How Much Does It Cost to Start a Cleaning Business?

How much does it cost to start a cleaning business? Less than most businesses you could start. What you’ll spend depends on how you start and what you buy when. The prices for each item are in our startup guide. This post covers the decisions behind them: what you need on day one, what can wait, and where it pays to spend more.

The Lowest Cost to Start a Cleaning Business

Some customers would rather you use their own cleaning products and equipment. If you’re working solo and cleaning with a customer’s supplies, you may need little more than your own apron to get started.

If You Supply Your Own, You’ll Need

The basics are an apron with pockets, a split bucket, a real ostrich feather duster, a whisk broom, rags or microfiber cloths, glass cleaner, all-purpose cleaner, toilet bowl cleaner, a toilet brush, and a bathroom cleaner that cuts soap scum and grease. For hard floors, plan on your hands and knees, a spray mop, or a wet/dry vac. You don’t need a closet full of specialty products. A few that work well will handle most homes.

The Vacuum: Don’t Skimp

If there’s one place to spend more from day one, it’s your vacuum. A good vacuum makes a world of difference. You’ll notice it in how fast and how well you clean, and your customer will notice it too.

Getting Legal

Plan for registering your business and any local license your area requires, plus general liability insurance. A bond is optional, but customers value it. These costs vary by location, so check yours before you set your budget.

Getting to the Job

You’ll drive to every job, so plan for gas from the start. Log your mileage too. It adds up fast, and it matters at tax time.

Getting the Word Out

Door hangers and business cards are inexpensive ways to get your name in front of people. You don’t need a big marketing budget to land your first clients.

What’s Worth It Once You’re Ready

Two of our first major purchases were uniforms and vans with our company logo. Both were great investments. They made us look professional and set us apart from many of our competitors. You don’t need them on day one, but when your business can support them, they pay you back every time someone sees them.

Track Every Dollar From the Start

Whatever you spend, write it down. Knowing exactly what you’ve put into your business helps you price your work, plan your next purchase, and see when you’ve earned it back.

Our Starter course shows you how to keep simple books from day one, along with pricing and landing your first clients.