Should you charge by the hour or flat rate when cleaning houses?
For new house cleaning companies, it can be difficult to know whether to charge by the hour or a flat rate when cleaning houses. Neither is better than the other. There will be times when charging by the hour is better. And other times when charging a flat fee will be the way to go.
Which ever method you use, make sure it is making you money and you don’t end up working for free! After all you are in this business to make money.
Charging by the hour is great for those times when the time you spend in a home will vary greatly. Charging a flat rate will cost you more money in the long run.
Charge by the hour if you offer these services:
laundry
dishes
picking up clutter/toys
organizing spaces
personalizing cleaning service to each client
These tasks take longer, and the time to complete them can vary each time you clean. It would be impossible to project a profitable flat rate when your service times will vary.
For instance, if you offer laundry service: one week your client may have 1 load of laundry, but the next week they have 3. The week there are 3 loads of laundry, it will take you longer to clean the home.
Or you may have 1 client who has newer more efficient washer and dryer which cleans laundry fast, while another client may have older machines that just don’t work as fast.
All of these variables can adjust how long it takes to clean a home. This is why charging by the hour when offering these types of services will be better for you.
You will also want to charge by the hour if you customize your cleaning service for each client. This is because you will be completing different tasks at each cleaning service.
Your cleaning times will vary greatly therefore your costs to clean a home will vary as well. By charging by the hour, you will protect your profits and income because you will be making the same amount of money each hour you clean, no matter which home you clean.
When to Charge a flat rate for house cleaning:
Charging a flat fee is the best way to streamline your business and start building more profits. But a HUGE disclaimer: Only charge a flat fee if you are completing the same cleaning service for each client. This means you define the checklist and tasks that you will complete at the home. If you do not follow the same cleaning checklist for each client and each time you clean, DO NOT charge a flat fee to clean.
Item’s that would NOT be included when charging a flat fee:
Washing or folding Laundry
Picking up and putting away toys and/or clutter
Cleaning out cabinets, cupboards or drawers.
Thorough cleaning of cabinetry facings.
Cleaning inside large kitchen appliances (refrigerator/oven)
Washing dishes, emptying dishwashers.
Organizing closets
What I recommend:
When I talk to small cleaning business owners who want to know what to charge for cleaning services, I recommend they start streamlining their service so they can save time by not working each evening on paperwork and client management.
Why I like flat fee vs hourly.
Flat fee provides full transparency with your clients.
Can manage expectations better. The client will always know how much their cleaning will cost and you always know what you are going to clean. No unexpected surprises, no questioning why it took you 30 minutes longer one visit from the next
Client is not worried about you ‘running up the clock’.
The client does not get an invoice they were not expecting, they can plan on their monthly cleaning expense.
Flat fees reward productivity. If you invest in a new tool to help you clean more efficiently, or develop a more efficient cleaning system, you can give yourself a raise! If you charged hourly, you would never get a raise unless you charged your client a higher fee or purposely slowed down (I do NOT recommend this, it will certainly build distrust with your client).
What NOT to do when charging a flat fee:
Do not compromise quality by cutting corners.
Do not skip tasks if something ‘looks clean’.
Do not clean so fast that you leave behind dirt, smudges or risk breaking items.
To help you develop a cleaning service that allows you to charge a flat fee, I have created my Maid Services Guide to Cleaning professionally. I teach you how to develop your cleaning service so that you are providing a WOW experience and offering a service that your clients have been looking for.
Next Steps: Read my Pricing Guide Article to help you build your pricing list and know what to charge for each house.
Charge by the Hour or Flat Rate when Cleaning Houses?
Don’t be blind sided when first cleaning a new house. Questions to ask before cleaning someone’s house. It may seem to be straight forward: A client hires you, you arrive to the clients’ house, clean and then leave.
But often there are many variables through out that process. In the beginning months of my cleaning business, I would sign up a new client, and only collect their basic contact information, how they would pay me and that was about it.
But there always seemed to be some unknown that would cost us money, lost time or client frustration. So I came up with a list of what to ask new clients.
Before we get too far into this…if you are looking for a new client data sheet and new client welcome forms my new client welcome kit is just that. The Kit includes a Customer Data Sheet, a Welcome Letter, Client Policies and Procedures, Cleaning Checklist and a Client Referral Program.
These are done for you forms that are ready to print and use.
Questions to Ask Before Cleaning Someone’s House
Below are questions that I have developed throughout the years with my cleaning business. This allowed us to offer a professional cleaning service and avoid any unwanted costly surprises.
Collecting important contact information:
Ask questions about who your client is and how to get ahold of them during a cleaning or after hours.
Common questions include:
Name
Address
Phone number
Email
Ask if there will be a different name on their forms of payment. Especially if they are paying by check. This will make it easier to reconcile your payments to your client.
Don’t forget to ask if they have a preferred first name.
Always ask for a second contact
If you can’t get ahold of your client and their is an emergency, who should you contact? Don’t assume if you are talking to a female that her spouse is a ‘he’. Be aware and sensitive to all different family make-ups. I like to ask for the Significant Other. Or to make it easy, just say 2nd contact who lives in the house with you.
What is the best number to reach you while we are at your home in the even of questions, emergency, or if we can’t get into the house?
If the client is not going to be at the house while you are cleaning, you will need a contact number to reach them at whether it’s a cell phone or a work number. Anything can happen while you are in the home, and you’ll want a way to get ahold of your client quickly if needed.
Collect important information about the home to help with pricing & cleaning time:
The next set of questions you want to ask about is their home. These questions will help you understand how long it will take you to clean and what types of cleaning products you should be bringing with you to the first cleaning service.
These questions will help you get a better understanding of how long it will take you to clean, so that you can more efficiently price the cleaning service.
When was the last time you had your home professionally cleaned?
This will give you a good idea of how long the first cleaning will take. If they had their home professionally cleaned in the last 4 weeks the first cleaning will not have to take as long.
The first cleaning service will more than likely will take up to twice as long if a client has not had their home professionally cleaned…like ever.
If this is the case, you may want to suggest your client to purchase a deep clean for their first cleaning service and then regular maintenance cleaning after.
These questions will help you understand the size of the home.
Basic questions include:
What is the square footage of the home? You can verify this on Zillow.com
How many bedrooms do you have?
How many bathrooms do you have?
These questions will help you to know what kind of equipment, tools and cleaning supplies you need to bring to the house. These questions are really important so that you can come to the house with the right tools.
Is there 1 or multiple stories. You’ll need to know this because of the extra cleaning time with the stairs. Additionally when cleaning 2 story homes you will approach cleaning a little different as it is more efficient to clean the top floor first then move down to the bottom floor.
Questions regarding Special Cleaning instructions
Ask your new client questions about any special cleaning instructions. These questions are NOT meant to cater your cleaning services for each specific client. Rather you will want to ask questions about any special no-touch items or items they hold near and dear to their hearts. This way you know the whether you should skip cleaning these items or not.
Do you have any special cleaning products you will provide? Where are they located?
The majority of maid services bring their own cleaning supplies to clean client homes. But every once in a while, a client may have a special product they use on a certain piece of furniture. It is not best practice to buy cleaning products specific to every client. Instead, if a client has a special product, they provide it. You’ll want to know where to use it and where you can find it in the house.
Do you have any family heirlooms?
This question is important because you want to know which items hold sentimental value to your clients. These are the irreplaceable items in the home. In my cleaning business these were generally ‘no touch’ items, especially if they were breakable.
Money can’t buy everything. That holds true to a ceramic vase that has been passed down from 4 generations. You will never be able to replace a family heirloom like you could a lamp that was purchased at a home goods store last year.
What are your no touch items?
There might not be a family heirloom, but some clients may have a no touch item. These items may be expensive, one of a kind or just unique and can’t be replaced. You’ll want to stay clear of them when cleaning the home.
Let the client take the responsibility to cleaning or dusting these pieces. It will save you headache (and heartache) if in the event the items get damaged during the cleaning process.
Are there any rooms in the house we should not venture into?
Sometimes you’ll have clients that may have area’s of the house they don’t want you to clean in. These could be nurseries, offices with confidential information or storage areas.
Usually, they will tell you up front, but it is always good to ask the question. It shows you care and are professional. Make sure you respect the wishes of your client and stay clear of these areas.
Questions about your clients pet’s
Don’t get caught off guard by a large dog. Or let a cat run out of the home when you are arriving or leaving. Ask about any pets your new client may have and what to expect with them.
Do you have any pets?
It is a good idea to know your clients’ pets. You’ll be in the house for a few hours with the pets.
You also don’t want to leave a door open when carrying cleaning supplies to and from the house if they have a cat or dog. The last call I would want to make is that I allowed the dog to run out of the house.
Which leads me to the next question….
Are the pets allowed outside?…Will the pet be locked up?
These are great questions to get a gauge on whether or not the pets are allowed outside. We had clients that had cats that were allowed outside. The cats would roam in and out of the house, and there was a kitty door where they could get back in.
If the client has a large dog or dog that is prone to running out of the house, it is a good idea that you request them to cage the pets during your visit, especially if the client will not be home.
What are your pets’ names?
If they have pets, write down the pets’ name. Pets are often time treated like family and children. Learning and remembering the pets name will help build report with your customer and it will show you care about their belongings.
Questions about getting into the house/locking up
Clear up any questions about how you will be getting into a clients home and how to lock up. This will save you wasting time on or accidently setting off an alarm.
Is there a gate to get into the home or complex?
Some neighborhoods will have a gate or guard at the front. With these many times there are codes that you will need for these to enter the neighborhood.
Where should we park?
This question is not always obvious. Your client will appreciate you asking the question. Answers will vary such on the left or right of the driveway, on the side of the road, on the side of the road across the street. Or if the client lives in an apartment complex or condo there may be visitor parking or service parking.
Some communities don’t allow parking on the side of the road and may result in towing or ticketing. Make sure you clear up any parking restrictions before you arrive for your first cleaning service.
How should we get into the house?
This is an important question. Many clients will not be home when you clean their house. That means you will need to know exactly how you will be entering the home. It is best not to make assumptions here.
Some clients will provide a key, others will have garage door codes you can use, or some may want you to come into a side door rather the front. I even had clients who left a key under a planter or mat and that was how we got in.
If the client says they will leave the door open for you, or that they will meet you on cleaning day to let you in, make sure you make it very clear what time you will be there and how long you are willing to wait. Also, this is a good time to remind them of your lockout or last-minute cancelation policy. (Our lockout/cancelation policy can be found in the New Client Welcome Kit)
One thing to note here; I always presented the question saying most of our clients prefer to provide us with a key. If at any time they termed service, we would provide the keys back to the client. Having a key is the best way to prevent any lock outs or having to wait for a client to meet you at the home.
Is there an alarm/alarm code you will have to shut off when entering the home?
If there is an alarm that will be activated, you will want to get the code so that you can shut it off when entering the home. You don’t want the police showing up because the alarm went off.
Most alarms will allow the homeowner to set a secondary code just for service providers. That way if they terminate service, they can inactivate the code that they give you.
If the client does not want to give you the code to the alarm because they say it will not be set on cleaning day, make it clear that if you walk into the home and the alarm does get activated, that the client is responsible for any costs associate with the alarm going off.
How should we lock up the house before we leave?
If there is an alarm code do, they want you to set it before leaving? If the client meets you at the home to let you into the house, do they want you to lock the door when you leave?
Where is the location of your central trash container?
As part of your cleaning service, you more than likely will be collecting and taking out the trash. Make sure you know where to take the trash out of the house. Most residential homes will store their outside garbage cans in the garage or on the side of the house.
For apartments and condo’s this may be in a different location than the unit.
Essential New Client Welcome Form Kit with fillable and ready to go forms. Just update the area’s highlighted in Yellow with your information and you are ready to print or use on your webpage.
This article will share with you how to clean a flat screen tv or computer screen without causing damage.
Cleaning sensitive electronics can be a nerve racking or scary experience.
Hi my name is Jason. I am a computer science professor, PC repair specialist and computer nerd.
I have been working with computers and technology before flat screen TV’s and monitors were a thing. In my profession, I have had to repair devices due to in correct cleaning habits.
If not cleaned properly, it is easy to damage the screen on a computer, Macbook, laptop or television, resulting in hundreds of dollars in repair or replacement costs.
However, cleaning these items are pretty straightforward with the proper supplies and techniques.
How to clean a computer or flat screen tv
A Few Do’s and Don’ts when cleaning technology:
Please note, this article may include affiliate links. You can read the full disclosure at the bottom of the page.
Make sure your device is turned off
When cleaning the device’s screen, it is important to have the device turned off before cleaning.
It is possible to damage your electronics if you clean them while they are powered on.
Ask your clients to shut down any computer or tv’s before your visit.
When the device is off it is will also be easier to get a streak-free clean because the screen will be black.
Never use paper towels
Paper towels or other abrasive cloths can scratch and severely damage the LED, LCD or OLED screen, resulting in unhappy clients and hundreds of dollars in damages.
To remove dust from the device’s television screen it is best to use a clean, dry microfiber or antistatic cloth.
I recommend that you have a dedicated cloth for only cleaning these types of screens to help prevent leftover residue from damaging the screen or leaving streaks.
Never use water
I am sure you have heard the saying that electronics and water do not mix. Well, it is not a myth….Water can damage the screen on your device, as well as the electronics inside.
If you must use a screen cleaner for streaks and smudges, it is important that you spray the cleaner on the microfiber to slightly moisten it rather than spray the cleaner directly on the screen.
This will ensure that you do not get any of the liquid on the sensitive electronics. If you can if can squeeze or ring water out of the cloth it is TOO WET!!!
Steps on how to clean Technology
Like dusting a room, it is best to start at the top and work your way down. Start at the top of the device and dust the perimeter, back and cables.
It is faster than using a microfiber towel. Plus, you can run it over the cords for a quick dust.
Before cleaning the screen, it is important to dust the top and sides of the device before cleaning the screen. LED, LCD and OLED screens create a magnetic charge that attracts dust.
If you clean the screen of the electronic device before dusting the rest of it, may result is double the work as you may have to clean the screen again.
Also, when cleaning the screen, it is best to start at the top of the device and work down to prevent falling dust from clinging to the newly cleaned screen.
Cleaning the computer or flat screen tv
Use a separate cloth to clean the screen than you used when dusting the perimeter, back and cables. This way you are not transferring dust onto the screen.
How to Clean a MacBook Screen
Cleaning a MacBook screen is similar to the steps above. Make sure your MacBook is turned off to prevent damage. Use a dry microfiber to dust the entire device before cleaning the screen.
Since the screen is located directly above the sensitive electronics of the device, be extra careful that any electronic cleaning solution you use does not run down into the keyboard or screen bezel.
To reiterate from above, it is best to use a dry microfiber to dust the screen and use dedicated electronic cleaning wipes to remove fingerprints and smudges.
How to Clean a Laptop Screen
Cleaning a laptop screen is similar to cleaning a MacBook, however, some laptops have touchscreens that may make cleaning a little more involved.
It is extremely important that the device is turned off, not only to prevent damage, but to prevent accidental input from touching the screen.
There have been a few times where I have cleaned a touchscreen only to accidentally change a setting or close some important work.
Touchscreen devices tend to get more fingerprints, smudges and grime that traditional, non-touch screens.
Using an electronic cleaning solution sprayed on the microfiber or using a pre-moistened electronic screen wipe is best for these types of devices.
How to Clean a Flat Screen tv
Similar to cleaning a MacBook screen, most flat screen tv’s do not have touchscreens. However, these devices are much larger and can be more difficult to reach.
Often times, utilizing a dry microfiber towel is all that is needed to dust off the screen of the device.
If the TV is located in a hard-to-reach area, a cleaning pole with a microfiber duster or extender may be needed, however, take care not to damage the screen.
Best Products to use when cleaning a computer screen or flat screen tv
Cleaning Cloths safe to clean flat screen tv and Computer Screens
For general dusting and cleaning of LCD, LED or OLED screens it is best to use a lint-free microfiber designed for electronics.
The cloths can be washed and reused, however, do not wash them with detergent, fabric softener or soap as it can damage the microfiber and the electronic devices you clean with them.
Spray Cleaner safe for flat screen TV’s and Computer Screens
For fingerprints or smudges, it may be necessary to use a cleaner that is designed for LED, LCD and OLED screens. Using a product such as Screen Mom Screen Cleaner Kit, is a great way to get rid of those unsightly blemishes.
When using the Screen Mom Screen Cleaner Kit It is important that you spray the cleaner on the microfiber to slightly moisten it rather than spray the cleaner directly on the screen. This will ensure that you do not get any of the liquid on the sensitive electronics.
Cleaning Wipes safe for Computer Screens and TV’s
If using a spray cleaner is not to your liking, you can also use a product like Endust for Electronics.
These pre-moistened, one-use wipes are great for a quick, smudge-free cleaning. However, make sure any wipes you use are designed for use on electronics.
Never use furniture wipes, they can contain oily chemicals that can damage your screen or leave hard to remove streaks.
Tired of Marketing idea’s that are not specific for House Cleaning Businesses?
This marketing power pack is made just for YOU and your Business! Each activity is geared towards attracting house cleaning clients.
While most activities can be applied to other small service businesses, I am showing you how you can apply them to get more cleaning clients.
Are you a new company and need to know where to start to look for New Clients?
These tasks can be used and applied to both the NEW cleaning business or SEASONED business looking to find more clients.
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Tired of Marketing idea’s that include cold calling or knocking on doors?
You won’t find either in this power pack of 35 idea’s that you can implement right now with out selling your soul to cold calling.
These idea’s are up to date with current marketing trends and focus on local target marketing to help you get quality leads in your local community.
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Can’t afford print ad’s that cost hundreds or thousands of dollars?
These marketing idea’s are all low cost and won’t break the bank…..In fact almost all are completely FREE!
That’s right, you can still make a huge impact on marketing your house cleaning business with free marketing and advertising.
An Inside Look of all the Goodies!
Printable chart with 35 Marketing Idea’s specific to House Cleaning Businesses.
$5.00 Value!
Get more house cleaning jobs and leads with this chart of 35 marketing tasks you can complete to get more cleaning clients.
Print it out and hang it on the wall or keep a copy on your desk. Each time you complete a task check it off as complete.
EBook with descriptions on how to complete each of the Marketing Tasks on the checklist.
$10.00 Value!
This pack is more than just a checklist. You also get a 9 page document with descriptions of each of the marketing idea’s.
Packed with links with where to go to complete the marketing tasks. And links of where you can go to get more information.
An Excel workbook to track your marketing activities.
$10.00 Value!
Track your leads as they come in and record where they found out about your business.
Always track your marketing efforts. This helps you know which ones are working and which ones aren’t.
Fill in your leads on this worksheet and it will automatically graph your efforts. It will be easy to see which activities are bringing in the most clients.
Those will be the activities you will want to spend more of your resources on.
What to expect from this Marketing Power Pack
There are 2 things I want you to understand before you purchase this Marketing Power Pack….
#1. It will NOT happen over night and you WILL have to put in the work.
There is no button to push and you get new cleaning clients. It is about building a foundation of activities as you are building your business.
While your calendar will not be booked over night, you will consistently build your cleaning business if you put in the work and continuously feed your marketing activities.
#2. I can NOT Guarantee results.
This power pack gives you the knowledge in of what activities will make an impact on your overall marketing strategy for your cleaning business.
It is up to you to complete the tasks. YOU have the power to build a great business…I’m just giving you the knowledge of experience and education I have so that you can shorten the learning curve and start building your business.
This Marketing Power Pack provides marketing advice for businesses that clean residential homes on a recurring basis. If your business only cleans foreclosures, move-in/move-out cleanings, office or commercial cleanings these resources will not be the most beneficial for you.
When will I get my products?
Once you finalize the purchase, you will receive an email from SendOwl with a link to your downloads.
How long will I have access to the resources?
Forever! once you download the product, if you get a new computer or loose the file. You can revisit the link and download the products again.
Will I get updates to future updates made to the resources?
Yes! After I update a product, you will receive an email from me letting you know there has been an update and you will be able to download the newest version.
Can I return any of the products?
No. Because these products are digital you always have access to them and there is nothing physical to return.
I still have more questions, who can I contact?
Still not sure if these resources are for you, or you have more questions you can shoot me an email at Roberta@wellkeptclutter.com and I will get back with you shortly.
This offer will not last long. Get it while you it lasts!
The most important trick with cleaning a kitchen is you want to start at the top of the surfaces and make your way down. If you clean counter tops before wiping the cabinets, you will have to wipe the counter down a second time to clean up the dust from above.
#2. Clean Left to Right
The second trick is to start on one end of the kitchen and make your way around cleaning everything in your tracks.
Do not go back to an area after you have cleaned it because you forgot to wipe an appliance down. This wastes time and you will mess up what you have already cleaned. Make sure you clean every surface the first time.
#3. Wear a Cleaning Apron
Third trick to deep clean a kitchen fast is to wear an apron and carry all of your cleaning supplies needed plus lots of extra microfiber clothes. This way you don’t have to go back to your cleaning caddy to get a tool or cleaner.
Start at the top with long dusting
Start with dusting the high and low areas of the kitchen. Dust the tops of cabinets, bottom of cabinets, window treatments, and light fixtures and any ceiling fans.
It is best to use a removable microfiber dusting wand. The microfiber will attract the dust while you are cleaning so that it does not fly everywhere.
You will be able to wash the removable microfiber after each house you clean to avoid contamination from one client to another.
Wet Cleaning all surfaces
Starting from the kitchen sink make your way around the kitchen cleaning with a warm damp microfiber cloth and all-purpose cleaner. Don’t clean the sink yet, this will be done right before you clean the floors.
As you walk around the kitchen, first spot clean above cabinets if there are any spots. Use the all-purpose cleaner if needed to remove spots.
Spray the counter. Wipe down the tops and fronts of small appliances.
Wipe the counter down and brushing any crumbs or debris to the floor to vacuum up later. Do not try and catch the crumbs. This will cost you lots of extra time.
You will be vacuuming the kitchen floor and will pick up the crumbs super-fast.
Lift any small appliances or items that may be sitting on top of counters with one hand as you wipe under it with another.
For a streak free finish on the counter tops, follow up with a dry microfiber cloth. I always keep lots of extra clean and dry microfiber clothes in my cleaning apron so that I can dry surfaces after I clean them.
My clients love this. They get a streak free and non-sticky finish on their appliances and countertops. If you are cleaning granite counter tops, they have a tendency to show water marks after cleaning. Wiping with a dry microfiber towel will eliminate the water marks.
Finish an area with spot cleaning any smudges on the bottom cabinet doors.
Clean the Stove and range hood
Spray the stove top underneath the range hood. If there is a microwave above the stove spray the inside and outside.
Wipe the outside of the microwave and then underneath. Wipe out the inside of the microwave from top to bottom. Sweep any debris out of the microwave on to the stove or floor.
If needed get a new towel. If your towel has grease and debris don’t continue using it. You will spread the grease to other surfaces making it more difficult to clean.
Wipe the back of the wall behind the stove. If the control nozzles are on top of the stove, wipe them down now.
Clean the top of the stove, wiping any debris to the floor. Then make your way down the front of the oven door wiping it down.
For stainless-steel or glass tops, uses a dry microfiber to towel to dry water residue to prevent streaking and leave a shinny finish.
Grab a new clean towel to continue cleaning counter tops after cleaning a stove top or microwave. The grease can leave streaks and residue on the counter tops making it more difficult to clean.
Clean the kitchen sink
After you have made your way around the entire kitchen, you can now wash the sink.
Spray down the sink with the All Purpose Cleaner. If you have a porcelain sink, I recommend using bar Keepers friend to clean it.
Let the cleaner sit on the sink while you pack up your cleaning caddy and apron. Now is a good time to take out any trash as well.
Using a small detail brush, brush around the base of the facet, the sink drain and any crevice’s that are hard to reach with a cloth. Place brush back in your apron, and grab microfiber cloth.
Starting with the faucet, wiped down into the sink and around the edges. Once all spots are cleaned up rinse down the sink and your microfiber towel.
Don’t worry about getting your towel too clean. You are now done with it and can discard it for washing.
Clean the Floors
At this point all the surfaces in the kitchen should be cleaned. You are now ready to vacuum and mop the floors. If you are going to be using a steam mop, now is the time to plug it in to warm up.
Starting in the back of the kitchen, vacuum the floors. Use the hose to reach into any corners that the vacuum can not reach. Vacuum your way out of the kitchen.
Use the whisk broom to get debris from under the refrigerator, stove and dishwasher.
Mop
Depending on the types of flooring you will choose which mop will work best.
Begin mopping in the back of the kitchen and make your way out of the room.
If there is any food stuck to the the floor that does not come up easily with the mop use the scrapper or razor blade to quickly pick it up.
Do not spend a lot of time mopping over stuck on food. This takes to much time when you can quickly remove it with a razor blade.
Kitchen Cleaning FAQ’s
How to clean a white kitchen sink?
Bar Keepers’ Friend will be your best bet in cleaning a white porcelain sink. To clean a sink with bar keepers’ friend, first wet the sink, then sprinkle the cleaner all over the surface. Let set for a few minutes while you clean the counter tops.
Use a microfiber cloth and clean in a circular motion all around the bottom of the sink and then up the sides of the sink. All scuff marks and stains will lift with the cleaner. Finally rinse down the sink to be sure to remove all the cleaner. Bar keepers’ friend can leave behind a grainy finish if you do not rinse well enough.
How to clean white Formica counter tops?
A Mr clean magic eraser kitchen scrubber will work great at cleaning marks and stains off of Formica counter tops. You can either wet the scrubber or use it dry. Once complete cleaning with the mr clean magic eraser then clean your counter tops as usual using an all-purpose cleaner.
How do I clean foam kitchen mats?
Your clients may have foam kitchen mats. The best way to clean foam kitchen mats is with warm water and mild soap. This process can be time consuming when cleaning each service. For your routine cleaning clients offer this service as an up charge or add it as a rotating task. In between deep cleans you can wipe the foam mat with a warm damp microfiber cloth when mopping floors.
Do not use a harsh cleaner on foam mats. This can break down the foam and ruin your clients’ mats. I also do not recommend steam cleaning them if you steam clean floors. The high heat can also degrade the material of the mat causing it to break down.
How do I clean a kitchen aid self-cleaning oven?
The easiest way to clean a self-cleaning oven is to set the cleaning cycle when you first arrive to a home to clean. Let the clean cycle run its course. Just before you are finished cleaning the home, you can wipe out and debris at the bottom. If there are still spots on the glass window, spray the window down with a degreaser. Let it sit for a few minutes. Take a razor blade and scrape off the residue.
How do I clean white glass top stoves?
Glass stove tops are notorious for leaving marks after cooking. If we want our glass stove top looking new, we have to clean it after each time we cook.
The best cleaner to clean a white glass top stove is Weiman’s glass cook top cleaner combined with the scrubbing pad.
When cleaning, you don’t have to clean the whole stove top. Just use a little bit of the cleaner where there are scuff marks on the glass top. Wipe up the cleaner with a clean dry microfiber cloth and buff out any streaks.
This method leaves your glass stove top shinny and clean.
How to clean grease off kitchen walls?
The kitchen is notorious for grease stains on all the surfaces. The walls are not immune to getting grease splatters. To clean grease off of walls it is best to use a degreaser. This will help to cut through the grease and remove it off of the walls. Do not try and use a mr clean magic eraser for this job. The magic erasers are great at removing stains, but not great at removing grease.
Spray the wall with the degreaser then wipe it up with a warm damp microfiber cloth. Make sure to wipe up all of the degreaser. You may have to rinse out your towel or follow up with a clean damp towel to remove excess cleaner.
Once the grease is removed. Use a clean, dry microfiber to wipe down and dry the wall.
How to clean sticky wood kitchen cabinets?
Sticky wood cabinets tend to happen in high humidity or areas where you may cook. The sticky residue usually is from wet and grease that have settled on the surfaces from cooking. To clean sticky wood kitchen cabinets, you will want to use a degreaser. A degreaser will cut through the sticky residue on the cabinets.
If you use a wood cleaner to clean your cabinets, this will not get the sticky finish off. To clean spray a warm damp microfiber cloth with the degreaser cleaner. Then wipe down the fronts of the cabinets.
Do not spray the cleaner directly on the cabinets. This can leave behind spray marks on the finish of the wood cabinets.
Make sure to rinse the wood cabinets with a clean damp warm microfiber cloth to remove all the excess cleaner. To finish, buff out the cabinets with a dry microfiber cloth to remove all water residue.
How much to charge for extra cleaning tasks in the kitchen:
Upselling extra cleaning tasks is a great way to add more revenue without having to get new clients. Cleaning out a fridge or oven takes extra time, so make sure to charge your client when they request these services. It is your time
How much to charge for fridge cleaning services?
The going rate for cleaning out a refrigerator is between $25 – $45. The more food and dirty he fridge is the more you will want to charge as it will take you longer to clean.
If you are doing a move out clean or a rental cleaning service, refrigerator cleans are usually included in the cost to clean the home. And generally you would not charge extra for these types of services.
How much to charge for oven cleaning services?
Oven cleaning can take up to 2 hours depending on the size and type of oven a client has. Another factor to determine how much to charge will be how messy and when the last time the oven was cleaned. If you clean your clients ovens on a regular basis you will not need to charge as much. But if the oven looks like it hasn’t been cleaned in 5 years, it will take you longer to clean. You can charge an extra $35 – $100 dollars to clean an oven for your clients.
Start a cleaning business in Florida. Florida is a great place to start a cleaning business. With the growing population and high tourism rates, there are plenty of cleaning jobs out there for you.
House cleaners can make anywhere from $25 – $75 an hour cleaning houses in Florida.
The majority of cleaning companies are made up of small businesses. There can be little start-up cost involved and as you grow your cleaning business, you can add on the fancy tools.
How to start a Cleaning Business in FL
This guide includes resources for starting a cleaning business in Florida. Visit the state’s Division of Corporations to learn more about running a business in Florida.
Decide what type of cleaning service you will offer
Here is a listing of Cleaning Businesses that would be successful in Florida.
Recurring House Cleaning
Rental/Airbnb Cleaning
Hotel Cleaning
Foreclosure cleaning
Office cleaning
Move out cleaning service
Restaurant Cleaning
If you live in one of Florida’s coastal cities or anywhere near the Orlando area, Rental cleaning services and Airbnb cleaning services will be in high demand and can be very lucrative.
Choose a name for your cleaning business
When choosing a name, you will want to consider SEO (search engine optimization, how new clients will find you on the internet) and the name should represent what your business does. This way when someone hears your business’s name, they know you are in the business of cleaning houses.
To brainstorm a name for your cleaning business, start with the words Maid, Cleaning, and Service. Put these words at the top of a sheet of paper. If your business is on the coast of Florida, you can add the words coast or coastal. For businesses located in the Tampa Bay area, you can use a variation of ‘Bay Area’ or ‘Best of the Bay’.
Start writing as many adjectives and adverbs that you can think of that match your company or play on Florida’s uniqueness. This will help you to create a list of possible business names for you to choose from.
Choose a Business Structure for your Cleaning Business
Before registering your new cleaning business, you will need to know what legal structure you will register your business in Florida. The different structures include sole-proprietor, partnership, corporation, s-corporation, or limited liability corporation. You can learn more about each business structure here.
The structure will determine how your cleaning business will file its tax returns and how you as the owner will be taxed on your earnings as well. It’s extremely important that you become familiar with and understand the different structures and how taxes are paid and filed with each.
When choosing your business structure, consult with your Florida tax professional. They can also help you file all the necessary paperwork.
Apply for an EIN (Employer Identification Number)
Getting an EIN for your cleaning business is a must if you will be hiring employees.
If you will be operating as a sole proprietor and not hiring employees, you may be able to use your personal social security number when filing taxes and such for your business. But it is always best to talk to your tax professional to see what you will need.
To apply for an EIN you will file an SS-4 with the IRS. It is free and you can do so on the IRS website. If you file online you will get your number right away.
If you are not ready to file as a Corporation or an LLC, you are able to operate as a sole proprietor. To file your cleaning business in Florida as a sole proprietor you only need to file a fictitious name through Sunbiz.org. The Fee to file a fictitious name in Florida is only $50.00. For more instructions on filing a fictitious name in Florida visit sunbiz.org’s webpage for filing a fictitious name.
While the state does not require licensing, you need to check with your individual county, city, or local municipality. Some may require a general business tax, licensing, or other filing requirements for business. Call your local municipality office and inquire if this is required.
Get Business Insurance
Insurance protects you and your business’s assets, or money in the event of an accident or other unplanned event.
Types of insurance your cleaning business may need include liability insurance, bonding insurance, and commercial car insurance. If you hire employees you may also be required to carry Workers’ Compensation in the state of Florida.
The easiest way to shop for business insurance is to start with an insurance broker and they will do the shopping around for you to find the best deal.
Additional Resources to start a cleaning business in Florida
The Florida Chamber of Commerce has lots of resources for small businesses in Florida. They offer online training, new and existing business counseling, as well as business training and events.
Florida Small Business Trends is a publication that offers information and resources to small businesses operating in Florida.
Next Steps to start your cleaning business.
Now that you have taken care of the boring (but oh so necessary) legal steps to getting your cleaning business official, you can now start with the Cleaning!
Below are resources on how to operate a cleaning business successfully.
Purchase cleaning supplies and equipment
You’ll need to get all the needed supplies to start cleaning your first client homes. I have that taken care of for you.
You can’t start cleaning houses if you don’t tell people you have a cleaning business.
Your first step to marketing will be to tell all your friends, family, and contacts in your phone and email that you have started a house cleaning business and you are currently taking new clients.
Next, get your business online. Most homeowners now search for services online before hiring a business. Make sure your business is visible online when a homeowner searches for cleaning services in your area.
Claim your My Business google profile. By claiming your My Business google profile your business will show up in searches when someone searches Cleaning Businesses in Florida.
Start a website. You can start a website using this link for just $2.97/ month. Use your business name as your domain name. Once you register a Domain Name, apply a free Word Press template. There are several cleaning service templates that you can choose from.
As soon as you apply a template, you are ready to enter your business information. Make sure to add your contact information, a list of your services, and an about me page where you introduce yourself. Include high-quality before and after images of your cleaning.
Activate a Facebook Business Profile. Ask to join local groups that are meant for local businesses and homeowners in your local Florida city. Actively participate in the groups and always maintain professional communication etiquette
Price your cleaning services
Decide whether you are going to price your cleaning services by the hour or by a flat fee. Most Florida cleaning businesses make between $25 – $75 an hour.
Charging by the hour for house cleaning services:
It is best to charge by the hour when you are offering services that will take longer to complete and when the tasks can vary each time you clean a house. When your cleaning times vary it becomes much more difficult to charge a flat fee per clean.
It is best to charge by the hour if you plan to offer the following tasks similar to the following:
laundry
dishes
picking up clutter/toys
organizing spaces
personalizing cleaning service to each client
Charging a Flat Fee
Charging a flat fee is the best way to streamline your business and start building more profits. But a HUGE disclaimer: Only charge a flat fee if you are completing the same cleaning service for each client.
This means you define the checklist and tasks that you will complete at the home. If you do not follow the same cleaning checklist for each client and each time you clean, DO NOT charge a flat fee to clean.
Check out the following articles for more information on Pricing Cleaning services:
If you plan to hire employees you will need to make sure you have filed for an EIN (Review step #4) and have proper insurance (Review step #7).
You will also want to have a training plan in place. In my experience, it is best to have a 3-step training plan in place.
Have your new employee read through or watch a video that you have put together on how to clean your way.
Next, have the new employee follow you while you clean. Talk through all the steps they should be taking for each task and room in a home.
Now, you shadow the new employee for a few houses. It is important to correct any movements that do not fit into your cleaning strategy. For this step, you are helping your new employee to develop the same habits to clean the home your way.
Well Kept Clutter helps aspiring entrepreneurs start their own cleaning businesses and start making money right away.
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