How to start a cleaning business

Embrace your natural penchant for cleanliness and the joy of creating tidy spaces by starting a cleaning business. In a world where the demand for spotless and well-organized spaces is ever-increasing, your passion for tidiness is a valuable asset. In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps to start a cleaning business, from developing a business model, to choosing a cleaning business idea to creating a business website and marketing your venture effectively.

What is a cleaning business?

A cleaning business is a type of business that offers various cleaning services—including, but not limited to, dusting, vacuuming, mopping, sanitizing and organizing spaces. Cleaning businesses can cater to residential clients, offering services for homes, apartments or condos. They can also serve commercial clients, including offices, retail stores, medical facilities and educational institutions.

Why start a cleaning business?

The cleaning industry is in high demand, with the residential cleaning industry showing 20% year-over-year growth, and 80% of two-income households expected to use house cleaning services by 2024. Here are some even more compelling reasons to start your own cleaning business:

Growing market: The demand for cleaning services continues to rise as people increasingly prioritize cleanliness and hygiene. With busy lifestyles and time constraints, individuals and businesses are willing to hire professional cleaners to ensure their spaces are well-maintained.
Low startup costs: Compared to many other businesses, starting a cleaning business requires relatively low startup costs. You can begin with essential cleaning supplies and equipment and expand your inventory as your business grows. Remember to take all expenses into account to calculate your net profit.
Flexibility: Running a cleaning business offers flexibility in terms of working hours. You can choose the number of clients you take on and the schedule that best suits your lifestyle. This flexibility allows you to balance work with personal commitments.
Scalability: As your client base expands and your business grows, you can hire more cleaners and take on additional clients. With effective management and marketing strategies, you can scale your cleaning business to meet the demand in your area.
Repeat business: Once you establish a solid client base, cleaning businesses often benefit from repeat business. Clients who are satisfied with your services are likely to continue using your cleaning services on a regular basis, providing a stable source of income.

Challenges of running a cleaning business

While starting a business has its advantages, it's important to be aware of the challenges you may face. Here are a few common ones:

Intense competition: The cleaning industry is highly competitive, with numerous cleaning businesses operating in most areas. Standing out from the competition requires providing exceptional service, establishing a strong reputation and offering unique value propositions.
Labor and staffing: Finding reliable and trustworthy cleaners can be a challenge. Hiring and managing a team of cleaners requires thorough screening, proper training and effective communication to ensure consistent quality of service. You may have to do a significant amount of networking to find the most-qualified people.
Seasonal fluctuations: Some cleaning businesses experience fluctuations in demand throughout the year. For example, residential cleaning services may see increased demand during the spring and a decrease during the winter holidays. Managing these fluctuations and maintaining a stable income can be a challenge.
Managing customer expectations: Meeting customer expectations and delivering a high standard of cleanliness can be demanding. Understanding and addressing each client's specific needs and preferences is crucial for customer satisfaction.
Time management: Effectively managing your time and the schedules of your cleaners is essential. Coordinating multiple clients, ensuring on-time arrivals and handling last-minute schedule changes can be challenging without efficient systems in place.

How to start a cleaning business

Now that you understand the benefits and challenges of starting a cleaning business, let's explore the essential steps to help you get started:

01. Research and plan

Do your due diligence and conduct thorough research on the local cleaning market, potential competition and target customers. Identify your niche, such as residential cleaning, commercial cleaning or specialized cleaning services. Develop a comprehensive business plan and concept statement that outlines your goals, strategies and financial projections (including how you plan on raising money for your business). Learn how to create a cleaning business plan to get your business off the ground the right way.

02. Define your services and pricing structure

Decide on the types of cleaning services you'll offer. Consider whether you'll focus on general cleaning, deep cleaning, specific areas (such as windows or carpets or starting a pressure washing business) or specialized cleaning for industries like healthcare or hospitality. Determine your pricing structure, taking into account factors such as the size of the space, the level of cleaning required and any additional services you offer.

03. Obtain necessary licenses and insurance

Register your business and ensure it operates legally and responsibly by researching and obtaining all the necessary licenses and permits required in your area. Before that, take the important step of selecting a unique and memorable name for your business. For inspiration, consider using a business name generator to find the perfect fit. Once you've finalized your business name, proceed with obtaining the required licenses and permits, such as business registration, liability insurance and workers' compensation insurance. By complying with local regulations, you'll establish a solid foundation for smooth and reputable business operations, paving the way for your cleaning business's success and growth.

If you're looking to start a cleaning business in a specific state, here are some helpful resources:

04. Purchase equipment and supplies

Invest in high-quality cleaning equipment and supplies to ensure efficient and effective cleaning. This may include vacuum cleaners, mops, brooms, microfiber cloths, cleaning solutions and protective gear. Consider environmentally friendly options if there is a demand for eco-conscious cleaning in your market.

05. Develop effective systems and processes

Establish clear systems and processes for managing client inquiries, scheduling appointments and conducting cleaning services. Implement a reliable scheduling and communication system to ensure efficient coordination with your clients and cleaners. Develop cleaning checklists and protocols to maintain consistency and quality across all cleaning jobs.

06. Build a strong team

Recruit and hire reliable and trustworthy cleaners who align with your business values. Thoroughly screen potential employees, including background checks and reference checks. Provide comprehensive training to ensure that all cleaners understand your cleaning processes, safety protocols and customer service expectations. This is important for businesses of all sizes, but especially true if you're a microbusiness - because every employee can truly make or break your reputation.

07. Market your cleaning business

Effective marketing is crucial for attracting clients to your cleaning business. Here are some strategies to consider:

Make a website: Establish an online presence by creating a business website that showcases your services, highlights your expertise and provides contact information. Consider using a website builder like Wix to create a professional and user-friendly website without requiring extensive technical knowledge.
Local SEO: Optimize your website and online listings for local search engine optimization (SEO). This includes using relevant keywords, creating location-specific content and ensuring accurate business information on platforms like Google My Business.
Online directories and review platforms: List your cleaning business on popular online directories and review platforms such as Yelp, Angie's List and HomeAdvisor. Encourage satisfied customers to leave positive reviews to enhance your online reputation.
Social media marketing: Utilize social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn to promote your cleaning business. Share before-and-after photos, cleaning tips, client testimonials and special promotions to engage with your audience.
Networking and referrals: Network with local businesses, real estate agents, property managers and community organizations to build connections and generate referrals. Offer referral incentives to encourage satisfied clients to recommend your services to others.
Print collateral: Design and distribute professional business cards, brochures and flyers to local businesses and residential areas. Highlight your unique selling points, competitive pricing and customer testimonials.
Targeted advertising: Consider targeted online advertising campaigns through platforms like Google Ads or social media ads. Set specific targeting parameters based on location, demographics and interests to reach potential clients in your target market.

Maintaining a consistent brand image is vital for your cleaning business, regardless of the platforms you use for promotion. Take advantage of Wix's logo maker to design a professional and unique logo that can be prominently featured across all your digital assets. If you need inspiration, you can explore these cleaning logo ideas to spark your creativity and ensure your cleaning business's branding stands out and leaves a lasting impression on your target audience.

Inspiration from other successful cleaning businesses

Promoting your cleaning venture involves various aspects, from effective marketing and networking to establishing a captivating online presence. Just like these thriving cleaning businesses, you can create an engaging website and connect with your customers online to boost your brand.

Tier One Cleaning Services sets itself apart by offering premium, top-tier cleaning services to commercial and residential clients. Their website exudes professionalism and sophistication, reflecting their commitment to delivering high-quality cleaning solutions. The site features clear navigation, making it easy for visitors to find the specific services they require. They have a section showcasing their range of cleaning offerings, such as office cleaning, carpet cleaning and specialized cleaning for different industries.
Lira's Cleaning presents itself as a reliable and trustworthy cleaning company that serves both residential and commercial customers. Their website might focus on building a strong rapport with visitors by sharing the story of their founder, Lira, and her passion for cleanliness and exceptional service. This personal touch can help potential clients connect with the company on a more emotional level.
Real Home Cleaners is a well-established cleaning company that prides itself on providing comprehensive and reliable home cleaning services. Their website showcases the dedication of their cleaning teams and their commitment to achieving exceptional results.
Shine On Cleaning Service focuses on creating a cheerful and positive image through their website design. They may utilize bright colors and joyful imagery to convey a sense of happiness and satisfaction that their cleaning services bring to their clients' lives. Shine On offers a variety of services: house cleaning, commercial cleaning and post-construction/move-in/move-out cleaning.
Clean Freaks Cheyenne services customers in Cheyenne, Wyoming, offering recurring residential cleanings, move-out cleanings and commercial cleaning. Their site is as clean and easy to navigate as a cleaned living space.
Soaprano's Cleaning stands out with its unique and catchy name, which hints at their expertise in cleaning services. Their website features a modern and artistic design, reflecting their creativity and attention to detail in their cleaning approach. To attract customers, Soaprano's Cleaning showcases their specialization in particular cleaning niches, such as move-in/move-out cleaning, deep cleaning or post-construction cleaning.

How profitable is a cleaning business

The profitability of a cleaning business depends on factors like location, target market, competition, and management efficiency. Generally, cleaning businesses can be profitable due to consistent demand for services. Residential and commercial cleaning services, especially those with a niche (e.g., eco-friendly cleaning), can yield good profits. Building a loyal customer base, effective marketing and efficient operations contribute to success. However, economic conditions and competition can impact profitability. Thorough market research and strategic planning are essential for success in the cleaning industry.

Some examples of profitable cleaning niches include:

Residential cleaning: Regular home cleaning services for individuals or families.
Commercial cleaning: Providing services to offices, retail spaces, and businesses.
Specialized cleaning: Focusing on niche markets like carpet cleaning, post-construction cleaning, or eco-friendly cleaning.
Janitorial services: Contracts with schools, hospitals, or large facilities.
Window cleaning: A specialized service with demand from both residential and commercial clients.

Cleaning business FAQ

Whats the best business structure for a cleaning business?

The most suitable business structure for a cleaning business depends on factors like liability, taxation and management preferences. Common options for a small business include:
Sole Proprietorship: Simple and low-cost, but the owner has unlimited personal liability.
Limited Liability Company (LLC): Offers liability protection for owners (members) while maintaining simplicity and flexibility. Learn how to start an LLC.

How to scale a cleaning business?

What is a cleaning business?

A cleaning business is a type of business that offers various cleaning services—including, but not limited to, dusting, vacuuming, mopping, sanitizing and organizing spaces. Cleaning businesses can cater to residential clients, offering services for homes, apartments or condos. They can also serve commercial clients, including offices, retail stores, medical facilities and educational institutions.

Why start a cleaning business?

The cleaning industry is in high demand, with the residential cleaning industry showing 20% year-over-year growth, and 80% of two-income households expected to use house cleaning services by 2024. Here are some even more compelling reasons to start your own cleaning business:

Growing market: The demand for cleaning services continues to rise as people increasingly prioritize cleanliness and hygiene. With busy lifestyles and time constraints, individuals and businesses are willing to hire professional cleaners to ensure their spaces are well-maintained.
Low startup costs: Compared to many other businesses, starting a cleaning business requires relatively low startup costs. You can begin with essential cleaning supplies and equipment and expand your inventory as your business grows. Remember to take all expenses into account to calculate your net profit.
Flexibility: Running a cleaning business offers flexibility in terms of working hours. You can choose the number of clients you take on and the schedule that best suits your lifestyle. This flexibility allows you to balance work with personal commitments.
Scalability: As your client base expands and your business grows, you can hire more cleaners and take on additional clients. With effective management and marketing strategies, you can scale your cleaning business to meet the demand in your area.
Repeat business: Once you establish a solid client base, cleaning businesses often benefit from repeat business. Clients who are satisfied with your services are likely to continue using your cleaning services on a regular basis, providing a stable source of income.

Challenges of running a cleaning business

While starting a business has its advantages, it's important to be aware of the challenges you may face. Here are a few common ones:

Intense competition: The cleaning industry is highly competitive, with numerous cleaning businesses operating in most areas. Standing out from the competition requires providing exceptional service, establishing a strong reputation and offering unique value propositions.
Labor and staffing: Finding reliable and trustworthy cleaners can be a challenge. Hiring and managing a team of cleaners requires thorough screening, proper training and effective communication to ensure consistent quality of service. You may have to do a significant amount of networking to find the most-qualified people.
Seasonal fluctuations: Some cleaning businesses experience fluctuations in demand throughout the year. For example, residential cleaning services may see increased demand during the spring and a decrease during the winter holidays. Managing these fluctuations and maintaining a stable income can be a challenge.
Managing customer expectations: Meeting customer expectations and delivering a high standard of cleanliness can be demanding. Understanding and addressing each client's specific needs and preferences is crucial for customer satisfaction.
Time management: Effectively managing your time and the schedules of your cleaners is essential. Coordinating multiple clients, ensuring on-time arrivals and handling last-minute schedule changes can be challenging without efficient systems in place.

How to start a cleaning business

Now that you understand the benefits and challenges of starting a cleaning business, let's explore the essential steps to help you get started:

01. Research and plan

Do your due diligence and conduct thorough research on the local cleaning market, potential competition and target customers. Identify your niche, such as residential cleaning, commercial cleaning or specialized cleaning services. Develop a comprehensive business plan and concept statement that outlines your goals, strategies and financial projections (including how you plan on raising money for your business). Learn how to create a cleaning business plan to get your business off the ground the right way.

02. Define your services and pricing structure

Decide on the types of cleaning services you'll offer. Consider whether you'll focus on general cleaning, deep cleaning, specific areas (such as windows or carpets or starting a pressure washing business) or specialized cleaning for industries like healthcare or hospitality. Determine your pricing structure, taking into account factors such as the size of the space, the level of cleaning required and any additional services you offer.

03. Obtain necessary licenses and insurance

Register your business and ensure it operates legally and responsibly by researching and obtaining all the necessary licenses and permits required in your area. Before that, take the important step of selecting a unique and memorable name for your business. For inspiration, consider using a business name generator to find the perfect fit. Once you've finalized your business name, proceed with obtaining the required licenses and permits, such as business registration, liability insurance and workers' compensation insurance. By complying with local regulations, you'll establish a solid foundation for smooth and reputable business operations, paving the way for your cleaning business's success and growth.

If you're looking to start a cleaning business in a specific state, here are some helpful resources:

04. Purchase equipment and supplies

Invest in high-quality cleaning equipment and supplies to ensure efficient and effective cleaning. This may include vacuum cleaners, mops, brooms, microfiber cloths, cleaning solutions and protective gear. Consider environmentally friendly options if there is a demand for eco-conscious cleaning in your market.

05. Develop effective systems and processes

Establish clear systems and processes for managing client inquiries, scheduling appointments and conducting cleaning services. Implement a reliable scheduling and communication system to ensure efficient coordination with your clients and cleaners. Develop cleaning checklists and protocols to maintain consistency and quality across all cleaning jobs.

06. Build a strong team

Recruit and hire reliable and trustworthy cleaners who align with your business values. Thoroughly screen potential employees, including background checks and reference checks. Provide comprehensive training to ensure that all cleaners understand your cleaning processes, safety protocols and customer service expectations. This is important for businesses of all sizes, but especially true if you're a microbusiness - because every employee can truly make or break your reputation.

07. Market your cleaning business

Effective marketing is crucial for attracting clients to your cleaning business. Here are some strategies to consider:

Make a website: Establish an online presence by creating a business website that showcases your services, highlights your expertise and provides contact information. Consider using a website builder like Wix to create a professional and user-friendly website without requiring extensive technical knowledge.
Local SEO: Optimize your website and online listings for local search engine optimization (SEO). This includes using relevant keywords, creating location-specific content and ensuring accurate business information on platforms like Google My Business.
Online directories and review platforms: List your cleaning business on popular online directories and review platforms such as Yelp, Angie's List and HomeAdvisor. Encourage satisfied customers to leave positive reviews to enhance your online reputation.
Social media marketing: Utilize social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn to promote your cleaning business. Share before-and-after photos, cleaning tips, client testimonials and special promotions to engage with your audience.
Networking and referrals: Network with local businesses, real estate agents, property managers and community organizations to build connections and generate referrals. Offer referral incentives to encourage satisfied clients to recommend your services to others.
Print collateral: Design and distribute professional business cards, brochures and flyers to local businesses and residential areas. Highlight your unique selling points, competitive pricing and customer testimonials.
Targeted advertising: Consider targeted online advertising campaigns through platforms like Google Ads or social media ads. Set specific targeting parameters based on location, demographics and interests to reach potential clients in your target market.

Maintaining a consistent brand image is vital for your cleaning business, regardless of the platforms you use for promotion. Take advantage of Wix's logo maker to design a professional and unique logo that can be prominently featured across all your digital assets. If you need inspiration, you can explore these cleaning logo ideas to spark your creativity and ensure your cleaning business's branding stands out and leaves a lasting impression on your target audience.

Inspiration from other successful cleaning businesses

Promoting your cleaning venture involves various aspects, from effective marketing and networking to establishing a captivating online presence. Just like these thriving cleaning businesses, you can create an engaging website and connect with your customers online to boost your brand.

Tier One Cleaning Services sets itself apart by offering premium, top-tier cleaning services to commercial and residential clients. Their website exudes professionalism and sophistication, reflecting their commitment to delivering high-quality cleaning solutions. The site features clear navigation, making it easy for visitors to find the specific services they require. They have a section showcasing their range of cleaning offerings, such as office cleaning, carpet cleaning and specialized cleaning for different industries.
Lira's Cleaning presents itself as a reliable and trustworthy cleaning company that serves both residential and commercial customers. Their website might focus on building a strong rapport with visitors by sharing the story of their founder, Lira, and her passion for cleanliness and exceptional service. This personal touch can help potential clients connect with the company on a more emotional level.
Real Home Cleaners is a well-established cleaning company that prides itself on providing comprehensive and reliable home cleaning services. Their website showcases the dedication of their cleaning teams and their commitment to achieving exceptional results.
Shine On Cleaning Service focuses on creating a cheerful and positive image through their website design. They may utilize bright colors and joyful imagery to convey a sense of happiness and satisfaction that their cleaning services bring to their clients' lives. Shine On offers a variety of services: house cleaning, commercial cleaning and post-construction/move-in/move-out cleaning.
Clean Freaks Cheyenne services customers in Cheyenne, Wyoming, offering recurring residential cleanings, move-out cleanings and commercial cleaning. Their site is as clean and easy to navigate as a cleaned living space.
Soaprano's Cleaning stands out with its unique and catchy name, which hints at their expertise in cleaning services. Their website features a modern and artistic design, reflecting their creativity and attention to detail in their cleaning approach. To attract customers, Soaprano's Cleaning showcases their specialization in particular cleaning niches, such as move-in/move-out cleaning, deep cleaning or post-construction cleaning.

How profitable is a cleaning business

The profitability of a cleaning business depends on factors like location, target market, competition, and management efficiency. Generally, cleaning businesses can be profitable due to consistent demand for services. Residential and commercial cleaning services, especially those with a niche (e.g., eco-friendly cleaning), can yield good profits. Building a loyal customer base, effective marketing and efficient operations contribute to success. However, economic conditions and competition can impact profitability. Thorough market research and strategic planning are essential for success in the cleaning industry.

Some examples of profitable cleaning niches include:

Residential cleaning: Regular home cleaning services for individuals or families.
Commercial cleaning: Providing services to offices, retail spaces, and businesses.
Specialized cleaning: Focusing on niche markets like carpet cleaning, post-construction cleaning, or eco-friendly cleaning.
Janitorial services: Contracts with schools, hospitals, or large facilities.
Window cleaning: A specialized service with demand from both residential and commercial clients.

Cleaning business FAQ

Whats the best business structure for a cleaning business?

The most suitable business structure for a cleaning business depends on factors like liability, taxation and management preferences. Common options for a small business include:
Sole Proprietorship: Simple and low-cost, but the owner has unlimited personal liability.
Limited Liability Company (LLC): Offers liability protection for owners (members) while maintaining simplicity and flexibility. Learn how to start an LLC.