Let’s cut through the fluff. Starting a cleaning business isn’t rocket science, but it’s more complex than buying supplies and calling yourself a cleaner. I’ve analyzed hundreds of successful cleaning businesses, and here’s what separates the winners from the wannabes. So, let’s find out how to start a cleaning business.
The cleaning industry isn’t just surviving – it’s thriving. With the rising demand for professional cleaning services, there’s never been a better time to jump in. The global cleaning services market (not just commercial) was valued at $370.56 billion in 2022 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.6% from 2023 to 2030.
Starting a cleaning business requires significantly different investments depending on your approach. The typical startup costs range from $685 to $10,000, with an average of $3,500 for a basic operation. However, for commercial cleaning businesses, initial investments can range from $73,500 to $167,500, plus monthly operating costs of $23,500 to $30,000.
The residential market offers a lower barrier to entry with several advantages:
The commercial sector requires more investment but offers different benefits:
Every cleaning business must secure the following:
Initial inventory costs typically range from $6,500 to $8,000, including:
The cleaning industry requires thorough market analysis before entry. A comprehensive approach includes:
Service Categories
A thorough competitor analysis should examine:
The legal framework requires:
Every cleaning business must secure:
Your unique selling proposition (USP) must include three key elements:
Successful differentiation can be achieved through:
Consider these factors when setting prices:
The success blueprint isn’t just about following steps – it’s about creating a sustainable business model that can grow and adapt to market changes. The most successful cleaning businesses focus on building strong systems from the start while maintaining flexibility to adjust to market demands.
Remember, success in the cleaning business isn’t about being perfect from day one. It’s about starting small, learning fast, and growing strategically. Take Kyle Walker’s story – he started at 15 and hit his first million by 21. He wasn’t afraid to start small and adapt, not because he had some secret formula. The cleaning industry rewards those who show up consistently, deliver quality service and treat it like a real business rather than a side hustle.
Whether you’re starting with just yourself and a mop or dreaming of building the next major cleaning empire, the principles remain the same: focus on quality, build systems, and always put your customers first.
The success blueprint isn’t just about following steps – it’s about creating a sustainable business model that can grow and adapt to market changes. The most successful cleaning businesses focus on building strong systems from the start while maintaining flexibility to adjust to market demands.
Up until working with Casey, we had only had poor to mediocre experiences outsourcing work to agencies. Casey & the team at CJ&CO are the exception to the rule.
Communication was beyond great, his understanding of our vision was phenomenal, and instead of needing babysitting like the other agencies we worked with, he was not only completely dependable but also gave us sound suggestions on how to get better results, at the risk of us not needing him for the initial job we requested (absolute gem).
This has truly been the first time we worked with someone outside of our business that quickly grasped our vision, and that I could completely forget about and would still deliver above expectations.
I honestly can’t wait to work in many more projects together!
Disclaimer
*The information this blog provides is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as financial or professional advice. The information may not reflect current developments and may be changed or updated without notice. Any opinions expressed on this blog are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the author’s employer or any other organization. You should not act or rely on any information contained in this blog without first seeking the advice of a professional. No representation or warranty, express or implied, is made as to the accuracy or completeness of the information contained in this blog. The author and affiliated parties assume no liability for any errors or omissions.
