Episode 1299 – Why most cleaning companies plateau at $10-$25K/ mo and how to break through
Why do so many cleaning business owners get stuck between $10K–$25K/month? In this episode, Mike Campion breaks down the real reasons—and spoiler alert, it’s not just about getting more clients. From fixing your financial foundation to simplifying your scheduling, Mike and Lindsay share the hard truths (and simple fixes) that help cleaning companies grow. They also tackle common mistakes like switching to commercial cleaning for the wrong reasons and waiting too long to raise prices. If you’re ready to stop spinning your wheels, this one’s for you. Listen now and get unstuck for good!
Why Cleaning Companies Get Stuck (And How to Get Unstuck!)
Most cleaning business owners hit a wall somewhere between $10,000 and $25,000 a month. Mike Campion, the host of Grow My Cleaning Company, says it’s super common—and totally fixable. In this episode, Mike and Lindsay dive into why this happens and how to bust through that ceiling.
Don’t Grow a Broken Business
One big mistake people make? Trying to grow without fixing the money stuff first. Mike explains that a lot of businesses are built on shaky numbers. People think more clients will solve everything, but if the business isn’t profitable now, more clients could just mean more problems. Mike teaches a simple money plan: 45% to cleaner pay, 25% to overhead, and 30% profit.
Scheduling Is Not a Monster
Matt asked how to fix his scheduling mess, and Mike jumped in with tough love. Most of the time, scheduling isn’t the real problem—it’s that you’re understaffed. Mike says people often hire just enough for when things go perfectly, but that never happens! You need more great people all the time. Once that’s handled, Lindsay suggests using a simple color-coded spreadsheet to keep track of cleaners and jobs. Boom—less stress.
Commercial Isn’t a Magic Wand
Sasha wanted to switch from residential to commercial cleaning, thinking that would solve her problems. Mike says hold up! The type of client isn’t always the issue. The real question is: What kind of client helps you hit your goals? Moving into a new area or changing services won’t help if the real problem is deeper—like pricing, hiring, or systems.
Raise Prices Based on Math, Not Guilt
Last up, Brittany asked about raising prices. She hadn’t increased hers in 3 years. Mike says don’t base that on time—base it on profitability. If a client’s job costs too much to do, raise the price. And if they quit, that’s okay. Run your business with clear numbers, not just feelings. Mike’s motto? Data, not drama.