Starting a cleaning business requires more than just elbow grease. To deliver top-notch service and maintain professionalism, you’ll need the right tools, which means having a thorough cleaning business supplies checklist.
If you’ve been asking yourself: What supplies do I need to start a cleaning business? We’ve got you covered. Whether you’re focusing on homes, offices, or more specialized jobs like carpet or window cleaning, our detailed cleaning supply list will ensure you’re ready to succeed.
What Supplies Do I Need to Start a Cleaning Business?
Before you can offer professional services, you need to be fully equipped. But what supplies do you need to start a cleaning business? The answer depends on the type of cleaning jobs you’ll be tackling, but there are essential items that every cleaner should have.
Here’s a basic cleaning supply list to get you started.
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Basic Cleaning Supplies for Cleaning Business Startups
This basic cleaning supply list will set you up for success as you start your cleaning business.
- Various cleaners (e.g., glass cleaner, surface cleaner)
- Vacuum cleaner
- Duster
- Rubber gloves
- Trash bags
- Broom and mop
- Bucket
- Microfiber cloth
Specialized Cleaning Business Supplies
Depending on the types of cleaning services you offer, specialized supplies enable you to provide more tailored and professional work. Below are detailed lists for house, carpet, window, and janitorial cleaning services.
Maid/House Cleaning Business Supplies
Here are some must-have items for maid services and house cleaning:
- Disinfectant cleaner: Used for disinfecting the client’s space.
- Vacuum cleaner: A top-notch vacuum that cleans all carpets is preferred.
- Duster: Having long and short dusters is essential to keeping your client’s space clean and dust-free.
- Rubber gloves: This protects your hands and ensures they aren’t exposed to cleaning chemicals all day on the job.
- Trash bags: You will need trash bags to dispose of any trash you find while cleaning.
- Various cleaners: You’ll need a glass cleaner, toilet bowl cleaner, carpet cleaner, and so on.
- Broom and mop: Essential to cleaning any tile or hardwood floor. Don’t forget to get a dustpan with your broom and mop cleaner.
- Bucket: A cleaner’s best friend. Use it to carry your supplies and as a water holder.
- Microfiber cloth: Used on any surface – glass, wood, mirrors, etc.
- Shoe covers: Go the extra mile and show your customers you care about keeping their space clean.
- Laundry bag: Used to collect dirty clothes and rags for washing and reuse.
- Brushes and squeegees: You will need a toilet bowl brush, tile brush, and squeegees.
- Uniforms or cleaning aprons with company logo: Enhances professionalism and protects your clothes.
Pro tip: Supplies and equipment are a huge investment! See how to protect your career and your gear with coverage tailored for specialty cleaning businesses, like:
Carpet Cleaning Business Supplies
If you’re focusing on carpet cleaning, you’ll need specialized tools and products:
- Carpet extractor: Remove deep-seated dirt and stains with a powerful carpet extractor.
- Carpet cleaning solution: Choose a reliable cleaning solution tailored for carpets to achieve optimal results.
- Spot remover: Address stubborn stains promptly with an effective spot remover.
- Carpet rake: Restore carpet fibers to their original texture and appearance with a carpet rake.
- Carpet grooming brush: Ensure a uniform carpet finish by grooming the fibers post-cleaning.
- Carpet deodorizer: Leave behind a fresh scent and eliminate odors with a quality carpet deodorizer.
- Cleaning apron or uniform: Stay tidy and professional with a dedicated cleaning apron or uniform.
Window Cleaning Business Supplies
For window cleaning, your cleaning supply list should include tools designed for streak-free, polished results:
- Window cleaning solution: Achieve streak-free results with a high-quality window cleaning solution.
- Squeegee: Effortlessly remove water and cleaning solution from windows with a reliable squeegee.
- Window scrubber: Loosen dirt and grime from window surfaces with a durable window scrubber.
- Extension pole: Reach high windows safely and efficiently with an extendable pole.
- Ladder: Ensure access to windows at various heights with a sturdy ladder.
- Window cleaning bucket: Keep your cleaning solution easily accessible in a dedicated window cleaning bucket.
- Microfiber towels: Polish windows to a pristine shine with lint-free microfiber towels.
- Razor scraper: Remove stubborn residue and buildup from windows with a razor scraper.
- Uniforms with company logo: Enhance professionalism and brand recognition with personalized uniforms.
Janitorial Cleaning Business Supplies
For janitorial services, especially in larger spaces, organization is key. Here’s a list of supplies you’ll need:
- Paper towels: Stock up on durable paper towels for quick cleanup tasks.
- Trash can liners: Keep waste receptacles clean and sanitary with proper liners.
- Restroom cleaners: Maintain hygiene standards with specialized cleaners for restrooms.
- Toilet bowl brush: Ensure toilets are sparkling clean with a sturdy toilet bowl brush.
- Air freshener: Create a pleasant atmosphere by eliminating unpleasant odors with an effective air freshener.
- Hand soap and sanitizer: Promote hand hygiene with readily accessible hand soap and sanitizer.
- Dustpan and brush set: Tackle dust and debris efficiently with a durable dustpan and brush set.
- Janitorial cart: Organize your supplies and streamline your workflow with a functional janitorial cart.
- Uniforms with company logo: Present a professional image and reinforce brand identity with customized uniforms.
Expert-Recommended Cleaning Business Supplies
With the right supplies, you can get great results without all the stress. Here’s a simple guide to expert-recommended cleaning products that work, along with some budget-friendly and eco-friendly options.
Top Brand Cleaning Supply Picks
Professional cleaners know what works best. Here are some go-to brands they rely on:
- Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day: Loved for its fresh scents and plant-based ingredients. It cleans surfaces well without harsh chemicals.
- Clorox: A household favorite for disinfecting. Clorox wipes and multi-surface cleaners kill germs on the spot.
- Bona: A top-recommended cleaning product for hardwood floors, Bona’s cleaners are safe and get the job done — without ruining your floor’s finish.
- OxiClean: The go-to for tackling tough stains and odors, whether it’s on carpets or laundry.
Cost-Effective Cleaning Business Supplies
Cleaning supplies shouldn’t cost a fortune. Here are some affordable options that get the job done. They’re also great options for clients who don’t want you to use chemical-based products:
- White vinegar: A natural cleaner that can handle anything from descaling to deodorizing.
- Baking soda: Perfect for scrubbing, deodorizing, and freshening up carpets or appliances.
- Dish soap: Not just for dishes — great for cleaning countertops and surfaces too.
- Microfiber cloths: Ditch the paper towels! Microfiber cloths are washable, reusable, and great for trapping dust and dirt.
- DIY cleaners: Mix up your own cleaners with simple ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils. It’s cheaper and chemical-free!
Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products
If you’re looking to clean without harming the planet, these eco-friendly products are a great choice:
- Seventh Generation: Plant-based and chemical-free, the products are effective and come in recyclable packaging.
- Ecover: Biodegradable and eco-friendly, Ecover products tackle dirt without harming the environment.
- The Honest Company: Safe and non-toxic, the products keep your home clean while protecting your health.
- Method: Non-toxic and stylishly packaged, Method offers effective cleaning solutions that are easy on both your home and the environment.
- Biokleen: Known for its plant-based ingredients, Biokleen is great for eco-conscious cleaners who don’t want to sacrifice cleaning power.
5 Tips for Building Your Cleaning Business Supplies
With a solid cleaning supply list, you’ll work faster and get better results. Here are five simple tips to help you build your cleaning supply list.
Buy Cleaning Products Wholesale
Don’t waste money by grabbing cleaning supplies from the grocery store. When running a cleaning business, you’ll need a lot of supplies, and buying from regular stores can get pricey. Instead, buy in bulk from wholesale suppliers.
They offer big discounts on larger quantities, which saves you a lot of money in the long run.
Take some time to search online for wholesalers near you. They often offer regular shipments, so you’ll never run out of supplies and can always stay stocked up for your jobs.
Start Small and Expand Gradually
It’s tempting to buy every cleaning product out there, but it’s better to start small. Get the essentials first — the products you’ll use most often — and then add more as you figure out what else you need. This way, you avoid spending money on items that might sit around unused.
Prioritize Multi-Purpose Products
Save time and money by choosing multi-purpose cleaners. Instead of having a different product for each area, pick items that work for multiple surfaces. For example, an all-purpose cleaner can handle everything from kitchen counters to bathroom sinks, and microfiber cloths are great for cleaning without needing extra chemicals.
Always Use Your Own Products
Don’t rely on your clients’ cleaning products: always bring your own. You know your products well and can use them to get the best results. Plus, by using your own supplies, you can include the cost in your service price, making your offer more complete.
This not only helps you deliver consistent, high-quality cleaning — it also shows your clients that you’re committed to providing a top-notch service, justifying a higher cleaning price if needed.
Invest in Quality Tools
Don’t cut corners when it comes to your cleaning tools! Investing in high-quality equipment might feel like a big expense upfront, but it’s worth it.
Good tools last longer, work better, and make your job easier. Whether it’s a durable mop or a strong vacuum, quality tools help you tackle tough messes and keep your clients satisfied.
Maintaining Your Cleaning Business Supplies
Taking care of your cleaning supplies is key to making them last longer and keeping them working well, which will save you time and money.
Proper Cleaning and Sanitizing of Tools
Regularly cleaning and sanitizing your tools is essential for keeping them effective and safe. Here’s how to take care of common cleaning tools:
- Mops and brooms: Rinse mop heads with hot water after each use to get rid of dirt. Replace them if they start to look worn out. Shake out brooms and wipe them down with a damp cloth.
- Sponges and cloths: Rinse sponges after each use, and sanitize them by soaking them in vinegar or microwaving them while damp. Wash microfiber cloths without fabric softener to maintain their effectiveness.
- Vacuum cleaners: Empty the dustbin, and clean or replace filters regularly as per the manufacturer’s instructions to keep your vacuum running smoothly.
Storage Tips to Extend the Life of Supplies
Proper storage can extend the life of your cleaning tools.
- Keep them dry: Store your tools in a dry area to prevent mold and mildew. Moisture can damage things like mops and brooms.
- Stay organized: Use a designated space, like a shelf or closet, and group similar items together for easy access.
- Avoid overcrowding: Give your tools enough room so they don’t get damaged from being crammed together.
When and How to Replace Worn-Out Tools
Replacing tools at the right time keeps your cleaning efficient. Here’s what to watch for:.
- Check for wear: If bristles on brushes are frayed or mop heads are falling apart, it’s time for new ones.
- Notice performance drops: If a tool isn’t working as well, even with proper care, it may need to be replaced.
- Follow guidelines: Check the manufacturer’s recommendations for how often to replace certain items to ensure they stay effective.
Tools and Equipment Insurance
Tools and equipment insurance, also known as inland marine, is designed to protect your valuable cleaning equipment from unexpected issues like theft or damage. Your tools and supplies are essential for getting the job done right, and replacing them can be costly.
If something happens to your gear, having insurance means you won’t have to pay for repairs or replacements all on your own. This keeps your business running smoothly and allows you to focus on providing great service to your clients.
FAQs About Cleaning Business Supplies
Are there any legal requirements for cleaning business supplies in my state?
Most states don’t have strict legal requirements for cleaning business supplies, but many have specific regulations regarding safety and environmental standards. Check with your state or local health department to ensure your products meet the necessary guidelines, especially if you’re working in sensitive areas like hospitals or schools.
How often should I restock my cleaning business supplies?
How often you’ll need to restock depends on how many cleaning jobs you have and how much space you have to store supplies. Check your inventory at least once a month and set a minimum threshold for when an item will be restocked.
How much does tools and equipment insurance typically cost?
On average, tools and equipment insurance costs around $384.41/year. But Insurance Canopy’s tools and equipment insurance for cleaning businesses cost starts at $51.64/year. The cost to insure your tools, supplies, and other business gear varies based on factors like the type of equipment you have and the coverage you choose.
Protect Your Cleaning Business and Supplies with Insurance Canopy!
And that’s a wrap! You’re ready to create your cleaning supply list. Remember, there’s no need to get everything all at once; you can build your inventory over time.
Now that you have a solid understanding of the essential supplies for your cleaning business, it’s time to take the next important step. Protect your business with Insurance Canopy!
We offer tailored insurance solutions to keep your cleaning business safe from anything that comes your way. Whether you need cleaning insurance, house cleaning insurance, janitorial business insurance, carpet cleaning insurance, or more, we’ve got you covered! Complete your cleaning business insurance application today!
