The Complete Guide to Becoming a House Cleaner

Professional cleaning is one of the fastest businesses to start and one of the most resilient during economic downturns — people always need clean spaces. The median hourly wage in the US is about $14.50, but independent cleaners and business owners set their own rates and routinely earn $25–$50+ per hour[1]. The cleaning industry in the US alone is worth over $90 billion and growing, fueled by busy dual-income households and aging populations who need help maintaining their homes. Commercial cleaning operations seeking professional accreditation typically pursue ISSA's CIMS standard[2].

What the trade actually looks like hour by hour — not just the skill list.

Steps to become a house cleaner

1. 1

   No formal education required — willingness to learn is key

2. 2

   Learn cleaning products, equipment, and techniques

3. 3

   Master time management and efficient cleaning systems

4. 4

   Consider IICRC or other industry certifications

5. 5

   Obtain business license and liability insurance

6. 6

   Build a client base through referrals and online reviews

Pick your country for the exact licensing path

What tools you need

• How long does it take to become a professional cleaner?

  Most cleaners learn the trade in 1–3 weeks of on-the-job training. There's no licensing requirement in most countries. Becoming efficient takes 1–6 months of practice. To start your own cleaning business, plan 1–3 months for skill-building, supplies acquisition, insurance, and initial marketing. ISSA CIMS certification (for commercial cleaning operations) takes 6–12 months.
• How much do cleaners earn?

  U.S. cleaning workers earn a median of $30,890 per year as employees. Self-employed cleaners charge $25–$50 per hour and earn $40,000–$70,000+. Cleaning company owners with 3–5 employees regularly clear $80,000–$200,000+. Top 10% individual cleaners: $42,610. Polish cleaners: PLN 3,000–5,500/month; Netherlands: €2,200–€3,200/month.
• Do cleaners need any certifications?

  Individual cleaners don't need certifications in most jurisdictions. Commercial cleaning often requires OSHA training and product safety knowledge. Specialty cleaning (post-construction, biohazard, mold) requires additional certifications. Self-employed cleaners should carry liability insurance ($50–$100/month) and bond ($100–$300/year) to win residential clients.
• Is cleaning a good side hustle or full-time career?

  Both. Side hustle: weekend cleanings can add $200–$800/week. Full-time individual: $40,000–$70,000 with steady clients. Business owner: scaling to 3–5 employees can clear $100,000+ in 2–3 years. The barrier to entry is the lowest of any service business — $500–$2,000 in supplies and you're operational.
• What's the best way to start a cleaning business?

  Start by cleaning friends' and family homes for testimonials. Set up a simple website and Google Business Profile. Use Yelp, Nextdoor, and Facebook Marketplace for early clients. Charge $25–$40/hour starting, raising rates 10–20% per year. Once at $40,000+ revenue, hire your first employee and scale. Most successful owners pivot to managing within 2–4 years.

Overlapping skill sets and similar pay bands — pick the one that fits your goals best.

Salary figures, employment projections, and licensing requirements are sourced from the following official references.

1. 1
   Occupational Outlook Handbook: Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners

   U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics · accessed 2026-04-26
2. 2
   ISSA Cleaning Industry Management Standard (CIMS)

   ISSA — The Worldwide Cleaning Industry Association · accessed 2026-04-26
3. 3
   OSHA — Cleaning Industry Hazards

   U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration · accessed 2026-04-26
4. 4
   Safer Choice Certified Cleaning Products

   U.S. Environmental Protection Agency · accessed 2026-04-26
5. 5
   Schoonmaakbranche — CAO en kwaliteitseisen

   OSB — Ondernemersorganisatie Schoonmaak- en Bedrijfsdiensten · accessed 2026-04-26