How to Start a Cleaning Business
So, you want to start a cleaning business? You have the skills. There aren’t many hurdles or license requirements compared to other operations. And you can get started fast and affordably.
However, you’re not quite sure what’s involved in starting a cleaning business.
In this guide, you’ll get a better sense of the industry, the skills you need to be successful in it, and how to start your own operation.
You will also find information provided by two people currently in the industry: Matthew Mercuri, Digital Marketing Manager at Dupray, and Simon Brooks, the founder of Squiffy Clean, who was recently featured by NBC. Simon is testimony to the fact that anyone can start a cleaning business.
1. Overview of the industry
The cleaning services industry is comprised of janitors and cleaners, maids, housekeeping cleaners, supervisors of housekeeping and janitorial workers, and building cleaning workers.
As of May 2014, there were 2,137,730 janitors and cleaners in the U.S.; 929,540 maids and housekeeping cleaners; 168,960 first-line supervisors of housekeeping and janitorial workers; and 15,620 building cleaning workers.
According to data from PayScale’s salary questionnaire, house cleaners nationwide earned an average of $15.09 per hour. Most were women who claimed a high level of job satisfaction. However, fewer than one in twenty had medical and dental plans, and zero had vision insurance.
The best-selling products in the commercial cleaning industry included brands such as Pine Sol, Fabuloso, and Clorox Clean Up. Cleaning managers cited high quality, effectiveness, and low price as key factors.
2. Skills you need to start this business
Cleaning other people’s houses and offices is a dirty job! More than that, it’s an intensely personal job as you will be entering someone’s home or a private office space that may contain confidential data.
To be successful in this industry, you will need trustworthiness, diligence, an eye for detail, the ability to focus, excellent timekeeping and time management skills, physical stamina and strength, and a polite and professional manner.
While it’s important to develop and maintain a positive relationship with your clients, you are not there to socialize. A professional manner should be adhered to at all times. This will count greatly in your favor if the client ever has friends who ask for a referral.
To learn more about your own strengths and weaknesses, you can conduct a SWOT analysis on yourself or take a quiz to determine where your strengths lie.
3. Market research and business idea validation
Starting a cleaning business is a popular option due to its low barriers to entry. However, to stand out and succeed, you need to differentiate your service offerings through market research and finding your unique selling proposition.
To validate your idea, consider factors such as the distance you’re willing to travel, the type of cleaning services you will offer, your pricing structure, your target audience, whether you will hire employees, and your role in the business.
Pricing your services should take into account factors such as the size of the space, frequency of cleaning, special requirements, your experience, and how you want to charge.
Validate your idea by documenting your key assumptions, speaking to customers, understanding what they are willing to pay, determining your startup costs, and conducting a lean planning process.
4. Getting funded and writing a business plan
Whether you need funding or not, it’s important to have a business plan. Consider the upfront investment required for your business and explore options like bootstrapping, loans, asking for help from friends and family, or seeking alternative funding sources.
If you’re seeking a loan, speak with the SBA to understand your options. If considering a franchise, ensure you meet the necessary requirements. Be knowledgeable about the loan application process and be prepared to present a solid business plan.
5. Making it legal
Ensure your business is legally set up by registering your business name, applying for a federal tax ID number, choosing a business structure, and setting up payment systems. Consult a lawyer if needed.
6. Opening your business and marketing it
As a service business, rely on your customers for further business. Develop a process for receiving reviews, comments, and feedback. Consider marketing promotions or discounts to attract new customers and encourage referrals.
7. Resources for cleaning businesses
Explore cleaning business associations and forums, cleaning supply websites, and educational articles and blogs to help you navigate the industry and grow your business.
Hello!
I’m Andrew Brooks, a seasoned finance consultant from the USA and the mind behind phonenumber247.com.
My career is built on a foundation of helping individuals and businesses thrive financially in an ever-changing economic landscape. At phonenumber247.com, my aim is to demystify the complex world of finance, providing clear, actionable advice that can help you navigate your financial journey with confidence. Whether it’s personal finance management, investment strategies, or understanding the nuances of market dynamics, I’m here to share insights and tools that can propel you towards your financial goals.
Welcome to my digital space, where every piece of advice is a step closer to financial clarity and success!