Starting a cleaning business in Texas is one of the most practical and profitable business ideas in 2026. With a fast-growing population, expanding residential communities, booming commercial spaces, and a business-friendly environment, Texas offers huge opportunities for entrepreneurs who want to build a stable service-based business.
- Why Start a Cleaning Business in Texas?
- Quick Checklist: How to Start a Cleaning Business in Texas
- Step 1: Decide What Type of Cleaning Business You Will Start
- Common Cleaning Services in Texas
- Step 2: Choose and Register Your Cleaning Business Name
- Tips for Choosing a Business Name
- Step 3: Choose the Right Business Structure in Texas
- Sole Proprietorship
- Limited Liability Company (LLC)
- Step 4: Get an EIN from the IRS
- Step 5: Register for Texas Sales Tax (Mandatory)
- Is Cleaning Taxable in Texas?
- Texas Franchise Tax
- Step 6: Get Insurance and Bonding for Your Cleaning Business
- Essential Coverage
- Step 7: Buy Cleaning Equipment and Supplies
- Basic Equipment List
- Step 8: Set Cleaning Prices in Texas
- Average Cleaning Rates in Texas
- Step 9: Promote Your Cleaning Business in Texas
- Effective Promotion Methods
- Step 10: Follow Safety and Compliance Requirements
- Important Safety Practices
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need a cleaning license in Texas?
- How much does it cost to start a cleaning business in Texas?
- Is house cleaning taxable in Texas?
- Can I run a cleaning business from home?
- Final Thoughts
If you are searching for how to start a cleaning business in Texas, this complete guide covers everything you need — legal requirements, registration, taxes, insurance, pricing, equipment, and marketing — explained clearly and simply.
Why Start a Cleaning Business in Texas?
Texas continues to attract new residents and businesses every year. This growth creates constant demand for professional cleaning services across residential, commercial, and rental properties.
Key advantages include:
- No state income tax
- Strong housing and construction growth
- High demand for residential and commercial cleaning
- Low startup investment compared to other businesses
- Flexible working hours and scalable growth
Because cleaning services are essential, this business remains stable even during economic slowdowns.
Quick Checklist: How to Start a Cleaning Business in Texas
| Step | Requirement | Authority | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Choose business structure | Texas Secretary of State | $300 (LLC) |
| 2 | Register business name (DBA) | County Clerk | $15–$50 |
| 3 | Get EIN | IRS | Free |
| 4 | Apply for sales tax permit | Texas Comptroller | Free |
| 5 | Get business insurance | Private insurer | $40–$100/month |
| 6 | Open business bank account | Bank or credit union | Varies |
Step 1: Decide What Type of Cleaning Business You Will Start
Before registering your business, decide what services you want to offer. Texas is a large state, and choosing the right niche helps you attract consistent clients.
Common Cleaning Services in Texas
- Residential house cleaning
- Apartment and condo cleaning
- Commercial office cleaning
- Move-in and move-out cleaning
- Airbnb and short-term rental cleaning
- Post-construction cleaning
- Eco-friendly or green cleaning services
Cities like Austin and San Antonio have strong demand for short-term rental cleaning, while Dallas and Houston offer more commercial cleaning opportunities.
Step 2: Choose and Register Your Cleaning Business Name
Your business name should sound professional and trustworthy.
Tips for Choosing a Business Name
- Keep it simple and easy to remember
- Avoid complicated spellings
- Include words related to cleaning services
Once you select a name, check availability using the Texas Taxable Entity Search.
If your business name is different from your legal name, you must file a DBA (Doing Business As) with your county clerk.
Step 3: Choose the Right Business Structure in Texas
One of the most important decisions when learning how to start a cleaning business in Texas is selecting the proper legal structure.
Sole Proprietorship
- Easy and low-cost
- No separation between personal and business assets
Limited Liability Company (LLC)
- Protects personal assets
- More professional image
- Easier to work with commercial clients
Most cleaning business owners choose an LLC because it reduces personal financial risk.
To form an LLC in Texas, file a Certificate of Formation with the Texas Secretary of State and pay the required filing fee.
Step 4: Get an EIN from the IRS
An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is required if you:
- Hire employees
- Open a business bank account
- File business taxes
The EIN can be obtained online from the IRS at no cost.
Step 5: Register for Texas Sales Tax (Mandatory)
This step is extremely important and often misunderstood.
Is Cleaning Taxable in Texas?
Yes. Cleaning services are taxable under Texas law.
You must:
- Apply for a Sales and Use Tax Permit
- Collect sales tax from customers (up to 8.25%)
- File sales tax returns on time
Texas Franchise Tax
Most small cleaning businesses do not owe franchise tax, but you are still required to file an annual No Tax Due report.
Step 6: Get Insurance and Bonding for Your Cleaning Business
Insurance protects your business and builds trust with customers.
Essential Coverage
- General Liability Insurance
Covers property damage and injuries - Janitorial Bond
Protects clients against theft claims - Workers’ Compensation
Not mandatory in Texas but recommended if you hire employees
Many clients will only hire insured and bonded cleaning companies.
Step 7: Buy Cleaning Equipment and Supplies
Texas weather includes heat, dust, and humidity, so professional equipment is essential.
Basic Equipment List
- Commercial vacuum cleaners
- Microfiber mops and cloths
- Disinfectants and floor cleaners
- Protective gloves and safety gear
Using quality equipment improves efficiency and customer satisfaction.
Step 8: Set Cleaning Prices in Texas
Pricing depends on location, service type, and competition.
Average Cleaning Rates in Texas
| Service Type | Pricing Method | Average Price |
|---|---|---|
| House cleaning | Hourly | $45–$75 |
| Commercial cleaning | Per sq. ft. | $0.12–$0.20 |
| Move-out cleaning | Flat fee | $250–$550+ |
| Airbnb cleaning | Per visit | $120–$250 |
Always include labor, supplies, travel, and taxes in your pricing.
Step 9: Promote Your Cleaning Business in Texas
To get clients consistently, your business must be visible where people search for services.
Effective Promotion Methods
- Create a professional website
- Set up a Google Business Profile
- Collect customer reviews
- Use local social media groups
- Partner with real estate agents and property managers
Providing reliable service and maintaining strong customer relationships leads to long-term growth.
Step 10: Follow Safety and Compliance Requirements
Cleaning businesses must follow safety rules to protect workers and customers.
Important Safety Practices
- Proper chemical storage
- Keeping Safety Data Sheets available
- Employee training on equipment use
Following these standards helps prevent accidents and legal issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a cleaning license in Texas?
No. Texas does not require a specific cleaning license. You only need business registration and tax permits.
How much does it cost to start a cleaning business in Texas?
Most solo cleaning businesses can start with $800 to $1,500.
Is house cleaning taxable in Texas?
Yes. Residential and commercial cleaning services are taxable.
Can I run a cleaning business from home?
Yes, as long as local zoning regulations allow it.
Final Thoughts
Starting a cleaning business in Texas in 2026 is a smart and achievable goal. With proper registration, insurance, fair pricing, and consistent service quality, you can build a profitable and scalable business.
This guide on how to start a cleaning business in Texas gives you everything you need to launch legally and confidently.
