How to Start a Career in Professional Cleaning

Introduction

The cleaning services market is constantly growing. More and more people are looking for professional help to keep their homes and offices clean, creating opportunities for those who want to enter this field.

This guide helps you take your first steps as a cleaning professional.

Why Work in Cleaning?

Advantages

• Schedule flexibility - Set your own agenda
• Low initial investment - You don't need large resources to start
• Constant demand - Service always needed
• Independence - You can work for yourself
• Immediate satisfaction - Visible results of your work

Challenges

• Physically demanding work
• Managing your own business
• Seasonality in some areas
• Competition

Essential Equipment

Basic Starter Kit

Item	Approx. Investment
Portable vacuum	€80-150
Bucket and mop	€20-40
Microfiber cloths (pack)	€15-25
Rubber gloves	€5-10
Various brushes	€15-20
Cleaning products	€30-50
Total	€165-295

Advanced Equipment (after 6 months)

• Professional vacuum
• Steam machine
• Folding ladder
• Transport cart

Setting Prices

Pricing Models

1. Per hour - Ideal for regular clients
2. Per service - Better for one-time cleanings
3. Per m² - Used in commercial spaces

Reference Table (Portugal 2025)

Service	Average Price
Regular cleaning (hour)	€10-15
Deep cleaning	€15-20/hour
Post-construction cleaning	€18-25/hour
Window cleaning	€3-5/m²

Note: Prices vary by region. Lisbon and Porto tend to be higher.

Finding Clients

Initial Strategies

1. Word of mouth - Start with acquaintances
2. Social media - Create presence on Facebook and Instagram
3. Online platforms - Register on Esfrega
4. Local flyers - Distribute in condominiums
5. Partnerships - Real estate agents, vacation rental managers

Professional Profile

To stand out:

• Photos of completed work
• Clear description of services
• Transparent prices
• Updated availability
• Quick responses to contacts

Retaining Clients

Best Practices

• Punctuality - Always arrive on time
• Communication - Report any problems
• Consistency - Maintain the same quality level
• Small extras - Surprise positively
• Professionalism - Dress appropriately

What to Avoid

• Using your phone during work
• Commenting on the client's home/life
• Touching personal objects
• Complaining about work

Legal Aspects

Options in Portugal

1. Self-employed (Green receipts)

   • Tax registration
   • Social Security contributions

2. Sole proprietorship

   • More legal protection
   • Organized accounting

Liability Insurance

Strongly recommended to cover:

• Accidental property damage
• Injuries during work

Average cost: €100-200/year

Efficient Work Routine

Recommended Cleaning Order

1. Collect trash and misplaced items
2. Clean from top to bottom
3. Start from the back, finish at the door
4. Bathroom and kitchen last

Time Management

• 1-bedroom apartment: 2-3 hours
• 2-bedroom apartment: 3-4 hours
• 3-bedroom house: 4-6 hours

Growing the Business

Next Steps

1. Specialization - Post-construction, vacation rentals, offices
2. Better equipment - Increases efficiency
3. Team - Hire helpers
4. Formalization - Create a company

Conclusion

Starting as a cleaning professional requires dedication, but offers flexibility and growth opportunities. With the right equipment, fair prices and focus on quality, you can build a solid client base.

Register on Esfrega to start receiving requests from clients in your area.