Many Airbnb cleaners never set out to start a business. A host asks, a friend refers you, and one clean becomes five. You can keep it that simple and still run it properly.
Pick what you will clean and how far you will drive: turnovers, regular homes, or both. A turnover has a hard deadline, because one guest leaves and the next arrives, sometimes the same day. Laundry, restocking and a quick damage check often come with it, so decide now what is included.
Choose a flat or hourly rate for each property, and keep a short list of extras at set prices. Our rate guide covers what belongs in the number, and the cleaning price calculator gives you a starting range.
Check your state and local rules on business licenses, and look into liability insurance before your first job. Rules vary by place, so ask your local small business office or an accountant. From day one, keep a record of what you earn and what you spend on supplies and mileage.
Start with hosts you already know. Ask other cleaners who are full or need backup. Try local host groups online. One dependable clean, finished on time, is often how the next client finds you.
Before the first clean, send your rate, what it includes, your extras and when you invoice. Ask the client to reply "agreed." Then use a turnover checklist so every house gets the same clean.
A free cleaning invoice template is a fine place to start. List each clean by date and each extra on its own line. When you have more than a property or two, Airbnb cleaning software saves the retyping. In CleanSlate, you connect an iCal link for each listing, every checkout becomes a priced line item, and you review the invoice and send it yourself.
Start with a clear invoice. Free for 75 days, no credit card.
Start freeDo I need an LLC to clean Airbnbs?
Not always. It depends on where you work and how you want to run the business, so check with your state or an accountant.
How do I find my first Airbnb cleaning clients?
Start with hosts you know, other cleaners who need backup, and local host groups.
We assumed every cleaner charged a flat fee, because we did. Building CleanSlate taught us otherwise. Here's what belongs in your rate, and how to set it once.
Asking to be paid should never feel like asking a favor. Set the ground rules before the first clean, and it gets easier.
Your booking calendar already lists every checkout, and every checkout is a clean. Here is how to turn those dates into a professional invoice, automatically.
75 days free. No credit card. One person subscribes — cleaners and hosts join free.
Start 75 days free