Home Job Board Advertise Job Skills Blog

Green Cleaning Careers: Starting A Steam Cleaning Business

Guest Article

Have you thought about a green cleaning career? In fact, this is a very lucrative and profitable market to enter. Few people think that they can run a business and even fewer think they can run a green business. But is it really that hard?

The cleaning industry is proliferated with cleaners and cleaning companies that use chemicals to clean. Imagine industrial strength cleaning agents running down your drains and being reintroduced into the eco-system. It isn't a pleasant thought. But what can you do? Furthermore, what can you do that is both profitable and beneficial?

Start a Steam Cleaning Business

Starting a steam cleaning business is a perfect opportunity; in fact it has a relatively low barrier to entry as compared to other industries. Why steam clean? Well, cleaning with steam is one of the best ways to clean because you don't use any chemicals. All that is needed is a reliable steam cleaner and water. The machine heats the water to high temperatures which then causes it to create vapor. The steam is then used by attaching a wide range of nozzles which "sprays" it onto the area.

The heat of the steam causes dirt and other particles to rise from the object which allows you to simply wipe the dirt away. In the case of steam cleaning carpets, the steam causes deeply imbedded dirt to lift which makes it extremely easy to vacuum away.

Additionally, because the steam is heated at such high temperatures, it immediately kills bacteria, germs and other microorganisms instantly.

There are many already existing steam cleaning businesses that I'm sure you're familiar with. Some popular names in this industry include Stanley Steemers, Sears Carpet cleaners etc. However, because cleaning is in such huge demand, there is always room for one more especially if you offer competitive rates.

Your Potential Market

Understanding your potential market is essential to gain confidence in whether an idea can work on not. The fact of the matter is that you have a huge market: homes, businesses and even industrial companies.

The main complaints with other steam cleaning services include: poor customer service, fluctuating rates and service which simply isn't on time. If you can build a reliable, trustworthy and stable steam cleaning business, then you will definitely be on the road to success. Offer excellent customer service, stick to your rates and I am certain you will have frequent and repeated business.

Tools Of The Trade

The best part of this business model is that you can size it according to your resources and capability. You can begin very small by offering a one man service (i.e. you). As you gain clients and repeat customers you can expand accordingly.

Of course, before you even begin to market yourself, the first thing you'll want to do is purchase reliable steamers or carpet steam cleaners. Since you will be using it for professional purposes, I would suggest you purchase a heavy duty or commercial standard cleaner.

Not to worry, it won't cost a hand or a leg! In fact, with a little research you can find a great steamer for minimal cost. Usually commercial type steamers cost from $1,000 US+ and they are worth the investment. However, if you have a smaller start up capital, you might want to consider VaporClean's line of steamers. They range from $400 + which are much more affordable.

One word of advice though, don't purchase home grade steam cleaners because most are not built for heavy use. Additionally, it won't help you to cultivate a professional image.

With as little as $400, you can be on your way to starting your very own green cleaning business.

Green Entrepreneurship Resources