Getting Started in the U.S. Cleaning Industry: A Guide for Migrants

Understand Your Rights as a Worker

Even if you are undocumented, you still have basic labor rights in the United States. You have the right to be paid for your work, to work in a safe environment, and to be free from discrimination, abuse, or exploitation. Unfortunately, some employers take advantage of migrants who may not know these rights. They might offer very low wages, demand long hours without breaks, or expect you to do dangerous tasks without training or protective equipment. Some might even threaten to report you to immigration authorities if you complain. Understanding your rights also includes knowing how to recognize when those rights are being violated. If you are being paid less than minimum wage, not receiving proper breaks, or asked to work in dangerous conditions, it’s important to document these issues. Reach out to local worker advocacy groups or community centers—many have bilingual staff ready to help. Empowering yourself with knowledge can help you feel more confident and reduce the risk of being exploited. You deserve to be treated with dignity and fairness. Remember that there are laws in place to protect you, and there are people and organizations committed to standing with you.

Where to Look for Cleaning Opportunities

Cleaning work can be found in many different places, and you don’t always need experience to get started. Begin by checking job listing websites, local newspapers, bulletin boards at community centers, churches, or laundromats. Word-of-mouth is also powerful—let friends, neighbors, and family members know you’re looking for work. Sometimes, people in your own community know of opportunities that are never advertised publicly. Don’t underestimate the power of simply asking around. It’s also helpful to carry a simple resume or list of your availability when going to ask in person. Dressing neatly, being polite, and showing that you’re responsible can leave a good impression. If English is not your first language, practicing a few basic sentences about your experience and availability can also be very useful. In some areas, there are even community programs that connect migrants with trusted employers looking for help. Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there—your next opportunity might come from a casual conversation. Every connection counts.

Be Careful with Agencies and Middlemen

Some migrants find cleaning work through staffing agencies or people who offer to connect them with employers. While some of these options are legitimate, others can be risky. You might be charged illegal fees just to get a shift, or you might be sent to places that are unsafe or far away without transportation or clear agreements. Some agencies withhold part of your pay or delay it for weeks. Always ask questions before accepting any offer. If someone refuses to answer your questions clearly, that’s a red flag. Reputable agencies will give you all the information you need about your pay, hours, and duties. You can also ask others in your community if they have worked with a specific agency before and if they had a good experience. When in doubt, consult with a local support center or immigrant advocacy group—they often keep updated lists of trustworthy places. Protecting yourself from exploitation starts with staying informed and assertive. If a deal sounds too good to be true, it usually is. Trust your instincts.

Build Trust and Keep Records

In cleaning work, your reputation is one of your most valuable tools. Being reliable, respectful, and thorough can open many doors. Clients may recommend you to others or ask you to come back regularly. However, even as you work hard to build trust, don’t forget to protect yourself. Always keep a notebook—or use your phone—to record important information: where you worked, how many hours, how much you were paid, and who hired you. This record can make a huge difference in case of any problems. If an issue ever arises—like someone not paying you or questioning the hours you worked—your records become your voice. Keeping text messages, payment receipts, and any kind of communication is also very helpful. When possible, ask for written agreements, even if it’s just an informal note about payment and tasks. Trust is built over time, and clear communication helps prevent misunderstandings. At the same time, you must protect yourself with evidence in case something goes wrong. Being professional means not only doing good work—but also making sure your work is respected and compensated fairly.

Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help

Being new in a country is never easy, and it's completely normal to feel lost or uncertain at times. But remember: you are not alone. There are immigrant support organizations, worker rights groups, and legal aid services in many cities that are ready to help. If you are treated unfairly, paid too little, or asked to do unsafe tasks, you can talk to someone. Many of these organizations offer free or low-cost support and speak your language. Your safety and dignity matter. Don’t wait until the problem becomes too big. Early action can prevent larger issues later. If you’re not sure who to talk to, try asking at local churches, community health clinics, or libraries—they often know where to direct you. Being strong doesn’t mean doing everything alone. It means knowing when to reach out and connect with people who care. Your safety, well-being, and future are worth defending—and there are people ready to walk with you. Sometimes just one conversation can change everything. Never be afraid to ask questions or seek guidance.

Plan for the Future

Starting with cleaning work can be a good way to earn money and get settled, but it shouldn’t be where your journey ends. Use the experience you gain as a stepping stone. Think about taking English classes to improve communication with clients. Look for community programs that offer training in safety, customer service, or even small business skills. Over time, you might want to build your own client list or even start your own cleaning service. Saving a little money when you can—even a few dollars a week—can help you handle emergencies and plan for bigger goals. In addition, stay informed about your legal options. Some workers later qualify for different kinds of immigration relief, especially if they’ve faced abuse or have been working for years. Free consultations are available in many areas, and some lawyers work pro bono to support migrants. Learning your legal possibilities might open doors you didn’t know existed. Keep track of your journey, your achievements, and your hopes. Planning for the future gives your daily efforts purpose and direction, no matter how difficult things feel in the moment. You came here with dreams—don’t forget them. Keep moving forward. The path may be hard, but with knowledge, support, and determination, you can build the life you came looking for—and maybe even more.