What drives your startup cost
Costs vary mostly with the services you offer, whether you already own transport, and how much you spend on marketing at the start. A solo domestic cleaner can usually start with a small kit and add equipment as work grows.
Typical cost categories
Use these as a checklist rather than fixed prices — prices change and vary by supplier.
- Core equipment: vacuum, mop, bucket, cloths
- Products and PPE
- Insurance
- Branding, website and marketing
- Software for booking and invoicing
- Transport costs
Spend now vs spend later
Buy what you need for the jobs you have. Specialist kit like carpet or steam cleaners can wait until you have customers asking for those services.
Keep your receipts
Official requirement / official guidance
Some business costs may be allowable expenses for tax. GOV.UK explains what counts.
Frequently asked questions
This information is general business guidance and is not legal, tax or financial advice. Requirements can change, so always check the latest information from official sources or a qualified professional.