Confessions of a Cleaning Business Owner

Cash in hand cleaning

The cleaning industry is bigger—and more complicated—than most people realise. In this episode, we pull back the curtain on the grey economy, exploring the realities of cash-in-hand work, exploitation, and the challenges facing both cleaners and cleaning businesses.
Join us as we discuss:
The true scale of the grey economy in domestic cleaning
Why cash-in-hand work puts cleaners at risk of exploitation and underpayment
How VAT and minimum wage laws impact business growth and cleaner livelihoods
The dangers of neglecting insurance and proper employment practices
Cultural attitudes towards cleaning services—and why they matter
What the UK can learn from European countries fighting the grey economy
The legalities of cash payments and the importance of documentation
How potential VAT changes could reshape the future of the industry
Key takeaways:
The grey economy in cleaning is widespread and difficult to track
Cash-in-hand work, while common, leaves cleaners vulnerable
Undercharging is harming both individual cleaners and the industry as a whole
Insurance and proper training are crucial but often overlooked
VAT thresholds can make or break cleaning businesses
London’s cleaning market has unique challenges and opportunities
Cultural perceptions continue to impact the status and treatment of cleaners
Chapters:
00:00 Understanding the Grey Economy in Cleaning
10:05 Exploring Solutions to Exploitation
20:01 The Impact of VAT on the Cleaning Industry
26:40 Future of the Cleaning Industry and VAT Changes
Titles to consider:
The Hidden World of Cash-in-Hand Cleaners
Exploitation in the Cleaning Industry
Sound bites:
"They could earn a good income."
"It does damage our industry."
"It inhibits growth."
Whether you’re a business owner, a cleaner, or just curious about the realities behind the scenes, this episode offers honest insights and practical ideas for building a fairer, safer cleaning industry.

Floor Cleaning for domestic cleaners

Keywords
floor cleaning, vacuuming, mopping, carpet care, cleaning techniques, cleaning products, training, efficiency, cleaning business, maintenance
Summary
In this episode of Confessions of a Cleaning Business Owner, the hosts delve into the intricacies of floor cleaning, focusing on mopping and vacuuming techniques for both carpets and hard floors. They discuss the importance of choosing the right vacuum, understanding the differences between cleaning surfaces, and the significance of using appropriate cleaning products. The conversation emphasizes training staff on efficient cleaning methods and the need for flexibility in cleaning practices. The hosts share personal experiences and insights, making the discussion relatable and informative for cleaning business owners.
Takeaways
Choosing the right vacuum depends on the type of flooring.A good vacuum should be versatile for different surfaces.Attachments are crucial for effective cleaning.Training staff on vacuuming techniques can improve efficiency.Mopping requires different methods compared to vacuuming.Using the right cleaning products is essential for floor care.Understanding customer preferences can guide cleaning priorities.Health and safety should be considered in cleaning practices.Flexibility in cleaning methods can lead to better results.Regular training helps maintain high cleaning standards.
Titles
Mastering Floor Cleaning TechniquesThe Ultimate Guide to Vacuuming and Mopping
Sound bites
"I love a multi one, I've got to say.""You have to explain why they're doing it.""Bleach doesn't work with hot water."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Floor Cleaning02:57 Choosing the Right Vacuum05:38 Understanding Carpet vs. Hard Floor Cleaning08:24 The Importance of Attachments11:16 Efficient Vacuuming Techniques14:24 Mopping Methods and Preferences17:20 The Role of Cleaning Products19:52 Training and Best Practices22:49 Final Thoughts on Floor Care

Top 10 Tik Tok cleaning tips

Curious about the latest cleaning trends taking over TikTok? In this episode, we break down the most viral cleaning hacks—separating what’s safe and effective from what’s just risky. From lemon steam for microwaves to the dangers of mixing bleach and hot water, we reveal which DIY cleaning tips actually work and which ones could harm your health or your home.
Tune in as we discuss:
The science behind popular TikTok cleaning trends
Why some viral hacks (like using shaving foam on carpets) do more harm than good
The real risks of mixing cleaning chemicals
How to spot safe, effective cleaning products
Why organization “aesthetics” can sometimes compromise safety
Professional advice for keeping your home clean, healthy, and hazard-free
Key takeaways:
Lemon steam is a safe microwave cleaner
Never mix bleach with hot water
Baking soda works wonders for carpets
Watch out for sticky residues from shaving foam
Toilet cleaning hacks can be downright dangerous
Elbow grease still matters for a true clean
Regular maintenance trumps risky shortcuts
Boiling cloths? Not needed with modern machines
Dishwasher pods belong in dishwashers—nowhere else!
Whether you’re a cleaning pro or just love a good cleaning hack, this episode is packed with practical advice, myth-busting, and a few laughs along the way. Enjoy social media—but get the facts first!
Chapters:
00:00 Exploring TikTok Cleaning Trends
02:09 The Dangers of Mixing Cleaning Chemicals
04:52 Effective Cleaning Techniques: Baking Soda and Beyond
08:02 The Risks of DIY Carpet Cleaning Hacks
10:23 The Truth About Toilet Cleaning Trends
13:11 The Reality of Cleaning Products
15:33 Understanding Grout and Mould Management
16:58 The Debate on Boiling Cleaning Cloths
19:42 The Aesthetics of Organized Cleaning Supplies
22:56 Dishwasher Pods: A Cleaning Hack or Hazard?
26:32 The Risks of Using Improvised Cleaning Methods
30:55 The Importance of Reliable Cleaning Information

Lets have a catch up...

Running a cleaning business isn’t always spotless—sometimes you’re right in the thick of challenges. In this episode, we dive deep into the realities of quality control, team dynamics, and the power of effective communication. Our hosts share candid stories about navigating tough situations, taking ownership, and making changes that drive real improvement.
Discover how specialized skill sets and continuous learning can transform your business, why investing in training pays off, and how embracing AI can boost efficiency. We’ll break down actionable feedback strategies, explore what it really means to get the team you deserve, and highlight the importance of planning for future growth.
Whether you’re facing resistance to change or looking for ways to empower your team, this conversation is packed with insights to help you lead your cleaning business with confidence and clarity.
Keywords: cleaning business, quality control, team dynamics, communication, feedback strategies, AI in business, training, business growth, challenges, efficiency

Handling Price objections

Unlock the secrets to overcoming price objections and boosting your cleaning business’s sales confidence in this episode of "Confessions of a Cleaning Business." Hosts Louise Trehearn and Diane Greenwood dive deep into the art of handling price objections, sharing practical sales techniques, real-world examples, and role-play scenarios tailored to the cleaning industry.
Discover how to build rapport, communicate value, and turn objections into opportunities. From understanding client budgets to reinforcing the quality and consistency of your cleaning services, Louise and Diane reveal why confidence and preparation are your best sales tools. Whether you’re a solo cleaner or leading a growing team, you’ll learn actionable strategies to strengthen client relationships, refine your pricing strategies, and convert more leads into loyal customers—without resorting to discounting or devaluing your services.
Key Takeaways:
Confidence is your superpower in pricing conversations
Rapport-building helps ease client concerns
Selling is about showcasing value, not just price
Objections signal interest—embrace them!
Tailor solutions by understanding client needs and budgets
Consistency and reliability set you apart
Effective communication turns challenges into wins
Chapters:
00:00 Mastering Price Objections in Cleaning Services
02:48 Building Confidence and Rapport in Sales
05:43 Handling Common Price Objections
08:34 Understanding Value and Quality in Cleaning Services
11:27 Responding to Perceived Value and Pricing
14:01 Addressing Client Budget Concerns
16:52 The Importance of Consistency and Reliability
19:54 Navigating Discounts and Client Expectations
22:21 Final Thoughts on Sales Techniques and Client Relationships
Sound bites:"It's more than just the words, isn't it?""We have to learn to sell in our own style.""Write it down and practice."

Mastering difficult staff conversations

Managing people isn’t easy—especially when conversations get tough. In this episode of “Confessions of a Cleaning Business Owner,” we break down how to handle difficult staff conversations with confidence and compassion. From employee performance and attendance issues to team dynamics and even personal hygiene concerns, we share practical communication strategies you can apply immediately in your cleaning business.
You’ll learn how to prepare for hard conversations, set clear boundaries and policies, and listen in a way that uncovers the real issues behind workplace challenges. We also talk about the power of community support and how masterminds can help you navigate tricky situations without feeling isolated as a business owner.
If you’ve ever thought, “I’ve had all of those this week,” this one’s for you.
What You’ll Learn
How to start difficult conversations before problems escalate
Practical frameworks for addressing performance and attendance issues
Setting boundaries and policies that protect your team and business
Approaching personal hygiene conversations directly and sensitively
Improving team dynamics to boost morale and reduce friction
Balancing empathy with business needs to drive better outcomes

What makes a good cleaner

Running a cleaning business doesn’t have to be chaotic. In this episode of Confessions of a Cleaning Business Owner, we break down the exact systems that save time, reduce stress, and boost profit. From standardizing your cleaning processes and training your team methodically, to using geographic scheduling and digital automation for bookings and invoicing—we cover the essentials that keep your operations flowing.
We also look beyond the business to the daily habits that buy back your time: end-of-day resets, meal planning and batch cooking, and decluttering routines that keep life organized. Plus, we dive into the tech shaping the industry—how to choose the right digital tools now and why embracing AI will separate tomorrow’s leaders from the rest.
Whether you’re a solo cleaner or managing a growing team, this episode gives you practical steps to work smarter, not harder.
What You’ll Learn
How standard operating procedures slash decision fatigue and errors
A simple training cadence that raises quality and speed
Geographic scheduling to cut travel time and fuel costs
The best uses of digital tools for scheduling, reminders, and invoicing
End-of-day resets that set tomorrow up for success
Meal planning and batch cooking to free up weeknight hours
Decluttering strategies that keep home and van kit streamlined
When to outsource and what to outsource first
Where AI fits in cleaning businesses today—and what’s next

How do political tensions and misinformation shape the cleaning business landscape?

How do political tensions and misinformation shape the cleaning business landscape? In this episode, we dive deep into the current UK political climate and its ripple effects on cleaning business owners, managers, and their teams. With a spotlight on workplace diversity, we discuss the challenges of managing employee conversations around sensitive topics—especially as the industry relies heavily on immigrant workers and increasingly diverse teams.
Our hosts share real-life experiences, unpacking how misinformation and shifting political views can disrupt workplace culture. You’ll hear practical advice on building a truly inclusive environment, from setting clear inclusivity policies to knowing when and how to shut down toxic conversations. We explore why it’s essential for business owners to be proactive, educate staff on respect, and maintain a professional atmosphere where everyone feels safe and valued.
Tune in for actionable takeaways on navigating political discussions, fostering inclusivity, and future-proofing your business management strategy in a rapidly changing world.
Keywords: cleaning business, political climate, workplace diversity, misinformation, inclusivity policy, employee conversations, immigration, business management, workplace culture, political views

Unlocking Customer Loyalty: The Power of Appreciation

In this heartfelt and practical episode, Louise and Diane dive deep into one of the most overlooked secrets to growing a successful cleaning business: customer appreciation. From handwritten thank-you cards to seasonal gifts and savvy referral programs, they unpack the real-world strategies that build loyalty and keep clients coming back.
Whether you're just starting out or scaling your cleaning empire, this conversation is packed with insights on:
Balancing discounts with profitability
Why referrals often beat loyalty programs
Creative ways to engage customers year-round
Empowering your team to show genuine appreciation
Using social media to spotlight your most loyal clients
Louise and Diane don’t sugarcoat the challenges—like tracking what actually works or deciding which customers to prioritize—but they do offer plenty of inspiration and actionable tips to help you turn appreciation into retention and growth.

What must be given up to scale a cleaning business?

Ready to scale your cleaning business but not sure where to start? In this episode of ‘Confessions of a Cleaning Business Owner’, we break down the essential changes every ambitious owner needs to make for real growth. Say goodbye to paper diaries and time-consuming in-person quotes—discover how automation, digital tools, and the right software can streamline your operations and boost efficiency.
We share honest insights and personal stories about embracing technology, creating boundaries between personal and work life, and why outsourcing tasks like bookkeeping is a game-changer. Learn how to manage client demand with waiting lists, improve time management, and develop a proactive approach to business growth.
If you’re ready to ditch outdated practices, embrace digital solutions, and scale your cleaning business with confidence, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you get there.