How to Grow Your Cleaning Company: 11 Smart Add-On Services

In today's challenging economic landscape, business owners need innovative ideas on how to grow their cleaning companies. The commercial cleaning industry, once considered stable and straightforward, is now evolving rapidly due to technological advancements, changing client expectations, and global events like the recent pandemic. According to IBISWorld, the janitorial services industry in the US was valued at $91.8 billion in 2023, a growth rate of 1.2% per year on average between 2018 and 2023. This slow-growth market favors cleaning companies that innovate and diversify, especially in an economy with recession concerns.

This article will explore 11 creative ways to grow your cleaning company. These strategies are designed to increase your revenue streams, enhance your value proposition, attract a broader client base, and position your company as a comprehensive facility management solution. 

Key Takeaways:

• Diversification is crucial for growth and stability: Expanding into specialized services creates multiple revenue streams, broadens the client base, and improves customer retention. For example, the eco-friendly cleaning market is projected to reach $174.47 billion by 2031, growing at a 7.67% annual rate.

• Emerging markets offer significant growth potential: Areas like indoor air quality services (expected to reach $11.9 billion by 2027) and specialized disinfection services are rapidly growing. In a 2021 survey, 70% of consumers said they'd be more likely to patronize businesses using trusted cleaning products.

• Strategic implementation is critical to successful expansion: A measured approach to growth includes assessing current strengths, conducting market research, investing in training, and starting with pilot programs. Forming partnerships and ensuring proper licensing are crucial steps in expanding.

What We Will Cover:

• The Power of Diversification
• 11 Ways to Grow Your Commercial Cleaning Business 
• 1. Specialized Cleaning Services
  
• 2. Eco-Friendly Cleaning
• 3. Disinfection and Sanitization
• 4. Facility Maintenance
  
• 5. Waste Management
• 6. Indoor Air Quality Services
• 7. Pest Control
• 8. Landscaping and Grounds Maintenance
• 9. Specialized Event Cleaning
• 10. Residential Services
• 11. Vehicle Cleaning
• Implementing Your Expansion Strategy
• Wrapping It Up

The Power of Diversification

Before we explore specific services, it's crucial to understand why diversification is so important in these times. Diversification allows cleaning businesses to adapt to changing market demands and reduce their vulnerability to economic fluctuations. 

The Benefits of Diversification for Commercial Cleaning Businesses

• Multiple revenue streams: Offering various services reduces dependence on any single offering. This financial strategy can help your business weather economic downturns or seasonal fluctuations in demand.

• Broader client base: Different services attract different types of clients. By diversifying, you can appeal to a wider range of businesses, from small offices to large industrial complexes.

• Improved customer retention: When you offer multiple services, clients are likelier to stick with your company for all their needs rather than hiring multiple vendors.

• Strategic Cross-Selling Advantage: By leveraging an existing customer base, you can introduce new services to customers who already trust your brand, reducing the pressure to acquire new customers.

• Adaptability to market changes: The cleaning industry is subject to trends and shifts in client priorities. A diverse service offering allows you to adapt quickly to these changes.

• Competitive differentiation: In a crowded market, offering unique or comprehensive services sets you apart from competitors who may only provide basic cleaning.

Let's explore the 11 innovative add-on services that can grow your cleaning company.

11 Ways to Grow Your Commercial Cleaning Business 

1. Specialized Cleaning Services

Specialized cleaning services require expertise and equipment that justify premium rates, differentiating your company from general cleaners. This niche focus attracts clients with unique needs and creates barriers to entry for competitors. It enables higher-value contracts and, as you build a reputation, allows you to establish long-term partnerships, increase profit margins, and strengthen your overall market position.

Let’s examine five opportunities for specialized cleaning services.

One - Biohazard Cleanup

Biohazard cleanup is a critical service that requires specialized training, equipment, and certifications. These services can include:

• Crime scene cleanup
• Trauma scene decontamination
• Hazardous material handling

You'll need to invest in proper staff training and obtain the necessary certifications to offer this service. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) provides guidelines for biohazard cleanup that you must follow. Chronotek Pro’s HR tools allow you to store and track certifications. 

Two - Medical Facilities Sanitization

Medical facility sanitization has become a high-demand service with an increased focus on infection control, especially in healthcare settings. These services can include:

• Operating room sterilization
• Infection control in patient rooms
• Specialized cleaning for diagnostic equipment

To excel in this area, familiarize yourself with regulations like those from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and invest in hospital-grade disinfectants and equipment.

Three - Industrial Cleaning for Manufacturing Plants

Manufacturing plants often have unique cleaning needs that go beyond standard janitorial services. These needs can include:

• Cleaning and maintaining heavy machinery
• Handling and disposing of industrial waste
• Adhering to industry-specific safety standards

To offer this service, you may need to invest in specialized equipment, such as pressure washers, industrial vacuums, and safety gear for your staff.

Four - Data Center Cleaning

Data centers require meticulous cleaning to prevent dust accumulation and static electricity, which can damage sensitive equipment. This service involves:

• Using specialized anti-static cleaning tools and techniques
• Cleaning raised floors and cable management systems
• Adhering to strict security protocols

You'll need to train your staff on the unique requirements of data center environments and invest in the proper cleaning technology.

Five - Clean Room Services

Clean room environments, typical in tech and pharmaceutical industries, require extremely high standards of cleanliness. This service includes:

• Maintaining specific air quality standards
• Using specialized cleaning agents and techniques
• Adhering to strict contamination control protocols

To offer this service, you'll need to invest in training and specialized equipment and possibly achieve relevant certifications like those offered by the Institute of Environmental Sciences and Technology (IEST).

Specialized cleaning is a strategic way to grow your cleaning business in a market with limited competition.

2. Eco-Friendly Cleaning

As environmental concerns grow, so does the demand for green cleaning services. This demand isn't just a trend; it's becoming necessary for many businesses looking to reduce their environmental impact. The eco-friendly cleaning industry is set for remarkable expansion. In 2023, the "Green Cleaning Services Market" was valued at $104 billion. Experts forecast this market to reach $174.47 billion by 2031, growing at a robust 7.67% compound annual rate between 2024 and 2031. 

This significant growth indicates a substantial market opportunity for eco-friendly cleaning services. Here are two ways you can grow your cleaning company: 

One - Green Cleaning Products and Practices

Capitalize on the rapidly growing eco-friendly market by introducing green cleaning solutions, attracting environmentally conscious clients, and establishing your company as a sustainable industry leader. This comprehensive green approach includes:

• Using cleaning products certified by organizations like Green Seal or EcoLogo
• Implementing water-saving techniques
• Reducing chemical use through methods like microfiber cleaning

Two - Environmental Consulting

Elevate your company's status in the industry by positioning yourself as an expert in sustainable cleaning practices. Offer specialized consulting services to share your expertise in eco-friendly cleaning methods with other businesses. Such consulting services could involve:

• Conducting environmental audits of cleaning practices
• Recommending ways to reduce water and energy use in cleaning processes
• Helping clients achieve green building certifications like LEED

Staff members should obtain green cleaning or sustainability certifications to offer these services effectively.

3. Disinfection and Sanitization

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, enhanced disinfection and sanitization services have become crucial for businesses across all sectors. In a 2021 survey by P&G Professional, 70% of consumers said they would be more likely to frequent a business if they knew it used a personally recognizable and trusted brand of cleaning products. This statistic highlights the importance of offering disinfection services and using high-quality, recognizable products.

Let’s discuss three add-on services you could offer to grow your cleaning company. 

One - Enhanced Disinfection Services

Expand your service portfolio by offering comprehensive disinfection solutions that address the heightened hygiene concerns today, especially in high-risk environments or during disease outbreaks. Experts anticipate the global antiseptic and disinfectant market to grow 10.8% annually from 2024 to 2030. Your expanded services could include:

• Using electrostatic sprayers for even coverage of disinfectants
• Implementing UV-C light disinfection for high-touch surfaces
• Offering scheduled deep disinfection services

Train your team to use EPA-approved disinfectants and cutting-edge disinfection tech expertly. You'll boost service quality and give your staff the confidence to tackle any cleaning challenge head-on! 

Two - Air Purification Services

Indoor air quality has become a major concern for businesses, with increasing awareness of its impact on employee health and productivity. Offer comprehensive air purification services that go beyond standard cleaning, such as:

• Installation and maintenance of HEPA air purifiers
• HVAC system cleaning and sanitization
• Implementation of UV-C air treatment systems

Partner with air quality experts or HVAC professionals to offer comprehensive services in this area.

Three - Surface Testing

Provide peace of mind to your clients by offering regular testing for bacteria and viruses on high-touch surfaces, demonstrating your commitment to their health and safety. This proactive approach to hygiene management could involve:

• Using ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate) testing to measure biological residue on surfaces
• Offering specialized testing for specific pathogens
• Providing detailed reports on cleaning effectiveness

Invest in reliable testing equipment and train your staff to conduct tests and interpret results accurately. Use Chronotek Pro to track the time and labor costs of each type of cleaning to determine which ones are the most and least profitable. 

4. Facility Maintenance

Expanding into facility maintenance allows you to become a one-stop shop for your client's property care needs. By offering a comprehensive range of services, you can simplify property management for your clients while growing your cleaning company's value and revenue streams.

Here are four additional services your commercial cleaning business could offer:

One - Minor Repairs and Touchups

Provide essential maintenance services to keep office spaces in top condition:

• Basic plumbing repairs (fixing leaky faucets, unclogging drains, replacing washers)
• Minor electrical work (changing light bulbs, fixing outlets, replacing switches)
• Paint touchups and minor drywall repairs
• Simple carpentry tasks (fixing loose door handles, adjusting cabinets)

Ensure your staff is adequately trained and licensed for these tasks. For liability reasons, establish clear boundaries on job complexity and consider partnering with specialized contractors for more involved repairs. This service helps businesses maintain a professional appearance and prevent minor issues from becoming costly problems.

Two - Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning

Enhance your floor care offerings with comprehensive cleaning solutions:

• Deep carpet cleaning using hot water extraction methods for thorough dirt removal
• Upholstery cleaning for office chairs, sofas, and other fabric-covered furniture
• Specialized stain removal services for carpets and upholstery
• Hard surface floor maintenance, including stripping, waxing, and buffing
• Eco-friendly cleaning options using low-impact products

Invest in professional-grade equipment and thoroughly train your staff on various cleaning techniques and safety protocols. These advanced services can improve indoor air quality, extend the life of flooring and furniture, and enhance the overall office appearance. Professional carpet cleaning can remove about 98% of pollutants and dirt from carpets.

Three - Window Washing

Provide comprehensive window cleaning services to enhance building aesthetics and visibility:

• Interior and exterior window cleaning for buildings of all heights
• Specialized high-rise window cleaning using professional equipment
• Solar panel cleaning to maintain energy efficiency
• Screen, track, and frame cleaning for complete window maintenance
• Pressure washing for exterior building surfaces and walkways

Invest in proper safety equipment and provide rigorous training for high-rise work. To meet diverse client needs, offer flexible scheduling options, including recurring service plans. Regular window cleaning not only improves appearance but also extends the lifespan of windows and maintains energy efficiency.

However, be diligent about tracking time on window cleaning jobs, especially for high-rise buildings, like our commercial cleaning customer, Kevin. His workers' comp company discovered that a part of his business was washing windows on the exterior of high-rise buildings, and they raised his rates by more than 25%. That's a steep increase for any small business owner. He called us for help, and fortunately, Kevin had been using our GPS time clock app to track the amount of time his employees spent on each type of project. We helped him pull reports to prove that his high-rise window washing time was less than 2% of his overall work. His workers' comp insurer lowered his rates!

Four - Pressure Washing

Offer professional exterior cleaning services to maintain property appearance and safety:

• Building facade cleaning to remove dirt, grime, and pollutants
• Parking lot and sidewalk cleaning to eliminate oil stains and debris
• Graffiti removal using specialized techniques and eco-friendly solutions
• Deck and patio cleaning for outdoor office spaces
• Awning and signage cleaning to maintain brand visibility

Invest in commercial-grade pressure washing equipment and eco-friendly cleaning solutions to deliver top-quality service. Your staff should receive comprehensive training to clean effectively while protecting various surfaces. Throughout the year, consider offering tailored seasonal services, such as pre-winter preparations or spring renewal packages, to maximize value for your clients.

5. Waste Management

Effective waste management is becoming increasingly crucial for businesses looking to improve their sustainability profile. Companies are recognizing that proper waste handling reduces their environmental impact, enhances their reputation, and can lead to cost savings in the long run.

Here are three opportunities to grow your cleaning company by diversifying into waste management.

One - Recycling Program Implementation

Assist businesses in establishing and maintaining effective recycling programs to reduce waste and improve sustainability. Offer comprehensive services, including:

• Conducting thorough waste audits to identify recycling opportunities and areas for improvement
• Providing strategically placed, color-coded bins with clear signage to facilitate proper sorting
• Developing and delivering tailored training programs for client staff on correct recycling practices
• Coordinating regular pickups with local recycling facilities to ensure consistent waste management
• Tracking and reporting recycling metrics to demonstrate program effectiveness and ROI

By implementing these services, businesses can significantly reduce their environmental impact while lowering waste disposal costs.

Two - Composting Services

With the growing focus on sustainability, offices with cafeterias or food service areas can significantly reduce their environmental impact by implementing composting services. This initiative not only diverts organic waste from landfills but also promotes a culture of environmental responsibility. Consider:

• Providing compost bins and compostable bags in strategic locations
• Coordinating regular pick-ups with local composting facilities
• Offering education on proper composting practices, including what businesses can and can't compost
• Tracking and reporting on waste diversion metrics to demonstrate impact

By implementing these services, businesses can reduce their waste footprint while lowering disposal costs and improving their sustainability profile.

Three - Electronic Waste Disposal

Each year, about 50 to 60 million tons of e-waste are generated as businesses regularly upgrade their technology. These routine upgrades create a growing need for responsible disposal because e-waste contains toxic materials like lead, cadmium, and beryllium. To address this market, consider offering services such as:

• Secure data destruction on old devices
• Coordinating with certified e-waste recyclers
• Providing documentation for proper disposal, which is often required for compliance purposes
• On-site collection and inventory management

Consider partnering with certified e-waste recycling facilities to ensure proper handling and disposal of electronic waste. This approach contributes to environmental sustainability and helps businesses meet regulatory obligations while protecting sensitive data.

6. Indoor Air Quality Services

Poor indoor air quality can lead to health issues and decreased productivity. The demand for the U.S. Indoor Air Quality Market is estimated to increase from $9.8 billion in 2022 to $11.9 billion by 2027 at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.1% from 2022 through 2027. This growth indicates a significant opportunity for cleaning companies to expand into air quality services.

Here are three ways to break into the indoor air quality market:

One - HVAC System Cleaning

Provide comprehensive HVAC maintenance services to boost indoor air quality and system efficiency. Services such as:

• Thorough air duct cleaning to remove dust, allergens, and contaminants
• Coil cleaning for improved heat transfer and energy efficiency
• Regular filter replacement and maintenance to ensure optimal air filtration
• Inspection and cleaning of vents, registers, and grilles
• Sanitization services to address mold and bacteria concerns

Proper certifications are crucial for this specialized service. Consider partnering with licensed HVAC professionals or investing in staff training and certifications to offer these valuable maintenance options. Regular HVAC cleaning can significantly improve workplace health and energy costs.

Two - Mold Remediation

Mold issues are common in many buildings and can pose serious health risks. Offer mold remediation services, including:

• Mold inspection and testing: Conduct thorough assessments to identify mold growth and potential health hazards.
• Safe mold removal: Use proper containment procedures and specialized equipment to remove mold from affected areas safely.
• Moisture control to prevent future mold growth: Address root causes by identifying and resolving moisture issues.

Please make sure your staff is adequately trained in mold remediation techniques and safety protocols. This expertise will protect your employees and instill confidence in your clients. By offering these services, you'll address a critical need in the market and position your business as a comprehensive solution for maintaining healthy indoor environments.

Three - Allergen Reduction Services

With increasing awareness of allergies and asthma, allergen reduction services are in high demand. You can offer services such as: 

• Deep cleaning of carpets and upholstery to remove common allergens
• Use of HEPA vacuum cleaners
• Application of anti-allergen treatments

Consider partnering with allergy specialists to develop effective allergen reduction protocols. This collaboration can enhance your services' credibility and may lead to referrals from healthcare providers, expanding your client base.

7. Pest Control

Pest control is a natural extension of cleaning services, as both aim to maintain a healthy environment. The pest control industry is experiencing steady growth, with the global market valued at $19.7 billion in 2019. Experts project this sector to expand at a 4.5% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) between 2020 and 2027, indicating increasing demand for pest management services worldwide. This growth presents a significant opportunity for cleaning companies to expand their services.

Offer comprehensive pest control services, including:

• Regular inspections and monitoring
• Use of eco-friendly pest control methods
• Preventive measures to reduce pest attractions

Offering these services may require obtaining pest control licenses and certifications. Partnering with or acquiring an existing pest control company could allow for rapid expansion into this area.

8. Landscaping and Grounds Maintenance

Expanding your services outdoors can provide year-round revenue and make you indispensable to property managers. The landscaping industry is blooming, with a global market value of $296.09 billion in 2022. Experts predict it'll continue to flourish, growing at a robust 6.4% annually through 2030. Your company can offer a range of services, including:

One - Basic Landscaping Services 

First impressions matter; well-maintained landscaping is essential to a property's curb appeal. By offering these essential services, you'll help clients create inviting outdoor spaces that leave a lasting positive impression:

• Lawn mowing and edging
• Hedge trimming
• Basic gardening and plant care

Two - Snow Removal 

Winter weather can pose significant challenges and safety risks for property owners. By providing reliable snow removal services, you'll help clients maintain safe, accessible properties even in harsh conditions:

• Parking lot plowing
• Sidewalk shoveling and de-icing
• Roof snow removal

Three - Parking Lot Maintenance 

A well-maintained parking lot is crucial for safety, accessibility, and overall property value. Offering these services helps clients protect their investment and ensure a positive experience for visitors:

• Sweeping and debris removal
• Line striping
• Minor pothole repair

Invest in appropriate equipment and ensure proper insurance coverage for these services. These offerings can be particularly attractive to retail and commercial property managers, providing year-round value and helping you become a one-stop solution for property maintenance needs.

9. Specialized Event Cleaning 

Events of all sizes require meticulous cleaning before, during, and after to ensure a professional and hygienic environment for attendees. Specialized event cleaning services cater to these unique needs, offering tailored solutions for various types of gatherings.

Here are two suggestions for specialized event cleaning that can help grow your cleaning company:

One - Pre and Post-Event Cleaning 

Comprehensive cleaning services are crucial for creating a positive first impression and maintaining a pristine venue throughout the event. These services typically cover:

• Conferences and trade shows
• Corporate events and galas
• Sporting events
• Weddings

Two - Emergency Cleanup Services 

Events can be unpredictable, and swift response to unexpected messes is essential for smooth operations. A reliable cleaning service can handle various unforeseen circumstances, including:

• Spills or accidents during events
• Weather-related cleanups
• Post-construction cleanup for event spaces

These specialized services often command premium rates due to their short-notice nature and the high level of expertise required. Clients value the peace of mind that your company will handle cleaning emergencies promptly and professionally.

Offering these services may require specific licenses and certifications for handling various cleaning agents and potentially hazardous materials. Partnering with or acquiring an existing company specializing in event cleaning could allow for rapid expansion into this lucrative market segment.

10. Residential Services

Expanding into the residential market can help balance your portfolio by diversifying your client base and revenue streams. This diversification can provide stability during economic fluctuations that affect commercial clients differently. The US Department of Commerce anticipates that 80% of dual-income American households will utilize a cleaning service in the near future. Here are two key niches within residential services:

One - High-End Residential Cleaning

Offer premium cleaning services for luxury homes, including:

• Use of high-end, eco-friendly cleaning products
• Specialized care for valuable furniture and artwork
• Customized cleaning plans for each residence
• Deep cleaning services (hourly charges for deep cleaning doubled post-Covid)

Two - Move-In/Move-Out Cleaning

Provide thorough cleaning services for:

• Apartments and homes between tenants
• New home purchases
• Real estate staging

Partnering with real estate agencies and property management companies can secure steady work in this niche. These partnerships can provide recurring business and help establish your company as a trusted service provider in the real estate industry.

11. Vehicle Cleaning

Tapping into the vehicle cleaning market can significantly diversify your client base and revenue streams. This niche offers consistent work and the potential for long-term contracts. Vehicle cleaning requires specialized equipment and techniques, allowing you to charge premium rates for your expertise. Consider offering services to clean corporate and public vehicles.

One - Corporate Fleet Cleaning

Offer regular cleaning services for:

- Company cars and vans

• These services include interior detailing and exterior washing
• May involve removing branding decals and reapplying them after cleaning
• Requires knowledge of different vehicle interiors and appropriate cleaning products

- Delivery vehicles

• Focus on sanitizing high-touch areas like steering wheels and door handles
• May need to clean cargo areas to food-safe standards for food delivery vehicles
• Often requires quick turnaround to minimize vehicle downtime

- Executive transportation

• Demands highest quality cleaning for luxury vehicles
• May include additional services like leather conditioning and trim polishing
• Requires discretion and security clearance for cleaning vehicles of high-profile executives

Corporate fleet cleaning often involves establishing regular cleaning schedules and may require your team to work on-site at company parking facilities. This work can lead to stable, long-term contracts with predictable income, which is essential for growing your cleaning business. 

Two - Public Transportation Cleaning

Provide specialized cleaning for:

- Buses and trains

• Involves cleaning large spaces quickly and efficiently
• Requires knowledge of different surface materials used in public transport
• May include graffiti removal and sanitizing of high-touch areas

- Taxis and ride-share vehicles

• Focuses on quick turnaround cleaning between shifts
• Emphasizes odor removal and sanitization
• May involve partnerships with taxi companies or ride-share organizations

- Airport shuttles

• Requires adherence to strict schedules to keep shuttles in service
• May require security clearance for working in airport areas
• Focuses on presenting a clean first impression for travelers

These services require attention to high-traffic areas and may involve working during off-hours. Public transportation cleaning often means working overnight or during early morning hours when vehicles are not in service. This level of service can command premium rates but also requires a flexible workforce.

Expanding into vehicle cleaning can open up opportunities for large-scale contracts with government agencies, transportation companies, and corporations, providing a stable foundation for your business growth.

Implementing Your Expansion Strategy

When expanding or setting up your cleaning business, it's crucial to approach the process strategically. Begin by assessing your current strengths and aligning new services with your existing capabilities. This approach minimizes initial investment and smooths the transition. Simultaneously, conduct thorough market research to understand client needs and industry trends, identifying promising opportunities and gaps in the market that your new services can fill.

Investing in proper training and equipment is essential to ensure high-quality service delivery. Consider starting with a pilot program to test new offerings, allowing you to refine your approach before full-scale implementation. As you roll out new services, focus on effective marketing to existing and potential clients. Update your online presence and consider offering introductory specials to encourage uptake.

As your commercial cleaning company diversifies into new services, tracking the time on each is critical to determine the profit winners and losers. Chronotek Pro's detailed reporting and job-specific time-tracking features allow you to analyze the efficiency and profitability of each new service offering, helping you make data-driven decisions about where to focus your expansion efforts.

Key points to remember:

• Regularly monitor performance and be willing to adjust based on feedback and market trends
• Form strategic partnerships to expand offerings without significant upfront costs
• Invest in technology to manage increased operational complexity
• Ensure proper insurance coverage and obtain necessary licenses for new services
• Adopt software solutions like Chronotek Pro for scheduling, time tracking, and workforce management to handle the increased complexity of offering multiple services.

Follow a thoughtful, measured approach to expansion. Leverage tools like Chronotek Pro's GPS mobile app for on-site clock-ins and accurate billing to grow your cleaning business sustainably, maintaining quality while meeting market demands. 

Wrapping It Up

The cleaning industry is evolving rapidly due to technological advancements, changing client expectations, and global events. By strategically diversifying services, tapping into emerging markets, and implementing thoughtful expansion strategies, cleaning businesses can increase revenue streams and position themselves as comprehensive facility management solutions. 

This strategic approach drives growth and builds resilience in a competitive landscape. With the janitorial services industry in the US valued at $91.8 billion in 2023 and growing at 1.2% annually, there's a significant opportunity for innovative cleaning companies to capture market share and thrive in this expanding sector.

As owners look to grow their cleaning companies, efficient workforce management and solid business strategies become crucial. Solutions like Chronotek Pro's employee timekeeping system are vital in supporting expansion strategies and providing the necessary tools and support to manage a growing team effectively.