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As a mum, you’re already doing one of the hardest jobs in the world — juggling nappies, school runs, and endless snack demands. But maybe—just maybe—you’ve been wondering if there’s a way to bring in a bit of extra cash while still being present for your little ones.
Good news: there absolutely is.
Side hustles can be a game-changer for stay-at-home mums, whether you’re looking to add a few hundred pounds to the budget each month, save for a holiday, or eventually turn your side gig into a full-time business. And the best part? Many of them are super flexible and can be done from the comfort of your home (or during nap time!).
Let’s dive into some side hustle ideas that are realistic, profitable, and totally mum-life friendly.
1. Freelance Writing or Blogging
Got a way with words? Freelance writing is a great gig for stay-at-home mums. From blog posts to website copy and product descriptions, businesses are always on the hunt for good writers.
Why It Works:
- Work from anywhere
- Set your own hours
- Can scale as you gain experience
How to Start:
- Create a few writing samples (blog about what you know: parenting, lifestyle, food)
- Use platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or pitch directly to blogs
- Start a blog to build your portfolio
Pro tip: Focus on niches you’re familiar with—parenting, budgeting, education, or wellness are all solid options.
2. Virtual Assistant (VA)
If you’re organised, good with emails, and love ticking off to-do lists, becoming a VA might be your calling. VAs support businesses with tasks like admin, customer service, data entry, and scheduling.
Why It Works:
- High demand in the online business world
- Flexible hours
- Many services to offer depending on your strengths
How to Start:
- Decide what services you’ll offer
- Set up a basic website or LinkedIn profile
- Use job boards like PeoplePerHour, Belay, or Facebook VA groups
3. Selling Handmade Crafts or Products
Are you the creative type? Whether it’s candles, baby clothes, personalised mugs, or handmade jewellery, there’s a market for beautifully crafted, one-of-a-kind items.
Why It Works:
- Turn a hobby into income
- You control production and stock
- Can start small and grow over time
How to Start:
- Open an Etsy shop or use local selling platforms like Facebook Marketplace
- Set up an Instagram page to promote your creations
- Attend local markets or craft fairs
Pro tip: Focus on gifts, seasonal items, or niche themes (like pet accessories or wedding decor).
4. Childcare or Babysitting
Already at home with your own little ones? Offering childcare or babysitting services for other mums in your area can be a natural fit.
Why It Works:
- No commute
- Flexible part-time hours
- Perfect if you already have a child-friendly space
How to Start:
- Check local regulations and certifications (like DBS checks or Ofsted requirements in the UK)
- Start by offering care for one or two extra kids
- Join local parenting groups or apps like Bubble
5. Social Media Management
Do you spend more time on Instagram than you’d like to admit? Put that scrolling to good use! Many small businesses need help managing their social media presence.
Why It Works:
- Creative and fun
- No formal qualifications needed
- High demand, especially with small or local businesses
How to Start:
- Learn the basics of content planning, scheduling, and engagement
- Create a few sample posts or manage a friend’s page to build experience
- Use platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, or pitch to small businesses directly
Pro tip: Pick one platform to specialise in (Instagram, Pinterest, or Facebook are good starts).
6. Online Tutoring or Teaching
If you have a background in teaching—or even just a passion for a particular subject—you can teach students online in your spare time.
Why It Works:
- Flexible scheduling
- Good pay potential
- Great if you enjoy working with kids or teens
How to Start:
- Sign up with tutoring platforms like Tutorful, MyTutor, or Outschool
- Offer help in core subjects (maths, English, science), languages, or even music
- Promote yourself locally to parents looking for extra support
7. Affiliate Marketing
If you’ve got a blog, a decent Instagram following, or even a Facebook group, affiliate marketing could be a passive-income goldmine.
Why It Works:
- Make money while you sleep (literally)
- Can be added to content you’re already creating
- No product handling or customer service
How to Start:
- Choose a niche (parenting, home organisation, eco-living, etc.)
- Join affiliate programs (Amazon Associates, Awin, ShareASale)
- Share honest reviews or recommendations through blog posts, emails, or social media
8. Proofreading or Editing
If you have an eagle eye for grammar and love reading, proofreading can be a perfect side hustle.
Why It Works:
- Can be done in quiet moments (nap time, evenings)
- Plenty of opportunities online
- Low startup costs
How to Start:
- Take a short proofreading course (Proofread Anywhere is popular)
- Offer services on Fiverr, Upwork, or Reedsy
- Promote to self-published authors, bloggers, or students
9. Dropshipping or Print-on-Demand Stores
Want to run an online store without handling inventory? Dropshipping and print-on-demand are low-risk ways to sell products online.
Why It Works:
- No need to stock products
- You handle marketing, suppliers handle the rest
- Works great with niche audiences
How to Start:
- Choose a niche (funny mum T-shirts, baby clothes, dog lover mugs)
- Use platforms like Shopify with apps like Printful or Oberlo
- Promote on Instagram or TikTok
10. Pet Sitting or Dog Walking
If your kids love animals and your schedule allows, pet care is a great way to earn extra income.
Why It Works:
- Great for families who love animals
- Flexible and local
- In-demand service, especially in cities
How to Start:
- Sign up with Rover or advertise in your local area
- Offer a dog-walking schedule that fits your routine
- Ask happy clients for referrals and reviews
Final Thoughts: You Don’t Need to Choose Just One
Here’s the truth: you don’t have to find the perfect side hustle on the first try. You can experiment. Mix and match. Try something new and pivot when life shifts (as it always does when you’re raising small humans).
What matters most is finding something that fits your life—not the other way around. Something that lights you up, stretches you a bit, and brings in extra income without adding a ton of stress.
Because yes, mama—you’re already doing amazing things. Now it’s just time to do amazing things for you, too.
Be sure to check out 20 other easy and profitable side hustle ideas for stay-at-home mums.
You’ve got this!
