How to Get New Cleaning Business Clients
Starting or growing a cleaning business is one thing—consistently getting new clients is another. Whether you run a residential cleaning service, commercial janitorial company, or specialized cleaning business, attracting new customers requires a mix
This guide breaks down proven strategies to help you get new cleaning business clients and grow sustainably.
1. Understand Your Ideal Cleaning Client
Before marketing, you must know who you are targeting.
Common Client Types
- Residential homeowners
- Renters and apartments
- Offices and corporate buildings
- Retail stores
- Airbnb / short-term rental hosts
- Medical or industrial facilities
Key Questions to Ask
- What problems do they want solved?
- How often do they need cleaning?
- What is their budget range?
- Where do they search for cleaning services?
👉 Tip: Focusing on one or two niches first makes your marketing more effective.
2. Build a Professional Online Presence
Most clients search online before hiring a cleaner.
Create a Simple Website
Your website should include:
- Services offered
- Service areas
- Pricing or free quote option
- Contact information
- Testimonials
- Before-and-after photos
Even a one-page website builds credibility and increases conversions.
Optimize for Local SEO
Local search is critical for cleaning businesses.
Must-do steps:
- Create and optimize a Google Business Profile
- Use local keywords (e.g., “house cleaning in Dallas”)
- Add your service area to your website
- Encourage customers to leave Google reviews
3. Use Google Business Profile to Get Free Leads
Google Business Profile is one of the highest ROI tools for cleaning companies.
How to Rank Higher
- Fill out every section completely
- Upload real job photos weekly
- Respond to all reviews
- Post updates and promotions
- Keep business hours accurate
Businesses that appear in the Google Map Pack often get calls without paying for ads.
4. Leverage Online Marketplaces & Lead Platforms
While not perfect, lead platforms can help generate early clients.
Popular Platforms
- Thumbtack
- Angi
- Bark
- TaskRabbit
- Facebook Marketplace
- Yelp
Best Practice:
Respond quickly and follow up professionally to improve close rates.
5. Use Social Media to Build Trust and Visibility
Social media helps potential clients see your work and professionalism.
Best Platforms for Cleaning Businesses
- Facebook
- Instagram
- TikTok
- Nextdoor
Content Ideas
- Before-and-after cleaning videos
- Time-lapse cleaning clips
- Client testimonials
- Cleaning tips
- Behind-the-scenes content
Consistency matters more than perfection.
6. Offer Referral Incentives
Word-of-mouth is one of the strongest growth drivers.
Referral Program Ideas
- $25–$50 off next cleaning
- Free add-on service
- Discount for both referrer and new client
Make it simple and remind happy customers regularly.
7. Partner with Local Businesses
Strategic partnerships can bring steady leads.
Great Partners Include
- Realtors
- Property managers
- Airbnb hosts
- Apartment complexes
- Home organizers
- Contractors
Offer commission, discounts, or bundled services.
8. Use Paid Advertising (Smartly)
Paid ads can scale your business fast when done correctly.
Best Paid Options
- Google Local Services Ads
- Google Search Ads
- Facebook and Instagram Ads
Tips for Success
- Target specific zip codes
- Use strong headlines (e.g., “Reliable House Cleaning Near You”)
- Include testimonials and guarantees
- Track results and optimize
9. Deliver Exceptional Service Every Time
Marketing gets clients once. Service keeps them forever.
How to Stand Out
- Be punctual
- Communicate clearly
- Use checklists
- Train staff properly
- Follow up after service
Satisfied customers turn into repeat clients and referrals.
10. Follow Up and Retain Clients
Retention is cheaper than acquisition.
Retention Strategies
- Automated reminders
- Loyalty discounts
- Subscription or recurring plans
- Seasonal promotions
- Personalized messages
A client who books monthly is worth far more than a one-time clean.
11. Track What Works and Improve
Measure your marketing efforts.
Track:
- Lead sources
- Conversion rates
- Customer lifetime value
- Cost per lead
Focus more on what brings the best clients, not just the most leads.
Final Thoughts
Getting new cleaning business clients isn’t about one magic tactic—it’s about combining visibility, trust, consistency, and great service. Start with local SEO and referrals, then scale using social media and paid ads.
With the right systems in place, your cleaning business can grow predictably and profitably.
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