30+ Types Of Cleaning Services You Can Offer (With Rates & Tools)

Deciding which types of cleaning services your cleaning business should offer can be challenging. You must consider resources, your cleaning team’s abilities, and more.

In this article, I help you out by exploring over 30 types of cleaning services—detailing what each job involves, typical rates you can charge, and the tools you’ll need.

Types of Residential Cleaning Services

Residential cleaning services focus on maintaining cleanliness and comfort in private homes and living spaces.

Hourly rate: $20-50

Basic house cleaning services involve routine tasks for maintaining a clean, hygienic, and tidy home environment. 

Tasks:

• Dusting furniture and fixtures
• Vacuuming and sweeping floors
• Mopping hard surfaces
• Cleaning bathrooms, including sinks, showers, and toilets
• Wiping down kitchen surfaces and appliances

Specialized equipment needed:

• High-quality vacuum cleaner with filter
• Microfiber cloths
• Eco-friendly cleaning agents

Hourly rate: $25-100

Deep cleaning goes beyond everyday cleaning, tackling areas that are typically overlooked during routine upkeep. It’s great for annual spring cleaning.

Tasks:

• Cleaning inside ovens, refrigerators, and other appliances
• Washing baseboards, door frames, and window sills
• Deep scrubbing bathrooms and kitchens
• Shampooing carpets and upholstery
• Dusting blinds and cleaning window interiors

Specialized equipment needed:

• Carpet cleaner
• Steam mop
• Heavy-duty scrub brushes
• Extendable dusters for high and hard-to-reach areas

Suggested Rate: $0.15-0.50 per sq. ft.

This specialized service removes dirt, stains, and allergens from carpets—improving their appearance and extending their life.

Tasks:

• Using a vacuum to clean surface dirt and debris off the carpet
• Treating stains with specialized solutions
• Steam cleaning or using hot water extraction
• Rinsing and drying to prevent mold growth

Specialized equipment needed:

• Professional-grade carpet cleaner
• High-powered vacuum
• Air movers for faster drying

Suggested Rate: $40-75 per hour or $10-15 per window (the average cost to clean all windows in a home is $150-370)

Window cleaning enhances the clarity and cleanliness of windows. It involves removing dirt, smudges, and grime from the glass.

Tasks:

• Washing and drying exterior and interior window surfaces
• Cleaning window sills and tracks
• Removing cobwebs from window corners
• Treating windows with a glass cleaner to prevent streaks

Specialized equipment needed:

• Squeegee
• Ladder or telescoping pole for high windows
• Bucket and eco-friendly window cleaning solution
• Microfiber or lint-free cloths

Suggested Rate: $20-50 per 15-30 lb. load 

Laundry services involve washing, drying, and often ironing clothes and linens, as well as other laundry cleaning tasks.

Tasks:

• Washing various types of fabrics according to care labels
• Drying items using appropriate heat settings to prevent shrinkage
• Ironing and folding clothes for a professional finish
• Offering specialty fabric care for delicates, heavy linens, and more

Specialized equipment needed:

• Commercial-grade washing machines and dryers
• Irons and ironing boards
• Garment steamers for delicates
• Stain removal products for various fabric types

Hourly rate: $25-50

Move-in/move-out cleaning ensures a property professionally cleaned after old occupants have left.

Tasks:

• Deep cleaning services of all rooms and surfaces
• Cleaning inside cabinets, drawers, and appliances
• Sanitizing bathrooms and kitchens
• Removing all traces of dust and cobwebs
• Steam cleaning any carpets

Specialized equipment needed:

• Steam cleaners
• Heavy-duty vacuums
• Long-handled dusters for ceilings and corners
• Specialized cleaning agents for different surfaces

Hourly rate: $100+ depending on size and number of items

Upholstery cleaning focuses on refreshing and sanitizing furniture fabrics to maintain their appearance and hygiene.

Tasks:

• Vacuuming upholstery to remove dirt and pet hair
• Treating stains with appropriate cleaners
• Shampooing or steam cleaning fabric surfaces
• Drying and grooming the upholstery to restore its texture

Specialized equipment needed:

• Upholstery vacuum cleaner
• Fabric shampoos and conditioners
• Steam cleaner
• Soft brushes for delicate fabrics

Hourly rate: $60-90

Pool cleaning is the process of maintaining a swimming pool to keep it hygienic, safe, and enjoyable for use.

Tasks:

• Scooping leaves, insects, and other floating debris off the pool’s surface with a skimmer net
• Vacuuming the pool floor
• Checking and adjusting chemical levels
• Cleaning or replacing filters
• Brushing pool walls and floor

Specialized equipment needed:

• Pool skimmer
• Pool vacuum
• Chemical testing kits
• Brushes for scrubbing

Hourly rate: $50-200 (the average cost to pressure wash a house is $170-360)

Pressure washing—sometimes called power washing—uses a highly pressurized stream of water to remove dirt, stains, mold, loose paint, and other unwanted substances from surfaces.

Tasks:

• Preparing the area by removing large debris
• Selecting the appropriate pressure setting for the surface
• Systematically cleaning sections to ensure even washing
• Applying detergents or cleaners for tough stains
• Rinsing thoroughly with clean water

Specialized equipment needed:

• Pressure washer
• Different nozzle tips for varying pressures
• Cleaning solutions for specific stains and materials

Hourly rate: $40-90 ($100-400 per cleaning)

Gutter cleaning involves clearing out roof gutters of leaves, twigs, and other accumulated debris to prevent water damage and maintain efficient rainwater flow around a home.

Tasks:

• Clearing gutters and downspouts of debris
• Running water through the gutters to test for proper drainage
• Inspecting and repairing any loose gutter sections
• Directing downspouts away from the foundation to prevent water damage

Specialized equipment needed:

• Ladder
• Gutter scoops or small hand trowels
• Gloves to protect hands from sharp debris
• High-pressure hose for flushing gutters

Hourly rate: $100-250

Chimney sweeping removes soot and grease buildup to prevent chimney fires and ensures efficient airflow for fireplaces.

Tasks:

• Inspecting the chimney for signs of wear and blockages
• Sweeping the chimney flue to remove soot and creosote
• Checking and cleaning the fireplace and damper
• Advising clients about potential repairs or improvements

Specialized equipment needed:

• Chimney brushes and rods
• Industrial vacuum for collecting debris
• Inspection mirrors or cameras
• Protective masks to avoid inhaling soot

Hourly rate: $90-125 

Air duct cleaning clears dust, mold, and other pollutants from heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems—improving indoor air quality.

Tasks:

• Inspecting and assessing the ductwork for signs of contamination
• Using high-powered vacuums and brushes to clean ducts
• Sanitizing ducts to eliminate bacteria and mold
• Checking and replacing air filters if necessary

Specialized equipment needed:

• High-powered vacuum systems designed for duct cleaning
• Rotary brushes and agitation tools
• Inspection cameras for checking hard-to-see areas
• Protective suits and respirators for safety

Hourly rate: $200-1000

Odor removal services target unpleasant smells caused by pets, smoke, mold, and other sources—restoring fresh air to homes.

Tasks:

• Identifying the source of the odor
• Cleaning affected areas with specialized products
• Purifying the air using specialized equipment
• Sealing or removing odor-causing materials

Specialized equipment needed:

• Ozone generators
• Air scrubbers
• Enzymatic and chemical-based odor neutralizers
• Thermal foggers

Types of Commercial Cleaning Services

While residential cleaning focuses on homes, a commercial cleaning company caters to various businesses. 

Some of the services mentioned above—including window cleaning, carpet cleaning, upholstery cleaning, deep cleaning, and floor waxing—also apply to commercial settings and have commercial-specific rates. 

Here are more types of commercial cleaning services.

Hourly rate: $25-50 ($0.08-0.2 per sq. ft.)

Office cleaning ensures a clean and professional environment for workers and visitors. It covers common areas, individual workspaces, and shared facilities.

Tasks:

• Dusting and wiping all surfaces, including desks and electronic equipment
• Vacuuming carpets and mopping floors
• Cleaning restrooms and replenishing cleaning supplies
• Emptying trash and recycling bins

Specialized equipment needed:

• High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) vacuum cleaners
• Eco-friendly cleaning agents
• Microfiber cloths to prevent scratches on sensitive surfaces

Hourly rate: $30-60

Post-construction cleaning prepares newly built or renovated spaces for occupancy, removing construction debris and dust.

Tasks:

• Removing stickers and protective films from windows and appliances
• Dusting and vacuuming all surfaces
• Cleaning and polishing floors, walls, and fixtures
• Disposing of construction waste

Specialized equipment needed:

• Heavy-duty vacuums with fine dust filters
• Scrubbing and buffing machines
• Safety helmets and heavy-duty boots

Hourly rate: $25-90 ($100-500 per event)

Event cleaning involves pre-event, mid-event, and post-event cleaning for occasions like conferences, concerts, and parties—ensuring venues are presentable and hygienic.

Tasks:

• Setting up waste disposal stations
• Continuously cleaning and restocking restrooms during the event
• Collecting waste and restoring the site
• Sanitizing seating and eating areas

Specialized equipment needed:

• Portable trash bins and recycling containers
• Large rolling cleaning carts for efficiency
• Industrial mops and buckets

Hourly rate: $30-150 

Restaurant cleaning helps food service businesses maintain the high hygiene standards crucial for food safety. 

Tasks:

• Deep cleaning equipment and surfaces, including kitchen cleaning
• Sanitizing tables, chairs, and countertops
• Mopping floors and cleaning carpets
• Sanitizing restrooms

Specialized equipment needed:

• Steam cleaners for sanitizing without chemicals
• Heavy-duty degreasers for kitchen areas
• Non-slip floor cleaners

Suggested Rate: $25-50 per room

Hotel cleaning ensures that guest rooms and common areas meet hospitality standards, providing a clean and welcoming environment for guests.

Tasks:

• Performing daily room services, including changing linens and cleaning bathrooms
• Deep cleaning rooms between guests
• Maintaining cleanliness in lobbies and public restrooms
• Polishing furniture and cleaning windows

Specialized equipment needed:

• Lightweight and quiet vacuum cleaners for minimal disruption
• Carpet cleaners for guest rooms and hallways
• Dusters for high surfaces and delicate items

Hourly rate: $20-80

School or educational facility cleaning is a janitorial service focused on maintaining a clean, safe, and healthy environment for students, faculty, and staff.

Tasks:

• Sanitizing classrooms, including desks and chairs
• Cleaning and disinfecting bathrooms and locker rooms
• Maintaining hallways and common areas
• Ensuring cafeterias are hygienic and clean

Specialized equipment needed:

• Broad-spectrum disinfectants
• Backpack vacuums for efficient cleaning
• Microfiber cloths to prevent cross-contamination

Hourly rate: $25-60

Retail cleaning focuses on maintaining a pristine shopping environment to enhance the customer experience and safeguard merchandise.

Tasks:

• Dusting and cleaning display units and shelves
• Mopping floors and cleaning windows
• Sanitizing fitting rooms and checkout areas
• Managing waste and recycling bins

Specialized equipment needed:

• Polishing machines for floor shine
• Portable vacuum systems for quick cleanups
• Anti-bacterial solutions for high-touch surfaces

Types of Specialty Cleaning Services

These are targeted cleaning services that address unique and often challenging situations—ranging from crime scene cleanup to eco-friendly cleaning. Some of these services require specific permits to ensure cleaning staff is properly trained to handle materials safely and comply with all regulatory standards.

Hourly rate: $25-70

Eco-friendly cleaning focuses on using environmentally safe products and practices to protect health and minimize ecological impact.

Tasks:

• Using green-certified cleaning agents
• Employing energy-efficient equipment
• Recycling and minimizing waste during cleaning processes
• Educating clients on sustainable practices

Specialized equipment needed:

• Eco-certified cleaning products
• Microfiber cloths to reduce waste
• HEPA filters in vacuums for improved air quality

Hourly rate: $30-100

Medical facility cleaning involves specialized procedures for creating sterile and hygienic environments for hospitals, clinics, and dental offices.

Tasks:

• Sterilizing examination rooms and equipment
• Cleaning waiting areas and reception desks
• Disposing of medical waste according to regulations
• Regularly cleaning air vents to maintain air quality

Specialized equipment needed:

• Hospital-grade disinfectants
• Autoclave for sterilizing tools
• Personal protective equipment (PPE), including gloves, masks, and gowns

Suggested Rate: $50-350 for basic car detailing and $150-500+ for more thorough deep cleaning

Automotive cleaning involves detailed interior and exterior cleaning services that help maintain motor vehicles’ appearance and functionality.

Tasks:

• Washing and waxing car exteriors
• Detailing interior surfaces and upholstery
• Cleaning engine components and undercarriage
• Applying protective coatings to paint and trim

Specialized equipment needed:

• Pressure washers
• Auto detailing brushes
• Upholstery cleaners
• High-grade waxes and polishes

Hourly rate: $50-100 ($0.15-0.35 per sq. ft.)

Industrial cleaning deals with heavy-duty cleaning in manufacturing plants, warehouses, and other industrial settings. 

Tasks:

• Degreasing machines and work areas
• Cleaning industrial spills
• Sanitizing restroom and break areas
• Managing hazardous waste according to regulations

Specialized equipment needed:

• Industrial-grade degreasers and cleaners
• Pressure washers
• Protective gear, including gloves, goggles, and boots

Hourly rate: $500-5000+

Crime scene cleaning—also referred to as biohazard remediation or forensic cleanup—is a specialized service that provides cleanup after traumatic events.

Tasks:

• Removing biological contaminants
• Disinfecting and deodorizing the area
• Safely disposing of biohazardous waste
• Restoring the area to its original condition

Specialized equipment needed:

• Biohazard suits
• Industrial-strength cleaners and disinfectants
• Biohazard waste containers
• Ultraviolet light systems for detecting biological residues

Hourly rate: $60-150

Hoarding cleanup addresses severe clutter and unsanitary conditions in homes where excessive items have accumulated. Such environments can pose health and safety risks.

Tasks:

• Sorting and categorizing personal items
• Safely disposing of unwanted or hazardous materials
• Deep cleaning and sanitizing the entire space
• Collaborating with mental health professionals if necessary

Specialized equipment needed:

• Heavy-duty garbage bags and bins
• Protective gear, including gloves, masks, and goggles
• Industrial cleaning agents and deodorizers
• Organizational tools like shelving and storage bins

Hourly rate: $25-150

Biohazard cleaning involves safely removing and disposing of substances that pose biological risks—such as blood, bodily fluids, and other infectious materials.

Tasks:

• Complying with all legal requirements for biohazard cleanup
• Using hospital-grade disinfectants to sanitize affected areas
• Properly packaging and transporting hazardous materials for disposal
• Ensuring the safety and security of the cleanup site

Specialized equipment needed:

• Certified biohazard cleanup kits
• PPE, including full-body suits and respirators
• Biohazard waste containers and labeling materials
• Hospital-grade disinfectants and no-touch cleaning tools

Suggested Rate: $100-600 (this is the average 1-time extermination cost)

Pest excrement cleanup focuses on the removal of droppings and nests from pests like rodents and birds. These can pose health risks and cause property damage.

Tasks:

• Identifying and accessing infestation areas
• Removing droppings, nests, and contaminated insulation
• Disinfecting and deodorizing the area to prevent disease and odors
• Sealing entry points to prevent future infestations

Specialized equipment needed:

• Protective masks and gloves
• HEPA vacuums to prevent aerosolization of hazardous particles
• Enzymatic cleaners for effective sanitation
• Sealants and materials for repair work

Suggested Rate: $1-3.5 per sq. ft.

Graffiti removal involves cleaning unwanted paint and markings from walls and other surfaces and restoring those surfaces to their original appearance.

Tasks:

• Assessing the type of surface and graffiti materials used
• Choosing the appropriate removal method (e.g., chemical solvents, power washing, or sandblasting)
• Applying graffiti removal products and techniques
• Applying protective coatings to prevent future vandalism

Specialized equipment needed:

• Pressure washers or sandblasters
• Chemical solvents specifically designed for graffiti removal
• Protective gear for handling solvents and high-pressure equipment
• Paints and sealants for touch-ups and protective coatings

Restoration Services

These critical services help restore properties and environments after significant damage due to events like fires, floods, or mold infestations.

Suggested Rate: $4 to $7 per sq. ft or $8,000 to $18,000 per home on average (rate varies with home size, fire category, and type and extent of damage)

Fire damage restoration involves cleaning and restoring property after a fire—addressing smoke damage, structural issues, and water damage from firefighting efforts.

Tasks:

• Measuring the extent of fire and smoke damage
• Removing soot and smoke residues from surfaces
• Dehumidifying affected areas to prevent mold growth
• Repairing or replacing damaged structural elements

Specialized equipment needed:

• Thermal foggers to neutralize smoke odor
• Air scrubbers and HEPA vacuums to remove airborne particles
• Dehumidifiers and air movers to dry out premises
• PPE for handling hazardous materials

Suggested Rate: $4-12 per sq. ft. or $2000-6000 per home on average (rate varies with home size, water damage category, and damage intensity)

Water damage restoration helps recover homes and buildings from the effects of water flooding or leaks, preventing mold and structural damage.

Tasks:

• Extracting standing water with submersible pumps and wet vacuums
• Drying out affected areas using air movers and dehumidifiers
• Cleaning and sanitizing to prevent mold growth
• Restoring damaged furniture and structural components

Specialized equipment needed:

• Water extraction units
• Industrial dehumidifiers and air movers
• Moisture meters to detect hidden water
• Antimicrobial and antifungal treatments

Suggested Rate: $1,500-$10,000 per home on average

Mold remediation involves removing mold growth and restoring air quality. 

Tasks:

• Identifying sources of moisture and mold growth
• Containing the affected area to prevent the spread of mold
• Removing contaminated materials safely
• Cleaning and sanitizing the area with antimicrobial treatments

Specialized equipment needed:

• Protective suits and respirators
• HEPA air scrubbers and vacuums
• Plastic sheeting for containment
• Non-toxic antimicrobial sprays

Choosing the Right Cleaning Services To Offer

Here are some key questions to ask as you’re deciding on a service to offer:

• What are the most in-demand services in your area? What do cleaning clients want that’s not already being offered?
• Is your cleaning team skilled enough to perform the specific service you wish to offer—and if not, can you train them? 
• Do you have the resources to offer the service, including the necessary equipment? Are the potential earnings from a service worth the initial and ongoing investment required?
• Can you charge more for your cleaning services by packaging related services?
• How can you stay flexible with seasonal offerings and respond to market changes?
• What steps can you take to ensure all services comply with legal and safety requirements?
• What bonding and insurance should you get before offering the service?
• What cleaning business licenses and permits do you need to provide the service? If you want to offer a specialty service, do you or your team require training? 

Using your answers, you can pick the services you’re best equipped to offer with the most likelihood of succeeding. This can help ensure the success of your business. For example, if window cleaning is in high demand where you’re located, and you have a team who’s ready to train and money for equipment, then focusing on this service could help you establish a strong market presence.

Streamline Your Cleaning Business for Success

There are so many different types of cleaning services to choose from.

Whether you choose to specialize in a niche service or provide a wide range of cleaning solutions, the key to success lies in delivering high-quality services, ensuring safety, and adhering to legal and industry standards. Make sure your team is well-trained and adequately equipped to maintain these high standards.

Consider using tools like the Connecteam cleaning app, which can help you with all your cleaning operations—from training your cleaning staff to ensuring quality and compliance across any cleaning services you decide to offer.

FAQs

What type of cleaning service makes the most money?

Commercial cleaning services are the most lucrative cleaning services. They often command higher rates by servicing offices, retail spaces, medical facilities, and other large commercial properties that require regular professional cleaning.

What is the best type of cleaning business to start?

The best type of cleaning business to start depends on your resources, local market demand, and personal preferences. For instance, someone without much money might want to get into residential cleaning, which requires lower startup costs. Meanwhile, someone with access to more capital and a capable team might consider commercial cleaning.
Disclaimer: The rates mentioned for different types of cleaning services are approximate ranges gathered from sources like Thumbtack, HomeAdvisor, Angi, Yelp, and other home service platforms. Actual rates for various cleaning jobs may vary based on location, job complexity, service provider, and current market conditions. These rates provide a general idea of costs. For accurate pricing, research the local market and consult with industry peers to establish competitive rates tailored to the specific services your cleaning business plans to offer.