Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the best way to start a cleaning company while working a full-time job?
The best way to start a cleaning company while working full-time is to work a first shift job and be off work by 3 pm and off on the weekends. Once you are off, you will have time to work on your business. Don't get discouraged because people and companies will work with you. Never tell your clients that you have a full-time job. Let them think cleaning is what you do full-time every day. Now, if they ask why you aren't available in the mornings, you just let them know that your schedule is booked with clients who requested routine weekly cleaning, and your only availability is in the evening. Janitorial work is mainly done after hours, so this type of cleaning will be great while working a full-time job. Residential cleaning is primarily done during the day, so this type of cleaning may not work out at first because most homeowners like to come home to a clean house after working long hours. It is possible to schedule cleaning on the weekends. Trust me, if you are good at what you do, they will agree to the schedule you set for them. Be the best at what you do! And let this show in your work! Just believe in yourself, do good work and you generating business will take care of itself.
2. What type of equipment should I start with?
You do not need expensive equipment to start. Just because the equipment is expensive does not mean that the equipment is any good. I have had some vacuum cleaners that do not cost as much to vacuum better than the one that cost me a fortune. Do not let the equipment take you away from starting. Start with what you have.
3. Which is better to start first, a Residential or Janitorial Cleaning service?
Start with whichever one you feel passionate about doing. Both are easy to get started if you put in the time and commitment for marketing and advertising. Ultimately, this will all depend on the flexibility in your work schedule. If you are available in the evening, then a Janitorial Cleaning Company is better for you. If you are free most of the day, then a residential cleaning company would probably be better for you.
4. Do I need a truck to start my cleaning company?
No, start your cleaning company with the car you have. A vehicle is not going to make your cleaning company. How well you clean is what will make a difference in your company.
5. What should I wash my rags with?
Wash your cleaning rags in bleach at the end of the day. Do not use laundry detergent because this will cause your rags to leave streaks on the appliances and mirrors that you clean.
6. Should I continue to advertise every day after I start receiving clients?
Never stop advertising after you start receiving clients. Advertise every single day! Continue to grow and build your brand. The more you advertise, the more clients you will have coming in. I don't care if you can't take on anymore clients; continue advertising and hire more help.
7. Should I hire family members or Friends?
I advise you not to hire family members or Friends. Working with family or friends can ruin your relationships outside of work. It is best to hire individuals you do not know and build a bond with them. It will be easier to train and manage them.
8. What type of cleaning products should I use?
Never use store-brand-bought chemicals. Clients want to see what your brand is all about. When your clients book you, they are waiting to see the experience you will leave them with. Build your brand and try different chemicals while cleaning your home. Develop a smell that only your cleaning company can produce. When you hire employees, give them pre-filled bottles of the substances you mixed up. Never tell them the exact chemicals inside the bottle; just label the bottle (window cleaner, disinfecting cleaner, etc.). This unique smell will separate you from your competitors.
9. Will I need a laptop or computer when starting?
Yes, you will need an internet connection and a laptop or computer. You will also need a way to send quotes and invoices and email your clients about any issues or concerns you may have.
10. Will I have time to take a lunch break if I decide to start a residential cleaning company?
Of course, you will have to schedule your lunch break between your houses. For example, if your first house is a 3-hour general clean and you start at 8 a.m., you can schedule your lunch break from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and start your next house at 1:00 p.m. Always try to eat at a restaurant that is not too far from your next house to clean.
11. Should I bring my own cleaning products to my client's home?
Yes, you should always bring your own cleaning products. If your client would rather you use their cleaning products, they will tell you when booking their appointment or when you arrive at their home. Sometimes, clients will even want you to use their vacuum cleaner.
12. Do I need cleaning experience to start a cleaning company?
The answer to this question is that you already have experience cleaning; you just don't have experience cleaning other people's houses. Learn how to clean glass mirrors well, mop hardwood floors well, and clean bathrooms well, and you will be okay. Get good at everything else as you go.
13. Is the cleaning industry overcrowded?
Absolutely not; look at it this way: before you even start your cleaning business, you should be telling yourself you are the best cleaner this world has ever seen. I love that there are a lot of cleaning companies out there because everyone cannot clean. Just because that company exists does not mean that company is generating leads. Do not let the internet psych you out. Yes, when you google cleaning services in your local area, you will see many of them. I guarantee you half of them are close. If you clean each client well, you will never have to worry about leads because they will be lined up at your door!