55 Types of Cleaning Services you can start

Cleaning services are a must-have in today’s world. They’re used in various industries and personal spaces, from homes to businesses. Cleanliness is a crucial factor that helps people stay healthy, work, and feel better. Here, we’ll look at 55 different cleaning services and explain why they’re important and what they do.

Residential Cleaning Services

This service includes thoroughly cleaning your home’s interiors, dusting and vacuuming, and mopping and sanitizing your bathrooms and kitchens. This service is designed to maintain the comfort and cleanliness of your living spaces.

General House Cleaning

A general house cleaning service refers to a professional service provided by individuals or companies that focuses on cleaning and tidying up various areas of a residential property.

The primary goal of a general house cleaning service is to maintain a clean, organized, and hygienic living environment for homeowners or occupants.

The tasks performed by a general house cleaning service typically include:

• Dusting: Removing dust from surfaces such as furniture, shelves, electronics, and decorative items.
• Vacuuming: Cleaning carpets, rugs, and floors using vacuum cleaners to remove dirt, debris, and allergens.
• Mopping: Cleaning hard floors (such as wood, tile, or linoleum) with appropriate cleaning solutions.
• Kitchen Cleaning: Cleaning countertops, sinks, and appliances (microwave, oven, refrigerator) and wiping down kitchen surfaces.
• Bathroom Cleaning: Cleaning and disinfecting sinks, toilets, showers, bathtubs, and bathroom surfaces.
• Trash Removal: Emptying trash cans and replacing trash bags.
• Surface Cleaning: Wiping down surfaces like mirrors, glass, and windowsills.
• Bedroom Cleaning: Changing bed linens, tidying the bed area, and cleaning bedroom furniture.
• Living Room Cleaning: Dusting and cleaning surfaces, vacuuming or cleaning upholstery, and organizing items.
• General Tidying: Straightening up and organizing items throughout the house.
• Cobweb Removal: Removing cobwebs from ceilings, corners, and hidden spaces.
• Baseboard Cleaning: Cleaning and wiping down baseboards along the walls.
• Appliance Cleaning: Cleaning larger appliances like the refrigerator, stove, and dishwasher.
• Light Cleaning: Dusting and cleaning light fixtures, lamps, and ceiling fans.
• Interior Window Cleaning: Cleaning windows from the inside.
• Air Freshening: Optionally, use air fresheners or products to leave the house smelling clean and pleasant.

House cleaning services can be scheduled regularly, such as weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly, depending on the needs and preferences of the homeowners. 

Some cleaning companies also offer specialized services like deep cleaning (thorough and detailed cleaning), move-in or move-out cleaning, post-construction cleaning, and more.

Hiring a general house cleaning service can be especially helpful for individuals with busy schedules, those who find cleaning physically challenging, or those who simply want to maintain a clean and comfortable living environment without the hassle of doing it themselves.

Deep Cleaning

Deep cleaning refers to a thorough and comprehensive cleaning process beyond regular or routine cleaning. 

It involves cleaning areas and items often overlooked during standard cleaning tasks. 

Deep cleaning aims to eliminate dirt, grime, dust, allergens, and other contaminants that accumulate over time and are not typically addressed in a typical cleaning routine.

Move-In Cleaning

These cleaning companies specialize in cleaning homes and apartments before the tenants or owners move in.

Most of the time, the previous owners will clean out the place before they move on, but it’s still a good idea to get a house clean before you move in. People love coming home to a clean house!

This professional cleaning service is the same as a deep clean, except there’s less stuff to move around so you can do a better job.

Move-out Cleaning

Apartment complexes are the primary customers for this kind of cleaning business.

However, you can also provide house cleanings to homeowners and renters at the time of their move-out. 

Similar to the move-in cleanings, this cleaning business will provide the same services as the deep cleaning service.

Post-construction cleaning

Post-construction cleaning service is a specialized type of cleaning after construction or renovation work has been completed in a residential, commercial, or industrial space. 

It involves thoroughly cleaning the dust, debris, and residue left behind by construction activities. This service is crucial for transforming the newly built or renovated space into a clean, safe, and inhabitable environment.

Pre-party cleaning

A pre-party cleaning service is a specialized type of cleaning that focuses on preparing a space for an upcoming event or gathering.

Whether it’s a birthday party, holiday celebration, dinner party, or any other social gathering, pre-party cleaning ensures the venue is clean, organized, and welcoming for guests.

This service allows hosts to focus on other party preparations while leaving the cleaning responsibilities to professionals.

Airbnb Cleaning

• This service is specifically tailored for Airbnb hosts who need their properties cleaned and prepared for new guests quickly and efficiently.
• It thoroughly cleans the entire space, including bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchens, and common areas.
• Special attention is paid to changing linens, sanitizing surfaces, restocking essentials, and ensuring the property is in excellent condition for the next guests.
• Quick turnovers are essential to provide a positive guest experience and maintain high ratings for the host.

Read more about how to start an airbnb cleaning services

Window Cleaning

• This service focuses on cleaning windows’ interior and exterior to provide a clear, streak-free view.
• It involves removing dirt, dust, and grime from the glass surfaces using appropriate cleaning solutions and tools.
• Window frames and sills are cleaned to ensure a complete and polished look.
• Regular window cleaning enhances the overall appearance of a property and allows more natural light to enter.

Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning

• This service targets carpets, rugs, and upholstered furniture to remove deep-seated dirt, stains, odours, and allergens.
• Specialized equipment is used to perform deep cleaning and extraction, which rejuvenates the fibres and extends the lifespan of these items.
• Steam cleaning or dry cleaning methods are employed based on the material and condition of the upholstery or carpet.
• The result is refreshed, clean, and pleasant-smelling textiles.

Seasonal cleaning

A seasonal cleaning service is a type of cleaning service that is performed at a particular time of year to address cleaning needs that are specific to that season.

Seasonal cleaning goes beyond regular maintenance and focuses on tasks more pertinent during certain times of the year, such as spring, autumn, or before significant holiday seasons.

Seasonal cleaning assists in maintaining a clean, well-maintained, and pleasant living or working space while addressing specific issues associated with each season.

Examples of Seasonal Cleaning Services:

• Spring Cleaning: Typically conducted in the spring, this service involves thorough cleaning, decluttering, and organization after the winter months. It often includes cleaning windows, deep cleaning carpets, cleaning curtains, and organizing storage areas.
• Fall Cleaning: As leaves start to fall and colder weather approaches, fall cleaning might involve gutter cleaning, raking leaves, and preparing outdoor spaces for winter. It’s also an excellent time to inspect and prepare heating systems.
• Holiday Cleaning: Before major holidays, such as Thanksgiving and Christmas, cleaning services can focus on preparing the home for guests. This might include deep cleaning guest rooms, cleaning dining areas, and ensuring well-presented festive decorations.
• Winter Cleaning: During the winter, when windows are often kept closed, winter cleaning can focus on indoor air quality improvement. This might involve dusting, vacuuming, and ensuring that indoor plants are healthy.
• Summer Cleaning: Summer cleaning can involve tackling outdoor spaces, cleaning outdoor furniture, and maintaining gardens. It may also include cleaning and maintaining air conditioning units for optimal performance.

Tile and Grout Cleaning

• Tile and grout cleaning involves restoring the appearance of tiled surfaces, such as bathroom or kitchen tiles.
• Over time, grout lines can accumulate dirt and become discoloured. Specialized cleaning agents and tools are used to remove stains and grime.
• Sealing may be applied afterwards to prevent future staining and make maintenance easier.
• The result is cleaner, brighter tiles and grout that return the original shine.

Mattress Cleaning

• Mattress cleaning is focused on sanitizing and refreshing mattresses, which can accumulate dust mites, allergens, and odours.
• Vacuuming and steam cleaning are standard methods to clean the mattress deep, killing dust mites and eliminating odours.
• This service is particularly beneficial for maintaining a healthy sleeping environment and addressing allergy concerns.

Appliance Cleaning

• Appliance cleaning involves thoroughly cleaning kitchen appliances like ovens, refrigerators, microwaves, etc.
• Grease, food residue, and grime can build up over time, affecting appliance performance and hygiene.
• Specialized cleaning products and techniques remove tough stains and ensure the appliances are spotless and functional.

Organizing Services:

Organizing services focus on decluttering and optimizing spaces for better functionality and aesthetics.

Professional organizers work with clients to categorize belongings, create storage solutions, and implement organizational systems.

The goal is to create a more efficient and visually appealing living or working environment by maximizing space and reducing clutter.

Commercial cleaning services

Commercial cleaning services include cleaning services that keep various commercial and industrial spaces clean and hygienic. Below are some examples of different commercial cleaning services:

Office Cleaning 

Office Cleaning is the most common commercial cleaning service that focuses on cleaning offices, cubicles, workplaces, conference rooms, common areas, etc.

Retail Cleaning 

Retail Cleaning is Cleaning retail spaces such as stores and malls to maintain a clean and pleasant shopping environment. Retail Cleaning includes floor cleaning, shelf cleaning, display case cleaning, restroom cleaning, etc.

Restaurant & Food Service Cleaning

Restaurants and food services have specific cleaning requirements due to how food is handled. Cleaning includes:

• Deep Cleaning of the kitchen.
• Upkeep of the dining area.
• Sanitary conditions to comply with health regulations.

Kitchen cleaning services

Commercial kitchen cleaning services will provide kitchen cleaning services to restaurants and other businesses with kitchens. 

A commercial kitchen has much-specialized equipment that must be cleaned to maintain a clean environment. You will clean commercial fryers, vent hoods, exhaust fans, and grills.

Knowing that some restaurants do not maintain their equipment correctly is crucial when working in the commercial kitchen cleaning segment. This can lead to electric shock and grease burns.

Healthcare Facility Cleaning 

Hospitals, clinics, and other medical facilities require specialized Cleaning to maintain strict hygiene standards. This includes disinfection of surfaces, sanitization of waiting areas, and handling biohazardous waste.

Dry cleaning services

Washing certain materials with water is impossible, as it can damage the fabric. As a result, cleaning businesses will require high-grade chemicals to clean the products that necessitate this treatment. Although this is a specialized service, it may be offered as an additional cost if the business operates a laundry, carpet cleaning, or restoration service.

Leather cleaning services

These services focus on cleaning, conditioning, and maintaining leather items to ensure they remain in good condition and continue to look their best. Leather is a natural material that requires special care to prevent drying out, cracking, and fading.

Industrial Cleaning

Industrial facilities often deal with heavy machinery and equipment that require specialized cleaning techniques. This can involve cleaning large manufacturing areas, warehouses, and machinery.

Hotel Cleaning

Hotels need extensive cleaning services for guest rooms, lobby areas, conference rooms, and recreational facilities. Housekeeping services are an integral part of the hospitality industry.

Educational Facility Cleaning

Schools and educational institutions need regular Cleaning to maintain a healthy learning environment. This includes classrooms, restrooms, gyms, and common areas.

Data Center Cleaning

Data centres require controlled and specialized Cleaning to prevent the buildup of dust and contaminants that can harm sensitive equipment.

Commercial Carpet Cleaning

Many businesses have carpets that need regular Cleaning and maintenance to ensure a clean and professional appearance.

Window Cleaning services

Cleaning windows in commercial buildings can be challenging due to their height and accessibility. Professional window cleaning services often use specialized equipment to clean windows safely.

Janitorial Services

Janitorial services cover a range of cleaning tasks, including dusting, mopping, vacuuming, restroom cleaning, trash removal, and general upkeep of commercial spaces.

Construction Cleaning services

After construction or renovation projects, commercial spaces require thorough Cleaning to remove debris, dust, and other remnants of construction work.

Event Venue Cleaning services

Cleaning services are often required before and after events in venues such as conference centres, concert halls, and exhibition spaces.

Financial Institution Cleaning

Banks and financial institutions have unique security and cleanliness needs, including vault cleaning and maintaining a professional appearance for clients.

Automotive Facility Cleaning

Car dealerships, service centres, and garages require cleaning to keep the showroom and service areas clean and presentable.

Gym and Fitness Center Cleaning

Gyms and fitness centres need regular Cleaning to maintain a healthy and safe environment. This includes sanitizing workout equipment and locker rooms.

These are just a few examples of the many commercial cleaning services available. Depending on the specific needs of a business or facility, cleaning companies can provide customized solutions to ensure a clean and hygienic environment.

Specialized cleaning services

A specialized cleaning service refers to a type of cleaning that goes beyond routine or general cleaning tasks.

It involves addressing specific, often complex, cleaning needs that require specialized knowledge, skills, equipment, and techniques. 

These services are typically tailored to unique situations or environments that cannot be effectively handled through standard cleaning methods.

Biohazard Cleanup

This service involves cleaning up hazardous materials, crime scenes, and trauma sites. It requires specialized training to handle biohazards, bloodborne pathogens, and other potentially dangerous substances. Biohazard cleanup professionals ensure that affected areas are thoroughly cleaned, sanitized, and restored to a safe condition.

Mold Remediation:

Mold remediation focuses on identifying and removing mold growth from residential and commercial properties. Mold can cause health issues and damage to structures. Remediation experts not only remove visible mold but also address the underlying moisture issues to prevent future mold growth.

Hoarding Cleanup

Hoarding cleanup involves addressing cluttered and hoarded living spaces. Professionals in this field work with sensitivity and compassion to help individuals declutter and organize their homes. The process often requires a non-judgmental approach and an understanding of the psychological aspects of hoarding.

Air Duct Cleaning

Air duct cleaning is essential for maintaining indoor air quality. Over time, dust, allergens, and contaminants can accumulate in HVAC systems. Cleaning these ducts improves the efficiency of heating and cooling systems and helps ensure cleaner air circulation indoors.

Chimney Sweeping

Chimney sweeping involves cleaning and inspecting chimneys to remove creosote buildup, soot, and debris. Regular chimney sweeping reduces the risk of chimney fires and improves the efficiency of fireplaces and wood-burning stoves.

Read here about how to start a chimney sweeping business

Pressure Washing

Pressure washing uses high-pressure water jets to clean and remove dirt, grime, mold, and mildew from various surfaces. It’s commonly used for cleaning driveways, sidewalks, decks, siding, and other outdoor areas.

Industrial Cleaning

Industrial cleaning services cater to factories, warehouses, manufacturing facilities, and other industrial settings. This involves cleaning heavy machinery, equipment, and large areas while adhering to safety regulations and maintaining operational efficiency.

HVAC Coil Cleaning Services

If you own a duct cleaning business, you may wish to consider providing coil cleaning services as well. Due to the corrosion of aluminum and copper surfaces, HVAC coils necessitate special products to be cleaned. It is important to note that a power washer should not be used while cleaning coils, as it will cause the fins to bend, thus compromising the functionality of the equipment.

Aircraft and Vehicle Cleaning

Cleaning and detailing services for aircraft, trains, automobiles, and other vehicles ensure their aesthetic appearance and operational safety. Specialized cleaning products and techniques are used to clean both interiors and exteriors.

These specialized cleaning services provide valuable solutions for various situations that require more than just routine cleaning. They often require expertise, specialized equipment, safety protocols, and an understanding of the unique challenges associated with each service. Professionals in these fields play a crucial role in maintaining safety, cleanliness, and well-being in diverse environments.

Environmental cleaning services

Environmental cleaning services refer to professional cleaning and sanitation services that address ecological and health-related concerns in various settings. These services focus on maintaining clean and safe environments by employing specialized techniques, equipment, and cleaning agents to minimize the presence of harmful germs, allergens, contaminants, and pollutants.

Green Cleaning

Green cleaning involves using environmentally friendly products and practices to clean and maintain indoor spaces while minimizing environmental and human health impacts. This approach focuses on reducing harsh chemicals and synthetic cleaners that can emit harmful fumes and contribute to indoor air pollution. Instead, it utilizes natural, biodegradable, and non-toxic cleaning agents derived from renewable resources.

Critical aspects of green cleaning include

• Eco-Friendly Products: Green cleaning services use cleaning products made from natural ingredients such as plant-based oils, citrus extracts, and enzymes. These products are often labelled as “non-toxic,” “biodegradable,” and “phosphate-free.”
• Reduced Environmental Impact: By avoiding chemicals that can harm aquatic life, contaminate soil, and contribute to air pollution, green cleaning helps protect ecosystems and reduce the carbon footprint associated with traditional cleaning methods.
• Indoor Air Quality: Using fewer or no volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and allergens in cleaning products improves indoor air quality, making it safer for occupants, especially those with allergies or respiratory issues.
• Packaging and Dispensing: Green cleaning services may also focus on reducing waste by using refillable containers, minimal packaging, and responsible disposal methods.

E-waste cleanup

E-waste, also known as electronic waste, comprises various discarded electronic items, including computers, mobile phones, televisions, and other devices. 

This type of waste can contain hazardous materials, such as lead and mercury, as well as cadmium and other toxins, which can be released into the surrounding environment if not managed correctly. 

To ensure the proper disposal of this type of waste, it is essential to consider various factors.

The following are some of the most essential aspects of e-Waste cleanup:

• Proper Disposal

E-waste cleanup includes collecting, transporting, and disposing of electronic waste in compliance with local, state, and international laws and regulations. This helps to prevent the release of hazardous materials into the environment

• Material Recovery

In addition to the safe disposal of electronic waste, electronic waste cleanup may include recovering valuable materials from an electronic device, including precious metals that can be recycled or reused.

• Data Security

When e-waste is adequately cleaned, sensitive data stored on an electronic device is erased or destroyed securely to protect people’s privacy and reduce identity theft risk.

Exterior Cleaning Services

Exterior cleaning services refer to professional cleaning and maintenance tasks performed on the external areas of buildings, structures, and outdoor spaces.

These services aim to enhance the appearance, functionality, and longevity of the exterior components of residential, commercial, and industrial properties.

Exterior cleaning services encompass various tasks designed to remove dirt, grime, debris, and other contaminants that can accumulate on surfaces over time.

Roof Cleaning 

Roof Cleaning business is the process of cleaning the surface of your roof to remove debris such as leaves, twigs, algae, and stains. This service is essential for the integrity and longevity of your roof and the overall appearance of your property.

Some of the most important aspects of roof cleaning are:

• Debris Removal: Debris like leaves, twigs, and other debris can build up on your roof, where moisture can build up and cause deterioration. Removal of this debris helps protect your roof from water damage and leaks.
• Algae and Stains Removal: Algae and staining not only detract from your roof’s appearance but can also cause damage over time. Cleaning agents/methods that are safe for your roofing materials can safely remove algae and staining without causing harm to your roof.
• Preventive Maintenance: Regularly cleaning your roof can help extend the lifespan of your roof by helping to prevent the growth of organisms that contribute to degradation. This can help to reduce the need for more significant repairs or replacements down the road.

Gutter cleaning

Gutter cleaning is removing debris from your gutters, downspouts, and other parts of your channels to ensure that they function correctly. When your gutters are properly cleaned, rainwater can flow away from your building’s roof and foundation, reducing the risk of water damage.

There are several vital aspects to gutter cleaning, such as water flow management, blockage prevention, and blockage prevention.

• Water flow management: Clear your gutters so rainwater can flow freely and not pool on your roof or around your foundation.
• Blockage prevention: If your gutters are clogged, it can cause water to overflow and damage your fascia, siding, or other parts of your structure. Regular gutter cleaning can help prevent blockages that can lead to costly repairs.
• In colder climates, blocked gutters can cause ice dams to form on your roof, leading to leaks and damage to your structure.

Solar Panel Cleaning:

Solar panel cleaning involves the removal of dirt, dust, bird droppings, and other debris from the surface of solar panels. Clean solar panels are more efficient at capturing sunlight and converting it into energy.

Critical aspects of solar panel cleaning include:

• Maintaining Efficiency: Dust and debris can reduce the amount of sunlight that reaches the solar panels’ photovoltaic cells, leading to decreased energy production. Regular cleaning ensures optimal energy generation.
• Avoiding Damage: Abrasive particles and debris can potentially scratch or damage the protective coatings on solar panels. Using gentle cleaning methods and tools is crucial to prevent harm.
• Water Conservation: Environmentally friendly cleaning methods that use minimal water are often preferred to maintain the eco-friendly benefits of solar energy.

Crime and Disaster Cleanup Services

These services are crucial in restoring and maintaining safety, hygiene, and functionality after traumatic events such as criminal activities, accidents, fires, and floods. 

These specialized services are essential to ensure that affected areas are thoroughly cleaned, sanitized, and restored to their pre-incident condition. Let’s delve a little deeper into each of the mentioned areas:

Crime Scene Cleanup:

Crime scene cleanup involves thoroughly cleaning, sanitizing, and restoring areas where criminal activities or accidents have occurred. 

This can encompass a range of situations, including homicides, suicides, accidents, and other traumatic events.

 Crime scene cleaners are trained to handle potentially hazardous materials like blood, bodily fluids, and other biohazards, ensuring the affected area is completely decontaminated and safe for occupancy. 

Beyond the physical cleanup, these professionals understand the sensitive nature of these events and work with empathy and discretion while interacting with the affected parties.

Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration:

After a fire incident, the fire and its subsequent efforts to extinguish it can cause significant property damage.

Fire and smoke damage restoration involves cleaning, repairing, and restoring areas affected by flames, heat, smoke, and water used to put out the fire.

This includes removing charred materials, addressing smoke odours, and assessing structural damage.

Specialized equipment and techniques are often used to clean and deodorize the space and prevent further deterioration.

The goal is to return the property to a habitable and safe condition.

Flood and Water Damage Restoration:

Water-related disasters, such as floods, leaks, and pipe bursts, can lead to extensive property damage if not addressed promptly and effectively.

 Flood and water damage restoration involves removing standing water, drying out affected areas, and mitigating potential mould growth. 

Water damage can compromise structural integrity and belongings and create a conducive environment for mould and bacterial growth.

Restoration professionals use industrial-grade drying equipment and moisture meters to ensure thorough drying, preventing long-term damage and health risks.

In these scenarios, specialized training and equipment are essential to safely and effectively manage the cleanup and restoration process.

Outdoor cleaning services

These services are geared towards keeping public spaces, outdoor recreational areas, and private properties clean and well-maintained.

Park and Playground Cleaning

This involves cleaning and maintaining public parks, playgrounds, and recreational areas. It includes removal of litter and debris, cleaning play equipment, benches, tables, and trash receptacles. Keeping these spaces clean ensures a safe and enjoyable environment for the community.

Street and Sidewalk Cleaning

This service focuses on cleaning public streets, sidewalks, and walkways. It includes removing litter, debris, leaves, and other waste materials to maintain a clean and aesthetically pleasing urban environment. Street sweeping and pressure washing may be involved in this service.

Pet-Friendly Cleaning

Pet-friendly cleaning services cater to households with pets. They specialize in removing pet hair, odours, and stains from homes and living spaces. This helps maintain a clean and hygienic environment for pets and owners.

Robotic Cleaning

Robotic cleaning services utilize automated machines to perform cleaning tasks. These robots are designed to efficiently clean various surfaces, such as floors, windows, and outdoor spaces. They can save time and reduce the need for manual labour.

Automated Car Washes

Automated car washes offer a convenient and efficient way to clean vehicles. They provide automated cleaning processes, including exterior washing, waxing, and interior cleaning. 

This service is popular among vehicle owners who want to maintain the appearance and cleanliness of their cars.

These services cater to outdoor cleaning and maintenance aspects, ranging from public spaces to private properties. 

They create a cleaner, more attractive, healthier environment for communities and individuals. As technology advances, integrating automated and robotic solutions in cleaning services is likely to become even more prevalent.

The world of cleaning services encompasses a remarkable range of specialized offerings, each designed to cater to specific needs. 

Whether you require routine residential cleaning, extensive commercial maintenance, disaster cleanup, or any other service on this expansive list, there’s a solution available to meet your requirements. 

As technology and environmental concerns continue to shape the industry, cleaning services are evolving to provide more efficient, sustainable, and personalized solutions for homes, businesses, and public spaces.