Insights from a Cleaning Expert
Whenever I seek answers to specific questions, I often turn to the experts in the field. With the overwhelming amount of information available on various topics, consulting those who are actively engaged in a particular area tends to yield more accurate and practical insights than hours of research. Today, I have the pleasure of introducing you to Stacey, a professional cleaning expert who embarked on her journey in the janitorial business at a young age and successfully transformed it into a thriving half-million-dollar enterprise. Stacey shares her knowledge through her blog at ajanitorsstory.com and is dedicated to helping aspiring entrepreneurs establish their own successful cleaning businesses. I was eager to glean some of her valuable tips and tricks, so Stacey kindly agreed to answer a few questions for me. Read on to discover her insights!
Stacey, could you tell us a bit about yourself and what sparked your passion for cleaning?
I began my cleaning journey because I was raised with an entrepreneurial mindset, and I had a strong desire to achieve independence and avoid living at home with my mom! Cleaning came naturally to me as a child; everything about it felt simple, even calming. This ease made it a logical choice for me to turn it into a business. I officially incorporated my business at the age of nineteen, back in 1993, with my mom handling the paperwork for me. I started out by cleaning offices during the evenings and on weekends. By the time I was 24, I was earning six figures, leading a team mostly comprised of older staff. At 27, I met my soulmate, and we started a family, welcoming three boys into our lives. Fast forward through nearly two decades of marriage and 27 years of business ownership, and I am now on the verge of retiring. My current goal is to empower aspiring entrepreneurs to launch and grow their house and office cleaning businesses through my website at ajanitorsstory.com.
What do you think is a common mistake people make when cleaning their homes?
Many people clean their floors incorrectly. This often results in streaks, dust, or hair being left behind, and sometimes they use the wrong cleaners or cleaning methods.
Which cleaning product do you consider essential?
I can’t live without Dawn or Gain dish detergent combined with rubbing alcohol. The dish soap effectively removes grease, while alcohol acts as a sanitizer. These DIY products are favorites among many professionals due to their simplicity and cost-effectiveness. Most importantly, they get the job done without causing any damage! 😊 I recommend filling a 16 oz spray bottle with about 10 oz of water, adding several drops of Dawn (or a natural dish detergent of your choice), and then filling the rest of the bottle with rubbing alcohol. You should notice the scent of isopropyl alcohol. Spray the surface and let it sit for about 10 minutes for optimal results. For printable DIY cleaners that truly work, as well as my Speed Cleaning for the Bathroom checklist, be sure to check out the FREE Resource Library!
Can you share three of your favorite time-saving cleaning tips?
- When changing bed linens, remove the dirty ones and put on the fresh ones simultaneously. There’s a trick to it!
- If something needs to soak, do that at the start of your cleaning routine.
- Using microfiber cloths on floors sometimes eliminates the need to vacuum first. Always vacuum your floors; never rely on a broom!
Bonus tip: Start the laundry first!
What is your favorite strategy to keep your home in tip-top shape between professional cleanings?
Use a squeegee on shower walls and glass after every shower! Wipe down the grease from the stovetop after each cooking session, and remember to never wear outdoor shoes inside the house!
Have you recently altered your regular cleaning routine?
Next week will mark the introduction of enhanced precautions for my staff and me. We will be wearing face masks and gloves at all times. No snacking while cleaning—even a piece of candy is off-limits! Additionally, cell phone use will be restricted; my staff can only wear earbuds if necessary. Regardless of whether customers pay extra for it, we will be sanitizing all doorknobs and light switches, which is not always standard practice. Furthermore, we will be more diligent in washing our hands with soap and water and carrying pocket-sized sanitizing spray.
What advice would you offer to a potential customer considering a cleaning service?
- Obtain three estimates and opt for the middle price. You cannot gauge the quality of a cleaning service based solely on price, as rates can vary significantly.
- Select a company that comes highly recommended.
- Be understanding and communicate your needs clearly. Let them know your expectations upfront. Remember, professional cleaning services are not miracle workers; they need to understand your priorities.
- Make an effort to resolve any issues before switching to another cleaning service.
Currently, Stacey is offering a discounted price for her 5-Day DEEP Cleaning Handbook to my readers. It’s an excellent resource for cleaning side hustlers and small business owners to enhance their services. This handbook teaches how to perform Spring cleaning and detailed cleaning for current clients, ensuring they maintain a healthy and safe home or commercial space during any viral outbreak.
Wasn’t that informative? I’m grateful to Stacey for taking the time to share her expertise with us. Now, if only I could convince the men in my house to remove their shoes at the door! If you have any special cleaning tips or strategies, please share them in the comments below or post them in our Facebook group!
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