Confessions of a Cleaning Business Owner

In this episode of 'Confessions of a Cleaning Business Owner', Louise Trehearn and Diane Greenwood discuss their recent visit to the Cleaning Show in Manchester, exploring the latest trends in the cleaning industry, including the integration of AI technology and the challenges faced by domestic cleaning businesses. They delve into the importance of advocating for employee rights, particularly in light of new policies affecting small businesses, and share insights on best practices for using cleaning products and equipment. The conversation highlights the need for innovation and collaboration within the industry to ensure sustainable growth and employee welfare.
 takeaways
The Cleaning Show in Manchester showcased various suppliers and trends.AI technology is becoming more prevalent in the cleaning industry.Microfiber cloths have specific usage guidelines that are often overlooked.The domestic cleaning industry faces unique challenges that need addressing.Employee rights are at risk due to new policies affecting small businesses.Advocacy for the domestic cleaning sector is crucial for its survival.Data collection in the cleaning industry is often inadequate.Innovative cleaning products can improve efficiency and effectiveness.Collaboration with suppliers can lead to better solutions for cleaning businesses.Training and education are essential for adapting to industry changes.
Chapters
00:00 Exploring the Cleaning Show in Manchester02:52 The Role of AI and Technology in Cleaning05:45 Debating Microfiber Cloth Usage and Best Practices11:32 Challenges in the Domestic Cleaning Industry18:04 Campaigning for Employee Rights in Cleaning28:39 Innovations and Solutions for Cleaning Businesses
 keywords
cleaning industry, AI technology, microfiber cloths, employee rights, cleaning products, cleaning show, domestic cleaning, training, business solutions, innovation
 

Keywords
cleaning business, niche selection, commercial cleaning, domestic cleaning, payment terms, profitability, deep cleaning, holiday lets, Airbnb, business growth
Summary
In this conversation, Louise Traherne and Diane Greenwood discuss the intricacies of starting a cleaning business, focusing on niche selection, the importance of predictability in contracts, and the challenges faced in various cleaning sectors such as domestic, commercial, and holiday lets. They delve into payment terms, profitability comparisons between commercial and domestic cleaning, and the realities of deep cleaning jobs. The discussion emphasizes the need for specialization while also recognizing the flexibility required to adapt to different cleaning opportunities.
Takeaways
Choosing a niche is crucial when starting a cleaning business.Predictability in contracts helps in building a reliable client base.Regular domestic cleaning can provide stable income for startups.Post-construction and end-of-tenancy cleans can be unpredictable.Holiday lets require a different business model and commitment.Payment terms in commercial cleaning can be challenging and lengthy.Profitability in commercial cleaning may not always be higher than domestic.Deep cleaning jobs can be profitable but require careful quoting.Communication with clients about expectations is essential to avoid misunderstandings.Flexibility in service offerings can help fill gaps in business. 
 sound bites
"You need some bread and butter work.""You need to give me a week's notice.""You can't miss a changeover."
Chapters
00:00 Starting a Cleaning Business: Choosing Your Niche01:57 Understanding the Importance of Predictability in Cleaning Contracts05:15 Exploring Different Types of Cleaning Services08:24 Challenges of Holiday Let and Airbnb Cleaning09:50 The Reality of Commercial Cleaning16:14 Navigating Payment Terms in Commercial Cleaning21:19 Profitability in Commercial vs Domestic Cleaning29:05 The Challenges of Deep Cleaning42:30 Specialization vs Flexibility in Cleaning Services

Ever feel like you’re working a 70-hour week, your diary is full, and yet the numbers still don’t add up?
In this episode of Confessions of a Cleaning Business Owner, Louise Trehearn and Diane Greenwood unpack the “busy but broke” trap that so many cleaning business owners fall into—especially micro-businesses where the owner is still out cleaning while trying to run everything else.
What we cover
Why a full schedule can hide serious profitability problems
The real cost of “unpaid hours”: admin, payroll, kits, laundry, recruitment, marketing, and accounts
The pricing myth: why charging £20/hour with a team can leave you earning pennies
Hidden costs that quietly destroy margins (NI, pensions, holiday pay, software fees, breakages, travel, phone bills)
Why turnover near the VAT threshold doesn’t automatically mean you’re doing well
The staffing reality: how a 10% absence rate can keep you permanently covering cleans
How to stabilise your business before you try to grow it
Practical fixes: build slack into capacity, tighten cancellation policies, set boundaries, and systemise enquiries
Why “more tools” and paid marketing can make things worse if your foundations aren’t solid
Key takeaway
You’re not alone—and the fixes are often simpler than you think. If you’re busy but skint, it’s time to stop, stabilise, and rebuild your business so it pays you properly.
Want support?
If you need help getting your numbers, systems, and boundaries working for you, consider joining DCBN for resources, training, and member support.

SSP
Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) is changing in April 2026—and for the domestic cleaning industry, the knock-on effects could be huge.
In this episode of Confessions of a Cleaning Business Owner, Louise and Diane break down what’s changing (including SSP being payable from day one and the removal of the Lower Earnings Limit) and why these reforms disproportionately hit micro cleaning businesses built on part-time, school-hours work.
You’ll hear the real numbers behind the new SSP day rates—why part-time teams could cost employers more per day than five-day workers—and how that collides with thin margins, high absence rates, and the reality that missed cleaning hours can’t simply be “caught up” later.
They also explore the uncomfortable consequences many owners may be forced into: tighter contracts, stricter absence management, higher prices for customers, and a potential industry shift away from employed roles and back toward self-employed or agency models—undoing years of progress toward a more professional, compliant sector.
Finally, Louise and Diane share what DCBN is doing to help members prepare (including legal guidance and updated resources) and why the industry needs to act together—because this isn’t just a policy change; it’s a threat to how domestic cleaning businesses operate.
In this episode
What’s changing with SSP in April 2026
The new SSP day-rate maths (and why part-time work is penalised)
Why domestic cleaning is uniquely exposed
What this means for pricing, staffing, and sustainability
The likely shift in employment models—and what that means for worker rights
How DCBN is supporting members, and how you can support the wider push
 
If you’re a cleaning business owner, employed cleaner, or self-employed cleaner, your support matters. Keep an eye on the show notes for next steps—petitions, actions, and resources—and please get involved when we ask. The future of the industry depends on it.

Podcast description (show notes)
Is being a cleaner “embarrassing”… or is that just society’s outdated bias talking?
In this episode of Confessions of a Cleaning Business Owner, Louise and Diane dig into the stigma around cleaning, sparked by a candid conversation with Louise’s 12-year-old daughter, who struggles with how to explain her parents’ work to friends.
Together, they unpack the contradiction at the heart of it all: we judge businesses (and homes) by cleanliness, yet often fail to respect the people who deliver those standards. They explore how stigma shows up in real life, from being treated as “invisible” in workplaces to hearing the classic “anyone can do it” comments and why cleaning is still wrongly seen as a stopgap, not a career.
You’ll also hear a straight-talking look at young people’s career expectations, the true cost of university, minimum wage realities for employers, and why cleaning can actually be one of the smartest career paths out there, offering progression, skills, travel opportunities, and a clear ladder all the way to business ownership (and beyond).
In this episode, we cover:
The social stigma of cleaning and how it starts young
Why cleanliness is “essential”… but cleaners are undervalued
The difference between domestic vs commercial respect
University debt vs real-world career outcomes
Why “anyone can do it” is one of the biggest myths in the industry
The hidden career ladder in cleaning (and how far it can take you)
Why the problem isn’t you, it’s them
If you’ve ever felt judged for what you do, or you’re building a cleaning business and want to feel proud of it, this one’s for you.

Podcast description (show notes)
In this episode of Confessions of a Cleaning Business Owner, Diane and Louise tackle a pattern that quietly wrecks profits, confidence, and leadership in cleaning businesses: people-pleasing.
From saying “yes” when you mean “no”, to avoiding awkward money conversations, to letting staff performance slide because you fear conflict, this is the episode that calls it out (kindly) and shows you what to do instead.
They unpack how people-pleasing shows up differently with customers vs. team members, why confrontation feels so personal (especially when you started as the cleaner), and how fear, guilt, and the need to be liked can turn you into the bottleneck in your own business.
Most importantly, they share practical fixes you can use immediately: prep your words, focus on the outcome you want, use clear feedback structures, and follow up, so you can set boundaries without becoming the “bad guy”.
In this episode, we cover:
The hidden ways people pleasing shows up in cleaning businesses
Why chasing money owed can feel weird (and why “Tony from accounts” works)
Being liked vs being respected as a leader
The “monkey on your back” problem (and how to stop rescuing everyone)
Policies as boundary-setters (so you don’t have to keep saying yes)
How to give clear feedback without the woolly, awkward conversation
A simple framework: recognise, plan, script it, deliver it, follow up
If you’re tired of over-delivering, undercharging, avoiding hard conversations, or carrying everyone else’s problems, this one will help you reset your boundaries and lead with confidence.

Keywords
cleaning business, social media marketing, customer acquisition, Facebook, Instagram, local marketing, audience engagement, trust building, content creation, business growth
Summary
In this conversation, Diane and Louise discuss strategies for growing a cleaning business through social media in 2026. They emphasise the importance of selecting the right platforms, building trust through personal profiles, creating engaging content, understanding the target audience, leveraging social proof, collaborating with local businesses, responding effectively to inquiries, showcasing processes, and measuring success to adjust strategies accordingly.
Takeaways
2026 is a pivotal year for growth in business.Choosing the right social media platform is crucial.Engagement requires more than just posting; it needs strategy.Building trust is essential for customer acquisition.Content should resonate with the target audience's needs.Social proof can significantly influence customer decisions.Collaborating with local businesses can enhance visibility.Timely responses to inquiries are vital for conversion.Showcasing your cleaning process can reduce price objections.Measuring social media success helps refine marketing strategies.
Sound bites
"2026 is my year of growth.""Pick a hero platform.""Posting with purpose."
Chapters
00:00 Harnessing Social Media for Business Growth02:47 Choosing the Right Platforms05:33 Building Trust Through Personal Profiles08:45 Creating Engaging Content11:29 Understanding Your Audience14:30 Leveraging Social Proof17:09 Collaborating with Local Businesses20:09 Responding to Inquiries Effectively23:06 Showcasing Your Process26:07 Measuring Success and Adjusting Strategies

Keywords
winter illnesses, flu, COVID-19, infection control, cleaning protocols, health safety, client management, vaccination, hand hygiene, cleaning business
Summary
In this episode, the hosts discuss the impact of winter illnesses, particularly flu and COVID-19, on the cleaning business. They share insights on infection control protocols, the importance of hand hygiene, and managing client interactions during illness outbreaks. The conversation emphasizes the lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic and how these can be applied to current health challenges. The hosts also address the need for clear communication with clients and staff regarding health safety measures and the importance of being prepared for future illness outbreaks.
Takeaways
Winter illnesses are on the rise, impacting cleaning businesses.COVID-19 taught us valuable lessons about infection control.Good ventilation is crucial in preventing the spread of illness.Hand washing and hygiene are essential in cleaning protocols.Client communication is key during illness outbreaks.Cancellation policies may need to be adjusted during health crises.Masks primarily protect others, not the wearer.Assessing risk in each home is vital for safety.Trendy hand sanitizers can encourage better hygiene practices.Preparation for future illnesses is necessary for business resilience.
Sound bites
"We need to assess the risk in every house.""We had to abolish our cancellation policy.""We need to change which clients they go to."
Chapters
00:00 Winter Illnesses and Their Impact03:01 Lessons from COVID-1906:20 Infection Control Protocols10:12 Managing Client Interactions15:03 Preparing for Future Illnesses

Keywords
cleaning business, success, challenges, masterminds, customer service, AI, recruitment, training, personal growth, 2026 goals
Summary
In this episode, the hosts reflect on the significant wins and challenges faced by cleaning business owners in 2025. They discuss the power of masterminds in sharing knowledge, the importance of systems and technology in improving customer service, and the value of continuous learning. The conversation also touches on innovations in the cleaning industry, the role of coaching and personalized support, recruitment trends, and the impact of AI on business operations. As they look ahead to 2026, they emphasize the importance of training and development, community support, and setting goals for future success.
Takeaways
Over 70% of business owners got off the tools in 2025.Masterminds provide valuable shared knowledge and support.Systems and technology significantly improve customer service.Continuous learning is essential for business growth.Innovative tools like DocFlight enhance operational efficiency.Coaching offers personalized support for business owners.Recruitment trends indicate easier hiring conditions currently.AI is revolutionizing business operations and marketing.Training is crucial for applying knowledge effectively.Community support fosters growth and connection among business owners.
Sound bites
"Customer service has shot up!""Masterminds are making a difference!""Thank you for supporting us!"
Chapters
00:00 Reflecting on 2025: Wins and Lessons Learned02:51 Masterminds: The Power of Shared Knowledge05:55 Systems and Customer Service: The Role of Technology08:50 The Importance of Continuous Learning11:27 Innovations in Cleaning Business: Tools and Resources14:19 Coaching and One-on-One Support: Personalized Growth17:20 Recruitment Trends: Navigating the Job Market20:21 AI in Business: Revolutionizing Operations23:06 Personal Growth and Achievements: Celebrating Successes25:58 Looking Ahead: Goals for 202628:44 Training and Development: Enhancing Skills31:46 The Future of the Cleaning Industry: Challenges and Opportunities34:29 Community and Support: Building Connections37:19 Final Thoughts: Gratitude and Future Plans

In this episode of 'Confessions of a Cleaning Business Owner', Louise Trehearn and Diane Greenwood explore the evolving standards of cleanliness in modern households. They discuss how personal upbringing, lifestyle, and cultural influences shape perceptions of cleanliness. The conversation highlights the challenges faced by cleaning professionals in managing client expectations, especially when those expectations differ significantly from reality. They also touch on the importance of maintaining a healthy home environment, the impact of mental health on cleanliness, and the necessity of open communication in the cleaning business.
Takeaways
Normal levels of cleanliness vary widely among individuals.Cultural background can significantly influence cleanliness standards.Managing client expectations is crucial for cleaning professionals.A healthy home can include some levels of dust and dirt.Mental health and time constraints affect cleanliness standards.Communication is key in navigating client relationships.Cleaning is often deprioritized in busy households.Expectations can differ based on family size and lifestyle.The cleaning industry faces unique challenges related to client perceptions.Understanding the balance between cleanliness and health is essential. 
Titles
Redefining Cleanliness: What is Normal?The Realities of Domestic Cleaning
Sound bites
"We need to build up immunities.""It's about managing the chaos.""Communication is key in cleaning."
Keywords
cleanliness, cleaning business, domestic cleaning, mental health, cultural influences, client expectations, healthy home, cleaning standards, lifestyle, cleaning tips