Running a commercial cleaning business can be a lucrative endeavor, but it’s important to have the proper supplies and equipment in order to be successful. This article will provide a complete list of commercial cleaning supplies, products and equipment, as well as the costs associated with each item. So, whether you’re just starting out or you’re looking to expand your current operation, be sure to keep this list handy.
Essential Cleaning Supplies
There are a few basic cleaning supplies that you’ll need in order to get started.
–Buckets: You’ll need at least two one-gallon buckets – one for cleaning solution and one for rinsing. Good gallon-sized plastic buckets will cost you around $10 each.
–Mops: Mops are necessary to clean hard floors. A good quality mop will cost you about $40. Some high-end models run $250 or more.
–Wet/Dry mops and disposable pads: Some popular lightweight mops come with disposable pads and may be used for wet or dry mopping. Prices for the mops and pads vary; but, overall, while the convenience of using such mops and pads are nice, the prices are higher for the disposable items than for standard mops and reusable cloths.
–Sponges: You’ll need these for scrubbing surfaces. Sponges should cost you no more than $10 for a pack of three standard sponges.
–Paper towels: You’ll need heavy-duty paper towels for cleaning up spills. A roll of heavy-duty paper towels should cost you no more than $5-$7.
–Trash bags: Trash bags are necessary for collecting and disposing of rubbish. A pack of 50 trash bags should cost you around $10-$15.
–Gloves: Gloves will protect your hands from harsh cleaning chemicals. A pack of three pairs of heavy-duty gloves should cost you no more than $20.
–Dustpan and brush: These are essential for sweeping up dust and dirt. A good quality dustpan and brush will cost you around $25.
–Microfiber cloths: Microfiber cloths are great for dusting and polishing. A pack of three microfiber cloths should cost you no more than $14.
–Cleaning erasers: These handheld erasers are made of a durable foam compound that removes heavy stains on appliances, counters, floors and other surfaces. Sold in packs of three or more for around $5.
–Spray bottle: A spray bottle is necessary for applying cleaning solutions. A four-pack of good quality spray bottles should cost you around $17.
–Shoe covers: Shoe covers are essential for protecting floors from dirt and debris. A pack of three pairs of shoe covers should cost you no more than $5.
–Feather duster: A feather duster is a great way to dust hard-to-reach areas. A good quality feather duster will cost you around $25. High-quality dusters can cost up to $250.
Essential Cleaning Products
In addition to the essential cleaning supplies, you’ll also need some basic cleaning products.
–All-purpose cleaner: An all-purpose cleaner can be used on a variety of surfaces. Many cleaners come in a concentrated form, which allows you to mix as much as you need with water. A good-quality all-purpose cleaner concentrate should cost you around $7-$8.
–Glass cleaner: Glass cleaner is necessary for cleaning windows and mirrors. A brand name glass cleaner should cost you around $5.
–Disinfectant: A good-quality disinfectant is necessary for killing germs and bacteria. A gallon of disinfectant should cost from $25-$125.
–Floor and surface cleaner: A high-quality floor and surface cleaner is necessary for washing floors and surfaces. A gallon of cleaner concentrate should cost you no more than $25-$45.
–Bathroom cleaner: A good quality bathroom cleaner is necessary for cleaning toilets and bathroom areas. A gallon of toilet and bathroom cleaner concentrate should cost you around $45-$60.
–Floor polish: A good-quality polish is necessary for shining wood floors and surfaces. A bottle of floor polish (such as Bona) will cost you around $15.
–Stainless steel cleaner: A brand name stainless steel cleaner is necessary for cleaning stainless steel surfaces. A 17-ounce can of stainless steel cleaner should cost you around $17.
–Carpet cleaner: A commercial carpet cleaner is necessary for cleaning carpets and upholstery. A gallon of carpet cleaning concentrate should cost you around $20. You will want to add the concentrate to water as directed on the gallon bottle.
–Wood polish & cleaner: A high-quality wood polish and cleaner is necessary for cleaning wood surfaces and making them shine. An 8-ounce spray bottle of wood cleaner should cost you around $12.
Essential Cleaning Equipment
In addition to the essential cleaning supplies and products, you’ll also need some basic cleaning equipment.
–Commercial vacuum: A commercial vacuum is necessary for cleaning carpets and upholstery. A brand name industrial vacuum will cost $300 to $500, depending on the features you need.
–Commercial steam cleaner: A good steam cleaner is essential for cleaning drapes, curtains, upholstery and other items that need cleaning or wrinkles removed. A commercial steam cleaner will cost around $400, however, upper -end models will cost about $4,000.
–Hardwood floor vacuum: A hardwood floor vacuum is essential if the buildings you typically clean have hardwood floors. A hardwood floor vacuum, such as a Dyson, will cost about $400.
–Supply cart(s): A commercial-grade supply cart is essential for storing and transporting cleaning supplies. Supply carts cost $75-$300, depending on the features you need.
–Commercial pressure washer: A commercial pressure washer is essential for cleaning outdoor surfaces. If you offer cleaning of outdoor areas such as windows, driveways, parking lots, sidewalks, etc, a high-quality pressure washer will cost $900-$3,500.
–Cordless drill: A cordless drill is essential for minor repairs and quick-fixes. A cordless drill should cost around $100 and include various drill bits and attachments for your use.
–Commercial extension ladder: A commercial extension ladder is essential for cleaning high places. A commercial extension ladder starts at about $350.
–Safety helmets and gloves: If you or your employees are working outdoors or in construction areas, helmets and gloves are a priority. Safety helmets cost $30-$50 each and sturdy work gloves cost about $30 per pair.
Conclusion
As you can see, there are a variety of essential cleaning supplies, products, and equipment that you’ll need for most commercial cleaning services. The costs of these items can add up quickly, so it’s important to be aware of the expected expenses before you begin your next project. All in all, you can expect to spend anywhere from $1,000 to $10,000 on your initial purchases of commercial cleaning supplies, products, and equipment. With this knowledge, you can be sure to stay within budget and get the job done right.