Starting your own sanitizing business can be a great way to make money while helping to keep your community healthy. However, there are a few things you need to do in order to get started and be successful.
Here are the 10 steps you can take to get started on building your very own sanitizing business.
10 Steps to Launching a New Sanitizing Business
1. Choose Your Type of Sanitizing Business
The first step in launching a sanitizing business is to identify the type of sanitizing business you want to launch. You might choose from the following types among others:
- Residential sanitizing businesses offer their services to homeowners.
- Commercial sanitizing businesses provide their services to office buildings, retail stores, restaurants, and other businesses.
- Mobile sanitizing businesses bring their services, equipment and supplies to their customers. This can be done through a van or truck that is outfitted with the necessary equipment.
Learn more about the types of sanitizing businesses.
2. Name Your Sanitizing Business
Give your sanitizing business an identity so people will think of it as a well-known and respected brand. You can take the name of your sanitizing business from your industry, focus on a geographical location, or use your own name among other options.
The main goal for naming your sanitizing business is to make it sound appealing and trustworthy so that customers will be motivated to use your services.
3. Determine Your Sanitizing Business Model
There are several possible types of business models for a sanitizing business including:
- Per job: In this type of business model, you would charge your customers a set fee for each job you do for them.
- Hourly or Per Square Foot: In this type of business model, you would charge your customers an hourly rate or a rate per-square-foot for the services you provide.
- Subscription: In this type of business model, customers would pay a monthly or annual fee in order to have access to your sanitizing services on an as-needed basis.
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 sanitizing 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 sanitizing 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 sanitizing business structures.
5. Write a Sanitizing Business Plan
All sanitizing 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 sanitizing business plan.
6. Apply for the Necessary Permits and Licenses
There may be required licenses and permits you need to obtain before launching your sanitizing business.
For example, some states require a professional license for those who want to offer their services to the public. Professional licenses are usually obtained through state governments and may be specific to your industry or type of business.
You must also register your sanitizing 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 sanitizing business licenses.
7. Determine Your Budget & Apply for Funding as Needed
In developing your sanitizing 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 sanitizing business, you may consider taking advantage of that. In addition to your personal funds, other forms of potential funding for your sanitizing 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 sanitizing business to help you determine if funding is needed.
Read our article about how to fund your sanitizing business.
8. Get the Technology & Software Needed to Run Your Business Efficiently
When you start your sanitizing 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 customer relationship management (CRM) software to help manage your customers, as well as project management software to keep track of your cleaning projects. There are many other types of software available that can make running your sanitizing business easier and more efficient, so be sure to do your research.
Read our article about the technology and software you need to run a sanitizing business.
9. Market Your Sanitizing 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 sanitizing 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. Sanitizing businesses should consider the following promotional strategies for which you should start getting prepared:
- Create a Press Kit
- Get Listed in Directories
- Develop a Referral Program
- Attend Trade Shows and Events
- Engage in Email Marketing
- Start a Blog
Read our article about how to market your sanitizing 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 sanitizing business.
Read our article about how to effectively grow your sanitizing business to learn more.
Starting a Sanitizing Business FAQs
Why Start a Sanitizing Business?
The sanitizing industry is growing rapidly as people become more health conscious and businesses strive to create a cleaner, healthier environment for their employees.
There are many reasons why starting a sanitizing business can be a great business opportunity, including:
- You can be your own boss and have the freedom to run your business the way you want
- You can make a difference by helping to create cleaner, healthier environments
- The start-up costs are relatively low compared to other businesses
- There is a high potential for growth as the demand for sanitizing services increases
What is Needed to Start a Successful Sanitizing Business?
To start a successful sanitizing business, you need to have a strong understanding of the industry and what it takes to run a business. You also need to have the right technology in place, as well as a marketing and promotional strategy to get new clients. You'll need to obtain the proper licenses and permits and purchase insurance. Then, purchase your supplies and equipment.
How Can I Start a Sanitizing Business Online?
You can start a sanitizing business online by creating a website and promoting your services through social media and other online channels. You'll need to have the right technology in place, as well as a marketing and promotional strategy to get new clients. You'll also need to purchase supplies and equipment.
No matter which format you choose for starting your sanitizing business, it is important that you ensure clients can book your services online.
What are Some Tips for Starting a Sanitizing Business?
Here are some tips for starting a successful sanitizing business:
- Make sure you have a strong understanding of the industry before you get started
- Create a website and promote your business online
- Develop a marketing and promotional strategy to attract new clients
- Start networking with other people in the industry
- Find and train the right people to help you grow your business
- Focus on delivering high-quality services to your clients
Where Can I Find a Simple Checklist for Starting a Sanitizing Business?
A simple checklist to use when starting a sanitizing business is as follows:
- Choose Your Type of Sanitizing 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 Sanitizing 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 Sanitizing Business Model: Determine how your business will make money. Will you sell products, services, or a combination of both?
- Write a Sanitizing 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 Sanitizing 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 sanitizing business can be a great way to enter into the cleaning industry. By following the tips we’ve outlined in this article, you can start your business on the right foot and ensure its success. Remember to focus on delivering high-quality services to your clients and continue marketing your business to attract new customers. With the right planning and execution, your sanitizing business can be a success.