Cleaning Products & Clothing

9.2: Clothing: Should You Brand Your Clothes?

Whether or not you need to brand your clothes as a cleaner depends on how you are operating your business.

If you are primarily working for other people, you should not wear branded clothes.

Wearing branded clothes when performing work for others can confuse the client. However, if you have your own business to promote, wearing branded clothes is necessary.

You may be concerned that branded clothes are expensive, however, that is not the case. Prices will vary between suppliers, but a t-shirt printed with your logo on it can cost from as little as £3. In addition, you can purchase pinafores and sweaters for between £5 and £10.

Having your own logo presents a professional branding presence, and does not have to be costly. You can design logos for free online or use a site like Fiverr to keep the costs low. Taking a price-savvy approach allows you to look professional, for less.

If you do choose to brand your clothes, make sure the logo matches other elements of your business branding. This should include any signs you use on your van, logos used on your website, and business cards.

Consistency is key to maintaining your brand's identity.

Before you consider purchasing cleaning products you need to locate a wholesale source. Doing this ensures you do not spend more than you need to. The more you purchase your products from supermarkets rather than wholesalers, the less profit you make.

Bleach

Every cleaner needs industrial bleach.

You may not use it on many surfaces, but it is most effective for toilets, floors, and cleaning in commercial areas. With the exceptions of cleaning a toilet or unclogging a sink, you will not use bleach in its purest/undiluted form.

All-Purpose Cleaner

All-purpose cleaner is another must-have product.

You can use it on multiple surfaces, it usually smells great, and it kills bacteria. You can purchase this cleaner in bulk, but try to focus on finding one that has a great smell rather than just plumping for any old type. Leaving great smells behind leaves a smile on your customers' faces.

De-Greasers

Ovens and hobs are particularly prone to grease.

Unfortunately, all-purpose cleaner will not work at removing this grease. You will need to invest in a little degreaser, for these tougher jobs.

Bicarbonate of Soda

You may associate bicarbonate of soda with baking, but you should not underestimate its amazing powers when it comes to cleaning.

You can use bicarbonate of soda to tackle dried on food, lift stains, unblock sinks, and remove lime-scale. As with cleaning products, try a wholesaler to buy bicarbonate of soda in bulk. When you have it in your cleaning kit, you will be glad you made the effort.

Vinegar or Lemon Juice

Vinegar and lemon juice are both excellent for cleaning glass.

They also add a little shine to any metal surfaces, but dilute them to avoid corrosion.

Glass Cleaner

If you are not using the green cleaning approach, which is where vinegar and lemon come in handy, try a glass cleaner.

You can use glass cleaner on windows and mirrors.

Polishes

There are many different types of polish available, which can be confusing.

Brass polish and furniture polish are most necessary for cleaners. They tackle almost everything and ensure best end results.

Essential Cleaning Instruments for Cleaners

You may have the best cleaning products but you will not get far without the right equipment/tools.

You do not always have to buy the most expensive or fanciest equipment. However, it does help to purchase items that are industrial strength, as they will last longer.

Disposables

Obviously bin bags and disposable gloves are single-use items. However, it is more difficult to determine how often you use soft sponges and soft cloths. Use your common sense here; make sure you soak each one in hot water and an antibacterial solution between jobs. When it is looking worn, it is time to change it.

Cleaning Basics

In addition, you may also wish to take some larger cleaning items along with you.