Cleaning houses for money is a popular side gig for many people, especially teens and young adults looking to earn extra cash. It’s a relatively simple job that doesn’t require any special skills or education, and it can be a great way to gain some work experience and build your resume.
However, if you’re under 18, you may wonder if any age restrictions apply to house cleaning jobs. In this article, we’ll answer the question, “how old do you have to be to clean houses for money?” and provide a comprehensive guide on everything you need to know about this topic.
Age Requirements for House Cleaning Jobs:
So, how old do you have to be to clean houses for money? The answer to this question can vary depending on a few factors, such as the state you live in and the specific job you want.
In general, most cleaning companies and clients prefer hiring individuals at least 18 years old or older. This is because they may be more experienced and mature, and they may also be able to handle the job’s physical demands better than younger individuals.
However, some cleaning companies may hire teens as young as 16, and some clients may be willing to hire younger cleaners if they have good references and experience. Ultimately, it’s up to the discretion of the hiring company or individual.
State and Federal Laws and Regulations:
In addition to the preferences of hiring companies and individuals, state and federal laws and regulations may affect the age requirements for house cleaning jobs.
For example, the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) sets standards for minimum age requirements for certain types of work. According to the FLSA, individuals must be at least 18 to work in hazardous occupations, such as mining or working with explosives.
However, cleaning houses is generally considered a non-hazardous occupation, so there are no federal age restrictions for this type of work. However, some states may have their own laws regarding the minimum age for working, so it’s important to check your state’s regulations before applying for a cleaning job.
Safety Considerations for Teen Cleaners:
If you’re a teen looking to get started as a house cleaner, you should keep a few safety considerations in mind. First and foremost, it’s important only to take on jobs you feel comfortable with and safe for yourself.
You should also use proper cleaning techniques and equipment and avoid harsh chemicals that could harm your health. Additionally, it’s a good idea to let someone know where you’ll be cleaning and when you’ll be finished, just in case of an emergency.
Tips for Getting Started as a Teen House Cleaner:
If you’re interested in becoming a teen house cleaner, there are a few tips you can follow to get started:
- Build your resume by doing small jobs for friends and family.
- Advertise your services on social media or through word-of-mouth.
- Join a cleaning company that hires teens.
- Take a cleaning certification course to improve your skills and credentials.
As you build your experience and reputation, you’ll likely find that more clients are willing to hire you, and you can start to increase your rates accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Can I clean houses if I’m under 18?
It depends on the hiring company or individual and any state or federal regulations that may apply. Some cleaning companies may hire individuals as young as 16, while others may require you to be 18 or older.
Is house cleaning a hazardous occupation?
No, house cleaning is generally considered to be a non-hazardous occupation. However, you should still take safety precautions and only take on jobs that you feel comfortable with and safe for you.
How much can I expect to earn as a teen house cleaner?
Earnings can vary depending on the job and location. Still, you can typically expect to earn anywhere from minimum wage to $20 per hour or more, depending on your experience and the services you offer.
Final Thoughts,
The answer to the question “how old do you have to be to clean houses for money?” can vary depending on the hiring company or individual and any state or federal regulations that may apply. However, with the right experience and credentials, teens and young adults can find success as house cleaners and earn some extra cash while building their resumes.
If you’re interested in becoming a teen house cleaner, be sure to do your research, take safety precautions, and build your experience and reputation over time. You can turn this side gig into a successful and rewarding career with persistence and hard work.
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