How To Start A Cleaning Business

Starting a cleaning business can be a great way to make some extra money, and it’s a business that is always in demand.

Here are the steps you can take to get started on building your very own cleaning business.

10 Steps to Launching a New Cleaning Business

1. Choose Your Type of Cleaning Business

The first step in launching a cleaning business is to identify the type of cleaning business you want to launch. You might choose from the following types among others:

Residential cleaning
Commercial cleaning
Window cleaning
Carpet cleaning

Learn more about the types of cleaning businesses.

2. Name Your Cleaning Business

Give your cleaning business an identity so people will think of it as a well-known and respected brand. You can take the name of your cleaning business from your industry, focus on a geographical location, or use your own name among other options.

The main goal for naming your cleaning business is to make it sound appealing and trustworthy so clients will call you for their cleaning needs.

3. Determine Your Cleaning Business Model

There are several possible types of business models for a cleaning business including:

Mobile cleaning business: You will need a vehicle to transport your cleaning equipment and supplies. This type of business can be run from home since you won’t need a commercial space.
Office-based cleaning business: You will need a physical office space from which to operate your business. This is the best option if you plan to offer office or janitorial services.
Eco-friendly cleaning business: You will need to purchase green cleaning supplies and use energy-efficient equipment. This type of business is in high demand due to the growing awareness of environmental issues.

No matter which model you choose, make sure that it aligns with your business goals and the services you offer.

4. Choose a Legal Form for Your Business

By incorporating your cleaning business, you will limit your liability. You can incorporate as a Limited Liability Company (LLC), a C Corporation (C-Corp), or an S Corporation (S-Corp). Or you can operate as a sole proprietorship.

The business structure you choose for your cleaning business will determine the amount of taxes you pay and which state or federal tax forms you need to file.

Read our article comparing the most common cleaning business structures.

5. Write a Cleaning Business Plan

All cleaning business owners should develop a business plan.

A business plan is a document that outlines the goals, strategies, and operations of a business. It can be used to secure funding from investors or lenders, as well as to guide the day-to-day operations of the business. The business plan should include information on the company’s products or services, market analysis, financial projections, and management team among other things.

Read our article about how to write a cleaning business plan.

6. Apply for the Necessary Permits and Licenses

There may be required licenses and permits you need to obtain before launching your cleaning business.

For example, if you plan to offer carpet cleaning services, you might need to obtain a permit or license from your state or local government office. Or, if you’re going to operate a mobile cleaning business, you’ll need a business license from the state government and a permit from the Department of Motor Vehicles.

You must also register your cleaning business as a legal entity with the state where you plan to do business. You can simply file an online form through your Secretary of State website.

Registering with the federal government is also essential so you can properly pay taxes for your business. You will also need an Employer Identification Number (EIN), which you can apply for at the IRS website, if you plan to hire employees.

Read our article about obtaining the proper cleaning business licenses.

7. Determine Your Budget & Apply for Funding as Needed

In developing your cleaning business plan, you will figure out how much funding you need to start and grow your business.

If you have your own funds to invest in your cleaning business, you may consider taking advantage of that. In addition to your personal funds, other forms of potential funding for your cleaning business include traditional bank loans, SBA loans, credit cards, angel investors and family and friends.

Read our article about the costs associated with starting a cleaning business to help you determine if funding is needed.

Read our article about how to fund your cleaning business.

8. Get the Technology & Software Needed to Run Your Business Efficiently

When you start your cleaning business, it’s essential to have the right technology in place to maximize efficiency. You definitely need a computer with Internet access, and accounting software for tracking expenses and revenues.

You may also want to invest in a customer relationship management (CRM) system and/or project management software to more easily manage your customers, cleaning projects and employee schedules.

In addition, a mobile phone is essential for running a cleaning business since you will often be out of the office, meeting with clients or supervising cleaning crews.

Read our article about the technology and software you need to run a cleaning business.

9. Market Your Cleaning Business to Potential Clients

Before you start selling your services, you have to let the world know you exist. The first step is to create a website so people can learn more about your services and how they benefit them.

After you launch your website, start promoting it through social media channels like Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter. Also consider networking with other people in the cleaning industry through social media and blogs so they can help share your business.

You also need to start gathering the materials needed to execute on your promotions strategy, which is your strategy for attracting new customers. Cleaning businesses should consider the following promotional strategies for which you should start getting prepared:

Brochures – You can use these to promote your cleaning business in local businesses or hand them out to people on the street.

Door hangers – These are an effective way to market your services in specific neighborhoods.

Flyers – You can distribute these tucked into local newspapers or use them as a drop-in card for a regional magazine.

Ads in magazines, newspapers or online directories – You can purchase ad space in local publications or online directories that list businesses in specific industries.

Read our article about how to market your cleaning business for more tips.

10. Get New Clients & Grow Your Business

When you promote your services, you’ll start to get interest from potential clients.

Make sure you’re ready to serve these clients. Also, be sure to establish systems to ensure consistency and reduce costs. And be sure to find and train the right people to help you grow your cleaning business.

Read our article about how to effectively grow your cleaning business to learn more.

Starting a Cleaning Business FAQs

Why Start a Cleaning Business?

For many people, starting a cleaning business is a great way to be their own boss, control their own hours and earn a good living. In addition, the cleaning industry is always in demand since there will always be a need for clean homes and businesses.

What is Needed to Start a Successful Cleaning Business?

In order to start a successful cleaning business, you need to have an understanding of the industry and the target market you’re going after. You also need to create a solid business plan, acquire the necessary licenses and permits, find the right location, get the right technology and software in place, market your business effectively, and grow your client base.

How Can I Start a Cleaning Business From Home?

Starting a cleaning business from home is a great way to get your business up and running quickly and with minimal overhead costs. In order to start a cleaning business from home, you need to have a dedicated space for storing equipment and supplies, a reliable vehicle for transportation, and the necessary insurance coverage. You also need to market your business effectively and acquire new clients.

How Can I Start a Cleaning Business Online?

There are a few different ways you can start a cleaning business online. One way is to create a website and use it to promote your services. You can also use social media channels like Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter to market your business. Another way is to network with other people in the cleaning industry so they can help share your business.

Ensure that your website allows clients to book your services online. This will make it easier for them to do business with you and will also help you keep track of your appointments. You can also use online directories to list your business and reach new clients.

What are Some Tips for Starting a Cleaning Business?

Some tips for starting a cleaning business include:

Create a solid business plan - This document will be your road map for starting and growing your business. It should include your business goals, target market, marketing strategy, financial projections, and more.
Get the necessary licenses and permits - Depending on your location, you may need to obtain a business license or other permits in order to operate legally.
Find the right location - Choose a location for your business that is easily accessible to your target market.
Get the right technology and software in place - In order to run your business efficiently, you need to have the right technology and software in place. This includes a customer relationship management (CRM) system, appointment scheduling software, invoicing software, and more.
Market your business effectively - You need to let people know about your business in order to get new clients. Use a mix of marketing channels, such as online directories, social media, and print advertising.
Grow your client base - Acquiring new clients is essential for growing your cleaning business. Network with other businesses in your area, offer discounts or promotions, and provide excellent customer service to encourage repeat business.

Where Can I Find a Simple Checklist for Starting a Cleaning Business?

A simple checklist to use when starting a cleaning business is as follows:

Choose Your Type of Cleaning Firm: This should be based on what you are best at and how much experience you have. Remember to keep your interests, skills, and experience in mind at all times.
Name Your Cleaning Business: This should be done with care, as your brand is important for attracting the right customers. A simple, memorable name will go a long way.
Choose a Legal Form for Your Business: Whether you choose to become a sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, corporation or another option will depend on your business. Ensure that you are aware of all the implications of each type.
Determine Your Cleaning Business Model: Determine how your business will make money. Will you sell products, services, or a combination of both?
Write a Cleaning Business Plan: Your business plan will also help you determine what your start-up costs will be and will provide a roadmap with which you can launch and grow.
Apply for the Necessary Permits and Licenses: In most locations you will be required to apply for a business license and/or permits before you can begin operations.
Determine Your Budget & Apply for Funding as Needed: You will need to know how much money you have to spend on all of your business-related expenses before opening any doors. If needed, apply for a small business loan or other funding options.
Get the Technology & Software Needed to Run Your Business Efficiently: You need to have the right tools in place to succeed. Implement software that will help you manage your time, contacts, and business operations in general.
Market Your Cleaning Business to Potential Clients: A solid marketing plan will be crucial to your success. It should focus on attracting the right customers so that you can provide them with the services they truly need.
Get Clients & Grow Your Business: Once you have a solid marketing plan, it's time to actively pursue and secure those who could benefit the most from your services.

Summary

Starting a cleaning business can be a great way to get started in entrepreneurship. It’s important to research the market and plan accordingly in order to make the most of your venture. Use the checklist provided to get started on the right foot. Remember to market your business effectively and provide excellent customer service so that you can acquire new clients, secure repeat clients, and grow your business successfully.

How To Start a Cleaning Business