Quicklinks: Summary, products and services, successful companies | Income and profitability | Expenses | History, strategy and challenges
Summary, products and services
Summary of the cleaning business: how do cleaners work? How do they make money?
There are many ways to start a cleaning business. Some people work as independent contractors, while others start their own cleaning companies. There are also franchise opportunities available for those who want to be their own boss but don’t want to start from scratch. How do cleaners make money?
Most cleaners work by providing their services to businesses or homeowners on a regular basis. This could be daily, weekly, or monthly. Some cleaners also offer one-time services for special occasions, such as move-ins or move-outs. In order to make money, cleaners typically charge by the hour or by the job.
Some companies also offer discounts for those who book multiple services or sign up for a recurring service. There are many different business strategies that cleaners can use to market their services and attract new clients. Some common strategies include advertising in local newspapers or online, distributing flyers in neighborhoods, or partnering with other businesses in the area.
Typical products and services offered by cleaners include vacuuming, mopping, dusting, cleaning bathrooms, and taking out the trash. Some companies also offer additional services such as window washing, carpet cleaning, or pressure washing.
List and description of the five most successful companies in the cleaning business. How big are they and what is their market value?
- ServiceMaster Clean: ServiceMaster Clean is a leading provider of residential and commercial cleaning services, with over 6,000 franchises worldwide. The company has a market value of over $5 billion and is one of the largest cleaning companies in the world.
- Stanley Steemer: Stanley Steemer is a leading provider of residential and commercial cleaning services, with over 2,000 franchises worldwide. The company has a market value of over $1.5 billion and is one of the largest cleaning companies in the world.
- Chem-Dry: Chem-Dry is a leading provider of residential and commercial cleaning services, with over 1,000 franchises worldwide. The company has a market value of over $1 billion and is one of the largest cleaning companies in the world.
- MaidPro: MaidPro is a leading provider of residential and commercial cleaning services, with over 500 franchises worldwide. The company has a market value of over $500 million and is one of the largest cleaning companies in the world.
- The Cleaning Authority: The Cleaning Authority is a leading provider of residential and commercial cleaning services, with over 250 franchises worldwide. The company has a market value of over $250 million and is one of the largest cleaning companies in the world.
Income and profitability
List of the top three sources of revenue for cleaners (AKA how do they make money?) – including percentages of income and examples in US dollars for each
- Service fees: Cleaners typically charge an hourly rate or a flat rate per job. For example, a typical hourly rate for house cleaning in the United States is $25-$35 per hour, while a typical flat rate for a one-bedroom apartment is $80-$120.
- Tips: Tips are not always expected, but they are always appreciated. If you are happy with the service you received, a tip of 10-20% of the total bill is common. For example, if your total bill for house cleaning services was $100, a $10-$20 tip would be appreciated.
- Product sales: Many cleaners also sell cleaning supplies and products. This is typically a small percentage of their overall income, but it can add up. For example, if a cleaner sells a $5 bottle of cleaning solution and a $10 mop, they have just made $15 in product sales.
Pricing: What are average prices among cleaners
The average price for a professional cleaning service is between $25 and $35 per hour. However, there are a wide range of prices depending on the type of service, the size of the home, and the location. For example, a high-end cleaning service in New York City may charge $200 per hour, while a mid-market cleaning service in Los Angeles may charge $75 per hour. A low-end cleaning service in Houston may charge $50 per hour. The following websites offer a range of prices for professional cleaning services:
- https://www.angieslist.com/research/house-cleaning-cost/
- https://www.thumbtack.com/p/house-cleaning-prices
- https://www.homeadvisor.com/cost/cleaning-services/
What are the profit margins in the cleaning business? In a percentage range.
Some industry experts have estimated that profit margins for cleaning businesses can range from 5% to 20%.
Expenses
What is the cost to build a cleaning business? With an example.
The cost of starting a cleaning business varies depending on a number of factors, such as the size and scope of the business, the number of employees, and the equipment and supplies required. It is possible to keep the cost of starting a cleaning business low by starting as a home-based enterprise, rather than renting space.
There are some basic costs that are typically associated with starting a cleaning business, such as:
- Business registration fees
- Insurance
- Bonding
- Cleaning supplies and equipment
- Vehicle and fuel costs
- Advertising and marketing
- Employee salaries
- Rent or mortgage payments for business space
- Utilities
- Permits and licenses
- Professional fees (e.g. accountant, lawyer, etc.)
A more detailed breakdown of the costs associated with starting a cleaning business can be found here: https://www.entrepreneur.com/article/247574
List and description of the top three ongoing expenses for cleaners. What percentage does each represent?
- Wages and salaries – This is the largest expense for cleaners, representing around 60% of the total cost. This includes the wages of the cleaning staff, as well as any associated payroll taxes.
- Supplies and materials – This expense represents around 20% of the total cost. This includes the cost of cleaning supplies, such as detergents, disinfectants, and paper products.
- Other expenses – This category represents around 20% of the total cost. This includes expenses such as insurance, repairs and maintenance, and utilities.
History, strategy and challenges
What is the history of the cleaning business? With examples for each continent of the world.
The cleaning business is one of the oldest and most essential businesses in the world. It is a multi-billion dollar industry that employs millions of people across the globe.
One of the earliest examples of professional cleaning services is from ancient Rome, where slaves were responsible for cleaning the homes of the wealthy. In medieval Europe, the cleaning business was often performed by monks and nuns in monasteries and convents.
In the 18th and 19th centuries, the cleaning business became more secularized, with professional cleaners working in homes, businesses, and public spaces. The 20th century saw a boom in the cleaning industry, with the advent of new technologies and cleaning products.
Today, the cleaning business is more important than ever, as we face new challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic. The cleaning business is a vital part of our economy and our way of life. It is an essential service that helps to keep our homes and businesses clean and safe. The cleaning industry is a dynamic and ever-changing sector, and it will continue to play a vital role in our society for years to come.