10. Cleaning Services
Cleaning services are recession-proof. Busy professionals, elderly residents, and small businesses consistently need reliable cleaning support.
You can start with basic residential cleaning using simple supplies, then expand into specialised services like end-of-lease cleaning or post-construction cleanup. Commercial cleaning often pays better but may require specific equipment.
The work is physically demanding but offers immediate, visible results. Many cleaners find the work satisfying – you’re directly improving people’s living and working environments.
What you can earn: $25-$45 per hour
Time you’ll spend: 10-40 hours per week
How to start: Invest in quality supplies and get public liability insurance. Start with friends and family, then expand through word-of-mouth referrals.
Insider tip: Cleaners who offer regular service packages (weekly or fortnightly) create recurring income and can charge slight premiums for guaranteed ongoing work.