Cleaning businesses typically fall into two broad categories: residential and commercial. But did you know that there are actually many different types of commercial cleaning businesses?
If you’re thinking about starting a cleaning business, you’re in the right place! Carving out a niche in this competitive industry is one of the wisest choices you can make. After all, knowing your options can help you make strategic business decisions about how best to serve your community. Here’s what you need to know about the seven types of commercial cleaning businesses!
7 Types of Commercial Cleaning Businesses
#1 Health-Focused Cleaning
Hospitals and healthcare settings have cleaning requirements set by OSHA that are much more stringent than your typical retail store. However, in the wake of the COVID pandemic, health-focused cleaning has been in high demand not only for hospitals but for other brick-and-mortar businesses, too!
Following the pandemic, business owners have become highly conscious of workplace hygiene. That’s why we created our proven 360clean JaniMed® system. Initially used only for healthcare facilities, we now offer JaniMed® system services for office buildings and other non-healthcare facilities, too. The system consists of specialized training, hospital-grade disinfectants, touch surface disinfection, and state-of-the-art equipment, including micro-fiber technology and Hepa Vacuums with four levels of filtration. The best part is that we can often implement our JaniMed® system at the same price or even less than most commercial cleaning services.
Remember: Health-focused cleaning services do more than keep facilities clean; they safeguard the well-being of employees, customers, and everyone who enters a building!
#2 Eco-Friendly Cleaning
Going green is another great way for cleaning businesses to develop an industry niche. For example, customers may prefer to work with a cleaning service with a smaller carbon footprint. But first, it’s essential to be clear about what constitutes “green” cleaning. While there’s no standard definition, most eco-friendly cleaning services use non-toxic ingredients. That means the company avoids products with caustic or volatile chemicals, which can be harmful not only to the environment but also to pets and small children.
In most cases, “green” alternatives to bleach and ammonia-based compounds are just as affordable as their traditional counterparts. But customers may also be willing to commit to a company that shares their concern for the ecosystem. This value alignment can help green cleaning companies win more bids in the commercial cleaning industry. At 360clean, green-friendly cleaning services are always available to our customers upon request!
#3 Emergency Commercial Cleaning
While some commercial cleaning companies provide standard janitorial services, others emphasize emergency cleaning options, meaning the business swings into action following disasters such as floods, earthquakes, or fires. This type of commercial cleaning is more vital than many people realize. Without it, the consequences would be devastating. For example, water damage to carpets and flooring can breed mold and bacteria that jeopardize the health and safety of employees and customers alike. It could even make a space completely uninhabitable.
Besides these unexpected events, emergency cleaners can help businesses that have just moved into a new commercial space and need assistance with renovations. For example, if a company moves into a run-down office space, emergency cleaners can assist in cleaning up damage caused under the watch of the previous tenant. Whatever the reason, these emergency services can help business owners get up and running quickly, minimizing any loss of revenue from a disaster or significant cleanup job.
#4 Kitchen Cleaning
Why is kitchen cleaning such a specialized niche? Foodborne illnesses are a significant concern for food service providers, such as restaurants, caterers, or hospital and school cafeterias. Kitchen cleaning, therefore, has higher demands than many other types of cleaning projects. A professional kitchen cleaning service can generally do a more thorough job than existing kitchen staff. Most food service providers find that their kitchen staff is put to better use preparing food than trying to address major commercial cleaning jobs. After all, your kitchen staff already has countless other food safety practices to juggle.
#5 Industrial Cleaning
Industrial cleaning providers focus on cleanup jobs after a major construction project. As you might expect, this type of cleaning business has to deal with damaged pipes, industrial waste, dirt, and other significant cleanup needs. This type of cleaning may require the use of heavy equipment or other specialized tools to handle large or dangerous waste left behind on the job site.
On the one hand, employees at an industrial cleaning company will require specialized skills and training compared to other cleaning businesses on this list. But on the other hand, industrial cleaners are in high demand, especially during periods when construction is booming, meaning some level of job security is all but guaranteed.
#6 Carpet Cleaning
Professional carpet cleaners clean carpets using one of three methods:
- Vacuuming
- Steaming
- Dry cleaning
This service can be used in various commercial settings, such as office buildings, churches, hospitals, and community centers. However, remember that of all the commercial cleaning niches, carpet cleaning is among the most competitive. Therefore, it’s wise to work on building a strong, trusted reputation in your community before launching this business endeavor.
#7 Window or Glass Cleaning
Commercial properties commonly have exterior windows, doors, and other glass surfaces that require regular attention. The most specialized glass cleaning companies work on the sides of skyscrapers and multi-story buildings, using equipment most companies lack and techniques that only come with extensive training and education.
What Niche Will You Choose?
We hope you enjoyed this guide on the different types of commercial cleaning businesses! As you can see, the possibilities are endless. Now, all you need to do is choose a niche and start planning your journey to business ownership.
Another avenue that many aspiring entrepreneurs consider is franchising. While there are more upfront costs, the benefits of a franchise model make it worth the initial investment. Remember, a franchise doesn’t guarantee profits, but it reduces many risks associated with starting your own business. At 360clean, we offer our franchisees the following benefits:
- A competitive niche in health-focused cleaning;
- A comprehensive training program for both you and your employees;
- Personalized support focused on your goals and needs;
- A turn-key system for growing your business;
- Back office support;
- And more!
Are you ready to take the next step in your journey to business ownership? To learn more about starting a franchise with 360clean, contact us today for more information. Thanks for stopping by our blog; we hope to help you soon!
