Essential House Cleaner Tools
Everything you need to start your career as a house cleaner. Hand tools, power tools, safety gear, and the estimated startup cost.
At a glance
10
Hand tools
Day-one essentials
4
Power tools
Add as you grow
3
Safety items
Non-negotiable
$200–$800 for supplies, vacuum, and basic equipment
Startup cost
Full kit
Hand tools
Essential hand tools
- Microfiber cloths (assorted)
- Spray bottles
- Scrub brushes (various sizes)
- Sponges and scour pads
- Bucket and mop (flat mop preferred)
- Broom and dustpan
- Squeegee
- Duster (extendable)
- Caddy / cleaning tote
- Toothbrush-style detail brushes
Power tools
Power tools to invest in
- Vacuum cleaner (commercial upright or backpack)
- Steam cleaner
- Carpet extractor
- Floor buffer / polisher
Safety
Safety gear (non-negotiable)
- Rubber gloves
- Safety glasses (for chemical use)
- Non-slip shoes
Budget
Estimated startup cost
$200–$800 for supplies, vacuum, and basic equipment
A starter kit covers hand tools and basic power tools. Specialized tools (drain machines, bending machines, etc.) are usually purchased once you start handling specific job types.