Interested In A Cleaning Franchise? - Well Polished Franchises

The Cleaning Industry

The cleaning industry is an excellent option for anyone considering a franchise, offering a stable and recession-resistant business model with consistent demand. Whether it’s commercial spaces requiring professional upkeep or households seeking convenient cleaning solutions, the need for reliable, high-quality cleaning services is universal and ongoing. As a franchisee, you’ll benefit from entering a well-established market with a proven system, strong brand support, and scalable growth opportunities. The cleaning industry is versatile, allowing you to choose between commercial or domestic services depending on your interests, skills, and financial goals. With the potential for strong earnings and the flexibility to build a business that aligns with your lifestyle, it’s a smart choice for aspiring business owners looking for a profitable and sustainable venture.

Why a Cleaning Franchise?

Keeping it simple, a franchise is a business opportunity that allows the franchisee (possibly you) to start a business by legally using someone else’s (the franchisor’s) expertise, ideas, and processes.

The franchise industry now contributes over £15 billion pounds to the UK economy. You’ve probably heard of some big names franchises, such as McDonalds, Subway and Dominos. But there are thousands of franchise opportunities throughout the UK… so why is buying a franchise proving so popular?

Success Rates

One question many people ask is “why would I pay for a franchise, when I can just start my own business for free?” And it’s a great question, with an even better answer!

90% of franchises report profitability in the first 2 years, compared to 50% of independent businesses going bust in the first 2 years.

The beauty of a franchise is that the business model has already been tried, tested and proven. A reputable franchisor will be able to provide you with facts, figures and franchisee testimonials to confirm the profitability and sustainability of their franchise.

Commercial or Domestic

The key difference between a commercial cleaning franchise and a domestic cleaning franchise lies in their target markets and operational focus. A commercial cleaning franchise primarily serves businesses and organisations, providing cleaning services for offices, retail spaces, warehouses, and other commercial premises. These franchises often operate on larger contracts, working outside regular business hours, and focus on maintaining professional, hygienic environments that meet industry standards.

In contrast, a domestic cleaning franchise caters to private households, offering cleaning services tailored to individual needs, such as regular home cleaning, deep cleaning, or specialist services. Domestic franchises emphasise trust, personalisation, and flexibility to align with clients’ lifestyles.

How To Choose Which Franchise Suits You Best?

Choosing between a commercial cleaning franchise and a domestic cleaning franchise depends on an individual’s skills, preferences, and long-term goals. Those who thrive in structured, large-scale operations and enjoy building professional relationships may find a commercial cleaning franchise more appealing, as it involves managing contracts, teams, and schedules for businesses, often leading to higher revenue potential.

Conversely, individuals who prefer a more personal touch, enjoy working directly with clients, and value flexibility might opt for a domestic cleaning franchise, which caters to households and allows for a more hands-on, customer-focused approach.

Work Life Balance V Earnings Potential

Whilst a domestic cleaning franchise may give you a better work-life balance, a commercial cleaning franchise generally boasts the higher earnings potential. But that’s not to say you can’t earn good money with a domestic franchise, and that you can’t have a work life balance with a commercial franchise!

For example, at Well Polished, we have domestic franchisees generating in excess of £10,000 per month. And in Welpol, we have franchisees operating businesses with up to £1M annual turnover. We also have franchisees on the commercial side ensuring their work life balance is protected, by outsourcing areas of the operation to employees and supervisors.

Which Should I Choose?

Both the commercial and domestic cleaning industries are experiencing significant growth, driven by increasing demand for reliable, high-quality cleaning services.

In the commercial sector, businesses are prioritising hygiene and cleanliness more than ever, creating lucrative opportunities for cleaning franchises to secure ongoing contracts with offices, retail spaces, and industrial facilities. Meanwhile, the domestic cleaning market is booming as busy households seek professional help to maintain clean and comfortable living environments, fuelled by trends in convenience and outsourcing.

Both franchise opportunities offer entrepreneurs a pathway to tap into thriving industries, backed by proven business models and growing customer bases, making them attractive, profitable ventures for individuals looking to own a successful business.