How to set up a Websta profile as a cleaner in Japan

What your profile page should contain

Your Websta profile is a simple website for your cleaning business. It shows your location, the services you offer, photos of your work, and a way for customers to get in touch or book time with you. For a cleaning business in Japan, your profile should include a clear description of what you do - whether that is residential cleaning, office cleaning, carpet cleaning, window cleaning, or another speciality. List the areas or towns where you work and whether you travel to client locations or ask clients to come to you.

Add high-quality photos that show your work. These might include before-and-after pictures of cleaned spaces, tools and materials you use, or photos of yourself working. Photos help potential customers understand what to expect. Include your contact information and set up online booking or a quote request form so customers can reach you easily without having to send separate messages or make phone calls.

Choose the languages you publish in. Japanese is essential if you work with Japanese-speaking customers. If you also work with expat communities or tourists, you might add English. Keep the language options consistent across all sections of your profile.

Which services to list and how to describe them

Be specific about what you offer. General terms like 'cleaning' do not help customers understand whether you clean homes, offices, windows, carpets or something else. On Websta, you can list multiple services. Examples for cleaners in Japan might include apartment cleaning, house cleaning, office cleaning, carpet and rug cleaning, window cleaning, post-construction cleaning, or regular maintenance cleaning.

For each service, write a short description in plain language. Say what the work includes - for example, 'apartment cleaning' might mean vacuuming, dusting, bathroom cleaning, kitchen cleaning and floor washing. If you have specialisations like cleaning for people with allergies, eco-friendly methods or work in English-speaking households, mention these clearly. Customers searching on Websta look by service type and location, so the more precise you are, the more likely the right customers will find you.

How to set up booking and quote requests

Websta lets you offer two ways for customers to contact you: online booking slots and quote request forms. Online booking works if you have regular availability - for example, if you clean every Tuesday and Thursday afternoon. Customers select a time and book directly. A quote request form is better if your work varies by job - you need to see photos, know the space size and hear what the customer wants before you can say when you are available.

Many cleaners in Japan use quote requests because cleaning jobs differ widely. A customer might need a one-time deep clean of a large house, or weekly maintenance in a small apartment. Set up your form so customers can tell you the type of space, size, which rooms, and any special needs. You can then contact them with your availability and terms.

How customers in Japan search for cleaners

On Websta, people find service providers through the marketplace. They search by service type - 'cleaning' - and by place - the town or area where they live. If someone in Tokyo searches for a cleaner, they see profiles of cleaners who work in Tokyo. If someone in Osaka searches, they see Osaka cleaners. Your profile appears based on the location you set.

Customers also browse by specific service. If someone searches 'carpet cleaning' in their area, your profile shows up only if you list carpet cleaning as a service. This is why being specific about what you do matters. Websta also has a task posting feature where customers describe what they need and providers make offers - this is another way people find cleaners.

Legal and practical requirements for independent cleaners in Japan

Before you set up a profile, check your local situation. If you work as a sole trader or self-employed person, you will likely need to register with the tax office. In Japan, self-employed people must file tax returns annually. Check with your local tax office (tax association) about registration and what records you need to keep. Some municipalities have additional registration requirements, so ask your municipal office whether you need a business permit or registration for cleaning services.

Insurance is worth considering. Accidents can happen - if you break something in a customer's home or a customer is injured, liability insurance can protect you. Check what insurance products are available for cleaners in Japan through business insurance providers.

Agree terms with customers before you work. Decide what you charge, whether you provide materials or the customer does, what happens if a customer cancels, and how you accept payment. Keep records of who you work for and when. If you use Websta's payment system, payments go to your bank account through Stripe, and you receive them independently. Check Stripe's terms and any fees involved in your country.

What to write in your first hour

Start with the basics. Write your name or business name, the town or towns where you work, and a one-sentence summary of what you do - for example, 'I provide apartment and office cleaning in Kyoto and nearby areas.' Add your email address or phone number. If you already have photos on your phone, upload one or two now - even if they are not perfect, they help.

Next, list three to five services you offer and write one sentence about each. For example: 'Apartment cleaning - vacuuming, dusting, bathroom and kitchen cleaning, floor washing' and 'Office cleaning - desks, floors, restrooms and common areas.' Save this as a draft. You do not need to have everything perfect today. Many cleaners build their profile gradually as they take photos and gather customer feedback.

Set up one way for customers to contact you - either a quote request form or an email address linked to your profile. This way, when someone finds you, they can reach you. You can add more details and photos later, but having a basic profile with a way to be contacted means you are ready for customers to find you.

Building trust on your profile

Customers in Japan, like anywhere, want to know they can trust you. Use your profile to show who you are. A professional photo of yourself, clear contact details and honest descriptions of your experience and services build confidence. If you have worked as a cleaner for several years, say so. If you have certifications or training, mention them.

Over time, as customers use your services and leave feedback on Websta, your profile becomes more credible. Early on, when you have few or no reviews, being responsive and professional in how you handle quote requests and initial contact makes a difference. Answer messages quickly and confirm what the customer needs before you commit to a job.