The Real Struggles of Running a Cleaning Company — And How to Overcome Them

Antionette Mouton
Aug 4
2 min read

1. Low Profit Margins

The Struggle: With heavy competition and pressure to underbid, many cleaning companies operate on margins as low as 10%. Add in supplies, insurance, taxes, and payroll, and the profit disappears quickly.

The Solution: Focus on value-based pricing instead of competing on price. Offer niche services like post-construction cleaning, eco-friendly options, or high-dusting for commercial buildings, areas where you can charge more due to specialization. Track expenses and pricing per job closely, and avoid taking on clients who don’t fit your pricing model.

2. High Staff Turnover

The Struggle: Cleaning is hard, physical work. When paired with low wages and limited advancement, it's no surprise that turnover is high — costing you time and money in retraining.

The Solution: Invest in your people. Offer fair pay, consistent hours, and create a path for growth (e.g., lead cleaner, site supervisor). Celebrate milestones, provide bonuses when possible, and foster a workplace culture that values your staff.

3. Inconsistent Cleaning Quality

The Struggle: Clients expect every clean to be perfect. But relying on memory or informal routines often leads to inconsistency and lost accounts.

The Solution: Use standardized checklists, conduct routine quality checks, and implement client feedback loops. Make sure your team knows the process and expectations for every clean.

4. Seasonal Slumps

The Struggle: Holidays, summer breaks, and economic downturns can dry up business, especially in office or commercial cleaning.

The Solution: Diversify your client base — include a mix of residential, commercial, and move-in/out cleans. Offer add-on services like floor waxing or window cleaning to fill gaps during slow months.

5. Getting Noticed in a Crowded Market

The Struggle: With so many cleaning companies out there, it can be hard to stand out, especially online.

The Solution: Build a strong digital presence with a clean website, Google Business profile, and active social media. Post before-and-after photos, testimonials, service promos, and helpful tips. Word-of-mouth still works — so don’t be afraid to ask satisfied clients for reviews and referrals.

📞 Want help with your cleaning needs or interested in partnering with a company that understands what it takes to get the job done right?