How to Start a Cleaning Business: Step-by-Step Guide & Checklist

Calling all neat freaks: cleaning services are in high demand. Here’s how to turn cleaning into a career.

This guide will cover everything you need to know to kickstart your cleaning business, from cleaning company permits, business insurance, and cleaning supplies to marketing strategies and client management.

Plus, you’ll find our free pre-launch cleaning business checklist at the end.

How High Is the Demand for Cleaning Services?

Driven by both residential and commercial needs, the demand for cleaning services remains strong and steady — which is great news if you’re thinking about how to start a cleaning company. 

In residential areas, busy lifestyles and an increased focus on home cleanliness (thanks, #CleanTok!) have contributed to a consistent demand for professional home cleaning companies. For businesses, plenty of “return to office” schemes, alongside employer health compliance and regulations, can lead to regular contracts for office and commercial cleaning services.

Let’s break down some cleaning industry facts and figures:

• The US cleaning and janitorial services industry was valued at over $90 billion in 2023.
• 10% of all U.S. households engaged a cleaning service in 2021.
• 80% of American households with two incomes will use a cleaning service in the coming years.
• In the US, over 3 million people are employed in the cleaning and janitorial industry. 
• There are over 1M cleaning businesses registered in the US.

If you’re thinking about starting your own cleaning business, this is all good news. While the cleaning services industry shows no sign of slowing down and an ever-increasing need to hire residential cleaning, there’s no better time to get started. 

If the logistics and technicalities on how to start a cleaning company are holding you back, let’s work on that together. This guide will walk you through every step needed to bring your cleaning company to life. 

What Skills Do You Need to Start a Cleaning Business?

Starting a cleaning business requires a mix of practical and business skills, but nothing you can’t learn and develop on the job. 

• Attention to Detail: Cleaning isn’t just about making things look good; it’s about ensuring a healthy environment for your clients, so prepare to obsess over the finer details.
• Organizational Skills: You’ll need to manage schedules, keep track of supplies, and handle billing and invoicing efficiently. 
• Customer Service: Building a good rapport with clients can keep your income flowing and lead to repeat business and positive word-of-mouth.
• Marketing Knowledge: Knowing how to effectively promote your services and attract your first clients. 

Even if you’re new to business, these skills can be learned and developed over time. 

‍

What Training Do You Need to Run a Cleaning Business?

While no formal qualifications are required to start a cleaning business, some training can help you stand out in a competitive market. 

Some cleaning business owners have taken courses in commercial cleaning techniques or specialized services like carpet or window cleaning. Similarly, training in business management, customer service, and basic bookkeeping can be invaluable as your company grows, so it might be worth investing in formal training in some of these areas. 

‍

4 Useful Training Courses & Accreditations for Cleaning Business Owners

#1: ISSA Cleaning Management Institute (CMI) Certification

• The Cleaning Management Institute (CMI), is the education division of ISSA, the worldwide cleaning industry association, and is one of the most recognized education and certification providers in the professional cleaning industry. 
• Their comprehensive course includes management principles and practices in the cleaning industry, quality assurance, safety, and building services.
• It aims to equip business owners with industry-recognized practices to manage cleaning operations efficiently, enhancing service quality and customer satisfaction.

#2: IICRC Certifications

• The IICRC is the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification, a non-profit organization for the Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Industries. 
• They offer specialized training courses such as Carpet Cleaning Technician (CCT) and Window Cleaning Technician (WCT) that focus on particular cleaning techniques and standards.
• Each course provides detailed hands-on techniques and industry standards to handle specialized cleaning tasks, enhancing your expertise and service offerings.

#3: OSHA Safety and Health Training

• OSHA — the Occupational Safety and Health Administration — is part of the United States Department of Labor. It offers training on health and safety regulations specific to the workplace, handling of cleaning chemicals, and equipment safety.
• The Outreach Training courses offer education on complying with safety regulations, reducing legal risks, and protecting employees and clients.

#4 Green Seal Certification

• Green Seal is an independent, nonprofit organization that certifies products and services that meet stringent sustainability standards. It emphasizes reduced environmental impact across a variety of industries, including cleaning.
• Courses offer comprehensive training in environmentally responsible cleaning practices. This accreditation educates business owners on sustainable methods to significantly reduce ecological footprints while meeting client demands for eco-friendly services.

‍How Much Does It Cost to Start a Cleaning Business?

Starting a cleaning business is relatively low-cost compared to other business ventures, making it an attractive option for new entrepreneurs. Depending on the scale of your cleaning company, the initial costs can range from $500 to $2,000.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the average costs to start a cleaning business:  

• Licenses and Permits: $50 to $500, depending on your location.
• Cleaning Supplies and Equipment: $200 to $1,000, depending on whether you start with basic residential cleaning or more specialized services.
• Insurance: $200 to $600 annually, depending on the coverage.
• Marketing: $100 to $500 for initial advertising, business cards, and domain registration.

Remember, starting small allows you to manage costs effectively. As your business grows, you can reinvest profits into better equipment, advanced marketing, and possibly even hiring staff.

On a Budget? How to Start a Cleaning Business With No Money

If you want to start a cleaning business with no money to spare, we’ve got your back! 

Starting a cleaning business on a budget is possible as long as you’re prepared to reinvest once your first clients come through. Here are some tips to get started on a tight budget:

1. Leverage Free Marketing: Promote your services on social media platforms and community boards. Word-of-mouth referrals can also be powerful, so start by offering services to friends and family. 
2. Start Small: Residential cleaning services often require less initial investment in equipment than commercial cleaning, so they’re a good place to start. 
3. Use Basic Supplies: Start with essential cleaning supplies you already have at home or can purchase affordably. As your business grows, you can invest in specialized equipment.
4. Leasing Tools & Equipment: Consider leasing expensive equipment for your first few jobs. This way, you can save costs while still providing best-in-class, professional services.
5. Offer Flexible Payment Terms: Consider offering discounts or flexible payment options to attract your first clients. This can help build a customer base without requiring upfront capital.
6. Network: Join local business Facebook groups or online communities to connect with potential clients and other entrepreneurs who might provide valuable advice or opportunities.
7. Generate Your Website for Free: With Durable, ​​it’s free to get started. Our AI Website Builder can generate your website in 30 seconds, so you can see what it could look like. With our flexible pricing, you can pick the right plan to get your website online and scale your business.

With these strategies, you can launch your cleaning business without dipping into your hard-earned savings. 

How Much Could You Earn With a Cleaning Business?

​​The earning potential of a cleaning business varies significantly based on factors like location, service offerings, and business scale. 

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual pay for janitors and cleaners is $35,020 per year. However, cleaning business owners—particularly those offering specialized services or operating in high-demand areas—can earn considerably more.

For example, another report outlines that the average salary for a cleaning business owner in the United States is $61.53 per hour, or approximately $127,973 annually. Income for a small cleaning business typically ranges between $30,000 and $50,000 per year, but growth opportunities abound. Adding staff or offering high-value services, like carpet cleaning or floor waxing, can increase earnings substantially, potentially bringing in over $100,000 annually.

The key to maximizing income lies in understanding your market, setting competitive yet profitable pricing, and consistently delivering top-quality service that drives repeat business and referrals.

3 Cleaning Businesses and Brands to Follow for Inspiration

Sometimes, all you need is a little inspiration to get started. Here are a few top cleaning businesses to follow and get marketing inspiration from:

#1: Donks Cleaning Services: 

The UK-based cleaning company uses its website to showcase its range of services and highlight its 5-star reviews. 

#2: Really Clean Services: 

The Vancouver-based residential cleaning company makes booking a service simple through their website and provides a detailed breakdown of what’s included in their pricing. 

#3: Cleanor Services: 

Cleanor Services is focused on building a blog for its website to help educate its audience and showcase its expertise and knowledge. 

Build Your Brand Identity With Durable 

Did you know that Durable’s Brand Builder might be behind some of the brands and businesses you love? 

We start by asking you a few questions about your industry, business name, location, and mood. Then, using AI, we’ll create unique logos, fonts, and brand color palettes for you — for free.

It’s the easiest way to build a brand your audience will fall in love with. 

Don’t believe us? Try out our AI Brand Builder for free! 

How to Choose What Cleaning Services to Offer

Deciding which cleaning services to offer can shape the trajectory of your business. But before you outline your services, start by assessing the demand in your area — residential, commercial, or specialized cleaning like window or carpet cleaning — and your personal circumstances. 

For example, if you’re starting out on a shoestring budget with basic household cleaning supplies, you’ll be limited in what you can do for large-scale commercial cleaning clients. Similarly, if you can only work between 9-5 pm, an office building cleaning company may not be an option. 

Consider starting with a broad range to capture more clients and then specializing as you identify the most profitable and in-demand services. This can help you gauge demand in your local area and plan how to expand your business in the future.

‍

Should You Niche Down Your Cleaning Services? 

A niche describes a particular subset of customers and their needs. You may be able to study a niche and create pricing packages specially designed for it.

Some business owners find a niche helpful for marketing their business and defining their primary clients and their needs. 

Some examples of popular cleaning service niches:

• Residential Cleaning Services: Regular house cleaning, deep cleaning, or move-in/move-out cleaning.
• Commercial Cleaning Services: Cleaning services for office buildings, retail locations, and other commercial properties.
• • Business Cleaning Services: Cleaning shops, malls, and other business locations and buildings, usually outside of business operating hours.
  • Office Cleaning Services: Dedicated to cleaning office buildings, including meeting and conference rooms, canteens, and communal office spaces. 
  • Industrial Cleaning Services: Heavy-duty cleaning services for manufacturing plants, warehouses, and industrial sites.
• Medical Facility Cleaning: Specialized cleaning services for hospitals, clinics, and dental offices, adhering to strict sanitation standards.
• Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning: Focused on deep cleaning carpets, rugs, and upholstered furniture.
• Window Cleaning: Services include high-rise and residential window cleaning.
• Green Cleaning Services: Using eco-friendly and sustainable cleaning products and methods.
• Post-construction Cleaning: Cleaning services for new buildings or after renovation projects to prepare spaces for occupancy.
• Vehicle Cleaning and Detailing: Specialized cleaning for cars, boats, and even aircrafts.
• Event Cleaning Services: Before and after cleaning for events like weddings, conferences, and parties.

How to Choose Your Cleaning Company Name

Your business name is your first impression, so it’s worth spending some time in the early stages of business planning finding the perfect name for your cleaning brand. 

Here are some top tips to help you: 

• Make it Stand Out: Choose a name that’s catchy, memorable, and clearly conveys your services.
• Speak to Your Target Audience: Your brand name should resonate with your target audience and stand out in a crowded marketplace. For example, if you offer cleaning services for pre- schools and daycares, something like “Sticky Fingers Cleaners” could speak to that client base directly. 
• Consider Adding Your Location: If your business is going to be solely based around an area — like a town, city, or state — think about adding that to your business name. One thing to note, if you plan to expand nationally (that’s right, it’s ok to dream big as a small business owner) adding the location to your business name could be limiting. 
• Avoid Alternative Spelling: While Google is smart enough to pick up typos, brand names that are a play on the original spelling of words (like “Klean” “Sparkl” or “Srubz”) can hinder you when it comes to turning up in search results. So, while they look playful and fun, you could miss out on traffic to your website and potential customers. 

Feeling stuck or lacking inspiration? Durable’s Business Name Generator can help spark ideas and check domain name availability, ensuring you pick a name that’s not only effective but also web-ready. 

Build Your Cleaning Business Website 

Having a strong online presence is not just beneficial — it's essential. Many small business owners operate without a company website, which means they are missing out on potential clients and revenue! 

Here are six reasons every small cleaning business needs a well-structured website:

#1: Websites Help New Clients Find Your Small Business

A website significantly increases your cleaning business’s discoverability and visibility. With good Search Engine Optimization (SEO), your site can appear in search results when potential clients are looking for cleaning services in your area or for your particular niche. 

This makes you discoverable to a broader audience outside your primary network, increasing your potential customer base.

#2: Creates a Central Hub for Your Services and Information

Your website serves as a central hub where potential clients can learn about your services, see your pricing, and even directly book appointments.

This accessibility makes it easy for referrals or interested parties to find all the information they need in one place, helping speed up decision-making and boosting customer conversions.

#3: Websites Establish Trust and Authority

A professional website lends credibility to your business. It’s a platform where you can showcase customer testimonials, share before-and-after photos of your work, and display any certifications or awards. 

These elements build trust and demonstrate your expertise and reliability in the cleaning industry.

#4: A Continuous Marketing Tool

Your website works for you 24/7 as a marketing tool — imagine new clients finding and booking your services while you sleep or while you’re out on another job. 

Plus, if you create a blog on your website or send a newsletter, you can share timely updates, special offers, and cleaning tips, further enhancing your engagement and customer loyalty.

#5: Streamlined Customer Interaction

With the integration of features like live chat, FAQs, and a booking system, your website can streamline interactions with your customers, making it easy for them to get in touch and book services at their convenience. 

This level of accessibility improves customer satisfaction and can free up your time from administrative tasks so you can focus more on delivering top-notch cleaning services.

#6: Competitive Advantage

In a competitive market, having a polished website can set you apart from competitors who may not have invested in these essential aspects. It shows you are committed to your business and staying connected with customer needs, expectations, and preferences.

In short, small businesses without websites are at a serious disadvantage when it comes to finding, securing, and maintaining customers. Now’s the time to jump into building your website if you haven’t already. 

Build a Cleaning Business Website That’s Made to Last With Durable 

In case you missed it, Durable is the #1 AI Website Builder for small businesses. We’ve helped millions of small business owners like you get their businesses online. 

With Durable, you can create and build your website in 30 seconds — for free! You don’t need to hire a developer, a graphic designer, or even a copywriter.

From a library of website templates for cleaning businesses to creating logos that highlight your niche to writing website content that sells your cleaning services, Durable AI does it all for you. 

With every Durable subscription, you get a customizable, ready-made website, a custom domain, invoicing tools, an AI-powered client management system, and more. Learn more about our subscriptions here. 

Don’t believe us? Try out our AI Website Builder for free! 

Website Inspiration for Your Cleaning Business: 

Take a look at some ready-made websites powered by Durable for cleaning businesses. 

How to Register Your Cleaning Company

As soon as you go into business for yourself, the IRS (and your state tax authority) considers you a sole proprietor, meaning, on paper, you and your business are identical: your business income is your personal income, and vice versa. So, registering your business legitimizes it and helps avoid legal issues in the future. 

The process varies by location but typically involves selecting a business structure (like sole proprietorship or LLC), registering with local and state authorities, and obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS. This foundational step is crucial for establishing your business’s legal framework and tax responsibilities.

Work with a qualified accountant or business attorney when planning a new business structure. They can help you choose the right one for your cleaning service.

What Licenses Are Needed to Start a Cleaning Business?

One of the most common stumbling blocks for new business owners is understanding what licenses are needed to start a cleaning business in your state or city. 

Depending on your location, you may need a specific business license to operate legally. Check with your city or county clerk’s office for the requirements, and consider consulting a local attorney to ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations. This is essential not just for legality but for building trust with your clients.

Essential Cleaning Business Supplies and Tools

Quality supplies and tools are the backbone of your cleaning business.  But what do you actually need to start a cleaning business? We’ve broken down the items you should invest in as you start out. 

Essential items include:

• Cleaning agents
• Microfiber cloths
• Sponges
• Mops
• Brooms
• A powerful vacuum cleaner 

For more specialized services, consider investing in steam cleaners, pressure washers, and industrial-grade vacuums.

Stock your inventory with personal protective equipment like gloves and masks to ensure safety standards. 

Organizational tools such as caddies and shelving units in your transport vehicle can keep supplies orderly and easily accessible. 

‍

How to Set Your Cleaning Business Budget

Setting a well-defined budget is crucial for the financial health of your cleaning business. It not only helps manage expenses but also positions you for sustainable growth. 

Here’s how to effectively plan and manage your budget:

• Identify All Potential Expenses: Begin by listing all potential expenses your cleaning business might incur. This typically includes supplies, insurance, marketing, labor costs, wages, transport, and any licenses and permits you need to operate. 
• Plan for Variable and Fixed Costs: Distinguish between fixed costs (expenses that remain constant, like insurance) and variable costs (expenses that fluctuate, like supplies and fuel). This distinction will help you understand where you can cut costs during slow business periods and how fixed costs will impact your overall financial landscape.
• Implement a Tracking System: Use a spreadsheet or accounting software to track every expense and income source. Meticulous tracking allows you to see patterns in your financial flow, identify areas for cost reduction, and adjust prices to ensure profitability. 
• Set Financial Goals: Define clear financial goals for your business. This could be a target monthly income, a desired profit margin, or specific savings goals for expansion. Having these goals helps you stay focused and make informed spending decisions.
• Review and Adjust Regularly: Your budget is not set in stone. Regular reviews — ideally monthly or quarterly — allow you to adjust based on your business performance and market conditions. This proactive approach helps you stay on top of your finances and make adjustments before minor issues become significant problems.
• Prepare for Unexpected Expenses: Always have a contingency fund for unexpected expenses, such as emergency equipment repairs or sudden increases in supply costs. This safety net ensures that such surprises don’t derail your financial stability.‍

Growing Your Cleaning Business

Tips for Marketing Your Business:

• Regularly post on social media. 
• Get involved with community events. 
• Join local Facebook groups.
• Offer a referral program for your existing clients.
• Invest in local & paid ads.

Estimated Cleaning Rates:

• Hourly: $20 to $50 per house cleaner.
• Flat Fee: $100 to $170 for a single-family house cleaning job. 
• Per Room: $100 for 1 bed and 1 bathroom.‍
• Per Square Foot: $0.05 to $0.15 per square foot.

How to Market Your Cleaning Business

Marketing is essential to build visibility and attract customers to your new cleaning business. The good news is that there are plenty of easy ways to market your business. 

Here are some simple ways to start marketing your business today: 

• Get on Social: Start by leveraging the power of social media to create engaging content that showcases your services. If you haven’t already, register your @ handle on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok to take your business on social media. Here you can grow your following by regularly posting before-and-after photos, cleaning tips, and promotional offers, which can help in building a community around your brand.
• Engage with Your Community: Participate in local community events to increase your business's visibility and network with potential customers. You may consider volunteering for a cleaning session at your local community, religious, or sports center to build connections and your network. ‍
• Referral Programs: Consider implementing a referral program that incentivizes existing customers to refer new clients by offering them a discount or free service for each successful referral.‍
• Invest in Local Ads: Local newspapers, radio ads, and community bulletin boards are great channels for advertising your business.‍
• Consider Online Paid Ads: Paid advertising can accelerate your business growth by driving more immediate visibility. Platforms like Google Ads and Facebook Ads allow you to target specific demographics and geographic locations, making your advertising efforts more efficient and effective. Use well-designed ads with clear calls to action and track the performance of each campaign to understand what works best for your target audience.

‍

Maximize your ad performance and get more clients with Durable’s AI Google Ad Writer, designed to help you create impactful campaigns effortlessly.

‍

How to Find & Secure Your First Cleaning Business Customer

Securing your first customer can be challenging but is crucial for gaining momentum. But if you’ve followed some of the marketing tips above and built your website, you should be well on your way to getting your first customer. 

Here are some ideas to secure that first client: 

• Start by offering your services at a discounted rate to friends, family, and neighbors in exchange for testimonials and referrals. 
• Create attractive introductory offers like discounted first-time services to draw in new customers. 
• Utilize local SEO strategies by ensuring your business is listed in online directories and has strong Google My Business and Yelp profiles, which help local customers find you easily.
• Networking is also key. Attend local business events and join community groups to meet potential clients. Always carry business cards and be ready to discuss your services passionately and professionally.

The first few weeks or months of starting a new business can be daunting. There can be a lot of cold calls and disappointment as you hustle to get your first client. But don’t worry — these things take time, but with commitment and the right approach, you’ll soon find your client roster full! 

‍

Learn How to Price Your Cleaning Services & Estimate Jobs

Pricing your services competitively while ensuring profitability is critical. 

Start by researching local market rates for cleaning services to set your prices competitively. Always remember to be transparent with your pricing, providing detailed quotes that break down the cost for the customer. 

You may also want to consider offering different pricing tiers based on service levels or introduce bundled services at a discount to provide options to suit various needs.

You have several options for charging for your services. Once you’ve settled on a method, you can set your prices. 

‍

How to Charge for Cleaning Services:

The best way to charge for your cleaning services may vary depending on the client or the project you’re working on. 

Before taking on clients, consider the five approaches below and set a rate for each; you’ll be prepared to handle anything that comes your way.

• Hourly: Setting your hourly rate gives you a baseline to work from. Even if you decide to price out a cleaning project using a different method, comparing it to your hourly rate helps you ensure you’re being paid a decent wage.
• • The average salary for a cleaning business owner in the United States is $61.53USD per hour, but this will depend on your experience, location, and specialist services. 
• Flat Rate: You may decide to offer a flat rate for a particular service based on how long it typically takes to complete. This can be particularly attractive to clients looking for one-time services.
• • The national average fixed cost for a regular house clean is between $170 to $220USD. 
• Per-room Rate: If you know how long a typical one-bedroom apartment takes to clean compared to a two-bedroom apartment, you can set your rates based on the number of rooms in a unit. This kind of pricing is a good fit for apartment clean-out services.
• • On average, a 2-bedroom property will cost between $100 to $425USD. 
• Square Footage: This approach makes sense if you’re focusing on a specific niche where your cleaning tasks will all be similar — such as junk removal from rented storage spaces — and the main variable is the amount of space you need to cover.
• • On average, cleaning a 1500–2000 square foot property will cost $200 to $400USD.
• Specialty Service Rate: Some projects may require you to increase your rate. For instance, if you need extra cleaning products and protective equipment to clean a moldy basement, your hourly rate could go up. 

‍

How to Set Prices for Your Cleaning Services:

When setting a price for your cleaning services, no matter how you charge your client, you need to take three factors into account:

#1: ‍The Cost of Products: Set up a system to log how much of your cleaning products you use during an average hour of work. The products you use will naturally vary according to the projects you tackle, but by tracking consistently over multiple projects, you should be able to determine an average hourly cost. 

Budgeting Tip: If you need to estimate how much product you’re using, it’s better to over-budget for cleaning products so you don’t accidentally cut into your bottom line.

#2: Travel Expenses: You’ll need to factor in both the gas mileage to reach clients and the cost of upkeep on your vehicle. How much do you need to earn each month just to keep your vehicle on the road and insured? What is the average cost of traveling to a client within a 100-mile radius?

#3: Your Hourly Wage: How much is your time worth? Take into account the time you spend scheduling clients and projects, restocking with cleaning products, and traveling to jobs. In an eight-hour day of work, you may only spend five hours cleaning. How much do you need to earn to make it worthwhile?

‍

How to Manage Your Cleaning Business Clients

Effective client management fosters long-term relationships and business growth. And for small businesses, it can come down to how you communicate and the quality of personalized care you provide. 

Here are some tips for building successful and long-lasting relationships with your clients: 

• Learn More About Your Customers: Getting to know your clients on a personal level, particularly if you’re going into residential cleaning, could make all the difference when it comes to retention and customer loyalty. For example, leaving a “Happy Birthday” note when you know a celebration is coming up or cleaning out their refrigerator when they’re just about to go on vacation without being asked can help you stand out from the crowd. 
• Send Emails: Even if you only do one-time services for some clients, offer to add them to your email list. Through email, you can offer sales, discounts, referral programs, and special promotions. Even just reaching out once in a while with a cleaning tip or piece of advice can keep you top-of-mind with clients, and encourage them to hire you again.‍
• Set up a CRM: A Client relationship management (CRM) system keeps your clients’ info organized, so you can track how much they’ve paid you, the services you’ve provided, how long they’ve been a client, and other important info. It can give you big-picture insight into what type of clients are right for your business and which ones are the most profitable.

Respond to leads, organize contacts, and streamline your customer interactions with Durable’s AI-powered CRM, tailored for small businesses like yours. Available with every Durable Subscription.

‍

Managing Your Cleaning Business

Insurance Coverage to Consider:

• General liability cover. 
• Property insurance. 
• Worker’s compensation. 
• Vehicle insurance.

Tips for Getting Paid Faster:

• Automate your processes.
• Clarify your payment terms.
• Automate late payment reminders.

Bookkeeping 101:

• Update your books regularly. 
• Segregate expenses & categorize spending. 
• Backup your records.

How to Know if You’re Ready to Hire Staff:

• Consistently overloaded with work.
• Stable finances for at least six months.
• Growing client roster and demand.

‍

Get Cleaning Business Insurance

Don’t let a rug cleaning accident or a run-in with a glass window derail your business.

General liability insurance is crucial as it covers damages or injuries that could occur while cleaning a client's property. You may also want to consider additional policies like property insurance, workers' compensation (if you hire employees), and vehicle insurance for business transport. For a deeper dive, check out our guide to business insurance.

It’s also reassuring to new clients to learn that your business is insured, which further reinforces that you’re a legitimate business. 

‍

Durable has teamed up with Thimble Insurance to get an instant quote and protect your business today! As a Durable Customer, you get access to all of our Perk Partner discounts and exclusive offers.

‍

Set up Invoicing For Your Cleaning Business

Invoicing your clients for cleaning services helps you track your income, get paid faster, and present a professional face to the world. 

Setting up your systems to issue invoices quickly, track payments, and manage accounts receivable is crucial. Your invoicing software should be able to handle different payment methods, send automatic payment reminders to clients, and provide detailed reports that help you understand your business’s cash flow.

Also, if you clean commercial spaces or do cleaning for home-based businesses, the business that hired you will expect an invoice so it can deduct the cost from its taxes.

FYI: When you use Durable’s Invoice Builder Tool it’s easy for clients to pay you by credit card, ACH, or Apple Pay.

‍

Set up Your Business Accounting and Bookkeeping

Don’t worry — we’re not going to ask you to spend your days balancing spreadsheets, but keeping accurate books is critical for your business's financial health. 

Thankfully, there are plenty of online accounting tools and software that can help you get started and manage your finances with minimal accounting knowledge needed. Start by choosing the right accounting software that fits the needs of your cleaning business, enabling you to track revenue, expenses, and profit accurately. 

Add a calendar reminder to update your books regularly and review your financial statements monthly. This not only helps keep your finances in order but is also essential for tax purposes and financial planning.

If managing your books and navigating tax season solo sounds overwhelming, consider hiring a part-time bookkeeper or accountant if your budget allows. They can help you navigate complex financial tasks, ensure compliance with tax laws, and provide strategic advice to optimize your business’s profitability.

‍

How to Hire and Train Cleaning Staff

Once demand is high enough, hiring and training new employees will allow you to expand your business and serve more clients. This is a big moment for your small business — you’ll become not just your own boss but the boss of an entire team — so it’s worth setting yourself and your team up for success during this transition. 

Develop a clear hiring process that includes thorough background checks and interviews to assess fit for the role and your business culture. Once hired, provide comprehensive training that covers your cleaning techniques, customer service expectations, and safety protocols. Consistent training ensures that your staff meets your standards and represents your brand well.

Invest in ongoing training and development to keep your team updated on the latest cleaning methods and technologies. This not only improves service quality but also boosts employee morale and retention.

You might also consider contracting out work during busy times. For instance, suppose you’re overwhelmed with requests for apartment moving cleanouts at the end of every month, and you can’t keep up with demand. In that case, contracting out particular tasks to other cleaners may allow you to earn a modest profit margin while connecting with clients you’d otherwise turn away. 

Expert Advice For Running Your Business

9 Websites, Podcasts & Resources for New Cleaning Business Owners

To stay informed and inspired, here are some recommended resources:

• Websites:
• • Cleaning Business Today offers industry news, tips, and resources for professional cleaners and cleaning business owners. 
  • Janitorial Store provides articles, tools, and forums for cleaning business owners.
  • CleanLink and the ISSA regularly feature expert insights and case studies that highlight successful practices and innovative approaches in the cleaning industry.
  • Durable’s Newsletter for small businesses helps you stay up to date with tips, guides and marketing strategies to get your business up and running. 
• Podcasts:
• • ZenMaid Podcast: Focuses on interviews with successful maid service owners and industry experts.
  • Smart Cleaning School: Helps small cleaning business owners learn how to automate and grow their business.
• Books:
• • "Speed Cleaning" by Jeff Campbell: Offers efficient cleaning techniques that can be taught to teams.
  • "Maid" by Stephanie Land: In her inspirational biography, Land shares her journey as a single mother struggling to make ends meet while working as a maid. 

These resources offer valuable learning opportunities and insights into the operational side of running a cleaning business and the entrepreneurial mindset required for success.

Your Free Cleaning Business Checklist: 

Congratulations! You’re feeling ready to launch your cleaning business and be your own boss. To help ensure you cover all essential aspects of starting your cleaning business, we've compiled a detailed checklist. 

This pre-launch cleaning business checklist will walk you through each step, from initial research to your grand opening, helping you establish a strong foundation for your business.

Research and Planning

• Conduct market research to understand local demand and competition.
• Define your cleaning services (residential, commercial, specialized, etc.).
• Identify your target market (homeowners, business owners, renters, etc).

Business Setup

• Choose a business name and check for domain availability.
• Register your business name and legal structure (LLC, sole proprietorship, etc.).
• Obtain necessary business licenses and permits.
• Set up a business bank account and credit card.

Branding and Marketing

• Create a logo and branding materials.
• Develop a marketing plan covering digital and local strategies.
• Build a professional website using Durable’s AI Website Builder.
• Set up social media profiles on relevant platforms (Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn).

Operations

• Purchase or lease essential cleaning equipment and supplies.
• Establish operational protocols and cleaning standards.
• Draft customer service policies and ensure easy contact methods (phone, email).
• Set up a scheduling system for appointments.

Financial Management

• Create a budget and financial projections.
• Set up accounting, invoicing, and bookkeeping systems.
• Decide on pricing structures and payment methods.
• Invest in business insurance (liability, workers’ compensation, vehicle).

Human Resources

• Outline the hiring process for future employees.
• Develop training programs for cleaning techniques and customer service.
• Write job descriptions for all roles.

Customer Acquisition

• Plan and prepare introductory offers or promotions.
• Develop a strategy for gathering customer reviews and testimonials.
• Network with local businesses and communities to increase visibility.

Legal and Compliance

• Consult with a lawyer to review contracts and service agreements.
• Ensure compliance with local health and safety regulations.

Launch Preparation

• Plan an official launch event or promotion.
• Send out a press release or announcements to local media.
• Schedule social media blasts and email marketing campaigns for the launch.