Carpet cleaning is a high-demand industry with a relatively low barrier to entry, making it an attractive option for aspiring entrepreneurs. Residential and commercial clients regularly need professional cleaning services, especially in high-traffic areas.
Professional carpet cleaning business owners can earn over $127,000 annually, depending on their location, clientele, and service offerings. Plus, the U.S. carpet cleaning industry is expected to reach over $2.4 billion in total value by 2031—leaving a lot of dirt, dust, and debris for you to capitalize on.
If you're looking for a flexible, scalable local business with low upfront costs, carpet cleaning services may be the perfect fit. Let’s explore how to start a carpet cleaning business, from planning your operations to securing your first clients.
Step 1 - Plan your business
The first step in knowing how to start a carpet cleaning business is outlining your objectives for your company.
Define your business goals and niche
Before you start investing in equipment or marketing, determine the type of carpet cleaning business you want to run. There are two primary markets:
- Residential carpet cleaning – Focuses on homeowners and renters looking to maintain clean, fresh carpets. Many customers seek eco-friendly or pet-safe cleaning solutions that avoid volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that may harm animals, plants, or children. To capture this part of the market, you can offer cleaning services with eco-friendly, pet-safe cleaning products.
- Commercial carpet cleaning – Targets businesses, offices, and property managers needing regular deep cleaning to maintain professional spaces. Additionally, you can differentiate your local business by offering specialty services like pet stain removal, odor elimination, or water damage restoration.
Write a business plan
A well-structured business plan helps you understand how to start a carpet cleaning business, stay organized, and attract potential investors. Your plan should include a:
- Mission statement – Define the purpose of your small, local business—such as providing eco-friendly deep cleaning, same-day stain removal, or affordable residential and commercial services.
- Market analysis – Research competitors, identify your target audience (such as homeowners, landlords, and businesses), and assess demand for specialty services like pet stain removal or allergen-reducing treatments.
- Pricing strategy – Set competitive prices based on square footage, service type (steam cleaning, dry cleaning, upholstery care, etc.), and industry standards. Consider bundling options or offering discounts for repeat customers. For example, Gallagher's Rug & Carpet Care leveraged Local Deals on Nextdoor to provide bi-yearly rug cleaning specials to homeowners in their neighborhood and almost immediately brought on a dozen new customers.
- Marketing plan – Wondering how to get leads for a cleaning business? Outline how you'll attract clients through local Search Engine Optimization (SEO), online booking, partnerships with realtors or property managers, referral programs, and social media promotions showcasing before-and-after results. Discover more carpet cleaning advertising strategies to reach a wider audience.
Resources like the Small Business Administration (SBA) also offer templates to help draft a reliable business plan.
Step 2 - Get trained and certified
Carpet cleaning isn’t just about using a machine—it requires knowledge of carpet fibers, stain removal techniques, and the right cleaning solutions for different materials.
Importance of professional training
Proper training helps you avoid costly mistakes like discoloration or carpet shrinkage and ensures customer satisfaction. That said, understanding different carpet types, stain treatments, and cleaning techniques is the first step toward delivering quality service:
- Carpet types – Different materials require specific care: Nylon is durable but absorbs oils and is best cleaned with hot water extraction. Polyester, on the other hand, is stain-resistant but crushes easily—so low-moisture cleaning is recommended. Wool, which is soft yet absorbent, requires pH-balanced detergents and gentle methods. Olefin is water-resistant but attracts oils—making dry cleaning and hot water extraction the best course of action.
- Stain treatments – Removing stains requires knowing what they’re made of. For example, water-based stains from coffee or juice are most often treated with enzyme-based solutions and steam cleaning. Oil-based stains require solvent-based removers to break down the oils before extraction.
- Cleaning techniques – After identifying the source of the stain, successful carpet cleaners must use the correct cleaning technique. This ranges from steam cleaning to lift deep stains to Bonnet cleaning, a more low-maintenance technique typically used in commercial settings.
Recommended certifications
Getting certified demonstrates professionalism and builds customer trust. Consider obtaining an IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification).
The IIRC sets the standards across the carpet cleaning industry and offers a number of certifications that can establish you as an expert in your neighborhood. These include Carpet Cleaning Technician (CCT), Commercial Carpet Maintenance Technician (CCMT), Color Repair Technician (CRT), Rug Cleaning Technician (RCT), and more.
It’s also important to use carpet cleaning equipment and products that have received the Carpet and Rug Institute (CRI) Seal of Approval. This ensures that you’re utilizing tools that minimize potential damage and enhance cleaning.
Step 3 - Register and set up your business
To align with legal requirements and local regulations, do your research on your desired business structure, necessary licensing, and funding options.
Choose a legal structure
Select the best business structure based on your goals and liability protection:
- Sole proprietorship – Simple to set up with minimal paperwork, this structure gives you full control over your local business. That said, you alone are personally responsible for debts and liabilities.
- Limited Liability Company (LLC) – This structure offers liability protection, tax flexibility, and is a popular choice for small service businesses. In this case, your personal assets will not be at risk in the case of accrued business debt or a lawsuit. Plus, you'll be considered self-employed, meaning you won’t face corporate taxes.
Licensing and permits
Carpet cleaning businesses must comply with local and state regulations—which usually change depending on your location. Generally, you’ll want to look into:
- General business license – Required in most states to operate legally.
- Special cleaning permits – Some areas require permits for businesses using chemical cleaning agents or water disposal systems.
- Environmental compliance – If handling hazardous waste, like chemical disposal from carpet treatments, check local environmental regulations.
Open a business bank account
Keeping business and personal finances separate helps with tax reporting, financial management, and to avoid personal liability. Consider setting up a business checking account to help track revenue and expenses and a business credit card to purchase:
- Cleaning solutions
- Equipment
- Vehicles and gas
- Company uniforms
Step 4 - Gather equipment and supplies
No carpet cleaning business is complete without the proper tools. Having the right equipment not only ensures efficient, high-quality service but also boosts customer satisfaction and sets you apart from competitors.
Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need to get started:
Essential equipment
Your startup costs will largely depend on the equipment you choose. Basic essentials include:
- Commercial-grade carpet cleaning machines
- Industrial vacuum cleaners
- Sprayers and cleaning solutions
- Spot treatment tools for stain removal
Where to buy or lease equipment
If you're starting on a budget, consider leasing or purchasing used machines from large, reputable suppliers or finding a trustworthy local supplier to support fellow small businesses.
Step 5 - Secure business insurance and funding
The right insurance policies can protect your local business from accidents, lawsuits, and even the unexpected expenses of equipment upkeep.
Types of insurance to consider
Generally, federal requirements state that every small business must purchase workers’ compensation, unemployment, and disability insurance for any employees they hire.
To further prevent risk, carpet cleaning businesses can invest in:
- General liability insurance – Protects against financial loss due to bodily harm, property damage, medical expenses, libel, slander, and lawsuits.
- Professional liability insurance – This kind of insurance protects your service-based company from financial loss due to malpractice, errors, or negligence.
- Product liability insurance – If you’re selling cleaning equipment or solutions, this coverage can protect your local business if the products cause injury or harm.
- Commercial property insurance – This insurance protects your office from financial loss from weather damage, fire, or vandalism.
- Vehicle insurance – This type of coverage protects your vehicles against the costs of accidents and vandalism.
Funding your business
Wondering how to start a carpet cleaning business that’s both financially responsible and profitable? The reality is, startup costs can vary widely depending on your location and company specifics. These costs usually include your:
- Business license and registration
- Business insurance
- Business software
- Equipment, supplies, and uniforms
- Website and marketing
- Vehicles and gas
To gain capital, consider funding options like:
- Small business loans from banks or the Small Business Administration (SBA)
- Grants for small businesses (look into those for eco-friendly services)
- Credit cards for initial purchases
All that said, budgeting for ongoing expenses from the beginning—such as equipment maintenance and marketing—can help your small, local business prosper and grow.
Step 6 - Build your brand and market your services
Your brand should be recognizable and professional. It should stand out in your neighborhood for your dedication to excellence—from your logo to your customer service.
Create a memorable brand
A strong brand builds trust and helps customers remember you when they need carpet cleaning. To stick in your neighbors' minds:
- Pick a catchy business name – Pick a name that’s clear, professional, and easy to remember, like “Fresh Start Carpet Care” or “Spotless Solutions.”
- Design a logo – Use simple, clean imagery that conveys professionalism. A logo with blue or green tones can suggest freshness and cleanliness. Consider hiring a designer or using a logo-making tool.
- Craft a tagline – A short, catchy phrase can reinforce your brand, like: Deep Clean, Fresh Feel or Bringing Life Back to Your Carpet.
- Choose uniforms and vehicle branding – Matching polos, branded hats, and a professionally wrapped service van boost credibility. Customers should instantly recognize your team when you arrive.
Digital marketing strategies
Your online presence is often the first impression potential customers will have of your local business. To make it count:
- Build a credible website – A simple, mobile-friendly website should include services offered, pricing (or a free quote form), customer testimonials (including before/after photos), online booking options, and contact information. A blog with carpet care tips can also help boost search rankings.
- Leverage social media – Regularly post cleaning tips, customer success stories, and promotions to engage your neighbors and entice them to use your services.
- Get on Nextdoor – Many homeowners trust Nextdoor to find reliable local services. Set up a business profile, encourage satisfied customers to leave recommendations, and participate in community discussions. Lexie Choate-Bewley of Skin by Lexie, for example, leveraged her Nextdoor Business Page to share available appointment times and rack up positive reviews, which built her customer base to 900 regulars.
Local marketing ideas
Beyond digital marketing techniques, word-of-mouth and local presence go a long way in attracting customers. For example, you can:
- Distribute flyers and door hangers – Target neighborhoods with high carpet use, such as family-friendly communities and apartment complexes. Include an exclusive discount code for first-time customers or leverage Local Deals on Nextdoor.
- Partner with realtors and property managers – Offer move-in/move-out cleaning services for rental properties or homes for sale. Leave brochures in real estate offices.
- Network on Nextdoor – Engage with homeowners by answering questions about carpet care, offering neighborhood-exclusive deals, and joining local service provider lists.
Step 7 - Secure your first clients and scale your business
Getting your first clients is an exciting step in building your carpet cleaning business—and it’s only the beginning.
Build your base by:
Starting small
Your first clients will likely be friends, family, and neighbors. Offer discounted services or free trials via Nextdoor to build your reputation and gather positive reviews.
Growing your client base
Word-of-mouth is crucial for service-based businesses. Encourage referrals by offering:
- Loyalty programs with discounts for repeat customers
- Referral incentives—like a free cleaning session for every three referrals
Scaling your operations
Once demand grows, expand by:
- Hiring employees or subcontractors
- Adding new services like upholstery or tile cleaning
- Expanding to new service areas
- Partnering with property management companies
Clean up carpets and sweep in profits with Nextdoor
Starting a carpet cleaning business offers financial independence and growth potential. With proper planning, training, and marketing, you can establish a profitable local business that serves homeowners and commercial properties in your community.
Stay committed to providing excellent service, continuously refine your marketing efforts, and leverage platforms like Nextdoor to connect with local customers.
Ready to launch your carpet cleaning business? Create a free Nextdoor Business Page today to start connecting with potential clients in your area.
Sources:
- Zip Recruiter. Cleaning Business Owner Salary. https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Cleaning-Business-Owner-Salary--in-Colorado
- Verified Market Research. Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning Services Market Size And Forecast. https://www.verifiedmarketresearch.com/product/carpet-and-upholstery-cleaning-services-market/
- Nextdoor. Local Deals Brings in New Customers for Portland Business. https://business.nextdoor.com/en-us/resources/success-stories/local-deals-brings-in-new-customers-for-portland-business
- Home Depot. Types of Carpet. https://www.homedepot.com/c/ab/types-of-carpet/9ba683603be9fa5395fab90fd2f5a2b
- Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification. Your Education Matters. https://iicrc.org/iicrccertifications/.
- Carpet and Rug Institute. Seal of Approval Program. https://carpet-rug.org/testing/seal-of-approval-program/.
- United States Small Business Administration. Choose a Business Structure. https://www.sba.gov/business-guide/launch-your-business/choose-business-structure
- United States Small Business Administration. Get Business Insurance. https://www.sba.gov/business-guide/launch-your-business/get-business-insurance
- Nextdoor. Glowing Success: Nextdoor recommendations help 'Skin by Lexie' turn into a local beauty phenomenon. https://business.nextdoor.com/en-us/resources/success-stories/glowing-success-nextdoor-recommendations-help-skin-by-lexie-turn-into-a-local-beauty-phenomenon
