How to Get Your First 3 Cleaning Clients (Even If You’re Just Starting)

Starting a cleaning business is exciting—but getting your first few clients can feel overwhelming. The good news? You don’t need a fancy website, expensive ads, or a huge marketing budget to land your first 3 clients. You just need a smart strategy that actually works. Here’s exactly how to do it.

Step 1: Leverage Your Personal Network (The Fastest Way)

When starting out, the easiest way to get clients is through people you already know. Friends, family, neighbors, and even past co-workers can be your first customers or referrals.

What to Do:

Make a List of 20+ People – Think of family, friends, church members, gym buddies, neighbors, and local business owners.
Send a Simple Message – Don’t overthink it! Here’s an easy script:

📩 Example Message:
"Hey [Name], I just launched my own professional cleaning business, and I’m looking for my first few clients! Do you know anyone who might need cleaning services? I’d love to offer them a discount for being one of my first customers!"

Post on Your Personal Facebook or Instagram – Your friends & followers may know someone who needs cleaning.

📌 Pro Tip: Even if they don’t need cleaning right now, they’ll think of you later when they do!

Step 2: Target Local Businesses & Real Estate Agents

Instead of chasing one-time residential cleanings, go after businesses and real estate agents—they need ongoing cleaning services.

Best Places to Find Clients:

🏢 Small Offices & Commercial Spaces – Local businesses NEED reliable cleaning services.
🏡 Real Estate Agents – Many realtors need move-in/move-out cleaning for their listings.
🏘️ Property Management Companies – They need regular cleaning for rental properties & Airbnbs.

How to Reach Out:

Walk into Small Businesses & Introduce Yourself – Offer a free or discounted first cleaning so they can see your work.
Email or Call Property Managers – Ask if they need a reliable cleaning service.
Find Real Estate Agents on Facebook or LinkedIn – Message them:

📩 Example Message for Realtors:
"Hey [Agent’s Name], I run a professional cleaning business specializing in move-in/move-out cleaning. If you ever need a reliable cleaner for your listings, I’d love to help! Let me know if you’d like a free estimate!"

📌 Pro Tip: Once you land one business client, they can refer you to others.

Step 3: Use Facebook Marketplace & Local Groups (100% Free Leads)

Facebook is a goldmine for free cleaning leads. Here’s how to use it:

Post an Offer on Facebook Marketplace

  • Title: "Reliable & Affordable Cleaning Services – Special First-Time Discount!"

  • Description: "Professional cleaning services for homes & offices. First-time customers get [$XX] off their first cleaning! Message me for availability!"

  • Add photos of your cleaning work (or stock images if you’re just starting).

Join Local Facebook Groups

  • Search for groups like “[Your City] Small Business Owners” or “[Your City] Moms & Families.”

  • Post about your cleaning services (but follow group rules!).

📌 Pro Tip: Offer a limited-time discount to encourage people to book you ASAP.

Bonus: The Secret to Getting Clients to Say "YES" Fast

Once you get interest, you need to close the deal fast. Here’s how:

🔥 Offer a Special First-Time Discount – People love a deal! Example: “Book your first cleaning this week & get 20% off!”
🔥 Have a Simple Pricing Structure – Be upfront & clear about your pricing.
🔥 Make Booking Easy – Offer texting, Facebook messages, or a simple booking form instead of long phone calls.

Final Thoughts: Your First 3 Clients Are Waiting!

You don’t need fancy ads or a big marketing budget to land your first 3 cleaning clients.

Just follow these steps:
✔️ Reach out to people you already know
✔️ Contact small businesses, realtors & property managers
✔️ Use Facebook Marketplace & local groups for free leads

👉 Want more proven strategies to get clients & grow your business?

Check out the Cleaning Business Starter Pack—it’s packed with templates, pricing guides, and marketing tips to help you get clients fast.

📌 Click here to grab it!

Good luck, and let me know when you land your first client! 🚀