Thinking of Starting Your Own House Cleaning Business?
In recent years, the demand for house cleaning services has significantly increased. With the rise in dual-income households and the ever-growing trend of outsourcing tasks, house cleaning has become a lucrative industry. Whether it’s for busy families, working professionals, or elderly individuals, people are always looking for efficient and reliable cleaning services.
The house cleaning business is an excellent entrepreneurial opportunity for anyone looking to start their own business. There are numerous benefits of starting a house cleaning business, including the low start-up costs, the flexible work hours, and the potential for high profits.
One of the biggest advantages of starting a house cleaning business is the low start-up costs. You can begin with just a few cleaning supplies and a small investment in advertising to start getting clients. Compared to other businesses, the costs are minimal, and there is no need for an office or storefront.
Another advantage of the house cleaning business is the flexibility it offers. You can choose the days and times you want to work and work as much or as little as you want. This flexibility is desirable to those with other commitments such as family or another job.
The house cleaning business can also be highly profitable. Once you establish a loyal customer base and reputation for quality service, you can earn a significant income. Additionally, there is always a demand for cleaning services, so you can always find new clients.
More Reasons Why House Cleaning is a Great Business For Anyone To Start
- High Demand: Cleaning services are always in demand as people are busy and prefer to outsource cleaning tasks to professionals.
- Recurring Business: People often require cleaning services regularly, leading to a steady stream of repeat business.
- Low Startup Costs: Starting a cleaning business is relatively low, making it an accessible option for entrepreneurs.
- Flexibility: Cleaning services can be customized to fit the needs of individual clients, allowing for flexibility in scheduling and service offerings.
- Potential for Growth: As a house cleaning business grows and establishes, it can expand to offer additional services such as window washing or deep cleaning, increasing its earning potential.
How Much Does a House Cleaning Business Make in a Year?
The amount a house cleaning business can make in a year depends on several factors, such as the business size, location, services offered, and the prices charged.
A small cleaning business with just one or two employees may make anywhere from $30,000 to $100,000 per year, depending on the number of clients and the service prices. A more significant cleaning business with multiple employees and a more comprehensive range of services may make several hundred thousand dollars annually.
It’s important to note that the revenue and profit of a cleaning business can fluctuate throughout the year, depending on the demand for services, the number of clients, and other factors such as competition, seasonality, and marketing efforts.
How Much Money Do You Need to Start a House Cleaning Business?
The amount of money needed to start a cleaning business can vary greatly depending on various factors such as the size, location, type of cleaning services offered, and the costs of necessary equipment and supplies.
Typically, a small cleaning business can be started with a relatively low startup cost, ranging from $500 to $5,000. This may include the costs of equipment and supplies, such as cleaning supplies, vacuum cleaners, mops, and brooms, as well as marketing materials, such as business cards and flyers.
However, plan to start a large cleaning business with multiple employees and a more extensive range of services. The startup costs may be higher, ranging from $10,000 to $50,000. This may include the costs of vehicles, insurance, and additional equipment, as well as the cost of hiring and training employees.
A List Of Cleaning Company Supplies & Marketing Materials You Will Need To Get Started
To start a house cleaning business, you will need the following supplies and marketing materials:
- Cleaning products: This includes basic items such as all-purpose cleaners, disinfectants, and glass cleaners, as well as specialized products for specific surfaces and tasks.
- Cleaning tools: This includes items such as mops, brooms, sponges, microfiber cloths, and scrub brushes.
- Equipment: This includes vacuum cleaners, floor cleaners, and steam cleaners.
- Protective Equipment: Personal protective equipment includes gloves, masks, and protective eyewear to protect yourself from cleaning chemicals.
- Marketing materials: This includes a website, house cleaning logo, business cards, flyers, fridge magnets, and brochures to promote your services to potential clients.
- Transportation: This includes a vehicle for transportation to cleaning jobs or a reliable means of public transportation.
- Accounting and record-keeping: Supplies include invoices, receipts, and a system for tracking income and expenses.
- Cleaning supplies storage Includes a caddy, cleaning cart, or buckets for carrying and storing cleaning supplies.
Note: The specific supplies you need may vary depending on the size and scope of your business, so it’s essential to assess your needs and budget accordingly.
House Cleaning Startup Equipment, Tools & Supplies Checklist
| Item | Cost ($) |
|---|---|
| Cleaning bucket (with two dividers) | 20.00 |
| Disinfectant cleaner | 5.00 |
| Glass cleaner | 3.50 |
| Soap scum remover | 8.00 |
| Chemical trigger sprayers | 10.00 |
| 3M light-duty scrub pads and holder | 6.00 |
| Microfiber scrub pads | 4.00 |
| Toothbrushes | 2.00 |
| Mini grout brush | 4.50 |
| Tile brush | 5.00 |
| Plastic scrapers | 3.00 |
| Cleaning apron | 12.00 |
| Color-coded microfiber cloths | 3.00 |
| Microfiber heavy-duty waffle cloths | 4.50 |
| Microfiber damp dusting cloths | 2.50 |
| Premium microfiber glass cloths | 4.00 |
| Toilet bowl brush | 5.00 |
| Vacuum cleaner for carpets | 150.00 |
| Vacuum cleaner for hard floors | 120.00 |
| Microfiber flat floor mop | 16.00 |
| Microfiber wet mop pads | 8.00 |
| Ph neutral floor cleaner | 10.00 |
| Microfiber short duster | 5.00 |
| Microfiber long duster | 8.00 |
| Knee pads | 12.00 |
| Backpacks or tote bags | 25.00 |
| Shoe covers | 5.00 |
| Disposable nitrile cleaning gloves | 8.00 |
| Dixie cups | 2.50 |
| Steam Cleaner (optional) | 200.00 |
| Carpet stain remover/small cleaning machine (optional) | 75.00 |
How to Register Your House Cleaning Business Name
To register a house cleaning business name, you need to follow these steps:
- Step 1: Choose a unique and memorable business name that complies with local regulations and isn’t already being used by another company.
- Step 2: Check if the name is available by searching your state’s business name database or using a service like LegalZoom.
- Step 3: Register your business name as a sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, or corporation, depending on your business structure.
- Step 4: Obtain any necessary licenses and permits required for your business.
- Step 5: Register for state and federal taxes, including an Employer Identification Number (EIN).
- Step 6: Open a business bank account in your company’s name.
- Step 7: Consider trademarking your business name to protect it from other companies.
Note: The specific requirements for registering a house cleaning business name may vary depending on your location, so it’s advisable to check with your local government.
Choosing a Business Structure for Your House Cleaning Business
The common types of business structures include:
- Sole proprietorship: A sole proprietorship is a business owned and run by one individual. This is the simplest business structure and does not require any formal registration.
- Partnership: A partnership is a business owned by two or more individuals. Partnerships can be general partnerships, in which all partners are involved in the company’s management, or limited partnerships, in which some partners have limited liability.
- Limited liability company (LLC): An LLC is a hybrid business structure that combines a corporation’s and a partnership’s benefits. Owners of an LLC are referred to as members. They have limited personal liability for the debts and obligations of the business.
- Corporation: A corporation is a legal entity separate from its owners. It can enter into contracts, sue or be sued, and own assets in its name. Corporations are the most complex business structure subject to more regulations and reporting requirements.
Getting a Cleaning Business License or Permit. Do You Need One to Clean Houses Professionally?
The requirement for a license to clean houses varies depending on the jurisdiction and local laws. Some states and cities may require a permit for a house cleaning business, while others do not.
A business license may sometimes be required to operate a house cleaning business. This license is typically obtained from the local government and certifies that the company operates legally within the jurisdiction.
In addition to a business license, some states may also require a separate home-based business license or a contractor’s license for those who clean homes as a contractor.
Researching and understanding your area’s specific licensing requirements is essential, as failure to obtain the necessary licenses can result in fines and penalties. Consult with a local business attorney or your local government to determine the licensing requirements for your house cleaning business.
House Cleaning Business Insurance
A house cleaning business typically needs the following types of insurance:
- General Liability Insurance: This covers property damage or injury to clients or their property while on the job.
- Workers’ Compensation Insurance: This covers medical expenses and lost wages for employees who are injured on the job.
- Business Owners Policy (BOP): This combines general liability insurance with property insurance and can be a cost-effective option for small businesses.
- Bonding: This protects clients from theft or damage by employees.
- Automobile Insurance: If your business uses a vehicle for cleaning services, you will need automobile insurance to cover any damages or injuries resulting from an accident.
- Umbrella Insurance: This provides additional liability coverage over and above your general liability insurance.
Note: The specific insurance requirements for a house cleaning business may vary depending on the state and local regulations, so it’s advisable to consult with an insurance agent to determine the right coverage for your business.
Different Types of Cleaning Business Services You Can Offer
| Cleaning Service Type | Cost Range* |
|---|---|
| Regular Maintenance Cleaning | $100-$300 |
| Deep Cleaning | $200-$500+ |
| Move In/Move Out Cleaning | $200-$500+ |
| One-Time Cleaning | $200-$500+ |
| Rental Property Cleaning | $100-$300 |
| Airbnb Cleaning | $50-$150 per booking |
| Spring Cleaning | $200-$500+ |
| Cleaning for Seniors | $100-$300 |
| Post Construction Cleaning | $300-$1000+ |
| Green or Eco-Friendly Cleaning | $100-$300 |
| Ceiling & Wall Cleaning | $150-$500+ |
| Oven Cleaning | $50-$100 |
| Interior Fridge Cleaning | $50-$100 |
| Interior Window Cleaning | $80-$150 |
| Spot Cleaning Stains on Carpets | $50-$100 per room |
| Office Sanitization Cleaning | $100-$300 per visit |
*Note: Costs may vary based on the property size, the amount of cleaning required, and the location.
The Different House Cleaning Business Scheduling Options
| Cleaning Service | Description | Scope | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| One-Time | A single cleaning session is provided to a customer at a specific time and date. | More comprehensive and may involve a deeper cleaning than regular cleaning services. This may include scrubbing grout, wiping interior windows, and cleaning ovens and cabinets. | More expensive than regular cleaning services, depending on the scope of the cleaning and the prices charged by the cleaning business. |
| Weekly | A regular cleaning service is provided to a customer every week. | More comprehensive than standard cleaning. This may include dusting, vacuuming, mopping, cleaning bathrooms and kitchens, and laundry. | The frequency of the cleaning, the scope of the tasks included, and the prices charged will vary depending on the cleaning company or individual providing the services. |
| Bi-Weekly | A regular cleaning service is provided to a customer every two weeks. | Similar to weekly cleaning. | The frequency of the cleaning, the scope of the tasks included, and the prices charged will vary depending on the cleaning company or individual providing the services. |
| Monthly | A regular cleaning service is provided to a customer once a month. | More comprehensive and may involve a deeper cleaning than regular weekly or bi-weekly cleaning services. | The frequency of the cleaning, the scope of the tasks included, and the prices charged will vary depending on the cleaning company or individual providing the services. |
How Much Should You Charge When Starting a House Cleaning Business?
When starting a house cleaning business, the amount to charge depends on several factors, such as the location, competition, services offered, and the target market.
A standard method for determining prices for house cleaning services is to consider the cost of labor, supplies, and overhead expenses and then add a markup to determine the final price.
As a starting point, consider charging $25 to $35 per hour for basic cleaning services and $50 to $75 per hour for more specialized or deep cleaning services. However, these prices may vary based on the local market and competition, as well as your business’s experience level and reputation.
It’s important to research the prices of other cleaning businesses in your area and to determine what services they offer and at what price points. This information can help you choose a competitive and fair price for your cleaning services. Additionally, consider offering discounts or promotions to attract new customers and establish your business.
How to Market, Advertise & Promote Your New House Cleaning Business
Advertising your House cleaning business is essential for growing your customer base and reaching new prospects. A well-executed advertising campaign can help you reach a wider audience, build brand awareness, and differentiate yourself from competitors. However, with so many advertising options available, it can be difficult to know where to start. In this blog, we will explore the various advertising channels and strategies that you can use to promote your house cleaning business and attract new customers.
15 Ways To Advertise & Find New Clients for a House Cleaning Service
| Promotion Method | Description |
|---|---|
| Create a Website | Build a website to showcase your cleaning business and attract potential clients. |
| Set up Google Business Listing | Create a Google My Business (GMB) listing to appear in local search results. |
| Post on Local Facebook Groups | Share your cleaning services on local Facebook groups that allow business postings. |
| Online Classifieds | Advertise your cleaning services on online classifieds such as Kijiji and Craigslist. |
| Cold Outreach | Contact real estate agents to offer your services for their clients’ cleaning needs. |
| Cold Pitch Property Managers | Contact property managers for rental and vacation properties to offer your services. |
| Distribute Flyers | Promote your business locally by distributing flyers door-to-door in the community. |
| Cleaning Gift Certificates | Offer gift certificates during holidays, birthdays, and special occasions to boost sales. |
| Car Magnets | Use car magnets with an easy-to-remember web address to promote your business on the go. |
| Marketing through Online Ads | Use pay-per-click (PPC) ads to target potential customers searching for cleaning services. |
| Create a Facebook Business Page | Build a business page on Facebook to reach potential customers and promote your services. |
| Customer Referrals | Ask for referrals from satisfied customers and offer fridge magnets with your contact info. |
| Google Reviews | Encourage happy customers to leave positive reviews on Google to attract more clients. |
| Invest in Local SEO Services | Use search engine optimization (SEO) services to improve your website’s search ranking. |
| Start a Referral Program | Reward current customers for referring new clients to your business through word-of-mouth. |
These are just a few ways to promote and grow your cleaning business. By combining these strategies, you can attract new customers, retain existing ones, and build a strong brand in your community. Remember always to prioritize customer satisfaction and provide high-quality cleaning services to ensure the success of your business.
Final Thoughts on How to Start Your Own Residential Cleaning Business.
A house cleaning business is an excellent opportunity for several reasons.
- Firstly, it has a high demand as more and more people lead busy lifestyles and need more time and energy to clean their homes.
- Secondly, it has low startup costs and can be run from home, making it accessible to anyone.
- Additionally, the business has the potential for steady income and growth as the client base expands.
- Lastly, it provides a much-needed service that helps people improve their quality of life and maintain a clean and healthy environment.
Starting a house cleaning service can be a lucrative and fulfilling business venture. By following the steps outlined in this article and developing a solid business plan, you can create a successful cleaning business that meets the needs of your community.
With the demand for residential cleaning services rising, there has never been a better time to start your own cleaning business. Whether you work solo or hire employees, the flexibility and potential for growth make starting a house cleaning service one of the best business opportunities. So why wait? Start planning your cleaning business today and take the first step towards a rewarding career in the cleaning industry.
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Last modified: 3 March 2023