When you’re staring at an empty fridge with bills piling up, you don’t need another “business opportunity” that requires $500 to start. You need cash. Today. That’s why cleaning houses is the ultimate side hustle for moms who aren’t afraid of hard work.
Getting Started (With What You Already Have)
You don’t need fancy equipment to begin. Chances are, you’ve got most of this in your own cleaning cabinet:
- That half-empty bottle of all-purpose cleaner
- The mop you bought last year and never used
- Old towels that can become rags
- Rubber gloves (unless you enjoy touching mystery stains)
Total investment: Maybe $20 if you need to grab some dollar store supplies.
Finding Your First Clients (Without Feeling Awkward)
Here’s how real people get their first jobs:
- Post in local neighborhood groups: “Busy mom available to help with light cleaning – $25/hour. References available.” Keep it simple.
- Tell every mom at school pickup what you’re doing. You’d be surprised how many “Oh my God, I need help!” responses you’ll get.
- Offer to do a FREE clean for a friend in exchange for before/after photos and a testimonial.
What to Charge (Without Selling Yourself Short)
- Start at $25-30/hour when you’re new
- Move to flat rates ($100 for 1 bedroom, $150 for 3 bedrooms) once you know your speed
- ALWAYS charge extra for:
- Pet hair (minimum $20 more)
- Hoarder situations (double your rate)
- Biohazards (triple, and bring your own PPE)
The Truth No One Tells You
- Your best clients will be other working moms – they get it and won’t micromanage you
- The richest clients often have the grossest houses (money can’t buy cleanliness)
- You’ll develop a sixth sense for which houses have roaches before you even walk in
Making More Without Working Harder
Once you’ve got regulars, offer:
- Fridge cleanouts ($50 add-on)
- Laundry service ($1/pound to wash/fold)
- Seasonal deep cleans (charge 2x your normal rate)
- Move-in/move-out cleans (big paydays)
When to Fire a Client
- If they follow you around “checking your work”
- If they complain about your rate but drive a Mercedes
- If their house makes you want to burn your cleaning supplies
Final Tip: Buy good shoes, invest in knee pads, and remember – every scrub brush stroke is one step closer to financial freedom. Your kids might think you’re “just a cleaner,” but that cleaning money puts food on the table. And that’s something to be proud of.