Going green isn’t just good for the planet – it’s good for business. Here’s how to build a profitable eco-friendly cleaning service that attracts premium clients and stands out from the competition.
Here’s something interesting: the demand for eco-friendly cleaning services in the UK has grown by over 150% in the past five years. More and more homeowners are actively seeking cleaners who use plant-based, non-toxic products. They’re willing to pay premium rates for this service. And here’s the best bit: the market is still undersupplied.
Most cleaning businesses stick with conventional products because “that’s how it’s always been done.” They’re missing a massive opportunity.
Eco-friendly cleaning isn’t a niche anymore – it’s a rapidly growing market segment with clients who value quality, are willing to pay for their principles, and tend to be loyal long-term customers. These are exactly the clients you want.
But here’s the thing: you can’t just slap “eco-friendly” on your profile and hope for the best. Clients seeking green cleaning services are informed, careful about greenwashing, and have high standards. To succeed in this market, you need genuine commitment, proper knowledge, and smart business positioning.
This comprehensive guide will show you exactly how to build a profitable eco-friendly cleaning business: which products actually work, how to price your services, how to market effectively, and how to deliver results that justify premium rates whilst protecting your own health and the environment.
Why Eco-Friendly Cleaning is a Brilliant Business Opportunity
Let’s start with why this matters financially, because ultimately, you’re running a business.
The Growing Market Demand
The numbers are compelling:
- 68% of UK homeowners say they prefer eco-friendly products when available
- 42% actively seek out eco-friendly cleaning services
- 55% of millennial homeowners (the largest client demographic) prioritise environmental values
- Families with children show highest demand (children and environmental concerns correlate strongly)
Client demographics seeking eco-friendly cleaning:
- Families with young children (worried about chemical exposure)
- Households with pets (concerned about toxic products)
- People with allergies or asthma (chemical sensitivities)
- Environmentally conscious professionals
- Health-focused individuals
- Expecting parents (nesting + health concerns)
These aren’t budget shoppers looking for the cheapest option. They’re clients willing to invest in services aligning with their values.
Premium Pricing Potential
Eco-friendly cleaners can charge 10-20% more than conventional cleaners.
Conventional cleaning rates:
- London: £15-£22/hour
- Major cities: £13-£18/hour
- Other regions: £12-£16/hour
Eco-friendly cleaning rates:
- London: £18-£25/hour
- Major cities: £15-£20/hour
- Other regions: £14-£18/hour
For a cleaner working 25 hours per week, this premium equals:
- £1-£3 extra per hour
- £25-£75 extra per week
- £1,300-£3,900 extra per year
That’s substantial additional income for using different products and positioning yourself differently.
Lower Client Churn
Eco-friendly clients tend to be stickier:
- Once they find a cleaner whose values align with theirs, they stay loyal
- These clients aren’t constantly shopping for cheaper options
- They value the relationship and trust you’ve built
- They refer friends with similar values
In conventional cleaning, client turnover might be 30-40% annually. Eco-friendly cleaning often sees 15-20% turnover. That stability is gold for business planning.
Competitive Advantage
In most areas, genuine eco-friendly cleaners are undersupplied. Search Trader Street for “eco-friendly cleaner” in your area. How many genuine green cleaners do you see? Probably fewer than conventional cleaners.
This undersupply means:
- Less competition for this specific market segment
- Easier to build reputation as “the” local eco-friendly cleaner
- Higher chance of being booked when clients search specifically for green cleaning
- Premium pricing is easier to maintain when competition is limited
Your Own Health Benefits
This matters more than you might think.
Professional cleaners spend 30-40 hours weekly exposed to cleaning products. Conventional products contain harsh chemicals: ammonia, bleach, VOCs, synthetic fragrances. Daily exposure causes:
- Respiratory issues (chronic cough, asthma)
- Skin problems (dermatitis, eczema, chemical burns)
- Headaches and dizziness
- Long-term health risks (studies link occupational cleaner exposure to increased cancer and respiratory disease risks)
Switching to eco-friendly products dramatically reduces your exposure. You’ll notice:
- Easier breathing during and after work
- Less skin irritation
- Fewer headaches
- Better overall health
This isn’t just feel-good fluff. Your health is your business asset. Protecting it makes financial sense.
Understanding Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products
Right, you’re convinced about the business opportunity. Now you need to understand the products themselves.
What Makes Products Genuinely Eco-Friendly?
Plant-based ingredients: Derived from renewable resources (coconut, corn, sugar beet) rather than petroleum.
Biodegradable: Breaks down naturally in waterways without harming aquatic life.
Low or zero VOCs: Volatile Organic Compounds pollute indoor air. Eco-friendly products minimise or eliminate these.
No harsh chemicals: Specifically avoiding:
- Chlorine bleach
- Ammonia
- Phosphates
- Optical brighteners
- Synthetic fragrances
- Formaldehyde and formaldehyde-releasing preservatives
- Phthalates
Minimal packaging: Concentrated formulas, recyclable bottles, or refillable systems.
Third-party certification: Look for Ecocert, EU Ecolabel, Leaping Bunny (cruelty-free), Vegan Society approval.
The Best Eco-Friendly Brands for Professional Use
After testing dozens of eco-friendly products professionally, here’s what actually works:
Delphis Eco (Professional Grade)
- Best for: Professional cleaners, tough jobs
- Why: Specifically designed for commercial/professional use
- Certifications: EU Ecolabel across entire range
- Range: Comprehensive – bathroom, kitchen, floor, glass, all-purpose
- Effectiveness: Excellent. Most effective eco-brand for tough jobs
- Cost: £5-£12 per bottle (concentrated, lasts longer)
- Where to buy: Online, professional cleaning suppliers
- Professional verdict: Best overall for professional eco-friendly cleaning
Bio-D (UK Company)
- Best for: Sensitive skin clients, allergy sufferers
- Why: Hypoallergenic, minimal ingredients
- Certifications: EU Ecolabel, Vegan Society, Ethical Consumer Best Buy
- Range: Full cleaning range plus laundry
- Effectiveness: Very good. Works well for most tasks
- Cost: £4-£8 per bottle (concentrated)
- Where to buy: Ethical supermarkets, health food shops, online
- Professional verdict: Excellent for clients with health concerns
Ecover (Widely Available)
- Best for: General domestic cleaning, readily accessible
- Why: Available in most supermarkets, familiar to clients
- Certifications: EU Ecolabel
- Range: Comprehensive domestic cleaning range
- Effectiveness: Good. Reliable for regular cleaning
- Cost: £3-£5 per bottle
- Where to buy: Most major supermarkets
- Professional verdict: Solid choice, good value, easily replenished
Method (Design-Conscious)
- Best for: Style-conscious clients, pleasant scents
- Why: Attractive packaging, naturally fragranced
- Certifications: Cradle to Cradle Certified
- Range: Good variety including antibacterial
- Effectiveness: Good for general cleaning
- Cost: £3-£6 per bottle
- Where to buy: Supermarkets, online
- Professional verdict: Works well, clients like the aesthetic
Homethings/Smol (Innovative Delivery)
- Best for: Environmentally conscious clients wanting minimal packaging
- Why: Refillable systems, plastic reduction
- Range: Limited but covers basics
- Effectiveness: Good for regular maintenance
- Cost: £3-£5 per refill
- Where to buy: Subscription/online only
- Professional verdict: Innovative model, appeals to zero-waste clients
Product Recommendations by Task
All-purpose cleaning:
- Delphis Eco Multi-Surface Cleaner (best professional option)
- Method All-Purpose Cleaner (good, widely available)
- Bio-D Multi-Surface Cleaner (excellent for sensitive clients)
Bathroom cleaning:
- Delphis Eco Bathroom Cleaner (tough on limescale)
- Ecover Bathroom Cleaner (good everyday option)
- Bio-D Bathroom Cleaner (hypoallergenic)
Kitchen degreasing:
- Delphis Eco Degreaser (professional strength)
- Bio-D Washing Up Liquid (surprisingly effective as degreaser)
- Ecover Kitchen Cleaner (solid performance)
Floor cleaning:
- Delphis Eco Floor Cleaner (all floor types)
- Method Floor Cleaner (good for regular use)
- Ecover Floor Soap (wooden floors)
Glass and mirrors:
- Method Glass Cleaner (streak-free)
- Delphis Eco Glass Cleaner (professional grade)
- White vinegar + water solution (50/50) (cheapest, effective)
Limescale removal:
- Ecover Limescale Remover (best eco-option)
- Bio-D Descaler (good for regular maintenance)
- White vinegar (for light limescale, must soak)
Oven cleaning:
- Bio-D Oven Cleaner (requires more effort than conventional)
- Bicarbonate of soda paste + elbow grease (DIY method)
- Note: Eco-oven cleaning is genuinely harder. Requires different approach.
Disinfection (when actually needed):
- Method Antibacterial Spray (toilets, post-raw-meat)
- Dettol Eco-Range (if clients specifically want Dettol brand)
- Important: Most cleaning doesn’t require disinfection
What About DIY Solutions?
Vinegar, bicarbonate of soda, lemon juice – do they work professionally?
Short answer: Yes, for some tasks. Not comprehensively.
What works:
- White vinegar for glass cleaning (50/50 with water)
- White vinegar for light limescale (requires soaking)
- Bicarbonate of soda as gentle abrasive
- Lemon juice for freshening, very light cleaning
What doesn’t work:
- Heavy grease (needs proper degreaser)
- Serious limescale (vinegar helps but rarely fully removes it)
- Large properties (too time-consuming)
- Professional standards clients expect
Professional verdict: Use DIY solutions where appropriate (glass, light maintenance) but rely on proper eco-products for comprehensive professional cleaning.
Transitioning to Eco-Friendly Products
You’re convinced. How do you actually make the switch?
The Gradual Transition Approach
Phase 1: Start with basics (Month 1)
- Buy all-purpose cleaner (Delphis Eco or Bio-D)
- Buy bathroom cleaner
- Buy floor cleaner
- Buy glass cleaner
- Investment: £25-£40
Use these for new clients you’re marketing as eco-friendly. Continue conventional products for existing clients.
Phase 2: Build your eco-kit (Month 2-3)
- Add kitchen degreaser
- Add limescale remover
- Add any specialist products you regularly need
- Additional investment: £20-£30
Phase 3: Full transition (Month 4+)
- Replace all conventional products as they run out
- Offer existing clients the option to switch to eco-products
- Update all marketing to emphasise eco-friendly services
Total investment: £50-£80 to fully transition
This spreads the cost and lets you learn which eco-products work best before committing fully.
The Bold Transition Approach
Complete switch immediately:
- Buy full range of eco-products (£50-£80)
- Switch all clients to eco-products (with notice)
- Update all marketing materials simultaneously
- Position yourself as exclusively eco-friendly
Advantages:
- Clear brand positioning
- No confusion about what you offer
- Attracts eco-conscious clients immediately
Risks:
- Higher upfront investment
- Some clients might not want the change
- Learning curve for new products with all clients at once
Most cleaners find gradual transition works better psychologically and financially.
Mastering Eco-Product Techniques
Eco-friendly products often require different techniques than conventional products. Here’s what you need to know:
Limescale requires patience:
- Apply eco-descaler, leave for 10-20 minutes, then scrub
- Heavy limescale might need repeat applications
- For serious buildup, apply before starting clean elsewhere, return later
- Vinegar works for light limescale if soaked 30+ minutes
Ovens require elbow grease:
- Eco-oven cleaners need longer soaking (overnight for heavy soiling)
- More physical scrubbing than caustic conventional cleaners
- May need two applications for very dirty ovens
- Use bicarbonate paste + scrubbing for stubborn areas
Grease needs proper products:
- Don’t skimp on degreaser for kitchens
- Delphis Eco Degreaser is genuinely effective
- Hot water + proper degreaser + scrubbing = excellent results
- Concentrate on technique, not product strength
Glass needs the right approach:
- Use squeegee technique (like professional window cleaners)
- Spray, wipe, squeegee, buff edges
- Method Glass Cleaner or vinegar solution both work excellently
- Technique matters more than product
Floors love eco-products:
- Eco-floor cleaners work just as well as conventional
- Many actually leave less residue
- Follow dilution ratios (concentrated products go further than you think)
Pricing Your Eco-Friendly Services
This is where many eco-friendly cleaners undersell themselves. Don’t make this mistake.
Setting Your Rates
Research conventional rates in your area thoroughly. Check 10-15 conventional cleaner profiles on Trader Street. Note the average.
Position yourself 10-20% higher.
Example:
- Conventional average in your area: £15/hour
- Your eco-friendly rate: £16.50-£18/hour
Why this premium is justified:
Higher product costs: Eco-friendly products cost 20-40% more than conventional. Pass some of this cost to clients.
Specialised knowledge: You’ve invested time learning eco-products and techniques. Expertise commands premium.
Market positioning: Eco-friendly is a premium service attracting clients willing to pay for values alignment.
Health benefits: Clients are paying for healthier homes. That’s valuable.
Environmental value: Clients are paying for reduced environmental impact. Price should reflect this added value.
Don’t Undercharge
Common mistake: Pricing eco-friendly services the same as conventional.
Why this is wrong:
- Suggests eco-friendly isn’t more valuable
- Reduces your profit margins (products cost more)
- Attracts wrong clients (those only caring about price)
- Undervalues your expertise and commitment
Confident pricing attracts better clients. People seeking eco-friendly cleaning understand it might cost slightly more. They’re fine with this if they understand the value.
Explaining Your Premium
When clients query rates:
“My rates reflect several factors: I use professional-grade eco-friendly products that cost more than conventional cleaners but are safer for your family and the environment. I’ve invested in specialised training for eco-cleaning techniques. My services attract clients who value health-conscious, environmentally responsible cleaning and are willing to pay fairly for genuine expertise and premium products.”
This positions you as professional and confident, not defensive.
Package Pricing Options
Standard eco-cleaning package:
- Regular domestic clean with all eco-products
- Price: Your standard hourly rate × hours needed
Premium eco-package:
- All eco-products
- Additional services (inside fridge, interior windows)
- Specialty products for specific surfaces
- Price: 20-30% more than standard
Ultra-green package:
- Completely fragrance-free for allergies
- Plastic-free supplies
- Zero-waste approach
- Price: 30-40% more than standard
Packages create value perception and allow clients to choose their commitment level.
Marketing Your Eco-Friendly Business
You’ve got the products, the techniques, and the pricing. Now you need clients.
Optimising Your Trader Street Profile
Your profile is your shop window. Make it clearly eco-focused:
Profile headline examples:
- “Professional Eco-Friendly Cleaning | Plant-Based, Non-Toxic Products”
- “Green Cleaning Services | Safe for Families, Pets, and the Planet”
- “Eco-Conscious Cleaning | Chemical-Free Homes, Exceptional Results”
Service description must be explicit:
“I specialise in professional eco-friendly cleaning using exclusively plant-based, biodegradable products certified by Ecocert and EU Ecolabel. My services are perfect for families with young children, homes with pets, and anyone with allergies or asthma.
Products I use:
- Delphis Eco (professional-grade, Ecolabel certified)
- Bio-D (hypoallergenic, UK-made)
- Ecover (plant-based, biodegradable)
What makes my service different:
- Zero harsh chemicals (no bleach, ammonia, synthetic fragrances)
- Reusable microfibre cloths (no disposable wipes)
- Concentrated products (minimal packaging waste)
- Safe for children and pets
- Improves indoor air quality
- Reduces environmental impact
Ideal for:
- Families with babies and young children
- Households with pets (especially cats)
- People with allergies or asthma
- Environmentally conscious homeowners
- Anyone seeking healthier, chemical-free cleaning”
This level of detail:
- Shows genuine commitment (not just greenwashing)
- Uses keywords clients search for
- Explains benefits clearly
- Builds trust through specifics
Include photos:
- Your eco-products (show the bottles)
- Your reusable cleaning supplies
- Before/after cleaning shots
- Yourself (people hire people)
Never stock photos. Real photos of your actual products build trust.
Keywords and SEO
Optimise for searches like:
- “eco-friendly cleaner [your area]”
- “green cleaning services [your area]”
- “non-toxic cleaning [your area]”
- “chemical-free cleaner [your area]”
- “allergy-friendly cleaning [your area]”
- “pet-safe cleaning [your area]”
Include these naturally in your profile description.
Social Media Marketing
Facebook is powerful for eco-friendly cleaning:
Create a business page showcasing:
- Product information
- Before/after cleaning photos
- Educational content about eco-cleaning
- Client testimonials
- Tips for eco-friendly home maintenance
Join local community groups and participate helpfully:
- Answer questions about cleaning (establish expertise)
- Share eco-cleaning tips when relevant
- Offer services when people ask for cleaner recommendations
- Never be spammy – be helpful first, salesperson second
Instagram works for visual storytelling:
- Product photos
- Cleaning transformations
- Behind-the-scenes of your work
- Educational carousel posts about eco-cleaning
Not essential, but helpful for building brand and reaching eco-conscious demographics.
Target Marketing
Identify where eco-conscious clients are:
Organic food shops and cafés: Ask about posting business cards
Yoga studios: Eco-conscious demographics overlap significantly
Environmental organisations: Local Greenpeace, Friends of the Earth groups
Parent groups: NCT, local mum networks (eco-parents are prime clients)
Vegan/vegetarian venues: Values alignment
Eco-shops and zero-waste stores: Perfect demographic match
Strategic leafleting: Target areas with:
- Young families (look for properties with children’s toys in gardens)
- Electric cars and solar panels (signals environmental consciousness)
- Organic food delivery boxes visible
- Affluent areas (more disposable income for premium services)
Building Partnerships
Estate agents: Eco-friendly end-of-tenancy cleaning appeals to environmentally conscious landlords
Airbnb hosts: Many want eco-friendly cleaning for their properties
Eco-focused businesses: Offices prioritising sustainability need cleaning services
Complementary services: Partner with eco-focused handypeople, gardeners, or other services
These partnerships generate steady referrals and position you within eco-conscious networks.
Getting Reviews and Testimonials
Eco-friendly client reviews are particularly valuable because they attract similar clients.
What to Ask For in Reviews
Encourage clients to mention:
- The eco-friendly products you use
- Health benefits they’ve noticed (less smell, easier breathing)
- Pet-safety
- Children-safety
- Environmental consciousness
- Overall satisfaction with cleanliness
Example Review Request Message
“I’m so glad you’re happy with my eco-friendly cleaning service! Reviews really help my small business, especially from environmentally conscious families like yours.
Would you mind leaving a quick review mentioning:
- That I use eco-friendly, non-toxic products
- Any health benefits you’ve noticed (less chemical smell, etc.)
- Whether you’d recommend my services to friends
Thank you so much! Here’s the link: [profile link]”
Specific requests generate more useful reviews than generic “please leave a review.”
Showcase Testimonials
Feature the best reviews prominently:
- On your Trader Street profile
- Your Facebook page
- Marketing materials
- When messaging potential clients
Especially highlight reviews mentioning:
- “Perfect for our children/pets”
- “My asthma improved”
- “Love the lack of chemical smell”
- “Great for allergies”
- “Environmentally responsible choice”
These testimonials attract exactly the clients you want.
Handling Common Challenges
Eco-friendly cleaning comes with specific challenges. Here’s how to handle them.
Challenge: “It Doesn’t Smell Clean”
The issue: Clients used to chemical “clean smell” find eco-friendly homes smell different.
The solution:
“That chemical smell you’re used to is actually VOC pollution – not cleanliness. Your home is genuinely clean, but without the toxic air pollutants. Most clients adjust within 2-3 cleans and prefer the fresh, neutral scent. If you’d like, I can use naturally-scented eco-products with light citrus or eucalyptus fragrance that still avoid synthetic chemicals.”
Offer lightly-scented alternatives (Method has pleasant natural scents) for clients struggling with adjustment.
Challenge: Tougher Jobs Take Longer
The issue: Eco-products sometimes require more time/effort (especially ovens).
The solution:
Price accordingly. If an oven takes an extra 30 minutes with eco-products, charge for that time.
Manage expectations upfront: “Eco-friendly oven cleaning requires different techniques than caustic conventional cleaners. It takes slightly longer but achieves the same results without harsh chemicals.”
Use overnight soaking: Apply eco-oven cleaner the evening before a morning clean (if you have key access).
Challenge: Higher Product Costs
The issue: Eco-products cost 20-40% more than conventional.
The solution:
Buy concentrated products: They last much longer, reducing cost per use.
Bulk purchase: Buying larger bottles or multiple bottles reduces unit cost.
Pass cost to clients: Your premium pricing accounts for this. Don’t absorb it entirely.
Use efficiently: Eco-products often need less volume than conventional. Follow dilution ratios.
Challenge: Finding Products Locally
The issue: Not all shops stock eco-products well.
The solution:
Online ordering: Many eco-brands sell directly online with free delivery over certain amounts.
Professional cleaning suppliers: Often stock Delphis Eco and other professional eco-brands.
Bulk buying: Order monthly rather than as-needed, reducing delivery costs and ensuring stock.
Multiple brands: Stock 2-3 brands so you’re not reliant on one supplier.
Challenge: Clients Wanting “Stronger” Products for Specific Tasks
The issue: Some clients want conventional bleach for toilets or caustic cleaners for ovens.
The solution:
Educate about effectiveness: “Modern eco-products are genuinely effective. The difference is technique and time, not results.”
Stand firm on your values: “I specialise in eco-friendly cleaning exclusively. If you need conventional products for specific tasks, I’m happy to recommend other cleaners, but I maintain my commitment to non-toxic products.”
Compromise if necessary: “I can use conventional products for that specific task if you absolutely insist, but my core service is eco-friendly. The premium you’re paying is for genuine green cleaning.”
Most clients respect clear boundaries around your values. Those who don’t probably aren’t your ideal clients anyway.
Expanding Your Eco-Friendly Business
Once established, you can grow strategically.
Add Specialist Services
Deep eco-cleans: Intensive cleaning focused on removing chemical residues from previous cleaning
Detox cleans: Help clients transition from conventional to eco-friendly home maintenance
Allergen-focused cleaning: Specifically for asthma/allergy sufferers
Post-renovation eco-cleaning: Using eco-products for after-building work
Eco-preparation for new babies: Popular with expecting parents
These specialist services command 30-50% premiums over standard cleaning.
Offer Product Consultations
Some eco-conscious clients want help choosing their own products.
Offer consultancy service:
- 1-hour home visit
- Assess their current products
- Recommend eco-alternatives
- Teach DIY eco-cleaning techniques
- £40-£80 per consultation
This creates an additional revenue stream and positions you as an expert.
Training and Certification
Professional development enhances credibility:
UK-relevant training:
- British Institute of Cleaning Science (BICSc) eco-cleaning courses
- Numerous online eco-cleaning certifications
- First aid (always valuable)
- COSHH (even eco-products require safe handling knowledge)
Certifications justify premium pricing and attract corporate clients wanting certified contractors.
Hiring Eco-Minded Staff
When you’re ready to scale:
Hire people who genuinely care about environmental issues. Skills can be taught; values alignment is harder.
Train thoroughly on:
- Why eco-products matter
- How they differ from conventional
- Techniques for maximum effectiveness
- Which products for which tasks
Pay fairly. Eco-conscious staff appreciate knowing they’re contributing to healthier homes and environments. Fair compensation retains good people.
Corporate and Commercial Contracts
Many businesses now prioritise eco-friendly cleaning:
- Yoga studios and wellness centers
- Organic cafés and restaurants
- Environmental organisations’ offices
- Schools and nurseries (increasingly eco-conscious)
- Medical practices (chemical sensitivity concerns)
Commercial contracts provide:
- Regular, predictable income
- Often outside normal domestic hours (so you can do both)
- Higher total value per client
- Professional credibility
Position yourself as specialist in eco-friendly commercial cleaning. This market segment is growing rapidly.
The Financial Reality: What You’ll Actually Earn
Let’s get specific about income potential.
Scenario 1: Part-Time Eco-Friendly Cleaner
15 hours per week at £17/hour:
- Weekly earnings: £255
- Annual earnings: £13,260
- Less business costs (£1,500): £11,760
- After tax: Approximately £11,000 take-home
Compare to conventional part-time:
- 15 hours at £14/hour = £10,920 annually
- After costs and tax: Approximately £9,500
Extra income from eco-focus: £1,500 per year
Scenario 2: Full-Time Eco-Friendly Cleaning Business
30 hours per week at £18/hour:
- Weekly earnings: £540
- Annual earnings: £28,080
- Less business costs (£2,000): £26,080
- After tax: Approximately £22,000 take-home
Compare to conventional full-time:
- 30 hours at £15/hour = £23,400 annually
- After costs and tax: Approximately £19,500
Extra income from eco-focus: £2,500 per year
Scenario 3: Premium Eco-Cleaning Specialist
25 hours per week at £20/hour (positioning yourself as premium specialist):
- Weekly earnings: £500
- Annual earnings: £26,000
- Less business costs (£2,200): £23,800
- After tax: Approximately £20,200
Compare to conventional at same hours:
- 25 hours at £15/hour = £19,500 annually
- After costs and tax: Approximately £16,500
Extra income from premium eco-positioning: £3,700 per year
The premium you can charge for genuine eco-friendly cleaning significantly boosts your annual income.
Why Trader Street is Perfect for Eco-Friendly Cleaners
Traditional methods of building a cleaning business make eco-specialisation harder. Trader Street makes it easier.
Clear value proposition: Your profile can explicitly state your eco-commitment, attracting specifically the clients seeking this service.
No greenwashing from competitors: Clients can compare your detailed product lists and certifications to vague “green” claims from others.
Direct client communication: Message clients directly about their specific eco-preferences, building trust before booking.
Review focus: Reviews mentioning your eco-products and approach attract similar clients organically.
Zero fees: Keep 100% of your premium rates. No platform taking cuts of your earnings.
Local targeting: Eco-conscious clients in your area find you specifically, not nationwide services they can’t use.
Professional positioning: Your profile presents you as professionally as any agency, without agency overhead.
Your Action Plan to Launch Eco-Friendly Cleaning
Ready to build your green cleaning business? Here’s your roadmap.
Month 1: Foundation and Learning
☐ Research eco-friendly products thoroughly
☐ Purchase starter kit (all-purpose, bathroom, floor, glass cleaners: £30-£40)
☐ Test products at home to understand how they work
☐ Learn techniques (focus on limescale and grease handling)
☐ Update Trader Street profile to emphasize eco-friendly services
☐ Take before/after photos of products for profile
Month 2: Initial Marketing
☐ Create detailed eco-focused service description
☐ Set up Facebook business page highlighting eco-services
☐ Join 5-10 local community groups on Facebook
☐ Print eco-focused business cards/leaflets
☐ Target-market to eco-conscious venues (organic shops, yoga studios)
☐ Aim for 2-5 eco-focused clients
Month 3: Building Portfolio
☐ Request reviews emphasising eco-aspects from satisfied clients
☐ Continue marketing actively
☐ Expand product range as needed
☐ Refine techniques based on experience
☐ Aim for 8-12 regular clients
Month 4-6: Establishment
☐ Build to 15-20 hours weekly if part-time, 25-30 if full-time
☐ Consider premium positioning (raise rates if demand is strong)
☐ Add specialist eco-services (allergen-focused, detox cleans)
☐ Build relationships with eco-focused businesses for referrals
☐ Consider professional certification in eco-cleaning
Ongoing: Growth and Refinement
☐ Continuously improve techniques and product knowledge
☐ Stay updated on new eco-products entering UK market
☐ Build case studies of successful eco-cleans
☐ Consider expanding to commercial eco-cleaning
☐ Think about hiring if demand exceeds capacity
Final Thoughts: The Opportunity is Real
The demand for eco-friendly cleaning services is growing faster than supply. Environmentally conscious clients are actively seeking cleaners like you who genuinely commit to plant-based, non-toxic products.
These clients are willing to pay premium rates. They become loyal long-term customers. They refer friends with similar values. And you’ll protect your own health while building your business.
The conventional cleaning market is saturated and competitive. The eco-friendly market is undersupplied and growing. You can charge more, attract better clients, and build a more sustainable business (in both senses of the word).
Yes, there’s a learning curve. Yes, you’ll need to invest £50-£80 in products initially. Yes, some techniques differ from conventional cleaning.
But the rewards – financial, health-related, and personal satisfaction – make it absolutely worthwhile.
The planet doesn’t need more conventional cleaners using harsh chemicals. It needs more professionals like you who understand that homes can be spotlessly clean without being toxic.
Start small. Try it with a few clients. Build your confidence and expertise. Then position yourself as the local eco-friendly cleaning specialist.
Your future clients are out there right now, searching for exactly what you’re about to offer them.
Go build your green cleaning business. The market is waiting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is eco-friendly cleaning genuinely profitable?
Yes. You can charge 10-20% more than conventional cleaners, and clients specifically seeking eco-services are less price-sensitive and more loyal. The annual income difference can be £1,500-£4,000 for the same hours worked.
Do eco-products actually work as well as conventional ones?
Modern eco-products (like Delphis Eco, Bio-D, Ecover) work excellently when used with proper techniques. Some tasks (like oven cleaning) require more time/effort, but results are equivalent. Professional eco-cleaners achieve the same standards as conventional cleaners.
How much does it cost to start an eco-friendly cleaning business?
Initial product investment: £50-£80 for comprehensive range. This plus your normal business costs (insurance, etc.) is all you need. You don’t need special equipment – eco-products work with standard cleaning tools.
Will I lose existing clients if I switch to eco-products?
Some might resist change, but many will appreciate the healthier option. Transition gradually: start with new eco-focused clients, then offer existing clients the option to switch. Most clients are fine with it when you explain the benefits.
How do I justify charging more for eco-friendly services?
Emphasise: product costs are higher, specialised expertise, health benefits for their family, environmental responsibility, pet-safety, reduced indoor air pollution. Clients seeking eco-services understand value beyond just “getting things clean.”
What if clients say it doesn’t smell clean?
Educate them that chemical smell equals air pollution, not cleanliness. Offer naturally-scented alternatives (Method products have pleasant natural scents). Most clients adjust within 2-3 cleans and prefer the lack of harsh odours.
Can I clean ovens effectively with eco-products?
Yes, but techniques differ. Bio-D Oven Cleaner works well with overnight soaking and more physical scrubbing. For very dirty ovens, apply cleaner, leave overnight, then clean in morning. Achieves same results as caustic cleaners without toxic chemicals.
Should I offer both eco-friendly and conventional cleaning?
Some cleaners offer both, but it muddles your positioning. Specialising in eco-friendly attracts premium clients and differentiates you from competition. If you truly believe in eco-cleaning, commit to it exclusively.
How do I find clients specifically wanting eco-friendly services?
Optimise Trader Street profile with eco-keywords, join local parent/environmental groups on Facebook, advertise in organic shops and yoga studios, focus marketing on health and environmental benefits. Your detailed eco-focused profile attracts specifically these clients.
Will my own health actually improve by switching products?
Most cleaners notice significant benefits: easier breathing, less skin irritation, fewer headaches, better overall health. Daily exposure to harsh chemicals has real occupational health impacts. Reducing chemical exposure protects your long-term health.
Ready to build a profitable eco-friendly cleaning business? Create your Trader Street profile today, showcase your genuine green commitment, and start connecting with clients willing to pay premium rates for healthier, environmentally responsible cleaning services.