Cleaning Business Supplies List: Essentials for Residential & Commercial Jobs

When you’re starting your cleaning business, having all the right cleaning supplies for cleaning business operations from day one makes it easier to work efficiently and build a reputation that leads to repeat customers and referrals.

Whether you’re creating a cleaning business starter kit for your first clients or building a complete inventory for a growing company, knowing which tools and products to prioritize can save you time and money.

In this guide, you’ll find a comprehensive house and commercial cleaning supplies list, as well as recommendations for assembling a practical starter kit that can grow alongside your business. Download our pre-made checklist to make your shopping a breeze.

You may also want to separate your needs into two categories:

1. Minimum viable kit: A setup sufficient for routine residential cleaning and recurring maintenance services.
2. Full professional kit: This kit allows you to offer higher-value services, improve efficiency, and take on larger commercial contracts.
   

Residential vs commercial: what changes?

The supplies needed to start a cleaning business depend on the type of cleaning services you offer. The supplies for residential cleaning and commercial cleaning often overlap. That said, commercial and janitorial jobs often require additional equipment and products.

Residential cleaning focuses on kitchens, bathrooms, bedrooms, and living spaces, so versatility and surface-safe products are most important. A professional house cleaning supplies list would mainly include the basics—a mop, bucket, broom, and all-purpose cleaners.

Commercial cleaning involves larger floor areas, higher traffic levels, stricter sanitation requirements, and more frequent cleaning schedules. As a result, commercial cleaning supplies lists often include heavier-duty janitorial equipment and specialized disinfecting products.

READ MORE: How to start a commercial cleaning business

1. Mop and bucket (including wet mops and dry mops)

A reliable mop and bucket help you easily clean everything from tile to hardwood floor. To avoid cross-contamination and get longer life out of your equipment, keep a few separate mop heads for different areas.

Using a bucket on wheels also reduces extra effort and helps you get from room to room more quickly.

2. Whisk broom and dustpan

Choose a portable, sturdy broom and dustpan that can stand up to repeated use. Opt for a snap-on design to keep dust contained while you move around a job site.

3. Lobby broom

A professional-grade lobby broom is great for large spaces (like hallways or lobbies) and won’t absorb odors or stains.

4. Dusters (short, long, or extendable)

Use dusters in a variety of spaces, from nooks and crannies to ceiling fan blades. Choose an extendable duster with a washable microfiber head to eliminate the need for a ladder.

5. Vacuum cleaner (with attachments for hardwood and carpet)

A reliable vacuum is essential for any cleaning job site. Choose a reliable brand (like Shark or Dyson) that comes with multiple attachments for corners, upholstery, and stairs.

Since this could be a big initial investment, register your product with the manufacturer for any future repairs or service requests.

6. Microfiber cloths

Microfiber cloths are a versatile, absorbent option for wiping, drying, and polishing most surfaces. Buy a large pack of different colors for different purposes like glass cleaning, general dusting, or other surfaces.

7. Paper towels

Paper towels are a must-have item in your cleaning caddy. Check out your local big box store like Costco or Sam’s Club to find better pricing on paper supplies in bulk.

8. Glass cleaning cloths

Invest in glass-safe cloths that won’t scratch your client’s mirrors and windows. High-quality, lint-free microfiber glass cloths help eliminate streaks and reduce the need for repeated wiping, making your work faster and more professional.

9. Detail cleaning brushes

Detail cleaning brushes are a good backup item to have for small nooks that need deeper cleaning. Some battery-operated brushes are especially useful for scrubbing grout in tile or caulk in showers.

10. Sponges

Grab a few sizes and shapes of basic sponges, including some with non-scratch backing. Sanitize any sponges that you plan to reuse in more than one area.

11. Scrubbers

Scrubbers come in many types, from bristle brushes to spinning pads. Keep a few styles on hand so you’re ready for any surface or level of grimy buildup.

12. Squeegees and T-bars

Use squeegees and T-bars to clean windows and glass without leaving streaks. Choose a commercial-grade option for smoother results on larger windows.

13. Laundry bag (for old rags)

Invest in a durable canvas bag that can handle cleaning solutions, chemicals, and frequent washes. Choose one that’s leak-resistant to keep your vehicle clean when transporting linens.

14. Shoe covers

Wear disposable, non-slip shoe covers on every job to protect clients’ floors and maintain a professional appearance. Keep a few extra pairs in your cleaning kit so you’re always prepared.

15. Spray bottles

Spray bottles are great for storing all-purpose cleaners and concentrated solutions that you need to dilute with water. Be sure to label any bottles that contain chemicals that shouldn’t be mixed together.

16. Trash bags and garbage liners

Keep a variety of bag sizes on hand so you can easily replace them as you clean. Some clients may prefer their own liners or bags, so check beforehand to see if they have a preference.

17. Bucket or container to carry supplies

Use a storage caddy to keep your supplies organized and easy to carry as you go from your car to the job site, or from room to room. This will save you plenty of trips back and forth, keeping you quick and efficient.

Pro tip: Use color-coding to prevent cross-contamination

Preventing cross-contamination is important in bathrooms, kitchens, break rooms, and other high-touch areas where bacteria and viruses can easily transfer from one surface to another. Color-coding your supplies reduces this risk and maintains professional cleaning standards.

Create a consistent system to ensure any cleaning tools used in high-risk areas never come into contact with food preparation surfaces or other sensitive spaces. For example:

Keep these rules of thumb in mind when you’re building your color-coded system:

• Assign one color to each room type during every visit.
• Always switch to a fresh cloth when moving from a bathroom to a kitchen.
• Store dirty microfiber cloths separately from clean supplies.
• Bag used microfiber cloths and mop heads for laundering after each job.
• Label spray bottles by product and surface type (glass cleaner, bathroom cleaner, degreaser, disinfectant, etc.).
• Replace worn or stained microfiber cloths to maintain cleaning performance.
• For cleaning teams, standardize colors across every cleaning caddy so training and procedures remain consistent on every job site.

18. Multipurpose cleaner

Always pack a basic spray that removes surface-level spills, dirt, and grime from most surfaces.

Since many multipurpose cleaners are scented, choose fragrances that are mild and broadly appealing. Be mindful that some clients may have allergies, sensitivities, or preferences for fragrance-free products.

19. Disinfectant spray (or disinfecting wipes)

Use disinfectant spray or wipes to sanitize high-touch areas, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and door handles. These sprays can quickly stop the spread of germs in high-traffic spaces.

20. Glass cleaner

Use a quality glass cleaner to leave windows, mirrors, and other surfaces clear and streak-free. Choose a product that wipes off easily, without leaving a filmy residue.

21. Bathroom cleaner or solution

Choose a bathroom cleaner that removes soap scum and kills germs effectively. Always read labels carefully and avoid mixing products that contain bleach and ammonia.

22. Wood floor cleaner

You can add this solution directly to your wet mopping process in homes or office spaces. When you’re working with hardwood surfaces, always spot test by using a small amount in a hidden area to avoid potential damage or streaking.

23. Carpet cleaner and deodorizers

Use carpet cleaners and deodorizers to lift stains and remove lingering odors, especially in homes with pets. Just make sure the cleaning solution isn’t harmful to children or animals who will be playing on the floor.

24. Air fresheners

Air fresheners help eliminate odors and leave a pleasant scent after cleaning. Always check with clients about allergies or sensitivities before using them throughout a space.

25. Tile and grout cleaner

Tile and grout cleaners break down built-up dirt and residue. A suitable tile and grout cleaner should be pH-balanced and safely formulated to cut through grime without harming grout. Choosing the right formula helps floors and walls look clean and bright again.

26. Mildew and mold removers

Mildew and mold removers eliminate buildup in damp areas, such as bathrooms or basements. Because they can contain strong fragrances, confirm with the client before using them.

27. Toilet cleaner

Toilet cleaners break down grime, stains, and germs in and around the bowl. Apply with a sanitary toilet brush for safe, hands-free cleaning.

28. Furniture polish

Polish restores shine, protects surfaces, and improves the appearance of wood furniture. Before you start, check with clients to see if there are any pieces they want to protect.

29. Baking soda and white vinegar

Use these natural products for an eco-friendly boost. Wipe down sinks, refrigerators, and other surfaces where a client wants to reduce the use of harsh chemicals.

30. Laundry detergent

If you offer laundry services, pick a trusted brand that works for both lights and darks. Check with clients about any skin sensitivities or allergies that will affect your product choice. Double-check whether a special detergent is needed for high-efficiency washing machines.

31. Oven cleaner

Degreases and removes grime from inside an oven (including the grates and glass) faster than scrubbing alone. This product removes loose debris and can prepare the oven for a “self-clean” cycle.

32. Stainless steel cleaners

Some chemical cleaning products leave streaks or prints on stainless steel appliances. A specially targeted appliance or steel cleaner can do this job more effectively.

33. Dishwashing soap

Dishwashing soap helps remove stuck-on food and grease from dishes, sinks, and surfaces. Choose a mild, scent-free formula that’s gentle on hands and safe for most materials.

A few drops of dish soap mixed with warm water also make a great all-purpose cleaner for quick touch-ups.

34. Drain cleaners

Drain cleaners clear buildup and help keep sinks and garbage disposals running smoothly. Choose a gentle, fresh-scented lemon formula for a nice deodorizer.

35. Marble, granite, or quartz cleaner

Some residential clients have specialty countertops like granite or quartz that require specific formulas. Always check with a client if you’re unsure about the specific surface.

36. Plant-based multi-surface cleaner

A plant-based product safely cleans most surfaces without leaving residue or fumes. Use this as a preferred option in homes with kids or pets.

37. Ammonia-free glass cleaner

Ammonia-free glass cleaners give windows and mirrors a streak-free shine without the harsh fumes of traditional options. They’re safer for enclosed spaces and a better choice for clients with allergies or asthma.

38. Fragrance-free dish soap

A gentle, biodegradable option is best for handwashing dishes and rinsing off kitchen surfaces.

Fragrance-free formulas are a good choice because they don’t leave behind lingering scents on dishes, cookware, or food-preparation areas. This can be important for clients with allergies, sensitivities, or strong fragrance preferences.

39. Non-toxic oven cleaner

Non-toxic oven cleaners use natural ingredients to dissolve grease and grime while protecting metal finishes and coatings. They’re a great option if you’re concerned about ventilation.

40. Natural degreaser

A natural degreaser breaks down oily residue on kitchen counters and appliances without using standard chemicals. This can be especially helpful for areas that are more prone to grease, like stovetops and microwaves.

41. Natural fabric softener

Natural fabric softeners use plant-based ingredients to keep laundry soft and fresh without synthetic fragrances or dyes. They’re gentler on fabrics and ideal for clients with sensitive skin.

42. Eco-friendly stain remover

Eco-friendly stain removers target spots and spills with biodegradable ingredients that are tough on stains but safe for fabrics, carpets, and the environment.

43. Push brooms

A push broom makes faster work of big messes. In wide-open areas like lobbies or cafeterias, this broom style helps you cover more ground more quickly.

44. Pressure washers

Use pressure washers on your commercial jobs to quickly clean entrances, awnings, sidewalks, decks, and other surfaces that see lots of foot traffic or wear from the elements.

45. Floor scrubber, buffer, and polisher

These machines clean and polish large floor areas efficiently, making them ideal for commercial spaces. Use the right pad or brush for each floor type to avoid possible damage.

46. Carpet cleaning machine or carpet extractor

Clean and sanitize large carpeted areas, walkways, and common areas quickly. Check the machine guidelines to see if you need a special cleaning solution for it to work properly.

47. Steam cleaners for upholstery or flooring

Steam cleaners use hot water and vapor to lift stains and sanitize surfaces without chemicals. For a commercial job, confirm with the client or site manager that it’s safe to provide this service before using steam on delicate fabrics or flooring.

48. Squeegees and T-bars with extension poles

If you offer window cleaning as an add-on service, bring the right tools to reach large glass areas safely and efficiently. For exterior windows, make sure you also have proper safety gear and business insurance before starting the job.

Pro Tip: If you’re working with an office manager who handles cleaning supply purchases, keep in touch to let them know when your janitorial supply is running low.

Office cleaning supplies list

An effective office cleaning setup focuses on high-traffic maintenance, hygiene, and maintaining a professional appearance in shared spaces. A typical office cleaning supplies list includes:

• Trash liners
• Restroom consumables (toilet paper, paper towels, and soap refills)
• Lobby mats
• Color-coded microfiber system for shared desks and common areas
• Disinfectant wipes or sprays
• Glass cleaner for doors and partitions
• Commercial vacuum or backpack vacuum
• Mop and bucket system for hard floors
• Basic set of restroom cleaning chemicals for sinks and toilets

Should you supply the cleaning products?

For the most part, you should supply your own cleaning products. Bringing your own supplies is more convenient for your customers and helps you:

• Look more professional and organized.
• Charge more for your cleanings because customers are paying for added convenience.
• Clean faster and more effectively with products you’re familiar with and trust.
• Know what belongs to you and what should stay in the home or job site (to avoid unnecessary mistakes and mixups).

If a customer insists you use their cleaning products, ask for a list of all their supplies so you can check that they have enough for you to complete the job.

Make a note for that client on your online job portal or cleaning business app so that you can remember in the future, or pass along their preference to your team of cleaners next time.

Here are a few examples of when it might be best to supply your own products vs using a client’s products:

Finally, set a clear restock cadence, which is how often supplies are replenished based on job volume and usage. This helps you avoid running out of key products and keeps your workflow consistent across every cleaning appointment.

READ MORE: How to price commercial cleaning jobs

Equipment vs supplies: what’s the difference?

Your cleaning business relies on both equipment and supplies, but they serve very different purposes:

• Equipment refers to durable, long-term assets (capital equipment) like vacuums, mop systems, and tools that are used repeatedly over time. You invest in it once and maintain it over time.
• Supplies, on the other hand, are consumables such as cleaning chemicals, microfiber cloths, and paper products. You continuously consume them on every job and need to replenish them regularly after use.

49. Disposable latex gloves

Disposable gloves are ideal for handling general cleaning products and quick jobs where frequent changes are needed. They’re also helpful in settings where you won’t want to reuse the gloves when you’re done, like particularly dirty bathrooms.

50. Reusable rubber gloves

Reusable rubber gloves protect your hands from harsh chemicals, hot water, and tough scrubbing. They’re durable enough for long cleaning sessions, and you can safely reuse them.

51. Plastic goggles or face shields

Goggles and face shields keep your eyes protected from splashes, dust, and debris. They’re especially useful when handling strong cleaners or using outdoor equipment where safety risks are higher.

52. Aprons or coveralls

Aprons and coveralls protect your clothing from spills, splashes, and dirt while keeping you looking professional. Choose lightweight, washable materials for quick changes.

53. Non-slip shoes

A good pair of well-fitting shoes reduces the risk of slips and falls on wet surfaces. This is a smart investment for cleaners, since slips, trips and falls lead to hundreds of thousands of minor workplace incidents every year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

54. Safety signage

Use wet floor and caution signs to keep everyone safe during and after cleaning. This is especially important in commercial or business spaces where foot traffic is higher.

Depending on your cleaning license requirements, this also helps avoid liability in the case of an accident—which is good news for your cleaning business insurance policy.

55. Basic first aid kit

Keep a well-stocked kit with bandages, antiseptic wipes, and other essentials on hand for minor accidents or chemical splashes.

Pro Tip: Regularly inspect your PPE for wear and tear, and train your team on how to use and store safety gear properly to stay compliant with OSHA standards.

56. Flyers, brochures, and postcards

Printed marketing materials and cleaning business flyers are a simple way to promote your services, pricing, and special promos in local neighborhoods. Hand them out or mail them to homeowners to increase your brand visibility.

57. Business website

A cleaning business website helps people learn about your services, check your availability, and contact you whenever they need cleaning.

Keep your service details, pricing, photos, and booking options easy to find and up to date. If you use printed materials like business cards or flyers, include your website URL or handy QR codes that link to your site.

58. Door hangers and direct mail

Promote your services directly in residential neighborhoods or apartment complexes. Direct mail helps you expand your reach within neighborhoods you’re already active in, so that you can efficiently get from one job to the next, saving time and fuel.

Or, use postcards to promote seasonal deals or referral programs. With Jobber and PostcardMania, send direct mail to your client list, or turn neighbors into customers, and you see up to 9x the response rate of email alone.

59. Vehicle decals or wraps

Turn your vehicle into a moving advertisement with a professionally designed vehicle wrap. Add your logo, contact information, and a clear message so potential clients can spot and remember your brand.

60. Scheduling and client management

A platform like Jobber makes booking new jobs and sending invoices simple and hassle-free. By using a central platform, you’ll also have everything you need to communicate with clients and team members more efficiently.

61. Lead generation platforms

Lead generation platforms connect homeowners with cleaning pros in a specific area or neighborhood. As a business owner, you’ll get relevant alerts when there’s a new cleaning job that you can bid on.

For example, Thumbtack connects with Jobber to help you convert leads into paying customers. After Thumbtack matches you with the jobs you want, you can seamlessly manage these customers in Jobber, and track jobs from start to finish.

62. Estimating software

Quoting software like Jobber helps you build accurate, professional quotes by breaking costs into clear line items. You can include supply costs—such as cleaning chemicals, consumables, or equipment use—directly in your estimate so clients see exactly what they’re paying for.

Jobber also lets you add optional as separate line items, allowing customers to select add-ons like laundry service or eco-friendly cleaning supplies when approving their quote online.

63. Cleaning checklists

Cleaning business software with job checklists can help standardize your cleaning process so every property is cleaned to the same professional standard.

You can build a professional house cleaning checklist to guide residential jobs, ensuring tasks like bathrooms, kitchens, and dusting are completed consistently across every visit.

For larger contracts, a commercial cleaning checklist keeps office and janitorial work organized by breaking out each cleaning task into zones such as restrooms, lobbies, and workspaces.

These checklists improve efficiency, reduce missed steps, and make it easier to train staff as your cleaning business grows.

64. Accounting software

Use reliable accounting software like QuickBooks Online to manage expenses, invoices, and payroll while tracking mileage and deductions automatically. QuickBooks also integrates with Jobber to keep your customer, payment, and financial data synced without extra work.

If you want to streamline estimates, scheduling, and job checklists as your cleaning business grows, explore how Jobber supports cleaning professionals.

Together, these tools and supplies help your cleaning business run smoothly behind the scenes so that you can focus on delivering spotless results and amazing service every time.

With the right prep and organization, you’ll work more efficiently, feel confident on every job, and set up your business for long-term growth.

Originally published in December 2023. Last updated on June 19, 2026.