wecasa works around your schedule.
- Build Your Reputation: Client reviews on Wecasa can boost your profile, helping you attract even more bookings.
Joining Wecasa allows you to skip the stressful parts of finding clients and start growing your cleaning business right away.
Offline methods
While Wecasa simplifies client acquisition, offline efforts can also help you build trust and establish your name in the community, especially in your local area.
- Hand Out Flyers: Create professional flyers and distribute them door-to-door in your neighbourhood. Include a clear description of your services, contact details, and any promotions for new customers.
- Network Locally: Reach out to nearby businesses, estate agents, or landlords. They often need reliable cleaners for offices, rental properties, or new tenants. Building relationships in your area can result in long-term contracts or referrals.
- Encourage Word-of-Mouth Referrals: Happy clients are your best marketing tool. Encourage satisfied customers to recommend your services to friends and family. Offering referral discounts or loyalty rewards can amplify this effect.
Online platforms
Online platforms work round the clock, helping you reach potential customers beyond your local area.
- Google My Business Listing: Set up a profile to appear in local search results. Include your services, contact details, and photos. Positive reviews from clients can also boost your visibility.
- Join Other Marketplaces: Platforms like TaskRabbit and Gumtree can also connect you with clients. However, unlike Wecasa, these platforms often require you to manage bookings and communication on your own.
- Build a Website: A simple website showcasing your cleaning services, prices, and testimonials can establish your credibility and attract clients who prefer online bookings.
Social media
Social media is a powerful, low-cost way to market your cleaning business and build relationships with clients.
- Facebook groups: Join local groups and offer your services where appropriate. Share cleaning tips, promotions, or client success stories to gain attention.
- Instagram: Post before-and-after cleaning photos, share reels with cleaning hacks, and use hashtags like #cleaningservices or #sparklingcleanhouse to reach your target audience.
- Targeted ads: Platforms like Facebook and Instagram allow you to run ads targeting people in your area. Highlight special offers or unique services to draw in potential clients.
Top tips for attracting new customers
- Offer first-time discounts: Give new clients a reason to try your services. A discounted rate can help you secure your first bookings.
- Stay professional: Being reliable, punctual, and communicative goes a long way in building trust.
- Highlight reviews: Positive client feedback can encourage others to book your services. Showcase reviews on your website, social media, or Wecasa profile.
Building long-term relationships with clients
Securing cleaning clients is important, but keeping them is where your business truly thrives. Providing exceptional value and creating a positive experience is essential for ensuring repeat bookings and long-term loyalty.
One of the best ways to retain clients is through consistency. Always deliver a high-quality clean, arrive on time, and communicate clearly. These small actions build trust and reliability, which are crucial for repeat business.
At Wecasa, we make retention easier by recommending our pros to previous clients who book again. Additionally, we offer a recurrent cleaning option, allowing you to secure regular bookings and enjoy a steady stream of income. This feature ensures clients can conveniently rebook with their preferred cleaner, saving them time and strengthening their loyalty to you.
To encourage loyalty, consider offering personalised gestures. For example:
- Build rapport: Take note of client preferences, such as specific cleaning products they like or areas they want prioritised.
- Send follow-up messages: After a cleaning session, check in to see if the client was satisfied or if there’s anything else they need. A quick, thoughtful message can leave a lasting impression.
- Personal touches: Think of leaving a thank-you note after a deep cleaning session.
Finally, word-of-mouth referrals are a powerful way to grow your client base. Happy clients are likely to recommend your services to friends and family. Ask for reviews through Wecasa’s platform and let those positive testimonials work for you.
By focusing on excellent service, using Wecasa’s client-friendly features, and adding personal touches, you can build strong relationships that ensure your clients keep coming back.
Take your cleaning business to the next level
Growing a cleaning business takes effort, but with the right approach, it’s entirely achievable. Knowing where to find cleaning clients is a key part of building success. By choosing the right type of cleaning services, setting up your business properly, and focusing on finding and keeping clients, you can create something sustainable and rewarding.
At Wecasa, we’re here to make things easier for independent cleaners. From helping you find clients to managing bookings and payments, we take care of the admin so you can focus on your work. With recurring bookings and tools to support client retention, Wecasa ensures a steady and reliable stream of income.
Now it’s time to take action. Put these strategies into practice and start growing your cleaning business today.
