The Complete Cleaning Equipment and Supplies Checklist You Need

In 2015, revenues for the cleaning industry was at $50 million dollars. 3.5 million people were employed by 875,000 cleaning companies.As we head deeper into 2020, the economy is expected to grow by a steady 2%. That means it's a good time to start a cleaning business.But before you launch your website and start handing out business cards, you need to make sure you have everything you need. And that includes stocking up on cleaning equipment and supplies.If you're not sure what you need, keep reading. Here's a guide to the complete professional cleaning supplies and equipment checklist you need to start a cleaning business.

How to Determine What Cleaning Equipment You Need

Not every cleaning company is the same. You may want to focus on window cleaning.If so, you won't need the same equipment or cleaning products list that a residential home cleaning business will. Figuring out what services you plan to offer will help to determine exactly what you need.

Cleaning Equipment

Fortunately, most types of cleaning companies don't need to invest in a lot of expensive equipment. It's mostly supplies that are necessary.However, here is a list of the larger pieces of equipment you should own:

• Computer
• Printer
• Vacuum cleaner

You may also want to invest in a carpet cleaner or floor polisher, however, that depends on what types of services your target market needs.

How to Find Quality Cleaning Equipment

To find the best machines, look at online reviews and ratings. Look for products that are reliable, durable, and intended for frequent commercial use.Remember that you get what you pay for. It's usually worth investing in a more expensive piece of equipment that comes with a warranty and additional features than it does to save a few dollars.

Professional Cleaning Supplies

Cleaning supplies are the items that help you clean, but not the products themselves. It's doubtful most clients will supply you with any or all of the items you need to clean their property so always bring your own along.Here is a list of professional house cleaning supplies you'll need:

• Broom
• Mop
• Bucket
• Dustpan
• Duster
• Spray bottle
• Rags
• Window cleaner
• Toilet bowl cleaner
• Paper towels
• Trash bags
• Latex gloves
• Extension cords
• Microfiber cloths

You should also buy a container to keep all your supplies in.

Cleaning Products

You should also invest in cleaning products. While a client may have their own, as a professional cleaner, you know which brands work best.Also, if you're a green cleaning company, you'll need to supply your own to ensure that none of the cleaning products are harmful to you or the environment.Here's a list of cleaning products you should bring with you:

• Air freshener
• Multi-purpose cleaner
• Disinfectant
• Glass and window cleaner
• Heavy-duty detergent and/or degreaser
• Oven cleaner
• Furniture polish
• Stainless steel cleaner
• Descaling agent
• Carpet cleaner
• Stain remover
• Wood cleaner
• Toilet and shower cleaner

You may also want to bring along your own dishwashing and laundry detergent.

Office Supplies

Besides a computer and printer, you'll need more supplies to help you run your business. Here's a list of supplies you'll need to run your business successfully:

• Desk
• Chair
• Paper
• Pens & pencils

Software is another office supply that can help you save time and increase your productivity levels and profits. You'll want to invest in scheduling and management software that can help you manage everything from giving a quote to a prospective client to sending invoices.

Investing in Office Software

Look for software that lets you manage the following tasks:

• Schedule appointments
• Accept online bookings
• Convert bids into jobs
• Create professional quotes
• Access all client information
• Get paid online

The software should also let you create and check your schedule. Most offer a convenient app to let you do everything on your smartphone.

Marketing

Without the proper marketing tools, you could have the best cleaning business on the planet and barely anyone will know. While word-of-mouth is best, there are a few more tools you can add to your arsenal to help you spread the word such as:

• Website
• Blog
• Social media profile
• Business cards
• Fliers

Try joining a local networking group. They can help you spread the word and offer guidance and support.

Promotional Marketing

Swag is another great marketing tool. Everyone loves free stuff.And you don't need to spend a lot of money, either. Promotional marketing items such as t-shirts, pens or screen cleaners are a low-cost item that can offer your business a higher ROI (return on investment).

Employees

If you prefer to run the business while employees tackle the cleaning, you're going to need to learn how to find good, reliable, honest employees. Since cleaning company employees are often left alone unsupervised in homes and offices, theft is a very real possibility.It's a smart idea to have background checks performed on all employees. Post local ads, post ads online, at the local college or even through an employment agency.Don't forget you can train employees who are strong candidates but lack professional experience.

Test Equipment & Train Your Employees

Before you begin working with clients, test out your new equipment. Make sure it's working properly.While you can test out the equipment in your own home, to gain real-world experience, as friends, neighbors, and family members if they're willing to let you clean their house for free in exchange for them spreading the word about your services.If you have employees, send them to your friends and family for training purposes. Make sure they know proper procedures and how to use and troubleshoot all of the equipment.

Invest in a Franchise

Before you invest in cleaning equipment and other cleaning company supplies, consider becoming part of a nationwide team. Starting a business on your own isn't easy.We offer training, support, and a built-in network. Click here to contact us to learn more about the benefits that come with owning your own franchise cleaning business.