This article was written by our expert who is surveying the industry and constantly updating business plan for a cleaning company.
Our business plan for a cleaning company will help you build a profitable project
Starting a cleaning company is a smart business move, but knowing what equipment you need can be confusing.
The challenge is figuring out which tools are absolutely essential versus nice-to-have items that can drain your startup budget.
Every cleaning business has different requirements, and equipment costs can quickly add up if you don't plan strategically from the start.
Complete Cleaning Company Equipment List
Launching a successful cleaning company requires the right tools and equipment. This comprehensive list covers everything you need to provide professional cleaning services.
Basic Cleaning Equipment
- Commercial vacuum cleaners - Essential for carpets and hard floors
- Mop and bucket systems - Includes microfiber and traditional string mops
- Spray bottles - Various sizes for different cleaning solutions
- Cleaning cloths/rags - Microfiber and cotton materials for different surfaces
- Scrub brushes - Various sizes for different cleaning tasks
- Squeegees - For windows and glass surfaces
- Dustpans and brooms - Basic tools for debris collection
- Toilet brushes - Specialized brushes for bathroom cleaning
- Sponges and scouring pads - For tough stains and surfaces
- Extension poles - Reaches high areas safely
- Step ladders - Access elevated cleaning areas
- Rubber gloves - Protects hands during cleaning tasks
Cleaning Supplies
- All-purpose cleaners - Versatile cleaning solutions for multiple surfaces
- Glass cleaners - Streak-free cleaning for windows and mirrors
- Disinfectants - Kills germs and bacteria on surfaces
- Floor cleaners - Specific formulas for different floor types
- Bathroom cleaners - Tackles soap scum and mineral deposits
- Kitchen degreasers - Removes grease and food residue
- Carpet cleaners - Spot treatment and deep cleaning solutions
- Wood polish - Maintains and protects wooden surfaces
- Paper towels - Disposable cleaning and drying material
- Trash bags - Various sizes for waste collection
- Air fresheners - Leaves pleasant scents after cleaning
Specialized Equipment
- Carpet cleaning machines - Deep cleans carpets and upholstery
- Floor buffers/polishers - Maintains and restores floor surfaces
- Pressure washers - Cleans exterior surfaces effectively
- Steam cleaners - Chemical-free cleaning and sanitizing
- Wet/dry shop vacuums - Handles liquid spills and debris
- Window cleaning kits - Professional tools for streak-free windows
- Backpack vacuums - Efficient cleaning for large areas
- Floor strippers - Removes old wax and finishes
Transportation & Storage
- Cleaning carts - Organizes supplies for efficient transport
- Storage containers - Keeps supplies organized and accessible
- Tool belts/aprons - Carries frequently used items
- Equipment bags - Transports tools between job sites
- Vehicle organizers - Maximizes storage space in service vehicles
Safety Equipment
- Safety goggles - Protects eyes from chemicals and debris
- Face masks - Prevents inhalation of dust and fumes
- Non-slip shoe covers - Prevents slips on wet surfaces
- First aid kit - Handles minor workplace injuries
- Warning signs - Alerts people to wet floors and hazards
- Knee pads - Protects knees during floor cleaning
Office & Administrative
- Uniforms/shirts - Professional appearance and branding
- Business cards - Marketing and contact information
- Invoice books - Billing and payment processing
- Scheduling software - Manages appointments and routes
- Mobile payment systems - Accepts various payment methods
- Liability insurance - Protects business from claims
- Business license - Legal requirement for operation
Vehicle & Transportation
- Service vehicle - Transports equipment and supplies
- Vehicle wraps/magnets - Mobile advertising and branding
- Roof racks - Additional storage for equipment
- Fuel cards - Manages transportation expenses
Technology & Software
- Smartphone/tablet - Communication and scheduling
- GPS navigation - Efficient route planning
- Accounting software - Manages finances and taxes
- Customer management system - Tracks client information
- Online booking platform - Allows customers to schedule services
Our financial plan for a cleaning company will help you build a profitable project
What Equipment Budget Should You Plan?
Most cleaning company owners spend between $2,000 and $15,000 on equipment, depending on their service scope and target market. You can start with as little as $500 for basic residential cleaning, but commercial services require more substantial investment in specialized equipment.
- Basic Residential Cleaning
A basic residential cleaning service needs around $500-$2,000, focusing on essential supplies and basic equipment for homes and small offices.
- Full-Service Cleaning Company
A comprehensive cleaning company serving both residential and commercial clients typically runs $2,000-$8,000, including specialized equipment and professional-grade supplies.
- Commercial Cleaning Operation
A commercial-focused cleaning operation can easily require $8,000-$15,000, especially when you add industrial equipment and multiple service vehicles.
Equipment Budget Examples
Basic Residential Cleaning ($500 - $2,000)
Basic residential cleaning focuses on essential equipment that can handle typical home cleaning tasks. The goal is starting with quality basics that allow you to provide professional service without major upfront investment.
| Equipment Category | What's Included | Budget Range |
|---|---|---|
| Cleaning Tools | Basic vacuum cleaner, mop and bucket system, microfiber cloths, spray bottles, brooms and dustpans | $200 - $500 |
| Cleaning Supplies | All-purpose cleaners, glass cleaners, disinfectants, paper towels, trash bags, basic chemical starter kit | $100 - $300 |
| Safety Equipment | Rubber gloves, basic safety goggles, non-slip shoes, small first aid kit | $50 - $150 |
| Transportation | Basic equipment bags, storage containers, vehicle organizers for personal vehicle | $100 - $300 |
| Business Setup | Basic liability insurance, business license, simple invoicing system, business cards | $300 - $800 |
Full-Service Cleaning Company ($2,000 - $8,000)
Full-service cleaning companies need more capacity and specialized equipment to handle diverse clients and higher volume work. You're investing in efficiency and the ability to offer comprehensive cleaning services.
| Equipment Category | What's Included | Budget Range |
|---|---|---|
| Professional Equipment | Commercial-grade vacuum cleaners, carpet cleaning machine, floor buffer, window cleaning kit, backpack vacuum | $800 - $2,500 |
| Supplies & Chemicals | Professional-grade cleaning products, bulk supplies, specialized cleaners for different surfaces, safety equipment | $300 - $800 |
| Transportation | Professional cleaning cart, multiple equipment bags, vehicle wraps or magnets, roof rack system | $400 - $1,200 |
| Technology | Smartphone/tablet, scheduling software, GPS navigation, basic accounting software, mobile payment system | $200 - $600 |
| Business Operations | Comprehensive insurance, uniforms, marketing materials, bonding, business registration and permits | $500 - $1,500 |
| Specialized Tools | Steam cleaner, wet/dry shop vacuum, extension poles, step ladder, pressure washer for exterior work | $400 - $1,200 |
Commercial Cleaning Operation ($8,000 - $15,000)
Commercial cleaning operations require industrial-grade equipment and multiple service capabilities. The focus is on efficiency, reliability, and the ability to handle large facilities and demanding schedules.
| Equipment Category | What's Included | Budget Range |
|---|---|---|
| Industrial Equipment | Multiple commercial vacuums, industrial carpet cleaners, high-speed floor buffers, automatic scrubbers, pressure washers | $3,000 - $6,000 |
| Vehicle & Transport | Service van or truck, professional vehicle wrapping, equipment storage systems, multiple cleaning carts | $2,000 - $4,000 |
| Bulk Supplies | Commercial-grade chemicals in bulk, industrial safety equipment, professional uniforms, large equipment storage | $800 - $2,000 |
| Technology Systems | Advanced scheduling software, customer management system, GPS tracking, mobile devices, accounting software | $500 - $1,500 |
| Business Infrastructure | Comprehensive insurance coverage, employee bonding, professional licensing, marketing and branding package | $1,000 - $3,000 |
| Specialized Services | Window cleaning equipment, floor stripping machines, high-reach cleaning tools, specialized chemical applicators | $800 - $2,000 |