27 Types of Cleaning Services to Offer
Are you starting a cleaning business or expanding your current offerings? You may want to know which types of cleaning services to offer. The possibilities are endless, whether you’re considering regular home cleanups, deep cleaning, office sanitation, or even junk removal.
But how do you choose the right services to set your business apart? It’s more than just a financial decision. It defines your brand and attracts the right clients. Let’s dive into some of the most in-demand professional cleaning services that can help your business shine and give you a competitive edge in the market.
Table of Contents
- Different Types of Cleaning Services
- Most Profitable Type of Cleaning Service
- Choosing the Right Cleaning Services to Offer
Different Types of Cleaning Services
So, should you target homes or businesses? Let’s break down cleaning services into two main categories: residential and commercial cleaning. Knowing the ins and outs of each can shape how you build your offerings and set your business on the right path.
Residential cleaning services are the bread and butter of many cleaning businesses. Think about the everyday needs of homeowners—dusting, vacuuming, bathroom sanitization, and kitchen cleanup. These services are usually in high demand and a great starting point for new cleaning companies. The pros? You can gain long-term clients, and word-of-mouth can quickly spread in local communities. However, residential cleaning often requires flexibility in scheduling, as many clients prefer cleanings during their off-hours, like evenings or weekends.
Conversely, commercial cleaning targets businesses, offices, and retail spaces. The benefits here are clear: contracts are often larger, providing a more consistent income stream. Commercial cleaning also offers the opportunity to specialize in niche areas like medical facilities or industrial cleaning, which can command higher rates. The downside? These jobs can be more demanding, often requiring specific expertise or equipment, and competition can be fierce. Plus, many business cleaning services are needed after hours, keeping your staff busy late at night or early morning.
Residential Cleaning Services Types
You can offer plenty of services to keep homes spotless and clients happy. But how do you choose which ones to provide? Some clients need a basic clean, while others might want a deep clean that tackles every corner. Are you ready to adjust your approach to meet these varying demands?
Consistency is key—whether a weekly tidy-up or a one-time deep clean, delivering quality will keep clients happy. A residential cleaning service can be anything from bathroom cleaning to window washing. Let’s explore the most in-demand ones:
1. Regular House Cleaning Services
Regular house cleaning involves routine tasks like dusting, vacuuming, mopping floors, and cleaning bathrooms. You’ll focus on maintaining the overall cleanliness of the space, ensuring everything looks fresh and well-kept. These tasks are usually done weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly, depending on your clients’ needs.
Clients expect you to be efficient, completing the job within a reasonable time while still paying attention to details. Ensure surfaces are wiped down, floors are clean, and everything is returned. Being flexible to accommodate special requests or specific preferences will help keep your clients satisfied with your service.
Running a residential cleaning business can be quite profitable. On average, you can earn over $127,000 per year as a business owner. This figure can increase even more if you hire additional cleaners and expand the range of services you offer.
One reason residential cleaning is so lucrative, especially for new and small companies, is the high demand for these services. Many people need help with keeping their homes clean but don’t have the time or desire to do it themselves. With relatively low startup costs, you can quickly get your business off the ground. Plus, you can scale your earnings by taking on more clients or adding services like deep cleaning or organizing.
2. Deep Cleaning Services
Deep cleaning services can be highly profitable. They go beyond regular tasks to address areas like grout lines, behind appliances, and other hard-to-reach spots. Such a job requires special attention and more powerful cleaning supplies like heavy-duty degreasers, specialized equi, and industrial-strength vacuums.
Clients pay between $200 and $400+ per deep cleaning visit. If you set your rate at $300 and complete three deep cleans each week, you could earn around $45,000 annually. And that’s just from deep cleaning alone! You can expand your client base or add more services to boost earnings.
Suggest deep cleaning for clients who haven’t had a thorough clean in a while or are gearing up for special events like holidays or parties. It’s also a smart upsell when clients mention areas that need extra attention or seem dirty.
3. Spring Cleaning
Spring cleaning can be a great way to increase your income. This service involves a thorough clean-up, focusing on areas that might not get attention during regular cleanings, like windows, baseboards, and light fixtures.
It’s similar in price to deep cleaning, usually around $300 per visit. If you schedule three spring cleaning jobs each week and only offer this service for three months a year, you could still earn $10,800 on top of your regular services.
Offering spring cleaning gives clients a chance to refresh their homes, especially after winter or before summer. It’s a popular service for those who want a big clean-up to kick off the season. Plus, it’s an excellent opportunity to upsell clients who might not need regular deep cleaning but could benefit from a thorough seasonal scrub.
4. Laundry Services
Adding laundry services to your home cleaning business can significantly increase your earnings. With laundry and folding included, you provide a handy solution for clients who want to save time. Charging $3 per pound and setting a minimum order of 10 pounds means each job starts at $30. With just five orders a day, you could make over $45,000 a year.
This service expands what you offer and meets a common need for busy clients. They’ll appreciate the convenience of having their laundry done and folded as part of their cleaning. It’s a great way to attract clients looking for a full-service cleaning and laundry solution.
5. Dry Cleaning Services
Dry cleaning is perfect for handling delicate fabrics that regular laundry might not manage well. This process uses special solvents to clean clothes without water, making it ideal for suits, dresses, and other delicate fabrics. Moreover, it deals with stubborn stains that regular washing can’t remove.
Offering dry cleaning as part of your service is a great way to help busy people who want their clothes cleaned professionally without having to drop them off.
Dry cleaning handles fabrics that need special care and tackles stubborn stains regular washing can’t fix. In the USA, dry cleaning costs between $7 and $15 per item, depending on what it is and its size. This extra income can add up quickly, especially as you grow your client base.
6. Green Cleaning Services
With green cleaning, you’re choosing a way to clean that’s better for the planet and your people. You’ll use eco-friendly, non-toxic products that clean effectively without any harsh chemicals. Expect a bit more time spent on each job to make sure everything’s spotless and safe, but it’s worth it for the healthier environment you’ll create.
You can add $7–15 to your rates for using green cleaning products. If you clean three times a week, this can bring in an extra $1,100–2,340 a year. It’s not a huge increase, but it adds up over time, and your clients will value the eco-friendly touch.
7. Sanitization and Disinfection
Sanitization and disinfection are necessary practices, especially in the wake of COVID-19. Sanitization cleans surfaces to remove dirt and germs, while disinfection involves applying products that kill any remaining germs. Together, they guarantee a thorough approach to maintaining a healthy environment.
Offering these services means using effective cleaners and disinfectants and following established protocols to keep spaces hygienic. You also build trust with clients by committing to health and safety standards.
On average, sanitization services cost between $75 and $100 per hour, making it a lucrative opportunity to boost your profits while providing a service that people increasingly value.
8. Ceiling and Wall Cleaning
Ceilings and walls often collect dust and grime, but they’re usually out of sight. Cleaning these high and frequently overlooked areas not only improves air quality but also the overall space. Regular maintenance here helps prevent buildup that can affect both aesthetics and health.
If you offer ceiling and wall cleaning at $0.50 to $0.60 per square foot and clean 500 square feet twice a week, you could earn between $26,000 and $31,200 annually. Every household needs such a service once in a while. It’s an opportunity you should explore and take advantage of to grow your profits.
9. Blind and Curtain Cleaning
Blinds and curtains are magnets for dust and grime, and they often need special attention to look their best. Detailed cleaning helps preserve their fabric and keeps them free from allergens.
You’ll need a sturdy ladder to reach high windows safely and effectively. Additionally, be prepared to handle various fabrics and blinds, from delicate drapes to intricate Venetian blinds. Different materials may require specific cleaning methods or solutions to avoid damage.
If you charge $5 per window for blind cleaning and clean five homes a week with an average of 6–8 windows each, you could easily rake in an extra $7,500 a year with this side service. On top of that, if you charge $80 an hour for curtain cleaning and work just a few hours a day, five days a week, you’re looking at around $80,000 annually.
10. Home Organization Services
Home organization services typically involve helping clients declutter and organize their living spaces. This can include:
- Decluttering: Sorting through belongings, deciding what to keep, donate, or discard.
- Organizing: Setting up storage solutions, arranging items logically, and creating systems to keep spaces tidy.
- Space Planning: Reconfiguring furniture and storage to maximize space and improve functionality.
- Custom Solutions: Designing and installing custom storage systems like closet organizers, shelving, or cabinetry.
You can charge between $50 and $150 per hour, depending on the work volume and the average prices in your location.
11. Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning
Carpet and upholstery cleaning keeps homes looking fresh and feeling comfortable. When you offer a carpet cleaning service, remove stains, dirt, and grime to make your carpets look as good as new.
For upholstery, clean sofas, chairs, and other furniture to remove spills, odors, and dirt. People go for these services because they want a cleaner, healthier home environment and to extend the life of their carpets and furniture.
Consider offering services to meet different needs—like spot treatments for carpets or specialized care for delicate fabrics. Carpet cleaning ranges between $75 and $300, while upholstery cleaning usually costs between $50 and $200 per item.
12. Window Cleaning Services
Window cleaning can be a great addition to your portfolio or your only specialized service. On average, it costs around $200, with prices ranging from $10 to $15 per window.
To clean window interiors and exteriors effectively, dust the frames first, then use a quality cleaner and a squeegee, working from top to bottom. Use a lint-free cloth for drying edges and extension poles or ladders for high windows. Pay attention to safety, tool condition, and weather—avoid sunny days to prevent streaks.
When offering window cleaning, set clear expectations about the job’s duration and the results. Highlight your care and attention to detail, and consider offering bundled services or seasonal deals.
13. Pressure Washing
Pressure washing is a great way to expand your cleaning business. You can offer driveway cleaning to get rid of dirt and grime, siding washing to keep home exteriors clean, and deck or patio cleaning to keep outdoor spaces looking nice.
While pressure washing works well, it’s important to be careful. Too much pressure can damage surfaces, so you need the right settings and equipment. Don’t neglect safety, especially when working in higher areas or near windows.
Adding pressure washing to your services can help you stand out. The average cost to pressure wash a house is between $170 to $360, making it an affordable option for homeowners.
14. Gutter Cleaning
Gutter cleaning is a simple but important service to offer. Seasonal maintenance keeps gutters clear of leaves, dirt, and debris, preventing water damage to the home. Clean gutters help protect the roof, walls, and foundation from costly repairs.
It’s a straightforward job when you use sturdy ladders and the right tools to scoop out debris. Checking downspouts for blockages also ensures water flows properly.
Gutter cleaning costs range from $80 to $400, with most homeowners spending around $200. It’s an easy add-on that can save your clients a lot of trouble in the long run.
15. HVAC Duct and Dryer Vent Cleaning
HVAC duct and dryer vent cleaning is a valuable service that improves air quality and energy efficiency. Cleaning these vents helps remove dust, allergens, and lint buildup, making the air safer to breathe and reducing the risk of fires from clogged dryer vents.
The process is detailed, often taking three to eight hours to complete, with most companies charging between $90 to $125 per hour. Some contractors might also charge from $25 to $50 per vent. Cleaning dryer vents at least once a year to prevent hazards and keep the system running smoothly.
Commercial Cleaning Services Types
Are you thinking about offering a professional cleaning service for businesses? It’s important to know what’s out there before taking on new clients and contracts. You’ve got everything from office and industrial cleaning to more specialized stuff like cleaning retail stores, medical facilities, and even schools and daycares. By getting a handle on these different areas, you’ll be in a better spot to figure out which service will be the most profitable and in-demand for you to offer.
1. Office Cleaning
Starting a commercial cleaning service is a dependable business choice because offices constantly need cleaning to remain professional and inviting. Regular cleaning contracts mean a steady flow of income, and with the right setup, you can easily scale your business.
Begin by investing in essential cleaning supplies like vacuums, mops, cleaning solutions, and microfiber cloths. These tools will help you dust surfaces, vacuum floors, and sanitize high-touch areas like door handles and light switches.
To attract clients, establish a reliable cleaning schedule and set competitive rates, commonly between $20 and $80 per hour, depending on the service scope and location.
Providing high-quality cleaning services will build your reputation and help you retain clients. Keep in mind that many clients might prefer your services during off-hours, such as overnight when their offices are closed.
2. Industrial Cleaning
Industrial cleaning involves specialized cleaning for industrial sites such as factories, warehouses, and manufacturing plants. This type of cleaning relies on safety, compliance, and maintaining a clean, hazard-free environment. It includes removing heavy-duty grime, managing chemical spills, and ensuring that machinery and equipment are clean and operational.
Offering industrial commercial cleaning services can be lucrative due to the high demand and specialized work. Rates generally range from $0.20 to $0.40 per square foot, depending on the site’s size, the level of cleaning required, and the service frequency.
Pay close attention to safety protocols and proper disposal of hazardous materials to comply with regulations. Quality service in this field can lead to long-term contracts and stable business.
3. Retail Store Cleaning
When cleaning a retail store, the goal is to keep it spotless without disrupting business. Focus on high-traffic areas like entrances, aisles, and checkout counters—these need regular vacuuming or sweeping to manage dirt and debris.
Use a reliable floor scrubber or mop for hard floors, and ensure windows and glass displays are smudge-free with a good glass cleaner. Pay attention to the details—dust shelves, clean mirrors, and wipe down counters to keep everything looking sharp.
Ensure you’ve got the right equipment: vacuum cleaners that handle everything from carpets to hard floors, microfiber cloths for dusting, and disinfectants for restrooms.
As for pricing, you’re looking at around $0.11 to $0.12 per square foot or $25 to $50 per hour. These numbers can change depending on the store size and the specific cleaning needs, so assess each job carefully to give an accurate quote.
4. Medical Facility Cleaning
Cleaning medical facilities is a fantastic business opportunity, offering a continuous demand for specialized services. These spaces need to be spotless, so your expertise is welcome. By diving into this niche, you can secure clients who value detailed cleaning.
Pay close attention to disinfecting surfaces in patient areas, waiting rooms, and restrooms. Use hospital-grade products and thoroughly clean high-touch spots like door handles and countertops. Following the correct protocols for handling medical waste and sanitizing exam rooms will also fall within your responsibility.
You can charge between $25 and $80 per hour, with $60 per hour being the average. Rates vary depending on the facility’s size and the job’s complexity.
5. School and Daycare Cleanin
Expanding your cleaning company to include janitorial services in schools and daycare facilities is a move that could potentially take your business to another level.
These environments need thorough and regular cleaning to keep kids and staff healthy and safe. Services generally involve disinfecting toys, sanitizing classrooms, and cleaning restrooms and common areas for a spotless, hygienic space.
Pricing can range from $400 to $1,000 per month, based on the facility’s size and specific needs. Alternatively, you could offer hourly rates between $40 and $60 per cleaner for more flexibility.
To stand out in this niche, provide customizable cleaning schedules and highlight your commitment to using child-safe cleaning products.
6. Commercial Kitchen Cleaning
Diving into commercial kitchen cleaning can be a lucrative addition to your services. These kitchens demand rigorous cleaning to meet health and safety standards, so you’ll be tackling tasks like degreasing hoods, scrubbing floors, and sanitizing surfaces.
Consider offering additional services like deep cleaning for kitchen vents or organizing regular check-ins to fine-tune your approach based on real-time feedback.
For pricing, most services range from $50 to $150 per hour, depending on the crew size. A two-person team might cost around $50 per hour, while a four-person crew could cost about $100 per hour. Flexible rates can help you attract more clients and grow your business in this sector.
7. Gym and Fitness Facility Cleaning
Venturing into gym and fitness facility cleaning opens up a unique niche with its own needs. These facilities require sanitizing workout equipment, keeping locker rooms spotless, and common areas fresh and welcoming. It’s about maintaining a clean environment that supports the health and well-being of every client.
For gym and fitness facility cleaning, offer flexible pricing to suit different needs. Charge between $25 and $60 per hour, depending on the job’s complexity. Alternatively, you can price by square footage, from $0.05 to $0.20 per square foot.
8. Event Cleaning
Offering event cleaning services is a great way to tap into the busy world of venue management. Whether it’s pre-event or post-event cleaning, you’ll need to handle tasks like setting up for guests, managing waste during the event, and thoroughly cleaning up afterward. This includes everything from scrubbing floors and sanitizing surfaces to dealing with spills and trash.
You can set your rates between $40 and $100 per hour per cleaner. If you prefer fixed pricing, you might also charge by square foot with rates ranging from $0.10 to $0.30 per square foot.
9. Disaster Cleaning and Restoration
When offering disaster cleaning and restoration services, you’ll be dealing with the aftermath of floods, fires, and other emergencies. This niche requires quick action and specialized equipment to handle water damage, soot, and debris. You must have the tools and expertise to address structural damage, sanitation, and deodorization.
Rates for disaster cleaning and restoration normally vary from $100 to $300 per hour, depending on the severity of the damage and the size of the area. A clear, fast response and detailed cleanup plans can help build trust with clients facing stressful situations.
10. Crime Scene Cleaning
Crime scene cleaning involves specialized skills to handle biohazardous materials and restore affected areas to safety. This includes the removal of biological contaminants and thorough disinfection. You will follow strict safety and health regulations when cleaning and sanitizing the site.
For crime scene cleaning, rates generally range from $200 to $600 per hour, depending on the scene’s complexity. Providing discreet, professional service and maintaining high standards of cleanliness can set you apart in this sensitive field.
11. Mold Remediation
Mold remediation identifies and eliminates mold growth in residential and commercial properties. This service requires both cleaning and addressing the underlying moisture issues to prevent future mold problems. Clients will expect effective mold removal techniques and proper ventilation.
Rates for mold remediation usually fall between $500 and $3,000 per job, depending on the extent of the mold issue and the size of the area. Delivering comprehensive inspections and long-term solutions maintains a healthier environment.
12. Junk Removal Services
Junk removal means clearing out everything from old furniture and appliances to general clutter from homes or businesses. It’s all about handling the job efficiently and ensuring everything is properly disposed of or recycled.
For junk removal, you can charge between $100 and $500 per load, depending on the amount and type of waste. Providing transparent pricing and reliable service can help you attract clients looking for hassle-free cleanup solutions.
Most Profitable Type of Cleaning Service
Searching for the most profitable cleaning service to offer? Your search ends here. No matter what your budget is or how your business is set up, boosting profits is always at the top of everyone’s to-do list.
Let’s look at the top three most profitable cleaning services:
- Commercial Cleaning: Perfect for businesses and offices, this service often means consistent work and solid pay, thanks to contracts. Keep your clients impressed by being reliable and always on point. Invest in the latest cleaning tools and keep your crew sharp with regular training.
- Specialized Cleaning: Specialized cleaning services such as crime scene or bio-hazard cleanup can be highly profitable due to their specific nature. They require expert skills, equipment, and certifications, which allows you to charge a premium.
- High-End Residential Cleaning: This is where luxury homes meet top-dollar clients who expect meticulous work. To shine, pay attention to every detail and offer a personal touch. Craft custom cleaning plans that meet each client’s unique needs to keep them thrilled.
Choosing the Right Cleaning Services to Offer
To boost your cleaning business’s profitability, offer services that match your skills, resources, and market demand.
Here are the most important questions to ask before taking on a cleaning job:
- Assess Your Strengths: Are you better at residential or commercial cleaning? Stick with what you excel at.
- Know Your Market: If you’re in a city full of offices, commercial cleaning could be profitable. For a suburban area, residential cleaning might be the way to go.
- Analyze Competition: Find gaps in the market. If you spot a need that’s not being met, it could be your chance to stand out.
Choose services that play to your strengths and meet local needs, and you’ll set your business up for success.
Conclusion
You’ve got a world of options when choosing the types of cleaning services you can offer. Whether you dive into residential or commercial cleaning, each choice holds its own excitement and profit potential.
Imagine the possibilities: offering a variety of services can not only attract a wider range of clients but also make your business stand out. So, think strategically and pick the services that fit your strengths and market needs. A well-chosen service mix could be the key to transforming your business from good to great. After all, everyone loves a spotless space!
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