How to Start an Ironing Business From Home

Are you looking to start an ironing business from home? It's a brilliant idea for those seeking a side hustle with minimal upfront costs and a straightforward skill set. Historically, ironing has always been an essential household task, tracing back to ancient times.

In today's busy world, many people are willing to pay to outsource this often-dreaded chore. Also, if you're searching for a business that offers some resistance to Artificial Intelligence (AI) and automation, an ironing service might be the one. This presents a golden opportunity for budding entrepreneurs.

Dive into our comprehensive guide below, with step-by-step instructions and essential insights to kickstart your home-based ironing service. Let's get started!

table of contents

• Why Start an Ironing Business?
• UK Ironing Business Statistics
• A Step-by-Step Guide on How To Start an Ironing Business From Home
• How To Price Your Ironing Service
• Practicalities To Consider
• Pros and Cons of Starting an Ironing Business from Home
• FAQs
• Final Thoughts
• Article Sources

With the continuous demand for neatly pressed clothes in office spaces, corporate settings, and formal events, the need for ironing services remains evergreen. Ironing not only ensures garments are wrinkle-free but also imparts a polished appearance. Yet, in today's fast-paced world, many lack the time or the inclination to iron. This is especially true for demographics like single individuals, on-the-move professionals, and frequent travellers.

Starting an ironing business doesn't just capitalise on this persistent need; it also presents numerous other benefits, solidifying its position as a reliable source of income.

Minimal Skill and Investment Needed

With an iron, ironing board, and a bit of experience, you're set to start. If you lack these, a small investment in equipment and a few educational YouTube videos will prepare you sufficiently.

Work from the Comfort of Your Home

There's no need for a dedicated office space. A good spot at home with an electrical socket for the iron is all you need.

Flexibility for Other Commitments

An ironing business seamlessly fits around other responsibilities. Whether you have a full-time job or other tasks, iron during your free time, ensuring you always meet client deadlines.

The ironing and laundry sector in the UK has seen significant shifts over the past years. Here's a snapshot of some statistics to give you an insight into the ironing business landscape:

Growing Demand

With dual-earning households the norm in the UK, the demand for convenience-based services, such as ironing, has risen.

Sustainability Matters

A survey revealed that 33% of Britons prefer eco-friendly, sustainable products and services, hinting at the growing consciousness about sustainable practices.

Competitive Landscape



There are over 5,600 independent dry cleaning and laundry businesses in the UK, showcasing the potential for niche services like home-based ironing to stand out.

Considering these statistics, it's evident that the ironing business in the UK is evolving, with ample opportunities for those looking to tap into the market.

Key Takeaway

Given the rise in demand for ironing services, the UK market shows significant potential for enterprising individuals to establish successful home-based ironing businesses.

Before you launch any business venture, there are foundational steps to follow. For an ironing service, here are some of the steps to take.

Practise With Friends and Family

While you may already know the basics of ironing, you might still need to iron out some wrinkles in your skillset, excuse the pun 😀. Upgrading your knowledge can help you lower your turnaround time and deliver excellent results. 

If you want free training, you can always ask your parents, grandparents, and friends who’ve done ironing for a long time. They can show you tips on how to handle suits or trousers as well as delicate fabrics. You can also ask for advice on what to avoid. 

There’s also the internet. Blog posts, YouTube tutorials, and other online guides can help you upskill and become more efficient with the practice.

Equipment You’ll Need

Before you start your ironing business, make sure you have the basic ironing equipment. These will be the iron, ironing board, and hangers. After that, add more items based on your needs. Some equipment you may need to include are:

• Clothing bags
• Lint rollers
• Clothes rail
• Back-up iron
• Steamer
• Iron shoe plate
• Ironing starch
• Spray bottle

How To Find Customers

To start operating your ironing business and earn a profit, you will need customers. There are many ways to find people that need your services.

Social Media

First, you can advertise online using social media accounts or search engines. Digital marketing might be the best method for you. More than 62.86 million people use the internet in the UK, so advertising on Facebook, Instagram or Google will boost your visibility. 

ask family and friends for referrals

The power of word-of-mouth should never be underestimated. Encourage friends and family to spread the word.

use your vehicle for advertising

Using your current vehicle as a mobile advertisement can be a brilliant strategy for small businesses and individual service providers in the UK.

Investing in a magnetic car sticker offers an affordable and ongoing advertising solution and lends a professional touch to your service. You're introducing your service to a vast and varied audience as you drive around town, whether on work errands, the school run, or weekend trips. Magnetic stickers are a doddle to remove, allowing you to display them as required without a permanent commitment.

USE postcards in newsagents windows



Traditional advertising methods, like placing postcards in the Post Office and newsagents' windows, can still be effective, especially if you're targeting the older generation. Many mature individuals rely on local shops and use these community noticeboards for local services. This method can be an excellent avenue to tap into a demographic that may not be as digitally active, ensuring your ironing business garners attention from all potential client bases.

Key Takeaway

Whichever method you use, make sure you can handle the workload you are given. Do not accept too many customers to avoid overworking yourself. 

There are three ways you can price your ironing services. 

By Kilo:

According to Check a Trade, the average rate in the UK is £5.50 per kilo.

By Item:

You can charge by item, especially if you’re working with a complicated type of garment. Check out competitors' websites to review their pricing to ensure you're competitive.

By Hour:

The average hourly rate for ironing services is between £12 and £18. 

Key Takeaway

The complexity of the item, the type of fabric, and additional services (like steaming and starch spraying) can affect the rates of your ironing services. Make sure you take these into account when creating a pricing matrix. 

Beyond the basics of upskilling and building a customer base, there are a few other things to remember before beginning your ironing business.

Here are some practicalities that must be considered.

Storage Space

Where will you store your equipment, to-be-ironed clothes, and freshly ironed garments? 

Customer Communication

Ensure you have channels to talk with customers, such as email or text messaging. 

Delivery or Pickup

How will customers receive their newly ironed clothes? Will you charge extra for delivery or use free delivery as a selling point? 

Insurance

You might need a home-based business insurance plan to protect yourself from mistakes (e.g. burnt clothes).

HMRC Tax



Since you will be operating a business and earning money, you may need to register for VAT and pay income tax and other applicable taxes.

✅ Read our comprehensive guide on side hustles and your tax obligations.

Below are some benefits and challenges of starting an ironing business from home to help you decide whether this is the right side hustle for you.

Pros

Low Initial Investment

Often, you'll already have an iron and ironing board at home, which means minimal start-up costs.

Flexibility

It allows for a flexible schedule, particularly if you have other commitments or responsibilities.

Steady Demand

There will always be a demand for ironing services as people need crisp, wrinkle-free clothing for work and events.

No Need for a Physical SHOP

Operating from home eliminates the costs and commitments of renting a commercial space.

Expandable

Start with basic services, and as you gain more clients and confidence, you can offer additional services like dry cleaning or laundry.

Eco-friendly Potential

You can differentiate your business by offering eco-friendly ironing, using energy-efficient appliances or natural starches.

Cons

Space Requirement

You'll need a dedicated space to iron and store clothing items, which can take up a fair amount of room in your home.

Physical Exertion

Ironing for hours can be physically demanding, especially on the back and arms.

Potential for Mistakes

Especially in the beginning, there's the potential to damage clients' clothing, which could result in replacement costs.

Local Competition

Depending on your area, there might already be established ironing services, making it challenging to enter the market.

Unpredictable Income

As with many side hustles, the income can be unpredictable. Some weeks might be busier than others.

Utility Bills

Operating an iron for extended periods could lead to higher electricity bills.

Running an ironing business from home is a great way to earn extra income.

Chances are, you're already equipped with the necessary tools to start an ironing business, and there's a wealth of online resources, like YouTube, to refine your skills. Minimal investment is a bonus.

To increase your chances of success, follow the tips we shared above.

https://ironinglab.com/who-invented-ironing/

https://www.statista.com/topics/3246/internet-usage-in-the-uk/

https://www.checkatrade.com/blog/cost-guides/ironing-prices/