Is Homeaglow the affordable cleaning solution it claims to be? I did the research.
The company advertises $19 cleanings but hides fees that could cost you $1,100+ over six months.
Discover the truth about this cleaning service before you book.
Key Takeaways
- Homeaglow advertises cleaning services starting at just $19 for a 3-hour cleaning but requires a mandatory 6-month membership at $49/month
- The total cost over six months could reach over $1,100 if you schedule regular bi-weekly cleanings
- Customers report issues with inconsistent cleaning quality and frequent no-shows from cleaners
- The company has received an F rating from the Better Business Bureau with over 2,250 complaints filed
- Homeaglow charges a $200 early cancellation fee if you try to end your membership before six months
- Many users report difficulty contacting customer service when problems arise
- The company faces multiple lawsuits for worker misclassification and labor law violations
- Customers complain about hidden fees including processing fees, premium cleaner fees, and priority booking charges
- The company is owned by the same founder as HomeJoy, a similar service that shut down in 2015 amid worker misclassification lawsuits
- Many cleaners report underpayment and poor treatment while working through the platform
Understanding How Homeaglow Works
Homeaglow presents itself as a platform connecting homeowners with independent cleaning professionals. The company claims to offer affordable cleaning services with rates starting at just $19 for your first cleaning. This model sounds appealing to many homeowners looking for budget-friendly cleaning solutions.
The basic premise seems simple. You sign up on their website, book a cleaner in your area, and someone comes to clean your home. Homeaglow emphasizes that all cleaners on their platform are background-checked and certified. The company markets itself as a modern solution to traditional cleaning services, leveraging technology to make booking easier and prices lower.
Homeaglow operates in many cities across the United States. Their website shows a sleek interface where customers can book cleanings with just a few clicks. The company claims to have hundreds of thousands of satisfied customers and over 600,000 five-star reviews.
But a deeper investigation reveals that Homeaglow is not just a simple booking platform. The service requires customers to sign up for a mandatory membership program to access their advertised low rates. This membership commitment comes with terms and conditions that many customers say were not clearly explained during the signup process.
The Hidden Costs Behind Homeaglow’s $19 Offer
The $19 cleaning deal that Homeaglow advertises everywhere is not what it appears to be. This price is just a small part of a much larger financial commitment. When you sign up for their “$19 cleaning,” you are actually enrolling in their “ForeverClean” membership program.
This membership costs $49 per month and requires a minimum six-month commitment. If you try to cancel before the six months are up, you face a $200 early termination fee. The $19 only covers your first 3-hour cleaning session, which Homeaglow claims is suitable for a small one-bedroom, one-bathroom apartment.
After your first discounted cleaning, subsequent cleanings are billed at $18-$22 per hour depending on your location. For a typical 3-hour cleaning every two weeks, you could end up paying around $132 per session plus your monthly membership fee.
Let me break down the real cost over six months:
- Initial cleaning: $19 (for 3 hours)
- Monthly membership: $49 x 6 months = $294
- Bi-weekly cleanings after the first: $22/hr x 3 hrs x 11 cleanings = $726
- Total cost over six months: $1,039
This total does not include additional fees that many customers report being charged, such as processing fees, premium cleaner fees, or cancellation charges. Many customers have reported being surprised by these costs, which were not clearly explained during the signup process.
The company also claims that cleanings take much less time than they actually do. They suggest that a 3-hour cleaning is adequate for a one-bedroom apartment and a 4-hour cleaning for a two-bedroom home. Professional cleaners and customers alike report that these time estimates are unrealistic, especially for thorough cleanings.
Customer Experiences and Complaints
The customer experiences with Homeaglow vary widely, but a concerning pattern emerges when reviewing feedback across multiple platforms. While the company showcases positive reviews on their website, independent review sites tell a different story.
Many customers report cleaners who arrive late, cancel at the last minute, or simply fail to show up at all. When this happens, customers are often still charged cancellation fees despite the cleaner being the one who failed to appear. One customer on Reddit shared: “I had a cleaner who no-showed, told me over an hour after her start time that she was on her way, and when I told her that didn’t work I was charged a $40 cancelation fee.”
Quality issues are another common complaint. Customers frequently report receiving subpar cleaning services that don’t meet basic standards. One customer mentioned that their cleaner did not even turn on water once during the cleaning session, suggesting a very superficial job. Another reported that their cleaner brought their children to the job.
The revolving door of cleaners is another frequent complaint. Customers report rarely getting the same cleaner twice, making it impossible to build rapport or ensure consistent quality. This rotating cast of cleaners means homeowners never know what to expect when they book a service.
Perhaps most concerning is the difficulty in contacting customer service when problems arise. Many customers report that there is no phone number to reach a human representative, and email inquiries often go unanswered. This lack of support leaves customers feeling trapped in their membership with no recourse when things go wrong.
Homeaglow vs Traditional Cleaning Services
When comparing Homeaglow to traditional cleaning services, significant differences become apparent in both business model and customer experience. Traditional cleaning services typically operate with dedicated staff who receive training on company standards and procedures. These services may cost more upfront but often deliver more consistent results.
Traditional cleaning companies usually have liability insurance that covers any damages that might occur during service. They typically have clear channels for customer service and issue resolution. While their hourly rates may be higher, they rarely lock customers into long-term contracts with cancellation penalties.
Homeaglow, by contrast, operates as a marketplace connecting independent contractors with customers. This model allows for lower rates but comes with less consistency and quality control. The company claims to background-check all cleaners but appears to have limited oversight of the actual cleaning process.
The pricing structure also differs significantly. Traditional services typically charge a straightforward hourly or flat rate with no hidden membership fees or long-term commitments. Homeaglow’s model of a mandatory membership fee plus discounted hourly rates can be less transparent and potentially more expensive over time.
Customer service represents another key difference. Established cleaning companies usually have dedicated customer service teams available by phone during business hours. Homeaglow customers report difficulty reaching any human representatives when problems arise.
Legal Issues and Lawsuits Facing Homeaglow
Homeaglow faces serious legal challenges that raise questions about its business practices. The company is currently involved in multiple lawsuits alleging worker misclassification and labor law violations. These legal issues mirror those that plagued its predecessor, HomeJoy, which shut down in 2015 amid similar lawsuits.
The California Labor Commissioner’s Office has opened investigations into Homeaglow’s classification of workers as independent contractors rather than employees. This classification allows the company to avoid paying minimum wage, overtime, workers’ compensation insurance, and other benefits that employees are legally entitled to receive.
Several class action lawsuits have been filed by cleaners who claim Homeaglow exerts significant control over how they perform their work while denying them employee benefits. These lawsuits allege that Homeaglow provides cleaners with detailed instructions about how to clean, controls their communication with clients, and sets their rates—all indicators of an employer-employee relationship under California law.
The Better Business Bureau has given Homeaglow an F rating, citing “failure to resolve underlying causes of a pattern of complaints.” The BBB profile shows over 2,250 complaints filed against the business, many related to unexpected charges, quality issues, and difficulties canceling memberships.
These legal and regulatory challenges raise serious concerns about the sustainability of Homeaglow’s business model. If courts determine that cleaners should be classified as employees, the company could face substantial back-pay obligations and penalties that would fundamentally alter its cost structure.
Red Flags in Homeaglow’s Business Model
Several aspects of Homeaglow’s business practices raise red flags for potential customers. The most obvious concern is the lack of transparency about the total cost of their service. While they advertise an attractive initial rate of $19, they bury the details about the mandatory membership and long-term financial commitment in the fine print.
Another concerning practice is the difficulty in canceling the service. Customers report that there is no clear way to cancel through the website, and customer service is unresponsive to cancellation requests. The $200 early termination fee creates a significant barrier to exiting the service, even when customers are dissatisfied.
The company’s marketing tactics also raise eyebrows. Homeaglow uses countdown timers on their website to create a false sense of urgency, but these timers simply reset when they expire. This deceptive practice pressures customers into making quick decisions without fully understanding the terms.
Homeaglow’s management of independent contractors appears problematic as well. Cleaners report receiving minimal vetting and training before being sent to customers’ homes. Many cleaners also report issues with pay and fair treatment, suggesting that the company prioritizes growth over service quality.
The absence of transparent leadership information on their website is another red flag. Unlike most legitimate businesses, Homeaglow does not have an “About Us” page that identifies their leadership team or company history. This lack of transparency makes it difficult for customers to research the company’s background and reputation.
Finally, the pattern of complaints across multiple platforms suggests systematic issues rather than isolated incidents. When hundreds of customers report similar problems with service quality, unexpected charges, and poor communication, it indicates fundamental flaws in the company’s operations.
Impact on Professional Cleaners
Homeaglow’s business model doesn’t just affect customers—it also has significant implications for the cleaning professionals who work through the platform. Many cleaners report negative experiences that raise concerns about how the company treats its workforce.
Despite Homeaglow’s claims that cleaners keep 100% of their cleaning fees, many professionals report that the company takes approximately $5 per hour from their earnings and keeps additional fees for add-on services. After accounting for their own expenses—including cleaning supplies, transportation, and taxes—many cleaners report earning well below minimum wage.
The platform’s rating system places intense pressure on cleaners to accept last-minute bookings and perform unpaid re-cleanings to avoid negative reviews. This system gives customers significant leverage over cleaners, who fear losing access to the platform if their ratings drop.
Cleaners also report receiving minimal support from Homeaglow when issues arise with customers. There is little protection against unreasonable demands or false complaints, leaving cleaners vulnerable to losing income through no fault of their own.
The classification of cleaners as independent contractors rather than employees means they receive no benefits, no sick leave, no workers’ compensation protection, and no employer contribution to taxes. This arrangement shifts all the financial risk to the cleaners while giving them little control over how they perform their work.
Perhaps most concerning is the impact Homeaglow’s pricing model has on the cleaning industry as a whole. By advertising unrealistically low rates, the company creates false expectations about the fair cost of cleaning services. This undermines independent cleaners and small cleaning businesses that charge sustainable rates reflecting the true cost of professional cleaning.
Alternatives to Homeaglow
If you’re looking for cleaning services without the drawbacks associated with Homeaglow, several alternatives offer more transparent pricing and better service quality. Here are some options to consider:
Local independent cleaners often provide the best value and personalized service. You can find them through word of mouth, community Facebook groups, or local classified ads. Building a direct relationship with an independent cleaner eliminates the middleman fees and allows you to communicate your preferences directly. Many independent cleaners charge reasonable rates and develop long-term relationships with their clients.
Established cleaning companies like Merry Maids, Molly Maid, or The Cleaning Authority may charge higher rates than Homeaglow’s advertised prices, but they typically provide more consistent quality and better customer service. These companies employ trained staff, carry insurance, and have established processes for handling complaints or service issues.
Referral-based services like Care.com allow you to browse profiles, reviews, and rates of local cleaners before making contact. While these platforms do charge fees, they generally offer more transparency than Homeaglow about the total cost of service and don’t lock you into long-term commitments.
When choosing a cleaning service, prioritize transparency, fair pricing, and good communication. Ask potential cleaners about their experience, cleaning products, and policies for handling special requests or concerns. A legitimate cleaning service should be willing to answer these questions and provide clear information about their rates and services.
Remember that incredibly low rates often come with hidden costs or quality issues. Professional cleaning is skilled labor that deserves fair compensation. Paying a reasonable rate for quality service is usually more cost-effective than dealing with the headaches of unreliable budget options.
How to Protect Yourself When Booking Cleaning Services
When booking any cleaning service, taking a few precautions can help you avoid scams and ensure you receive quality service. First, research the company thoroughly before providing any payment information. Check reviews on multiple platforms—not just the company’s website—and pay special attention to how they handle complaints.
Always read the terms and conditions carefully before signing up for any service. Pay particular attention to cancellation policies, membership requirements, and additional fees. If the terms seem vague or overly complicated, consider it a warning sign.
Use a credit card rather than a debit card for payment when possible. Credit cards provide better protection against unauthorized charges and make it easier to dispute charges if services aren’t provided as promised. Some customers recommend using virtual credit cards with spending limits to prevent unexpected charges.
Document everything related to your cleaning service. Keep copies of all agreements, take photos of any damage that occurs during cleaning, and save all communication with the company. This documentation will be vital if you need to dispute charges or file complaints.
Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true. Professional cleaning is labor-intensive work, and unrealistically low prices often indicate hidden fees, poor service quality, or unfair labor practices. A price significantly below market rate should raise questions about how the company can afford to offer such rates.
If problems do arise, know your rights and be persistent. File complaints with your credit card company, the Better Business Bureau, and your state’s attorney general’s office. Social media can also be effective for getting a company’s attention when traditional customer service channels fail.
Spotting Cleaning Service Scams
Learning to identify potential scams can save you significant headaches when booking cleaning services. Watch for these common warning signs:
Pressure tactics that rush you into making quick decisions are a major red flag. Legitimate businesses want informed customers and will give you time to consider their services. Countdown timers, “limited time offers” that never actually expire, and aggressive sales representatives all indicate potential problems.
Unclear or hidden pricing should always raise concerns. Reputable cleaning services provide clear, upfront quotes detailing what’s included. Be suspicious of companies that advertise extremely low rates but hide additional fees in the fine print or refuse to provide a complete cost breakdown.
Mandatory long-term commitments paired with steep cancellation penalties may indicate a company that relies on trapping customers rather than earning their continued business through quality service. Legitimate cleaning services might offer discounts for recurring appointments but rarely require lengthy contracts with termination fees.
Difficulty contacting customer service is another serious warning sign. Reputable companies provide clear contact information and responsive customer support. If you can’t find a phone number, emails go unanswered, or representatives are evasive when you ask direct questions, proceed with caution.
Vague company information should raise suspicions. Legitimate businesses proudly display information about their leadership, history, and business address. Companies that hide this basic information may be trying to avoid accountability or make it difficult for customers to file complaints.
Inconsistent online presence across different platforms can reveal potential issues. Check whether the company’s information, pricing, and policies are consistent across their website, social media, and listing sites. Discrepancies may indicate deceptive practices.
Conclusion: Is Homeaglow a Scam?
After reviewing extensive customer feedback, company policies, and legal issues surrounding Homeaglow, we can draw some conclusions about their business practices. While technically not an outright fraud—they do connect customers with cleaners who perform services—Homeaglow’s business model relies on practices that many would consider deceptive.
The company advertises unrealistically low prices that are only available under specific conditions that aren’t clearly disclosed upfront. The mandatory six-month membership with a steep cancellation penalty effectively traps customers in a service that many find unsatisfactory. The difficulty in contacting customer service when problems arise further compounds these issues.
The pattern of complaints across multiple platforms indicates these problems are not isolated incidents but systemic issues with the company’s business model. The F rating from the Better Business Bureau and thousands of complaints filed against the company provide objective evidence of widespread customer dissatisfaction.
Homeaglow’s treatment of cleaners also raises ethical concerns. The misclassification of workers as independent contractors while exerting significant control over their work appears designed to minimize labor costs at the expense of the very people providing their core service.
While some customers may have positive experiences with Homeaglow, the high risk of problems and the difficulty in resolving issues when they arise make this service a gamble at best. The initial savings offered by their promotional rates are unlikely to justify the potential headaches and hidden costs that many customers report.
For consumers seeking reliable cleaning services, traditional cleaning companies or independent professionals with transparent pricing and no long-term commitments represent safer options. The slightly higher upfront costs of these alternatives often translate to better value through quality service, reliability, and peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Homeaglow really cost?
While Homeaglow advertises cleanings starting at $19, the real cost includes a $49 monthly membership fee for a minimum of six months plus hourly rates for cleanings. For bi-weekly 3-hour cleanings over six months, the total cost can exceed $1,000.
Can I just book one cleaning with Homeaglow?
No. To access Homeaglow’s advertised low rates, you must commit to their ForeverClean membership for a minimum of six months. Canceling early results in a $200 termination fee.
Are Homeaglow cleaners reliable?
Customer reviews suggest reliability issues are common. Many customers report cleaners canceling at the last minute, arriving late, or not showing up at all. The quality of cleaning also varies significantly between different cleaners.
How can I cancel my Homeaglow membership?
Many customers report difficulty canceling. The website does not provide a straightforward cancellation option, and customer service is often unresponsive. Some customers have successfully canceled by disputing charges with their credit card company.
Does Homeaglow have a satisfaction guarantee?
Homeaglow claims to offer a “Happiness Guarantee,” but customer reviews suggest this guarantee is difficult to redeem. Many customers report being charged for unsatisfactory services with little recourse.
Is Homeaglow available nationwide?
Homeaglow operates in many cities across the United States, but availability varies by location. The company continues to expand into new markets, though its future may be affected by ongoing legal challenges.
How are Homeaglow cleaners vetted?
Homeaglow claims all cleaners are background-checked and certified, but customer and cleaner reports suggest minimal vetting. Many cleaners report being approved quickly with little training or oversight.
What should I do if I’m unhappy with Homeaglow’s service?
Document the issues carefully, contact customer service through their help ticket system, and be persistent. If you receive no satisfaction, consider filing complaints with your credit card company, the Better Business Bureau, and your state’s attorney general’s office.
