Make Extra Money Cleaning Furniture: A Low-Cost, High-Demand Side Hustle
Looking for a practical way to earn extra income with minimal startup costs? Cleaning furniture is an underrated but steady side hustle. From couches and recliners to dining chairs and office furniture, there’s a growing demand for skilled furniture cleaners—especially with the rise of secondhand reselling and moving services.
In this post, we’ll break down what it takes to get started, how much you can earn, and whether this hustle is right for you.
Why Furniture Cleaning?
People spill, stain, and smudge their furniture constantly. Professional upholstery and fabric cleaners often charge a premium—leaving a gap in the market for affordable, reliable local cleaners. With some basic tools and a bit of hustle, you can fill that gap.
What You’ll Be Cleaning
- Sofas and sectionals
- Recliners and armchairs
- Office chairs and waiting room furniture
- Car interiors (optional but related)
- Dining chairs, ottomans, and headboards
How to Get Started
- Invest in Tools: A portable upholstery cleaner (like a Bissell Little Green), soft brushes, microfiber cloths, enzyme cleaners, and fabric-safe stain removers.
- Practice on Your Own Furniture: Get familiar with different materials and cleaning methods.
- Advertise Locally: Use Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, Nextdoor, and local community groups.
- Offer Before & After Photos: These are incredibly effective for getting new clients.
- Expand to Partnerships: Reach out to local moving companies or Airbnb hosts for repeat business.
Pros of Cleaning Furniture as a Side Hustle
✅ Low Startup Costs – Many cleaning tools can be found for under $150.
✅ In-Demand Service – Especially in households with kids, pets, or smokers.
✅ Flexible Schedule – Work evenings or weekends as it fits your life.
✅ Easy to Scale – Add car detailing, rug cleaning, or mattress cleaning.
✅ Visual Proof of Value – Impressive transformations sell your service.
Cons of Cleaning Furniture
❌ Can Be Physically Demanding – Lifting cushions, crouching, scrubbing.
❌ Some Jobs Are Time-Consuming – Deep stains or odors can take effort.
❌ Stain Risk – You may not be able to restore every item.
❌ Insurance & Liability – Consider basic liability coverage for peace of mind.
Furniture Cleaning Side Hustle Scorecard
| Category | Rating (1–5) |
|---|---|
| Startup Costs | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5) – Affordable, minimal gear needed |
| Earning Potential | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5) – $50–$150 per job possible |
| Skill Required | ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3/5) – Learnable with practice |
| Flexibility | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5) – Work when and where you want |
| Scalability | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5) – Can expand into other cleaning gigs |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much can I charge per job?
Rates vary by region, but expect to earn $50–$150 per job. Bundling services (e.g., multiple pieces) boosts value.
Do I need certification?
No certification is required, but studying fabric types and cleaning methods is highly recommended.
What about difficult stains or damage?
Be honest with customers—some stains may not fully come out. Use waivers or disclaimers when necessary.
Can I do this part-time?
Absolutely! Many side hustlers clean furniture only on weekends or during the evenings.
Final Thoughts
Cleaning furniture can be a surprisingly lucrative and satisfying side hustle. You help people revive their homes, save money on replacements, and breathe life into their favorite pieces—all while earning solid cash on your terms. If you’re willing to put in a bit of elbow grease, this gig might just be your next big side hustle.
Good with fabrics? Read our article on sewing as a side hustle!