An eco-friendly cleaning business uses plant-based products and earth-friendly methods to clean homes and offices. Green cleaning services can charge 10 to 15 percent more than regular services. This guide covers green products, certifications, pricing, and marketing for an eco-friendly cleaning business.
Why Should You Start a Green Cleaning Business?
More people want safe, chemical-free cleaning. Families with kids, pet owners, and people with allergies all look for green cleaners. This growing demand means more clients for you.
Green cleaning also sets you apart. When every cleaner looks the same, going green gives you an edge.
Benefits of Green Cleaning
- Healthier for everyone — no harsh fumes for you or your clients
- Higher prices — clients pay 10 to 20 percent more for eco-friendly services
- Loyal clients — green-minded clients stick with businesses that share their values
- Less competition — fewer cleaners offer true green services
- Better for the planet — less toxic waste goes down the drain
What Green Products and Supplies Should You Use?
Choosing the right products is the foundation of a green cleaning business. Here is what to look for.
What Makes a Product Eco-Friendly
A truly green product is made from plant-based ingredients. It does not contain bleach, ammonia, or artificial fragrances. Look for these features:
- Plant-based ingredients — no petroleum-based chemicals
- Biodegradable — breaks down safely in the environment
- No artificial fragrance — scented with essential oils or fragrance-free
- No toxic chemicals — free from chlorine, phosphates, and phthalates
- Third-party certified — Green Seal, EPA Safer Choice, or similar labels
Trusted Green Cleaning Brands
These brands are popular with professional green cleaners:
- Seventh Generation — wide range of plant-based cleaners
- Method — effective and affordable green products
- Mrs. Meyer's — plant-based cleaners with natural scents
- ECOS — full line of certified green cleaning products
- Better Life — made from plant-based ingredients without dyes
Make Your Own Green Cleaners
Homemade cleaners work well and cost very little. Here are simple recipes:
- All-purpose spray — equal parts water and white vinegar, plus a few drops of lemon essential oil
- Glass cleaner — two cups water, half cup rubbing alcohol, half tablespoon dish soap
- Scrubbing paste — baking soda mixed with water into a thick paste
- Disinfectant — water with tea tree oil, which is a natural germ fighter
Green Tools and Equipment
Products are only half the story. Your tools matter too.
- Microfiber cloths — reusable, washable, and pick up more dust than paper towels
- Steam cleaners — sanitize surfaces with just water, no chemicals needed
- Reusable spray bottles — reduce plastic waste from disposable bottles
- A vacuum with a HEPA filter — traps tiny particles instead of pushing them into the air
What Green Cleaning Certifications Are Available?
Certifications prove you are serious about eco-friendly cleaning. They build trust with clients.
Top Certifications for Green Cleaners
- Green Seal — one of the most respected certifications in green cleaning
- Green Business Bureau — verifies your business follows green practices
- International Janitorial Cleaning Services Association — offers green cleaning training and certification
Do You Need a Certification?
No law requires a green certification. But it helps you stand out. Clients trust certified businesses more.
It also gives you something to put on your website and business cards.
Start without one if the cost is too high. Get certified as your business grows and you can afford the fees.
Need help with the basics? Read our guide on how to start a cleaning business. It covers licenses, insurance, and everything else you need.
How Do You Price Green Cleaning Services?
Green cleaning costs a little more to deliver. Your prices should reflect that.
Charge a Green Premium
Most green cleaners charge 10 to 20 percent more than standard cleaners. Clients who seek green services expect to pay a little extra. They value their health and the environment.
For example, if standard home cleaning costs $150, green cleaning would cost $165 to $180.
Explain the Value
Tell clients why your service costs more. Explain that green products are safer for their family and pets. Talk about the better air quality in their home after a green cleaning.
Most clients happily pay more when they understand the benefits. Use our price calculator to set the right rate.
How Do You Market a Green Cleaning Business?
Marketing a green cleaning business is different from marketing a regular one. You need to reach people who care about health and the environment.
Target the Right Clients
Your ideal clients include:
- Families with young children — they want chemical-free homes
- Pet owners — pets are sensitive to harsh cleaning chemicals
- People with allergies or asthma — green products reduce triggers
- Health-conscious people — they care about what goes into their home
- Eco-minded homeowners — they choose green options in every area of life
Use Social Media to Share Your Story
Post about your green practices on Instagram and Facebook. Share photos of your eco-friendly products. Talk about why you chose to go green.
Partner With Local Green Businesses
Connect with health food stores, yoga studios, and organic shops. Leave your business cards there. These places attract your ideal clients.
Highlight Certifications and Products
Put your green certifications on your website, business cards, and social media. List the specific products you use. Clients want to know exactly what goes into their home.
Get Reviews That Mention Green Benefits
Ask happy clients to mention your eco-friendly service in their review. Reviews like "safe for my kids and pets" attract more green-minded clients.
What Are Common Green Cleaning Myths?
Some people doubt that green cleaning works. Here is the truth behind the most common myths.
Myth: Green Products Do Not Clean Well
False. Modern green products clean just as well for most jobs. They handle grease, grime, and everyday dirt without trouble.
Myth: Green Cleaning Costs Too Much
Green products cost a little more upfront. But many are concentrated, so they last longer. You can also make your own cleaners for pennies.
Myth: Vinegar and Baking Soda Cannot Sanitize
Vinegar kills many common germs. Tea tree oil is a proven natural disinfectant. For times when you need stronger germ-killing power, use an EPA Safer Choice certified disinfectant.
Myth: Clients Will Not Pay More for Green
They will. Most consumers prefer eco-friendly services. Families with children and pets seek green cleaners and will pay more.
As your business grows, try cleaning business software to manage clients and invoices. Learn how to market your cleaning business for more tips.