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How to Start a $500K/Year Auto Repair Shop (2024)

November 17, 2022

Are you great with cars but have no idea how to open a mechanic shop? Don’t worry! We’re going to show you how to open a mechanic shop.

Lucky Sing started his car repair business, Lucky’s Auto Repair, with $20,000 in 2016 and earns twice that every month. He shared business advice, technology costs, unique marketing strategies he uses, and how to delight your customers.

Get ready to learn how to start a mechanic shop.

Develop Repair Shop Knowledge

Before you start an auto repair shop, you’ll want to learn about the mechanic shop business. You’ll need to develop both industry knowledge and technical skills. We’ll look at each of them to help you prepare to open your own auto repair business.

Industry Information

You’ll want to understand how auto repair shop owners operate, what types of challenges they face, and the financial considerations that go into running an automotive repair shop. We use IBIS World for our data on industries because it provides all the information you need for competitor analysis in one place. You can find auto mechanics under the report for NAICS code 81111.

Major Players

Automobile repair shops have a lot of competition. They have seven major competitors that operate in their field.

  1. TravelCenters of America 
  2. Monro 
  3. TBC Corporation
  4. Love’s Travel Stops & Country Stores, Inc.
  5. Meineke Car Care Centers, LLC
  6. The Boyd Group Inc.
  7. NationaLease

In addition, they may also compete with:

  • New car dealerships
  • Oil changes services
  • Used car dealerships
  • Automotive part supply shops

These major players account for over 7% of the market share and $5.6 billion of the $78.4 billion industry revenue and $417.7 million out of the $4.9 billion revenue. The highest profit margins for the companies are approximately 7.7%. 

The rest of the revenue and profits are shared by approximately 278,000 businesses.

Automobile Repair Shop Revenue

The average auto repair shop makes $261,870.50 per year, while the revenue per employee tends to be between $115K and $132K per employee. Assuming you start by yourself, you might make about $10,000 per month. Check out the breakdown of what services generate the most revenue:

Screenshot of IBISWorld website

You should also be aware that businesses and consumers under 45 years old generate the most revenue.

Lucky Sing told us he was on track to make over $500,000 with three employees in 2022. That means he was making around $125,000 per employee (including himself).

Operating Expenses

The operating expenses for auto repair businesses break down into the following:

  • Other Costs: 46.7% (includes taxes, IT, professional services, repairs, and miscellaneous). Based on my reading of the entire report, it appears that parts are the majority of this. You should expect parts to be $1 out of every $3 earned on parts, but if you can reduce this to $1 in every $4, it will increase profits to triple the market average. That’s why an auto repair shop needs to call multiple vendors for the best price.
  • Wages: 28.1% (Lucky says more like $40K per mechanic)
  • Purchases: 9.5% equipment and tools
  • Rent: 4.7%
  • Marketing: 1.9%
  • Depreciation: 1.6%
  • Utilities: 1.2%

Industry expenses breakdown pie chart

That is how car repair shops make 6.3% after tax profit.

Profit Margins 

Profit margins for automobile businesses tend to be around 6.3%, but excluding the seven major players decreases to 6.16%. That means you are looking at $6,160 for every $100K in revenue. That’s consistent with what Lucky told us:

(My profits are) around 10%. We could pull higher, but we are investing a lot in the business.

Check out our interview with Lucky below:

He collects a salary now, but he didn’t for the first few years. He told us

Profits started coming in during years three and four. I live on the property, so I Iived under my means.

He also told us he aims for no profits because:

I was taught by an accountant that you want to get as close to zero profit as possible to avoid taxes.

Obviously independent shops can beat the industry average profit margin. Later, we’ll share some of the strategies Lucky uses to get his high profit margins. Next, we’ll discuss what he does with the profits from his automotive repair shop.

What do you do with profits?

Man working in an auto mechanic shop

When we asked what mechanic shops do with business profits, Lucky told us:

Reinvest in (the) business and hiking and camping.

He also told us that his auto repair shop’s busiest months are June, July, and August, and the winters are slower. He warned that there were years he had to pay for payroll out of savings:

I had to pull out of my slush fund for payroll during some years.

So don’t spend it all on a fat bonus after you pay quarterly taxes.

Educate Yourself

There are three ways to educate yourself on how to repair cars and provide maintenance services:

  1. Teach yourself to repair cars with YouTube videos.
  2. Attend technical school.
  3. Get a job at an auto mechanic shop.

No matter which you choose, Lucky emphasized the importance of getting your hands in the vehicle and learning to do it firsthand.

YouTube Videos About Cars

Screenshot of 1A Auto from YouTube website

There are a ton of tutorials about engine repair, transmission repairs, auto-body repair, and anything else you could possibly want to know before opening a mechanic shop. There are more than 19,000 videos created by the top five channels when I search auto repairs on YouTube. I’m particularly impressed with 1A Auto’s playlists grouped by type of car.

Lucky told us:

Just keep pushing your boundaries. There are so many tutorials.

Technical School

Lucky had a lot to say about going to a tech school. He went to one and told us:

Going to the tech school really honed my fundamentals with electrical fundamentals.

He emphasized that he developed car repair and maintenance skills that would have been much more difficult to learn if you took the do-it-yourself shop approach.

I would push school quite a bit. You can do it without school, but you won’t get the knowledge of the more sophisticated tech.

His repair shop even invests in ongoing education for his mechanics. He told us:

We’re constantly going to classes…We go to out-of-town shops and train our auto mechanics on new tech and customer service.

He even recommended a company he suggests mechanic shop owners use:

There’s a company called Elite Worldwide that we use.

If the investment in education doesn’t sound like the route for you, you can consider developing experience as an employee of an auto body shop, becoming an oil change mechanic, or finding a tire place to start developing experience. It will get your foot in the door, but it’s quicker if you go to technical school to learn more about the auto mechanic business.

Get a Job as a Mechanic

Screenshot of auto mechanic job from Indeed website

Small businesses across the country are suffering from an employment shortage. In fact, there are nearly 285,000 automotive jobs available on Indeed. You just have to reach out to auto mechanic shops and find one that will let you start. You are sure to find one looking for local car mechanics.

Do you need a mechanic license to open a shop?

You’ll need to get state and local business licenses. Still, if you’re wondering about a specific certification that states you know about car repair, most states don’t require that to start a small mechanic shop. Next has an article with state-by-state shop mechanic and repair shop certifications required for licensing.

You might want to consider some of the certifications for your mechanic garage because they certify that you know how to perform repairs. Car repair certifications are normally through three agencies:

  • Automotive Service Excellence Certification (ASE): The ASE offers 58 Certifications for techs. They also offer a Blue Seal certification for shops with at least 75% ASE-certified techs and at least one ASE technician for each service. This gives you a high-quality backlink to your website, marketing materials, and more.
  • I-Car Gold Class Certification: Shop owners might want to consider I-Car Gold certification if their car repair shop wants to be an automobile repair center. The certifications are a multi-year process that requires the majority of employees to be trained in specific vehicle repair shop knowledge.
  • AAA Approved Auto Repair Facility: Triple A has really high requirements to become a certified repair shop for cars. You’ll need ASE certified technicians, a high Better Business Bureau rating, a 94% customer satisfaction rating based on a survey of mechanic garage clients, and more. Given each AAA site is different by region, this link or this one by region might be more direct. I got my information from RepairesHub.

Next, let’s look at planning a new business.

Business Plan for an Auto Repair Shop

You’ll have lots to keep track of, so it helps to write an auto repair shop business plan. The business plan helps you organize your thoughts and present them clearly and convincingly. The document shows:

  1. Services Offered
  2. Business Structure and Licensing Needed
  3. Startup Costs
  4. Ongoing Expenses
  5. Pricing Strategy
  6. Location
  7. Marketing

The business plan should guide you to success in the future and help you keep track of everything you have to accomplish. Check out our business plan template to help you write a more formal business plan.

What services will you offer?

mechanic guy working on a car brakes

Small business owners have a variety of services they can offer when they open their own car repair shop. Some of the auto repair services to consider offering potential customers include:

  • Routine Maintenance: Every new car has a maintenance schedule, which is 31% of revenue for the industry.
  • Powertrain Repair: These focus on engines, transmission, axles, and wheels. They generate 18.1% of industry revenues. Lucky told us these are the highest profit margins. 
  • Brake Repair: Brakes must be replaced every 10K to 20K miles and rotors every 70kK. 17.4% of industry revenue is from brake work.
  • Alignment Repair: Alignments focus on parts like wheels and axles that help the vehicle drive in a straight line. Makes up 8.1% of industry revenue.
  • Electrical Repairs: Electric work focuses on the electrical system like alarm equipment at 6.4%. 
  • Heating/AC Repairs: This work involves components that keep the car warm or cold, and 4.9% of revenue comes from these services.
  • Muffler and Exhaust Repairs: These services repair parts regarding the emissions system. These may also include government required inspections. Without these parts, a car will be polluting the environment more than necessary. These repairs are 3.5% of industry revenue.
  • Other Services: If it doesn’t fit neatly in one of the other categories, the service is thrown in here. It makes up 10.6% of revenue industry wide.

Lucky told us:

The highest margins are on the biggest jobs like engine swaps.

Some other options for a car repair shop include:

  • Mobile Mechanic Business: Go to people’s sites and fix their cars.
  • Mechanic Workshop: This term is normally a synonym for a repair shop, but you could also turn it into a classroom environment or space where D-I-Y mechanics can go to work on their cars.
  • Parts Supply: Sell automotive parts to other shops and D-I-Yers.
  • Collision Repair: Specifically focus on fixing cars that were in wrecks.

How Much Does It Cost to Open a Mechanic Shop?

Automotive shop with tools and equipment

You’ll need to invest some money in purchasing equipment and business licenses to start a car shop. Lucky has an interesting story about how he started his business:

Got my lifelong goal of owning a Skyline GTR. I got the car, drove a few years. Something was lacking in my life, I wanted to start a business, and I kept thinking about how to get the funding. I kept coming to selling the car, and finally decided to do it.

While the way he started his business with a unique source of funding, he estimated the cost to start today would be:

$20K, but I’m also on my own property. Probably twice that because of inflation.

He also told us:

Having good credit is huge.

Let’s look at the startup costs.

Breakdown of Startup Costs

You’ll need to invest in the following items before starting an auto repair shop:

  • Limited Liability Company (LLC) or Corporation: $1,000 or less in most states. Both an LLC and a Corporation separate personal assets from business assets as long as you have a business bank account. Check out our blog about business structures to learn more.
  • Business Licenses: $200 to $3,000. You’ll have to check with your state, county, and city governments for exact pricing and licensing requirements. Learn how to get a business license.
  • General Liability Insurance: $500 to $3,000 per year. Alternatively, you can choose the next option:
  • Business Owner Policy: $500 to $3,000 per year. Combines general liability and commercial property insurance. Make sure to purchase insurance. Check out Simply Business for easy to purchase plans.
  • Workers Compensation: $500 to $4,000 per year, median $1,667. 
  • Commercial Auto Insurance: Median cost $778 per year. (All insurance pricing is based on this Insureon blog.)
  • Specialty Tools: Rates vary, but you can rent many tools from Autozone until you can afford to buy them.
  • Diagnostic Tools: $25 to $10K+. Used to test the vehicles to see what codes and issues they are having. It can also be used for tuning. High end or Affordable options are available. Obviously the high end ones have more features and precision.
  • Professional Lift: $5,000 to $40,000 depending on height and weight requirements.
  • Parts budget: Rates vary, and new parts can cost from $15 for brake pads to $20,000+ for some engines. 
  • Shop: $1,750+ a month for rent and utilities.
  • Total: $10,753 to $100K+ for all items as shown here.
  • How to start a mechanic shop at home

Some states may allow you to start auto repair shops from home, but you’ll need to check state and city rules in your area. More often than not, apartment complexes have specific rules against it, as do many homeowners associations.

You can cut the cost down to probably $5K for those wondering how to start a mechanic shop from home.

What permits do I need to open a mechanic shop?

Auto mechanic shop permit

You’ll want to consider the permits for starting an auto repair shop, too. You’ll want to get the following:

Sales Tax Permit: A permit is required to pay taxes when you sell goods (and sometimes services. Some states do not tax services). 

Resale Permit: A resale permit allows you to exclude taxes from your purchase price. Alternatively some states don’t make you pay tax if you paid the sales tax on the goods, but talk to an accountant to make sure.

Hazardous Waste Permit: You may be required to get a hazardous waste permit or pay a fee for disposal. Even if you aren’t, you may need to keep documentation. Here is a 50 state guide to laws for mechanic shops.

State and Local Business Licenses: There may be different requirements for different types of automotive businesses. Check with the local Small Business Administration (SBA) to find out what you need. You can find a list of SBA offices on the website.

Get a Business Bank Account

Get a business bank account to protect your business idea and personal assets, and get a bank loan. To raise money through loans or stock shares, you have to keep your personal finances and business finances separate. The best bank accounts to get will vary for each business, but small banks and credit unions tend to have better approval odds and customer service for business loans. As a business owner, it’s also important to consider their personal relationship with you.

Learn how to open a business bank account.

Get Accounts with Suppliers

Screenshot of Advantage Parts Solution website

Every vehicle that you repair will need parts, and you’ll often have to get them from local suppliers or dealerships. If there are none locally, you may have to order them from online retailers or larger wholesalers. Some of the larger scale parts shops that mechanic shops use include:

Wikipedia has a list of 40 other potential suppliers. Like any industry, it’s a good idea to get bids from at least three places to get the best value.

Choose an Auto Repair Business Location

Lucky's Auto Shop location

Automotive repair shops will normally need a location to repair cars. Before you start a mechanic shop consider:

  1. What is to be the amount of traffic around your car repair shop?
  2. Is there enough parking to handle existing and new customers?
  3. Does the car repair shop have enough space for the number of car ports you need? There are typically one to eight car ports in small businesses, but you may need drastically larger numbers if your automotive business contracts with:
    1. A local taxi company
    2. The police department
    3. A limousine service
    4. Car dealerships (which sometime have 24 to 36 of their own)
  4. The price of the space matters. Industrial and lower traffic areas tend to have lower rent.

Lucky told us:

These days it’s not as important. With the internet, you can choose locations with less traffic as long as you provide great quality. If you are going for a big business, you should choose higher traffic areas.

He also told us that he is looking for a new space. He told us:

The next location we choose will be a lot more space than we need so we don’t outgrow it.

Once you have the space, you’ll need to prepare your new business for the grand opening.

How to Open Your Own Car Repair Shop

In this section, we’ll discuss setting up your software, tools, and marketing, so that you’re prepared to start serving new customers

How to Open Mechanic Shop: Software Used 

You’ll need software to manage your own auto repair shop. Fortunately, Lucky gave us input on what he uses in his car workshop. He suggested the following software to start auto repair shop operations.

Website

Screenshot of Lucky's Autoshop website

You’ll need a website with relevant pictures, your address, services, phone numbers, and appointment requests. Lucky told us:

With auto repairs, you can’t let customers book their own appointment because they don’t know how long it will take. So we have our customer manager Rich approve it or contact them.

You can use a free website builder like WordPress or Wix, but make sure you buy a custom domain so that everything isn’t branded with the website builders logos, which looks unprofessional.

The following is a list of software running on https://luckyautoshop.com/:

  • OWL Carousel: For pictures
  • Google Tag Manager: For tracking what occurs on the site
  • Tawk.to: Customer support agents for $1 per hour
  • Google Analytics UA: Web Tracking
  • CloudFlare CDN: Provides fast access to content
  • CDN JS: Provides fast access to content

I’ve left off coding tools because you’ll find standard ones on most sites. If you love a specific site, check out WhatRuns to find out what they use.

In addition to the website, Lucky Auto Shop uses additional software for customer support.

Mitchell1

Mitchell1 offers four main products:

  1. ProDemand® Optimized with SureTrack®: Diagnostic machine software helps diagnose cars including top 10 issues by vehicle, partners needed, and wiring diagrams.
  2. Manager™ SE: Custom Relationship Management software helps keep track of existing customers spending and prior work, pre-diagnosing the type of repairs needed to help technicians diagnose the vehicle, and manage invoicing and parts.
  3. TruckSeries: This is used for Medium and Heavy Duty Trucks. If your shop specializes in Class 4 to 8 trucks, you’ll need this to help reduce repair time and increase revenue.
  4. SocialCRM: Use this to manage the social aspect of running your own business. This includes customer reviews, preventive maintenance reminders, promotions, and other marketing automations.

Based on the interview, it appears that Lucky utilizes the manager SE and ProDemand®. He said:

It will show the VIN, your personal information, and the repairs performed.

He also told us that Quickbooks was what he used until he could afford more sophisticated software.

Screenshot of Quickbooks website

He also use a program that helps tune up shops show repairs needed.

Bolt On Technology

Lucky uses software called Bolt On that helps with digital inspections that he connects to the estimates. They use Bolt On software to include images in the invoices. It helps auto repair shops increase ticket revenue by 39%, builds trust, and increases return visits.

Lucky also told us how much he spends on monthly software subscriptions.

We probably spend $1,000. The software is expensive, but it’s worth it.

Let’s talk about tools next.

Arrange Your Space

You’ll want to set up your mechanics workshop where it’s easy to bring a car for repair. In addition, here’s some business advice to help run a high performing shop:

  1. The tools should be convenient, but out of the way where technicians can move around the cars freely.
  2. Have a specific dock for oil changes, battery replacement, and other quick jobs. They shouldn’t have to wait while you are changing out an engine.
  3. Tool boxes should have locks and be locked at the end of the night.
  4. Always have an alarm system in case vandals or robbers break in.
  5. Make customer spaces comfortable. Provide a seating space, reading materials, a TV, a restroom, drinking water, and maybe a vending machine.

Marketing Your Car Repair Shop

Truck with Lucky's Autoshop branding

You’ll need to have a marketing strategy in place to help increase your business. Part of the marketing strategy should include:

  1. Logo
  2. Building signs
  3. Vehicle signs
  4. Company letterhead for invoices and other communication
  5. Brand messaging guidelines
  6. Communication channels
  7. Brand colors and font specification
  8. Marketing analytics 
  9. Branded pens (These are a cheap way for any business to get their name out because people tend to take pens, plus you can get them for less than $1 per pen for less than $500.)

Most mechanic shops only spend about 2% on marketing to find potential customers. You have lots of options with your own business. You can:

  • Use social media
  • Partner with other businesses
  • Pay for leads on Google Local Ads
  • Create videos on how to fix cars
  • Use print ads in local papers and billboards
  • Try Lucky’s method:

(We use) Box trucks parked throughout the city with giant banners. Make sure to get permission to park it…We do business with them (the places they park the trucks).

You can also try Broadly to build your online presence. They sponsored our interview with Lucky. In a year, the service increased Google reviews five- fold and increased revenues 5% based on a user testimonial.

Next, we’ll discuss hiring employees.

How to Open Your Own Mechanic Shop: Employees

Lucky's autoshop employees

A business owner can run a mechanic shop by themselves, but how many customers can they help? Will they be able to make a profit if they do everything in their own shop? 

The average wages for employees at shops is only $37,000 according to IBIS and the revenue per employee is around $128K, so adding an employee would be a net gain of nearly $90K. That’s enough to make the difference between a profitable business and one that loses money.

Lucky has three employees and told us:

Starting pay is normally $40,000 but is going up because of inflation. We pay hourly plus a bonus system. There are a lot of companies that pay by the job. I don’t like them because the quality of work suffers.

Lucky also explained that he doesn’t have a formal training program because all his employees have experience, but he trains them as needed and invests a lot in ongoing education.

We train them on new tools.

Now that you’re ready to start serving customers, we’ll walk you through the process.

Mechanic Garage Customer Service

Mechanic working on a computer

An auto repair shop will have a process similar to the one below:

  1. Customer is added to the system
  2. Complimentary inspection (body, wheels, suspension)
  3. Get quotes for parts from vendors
  4. Provide an estimate
  5. Get approval
  6. Buy parts
  7. Put the vehicle on the lift
  8. Perform the work
  9. Accept payment and ask for reviews

Lucky added information about their CRM and how they prioritize customers who are waiting at the shop over those who leave while the car repairing takes place. He told us to always prioritize those who are at the business waiting.

We mark cars that are waiting with a red flashing box because we care about your time.

How to Start a Mechanic Shop: The Keys to Success

Lucky's Autoshop grand opening parade

When we asked Lucky what he attributes his success to, he responded with:

  1. Hiring the right people
  2. Customer service
  3. Asking for reviews

Lucky emphasized you want to look for people who care about the business. They have to have the necessary skills, but it’s easier to teach someone technical skills than it is to teach them to care. This is what he said.

Hiring the right people. You have to find people who don’t just view it as a paycheck.

You can have the right technology, but if you don’t have people who can use it, the business will fail.

He also talked about the importance of including your team. 

Go with the flow. Sometimes your team has better ideas than you. Incorporate your team in everything you do.

He also explained that customer service was hard at first. When he was less experienced, he would get upset when he had to pay for a misdiagnosis. Over time, he learned that giving great customer service is more important. He said that:

Sometimes it’s better to put your pride aside and make the customer happy.

Finally, he told us his approach to quality control and customer reviews:

Ask for Reviews at checkout, via text (the next day using an automated system), and randomly contact customers to verify satisfaction.

Pay Your Bills

You’ll have to pay monthly expenses to keep your business operating. You’ll want to make sure to pay:

  • Lease payments
  • Payments on any bank loan for business assets
  • Utilities
  • Business insurance costs
  • Suppliers
  • Payroll taxes
  • State and federal taxes
  • Annual business license and business structure fees

Live Mechanically Ever After…

That’s our journey. Now you know how to start a mechanic shop. Have you opened an automotive repair shop before? If so, how many cars did you repair per day? What mistakes did you make?

For those who haven’t opened an auto repair shop, what do you look for in a mechanic shop?

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  • Top View Ads: Be the first video a user sees when they open the app. These cost the most money on TikTok, but it’s a great way to make a first impression.
  • In-Feed Ads: These are TikTok ads that are shown periodically as people watch TikTok posts. Posting sponsored content is required to be disclosed in the video with a little “Sponsored” tag, but it also lets you connect to a shop to make money.
  • Branded Hashtag Challenges: These TikTok ads are paying other creators to upload videos using your hashtag.
  • Spark Ads: Boost your own TikTok video or videos posted about your brand.
  • Branded Effect: Create a fun filter for people to use on TikTok.
  • Promote: Boost free content to increase its reach.
The social media platform has a lot of information on TikTok for Business. Check it out!

TikTok Affiliate Programs

young woman speaking on a megaphone You can make money on TikTok by writing about it or creating videos showing people how to make money with their ads, too. Want to apply? Check out the TikTok affiliate page.

Promote Songs

There are a couple of ways to make money promoting music on TikTok.  For musicians, you can submit your music to SoundOn, where you’ll earn money for every view that your music is featured in. This is a great way to help new music out.  Content creators can also make deals with musicians to help build engaging content. Musician’s like Doja Cat and Lil NasX  are commonly mentioned as musicians who started making money through TikTok careers.

Publish Sponsored Posts

Sponsored posts are branded content that promotes a company’s services or products. You need to register all branded content with the TikTok Creator Marketplace. Make sure to read the brand guidelines before getting started. Then sign in to the Creator marketplace to start making money on TikTok.

Become a Brand Ambassador

young woman holding a tablet while recording by a mobile phone A brand ambassador is similar to an influencer, but they may have a more active role in brand ideas than influencers. They might also:
  • Represent them at trade shows
  • Help the company close major deals
  • Socialize with investors at public events
  • Perform other marketing tasks for the company

Start a Patreon

As you build an audience on TikTok and other channels, you may want to try to pull users into a platform that allows you to control more than Tiktok does. Patreon lets you offer different tiers of content and has powerful tools to promote products and content.  Patreon isn’t paid directly by creators. You set subscriptions and you share 5%-12% of your earnings from subscriptions. Here’s a tip from Patreon pros: make sure to keep your subscription costs low to stay competitive.

Find New Clients

two businessman discussing something whille holding a tablet Start posting helpful content on TikTok and it can lead to new clients. Business professionals have found success by offering helpful information about their audience’s interests.  As you build a relationship, you can start encouraging users to reach out when they have a problem that can’t be solved as easily. Make sure to do it in a way that collects the contact information so you can sell directly to them in the future on your own platforms.

Build and Sell TikTok Accounts

A lot of small business owners struggle to get to 10,000 subscribers and 100,000 views. If you thrive at creating authentic content, target an exact audience, reach the levels for TikTok monetization, and pass the TikTok profile on to a business owner in that field.  You can do this on other social channels too. Check out how one person has made $120K flipping social media accounts.

Earn Live Gifts on TikTok

woman browsing on a tablet Live Gifts is a tipping feature you can use on live videos. Once you activate the feature, users can reward you with Diamonds, or virtual gifts. To receive tips from TikTok followers you’ll need:
  • Over 1,000 followers 
  • An account at least 30 days old
Your account must adhere to the Terms of Service and Community Guidelines. You can learn more about gifts through the TikTok Gift page, their virtual items policies, and the Creator Portal.

Raise Money Through Crowdfunding

People love donating to good causes, and you can get TikTok money by starting a campaign on GoFundMe or CrowdStarter. You shouldn’t discount this idea when you think about how to make money off TikTok. 22.4% of campaigns are successfully funded. That's over twice the success rate of startups!

How to Monetize TikTok: Collect Tips

three jars with coins and logo from tiktok tips Another way to get paid on TikTok is to ask for tips. There are a few tipping platforms you might consider:
  • Tipeee: If you’re looking for a way to accept tips that are specifically meant for creators, this is the option for you. It’s similar to Patreon, but with different features and charges 8% of donations.
  • Buy Me a Coffee: A platform to ask for small donations.
  • Cash App: Just add your Cashtag to the video.
  • Venmo: Include your Venmo link or username in the video.

Offer Brand Consulting

If you’re good at explaining how content aligns with a target market, you can consider brand consulting. Other brands are happy to pay consultants that help them improve their revenue streams. You can focus on the entire brand, teaching them how to drive traffic, how to get sponsorship opportunities, and other niche topics. Once you decide your strategy for how to make money from TikTok, it’s time to set up your account.

Step 2. Start a TikTok Account

mobile phone with upflip tiktok account You’ll want to go to the TikTok sign-up page. It will ask you about your birthday and ask you to create a username. Then follow these steps to set up your account. [su_note note_color="#dbeafc"]
  1. Go to your profile.
  2. Update the picture to your brand logo.
  3. Add an 80 character bio. If you want it to be a clickable link, you have to do it on mobile. I suggest Linktree to connect users to all  your web assets. 
  4. Save your changes.
  5. Go to settings and enable the business account.
  6. Input the type of business
  7. Upload your business registration for additional features and use business tools like the creative hub.
  8. Use the features to research high-performing TikTokers.
[/su_note]

Step 3. Research TikTok Content Strategies

You could just create a TikTok account and start posting, but if you ignore community guidelines, you might never make money on TikTok. Research your industry to find out competitors are making money on TikTok. You can use the Trending Video Showcase or the search functionality. While you’re researching, ask yourself questions like:
  1. How many followers does each company have?
  2. How many views does each video get?
  3. What TikTok titles have more than a million views? 
  4. What are the video descriptions that perform well?  
  5. What videos have the most engagement?
  6. What features of the TikTok Creator Fund do users interact with?
  7. Are there other factors about competitors’ profiles and videos that you want to remember?
Thach told us: [su_quote]If you’re using it for real estate, you need to have a plan of how much money you want to make, how many properties you need to accomplish it, then enact it.[/su_quote] Make sure to write all your observations down because imitation is how to make money on TikTok. 

Step 4. Create Videos

video recording using a mobile phone Next you’ll want to create the videos you gathered information about. We’ll provide some tips about how to record the video, upload files, and how to post it next.

Create Videos

TikTok is primarily about short-form content. That means you have to be quick and to the point in what you’re trying to communicate. You’lll want to make sure to:
  • Have fun
  • Show your personality
  • Stick with what you see working
  • Stay in your lane. Don’t switch up topics on people.
  • Keep going! Rome wasn’t built in a day.

Uploading Files

woman working on a laptop The screen to post the video looks like the image below. You can upload: [su_note note_color="#dbeafc"]
  • File Formats: mp4, avi, webm, and mov 
  • Length: Up to 10 minutes, but most people keep them under a minute.
  • File Size: Under 2 GB
  • Simultaneous Uploads: 30 videos
[/su_note]

Change the Settings

Once you upload a video, you’ll need to:
  1. Add the caption, which should be similar to ones you know already work. 
  2. Adjust the cover image from within the video.
  3. Set the visibility to Public, Friends, or Private
  4. Set user interaction limitations (none by default)
    1. Comment: They can respond to you.
    2. Duet: They can use your video in a side-to-side format
    3. Stitch: Creators can add up to 5 seconds of your video into their video.
  5. Schedule Videos: Schedule your posts to be at the times you are most likely to get engagement. Download our TikTok posting scheduler based on the overall best engagement times. (I’ve converted the times from EST to Pacific because most people find adding hours easier than subtracting them.)
  6. Run Copyright Check: This helps identify if you are accidentally infringing upon intellectual property rights.
  7. Post: Once you’re ready click the post button.
Check out Hootsuite’s blog about software that can help you optimize your posting to drive more traffic and engagement.

Step 5. Turn TikTok Users Into Followers

young woman posing in front of mobile phone Before you can make money on TikTok, you’ll need followers. You can get followers by posting useful content. If people comment, respond.  You’ll also have other features you can use depending on whether you are using a business or personal account. You might want to use TikTok ads to help you reach more people. You can also share your TikTok videos on other social media networks to increase your reach quicker.  Check the Tiktok FAQ for more information on the products available for your type of account.

How Many Followers On TikTok To Make Money?

You need at least 10,000 followers to join the TikTok Creator Fund. Other features may require different amounts. The TikTok FAQ provides details on everything you want to know about how to get paid from TIkTok.

How Many Views On TikTok To Get Paid?

Once you reach 100 thousand views, you can get paid by the TikTok creator fund.

Step 6. Apply for the TikTok Creator Fund

screenshot of creator fund for tiktok Once you reach 10,000 followers and over 100,000 engaged views in the past 30 days, you can apply for TikTok’s creator fund. You’ll need a personal account for this, but you can switch back and forth between a personal and business account. The TikTok creator fund pays people based on an algorithm that compares the viewers’ region, video engagement, view authenticity, and volume of views to the rest of creators and pays out a percentage of the total Creator Fund. Just follow these directions to start getting paid on TikTok:
  1. Go to your profile
  2. Access the menu
  3. Go to Creator Tools
  4. Apply for the Creator Fund
Check out the Creator Portal for more information on how to get paid on TikTok. Now it’s time to drive sales.

Step 7. Monetize TikTok

Regardless of whether you’re a business or a creator, you’ll eventually want to monetize your TikTok. Some of the TikTok creator best practices include:
  1. Continue making non-sponsored posts. People watch you for your personality and the value you bring.
  2. Create a press kit like the one below.
  3. Pursue brand deals with companies you love.
  4. Use the sponsored post tag (otherwise TikTok pay privileges might be revoked).

How Do You Make Money on TikTok?

There are quite a few ways to earn a living from TikTok. We’ve covered all the opportunities available. Now it’s up to you to choose what strategies you’re going to use.  If you’re profiting from using TikTok, we want to know: how does TikTok pay you? Share your answer in the comments below.
Business ideas

How to Get a Vending Machine Business License
One of the most challenging aspects of starting a business is navigating the complex regulatory environments in the United States. A new vending machine business may need to get a vending business license, seller’s permits, local health department permits, and inspections, and comply with additional federal government regulations. Don’t worry! We’ll show you how to get a vending machine business license. [su_note note_color="#dbeafc"] Here’s what you’ll discover by reading this article (Click any of the links below to jump to each section):
  1. Vending Machine Regulations
  2. Getting Licenses for Vending Machines
  3. How to License Your Vending Machine Business
  4. Whether You Need Permits for Your Vending Machines
  5. Popular States to Get Vending Machine Licenses 
[/su_note] We interviewed Adam Hill, the founder of Hill Vending. He provided insight on how he turned a $60K investment in a vending business into $750K of annual revenue, read about it here. Fortunately, he’s provided information about the details of entering the vending machine industry to help you succeed faster. Start off by listening to our interview with Adam:

1. What Regulations Impact Owning Vending Machines?

A vending machine owner will need to comply with a variety of local, state, and federal laws. We’ll provide resources for each level of government and how they impact vending machine companies. 

Local Laws

Local inspectors checking the vending machines Many counties and cities require business licenses to operate a vending machine business. Some locations will also have a local health district. If your location has a health district, they may require:
  • An opening inspection
  • Routine inspections
  • Inspections after a complaint
These inspections are normally easy to pass as long as you: [su_note note_color="#dbeafc"]
  1. Take care of your machines
  2. Maintain proper temperatures for food items and drinks
  3. Ensure all products are within the expiration date
  4. Don’t have evidence of bugs or rodents in the machines
[/su_note] If you have to comply with a local health district, you may also need a food handler card. Check with your local department for more accurate information.

State Laws

Depending on the law in your state, you will need to:
  • File for an LLC or Corporation with the Secretary of State.
  • Apply for relevant state business licenses (if applicable).
  • Get a seller’s permit.
  • Comply with labor laws.
  • Get a permit for each location.
Each state is different. We recommend consulting with a lawyer who has experience in business law.

Federal Laws

Small business owners may need to comply with federal laws regarding vending machines including:
  • Get an Employer Identification Number from the IRS.
  • Comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). You’ll need to collaborate with the owner of the vending machine location.
  • Post nutritional information if required by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). 
  • Comply with Tobacco Laws if running tobacco vending machines.

2. Do You Need a License to Own a Vending Machine?

Any vending machine that is used to generate sales will need a business license and sales permit to operate and file taxes. Some people use vending machines, slot machines, or arcade games as a way to have cool memorabilia in their homes and save money in the process. You do not need any business licensing in that scenario because there are no customers.

3. How to Get a Vending Machine License

Man working on a laptop To get a vending machine license, you’ll need to:
  1. Get an LLC.
  2. Apply for business licenses. Learn how.
  3. Get sales permits.
  4. Apply for a food or beverage license if needed.
We walk you through the process of applying for these in our business hub.

How Much Is a Vending Machine License?

The fees for a vending machine license will vary by state, but you can expect costs of up to $3,000. Contact your local Small Business Administration office. They’ll help you determine what you need to start selling food and drinks to customers for money.

4. Permit for Vending Machine Business

Screenshot of municode website You will most likely need a separate permit for each vending machine location or even one for each machine based on your county or local government’s laws. Small businesses should research their city and county machine regulations to make sure they are in compliance. The fees in most places are inexpensive to sell food or drinks out of a machine. For example, the North Las Vegas code requires a semi-annual fee for each piece of equipment based on the following prices:
  • $10: Vending machines dispensing anything that costs over $.25
  • $15: Tobacco vending machines
  • $25: Pool tables, jukeboxes, and other amusement machines
Just search “Vending machine permits in (Insert Your County or City)” to determine the proper fees and where to pay them. Alternatively, you can contact your local Small Business Administration office. They’ll help you determine what you need to start selling food and drinks to customers for money in your region.

How Much Is a Vending Machine Permit?

The cost of a vending permit will vary based on your state’s regulations. Most states require you to obtain seller’s rights based on the right equipment. A permit to sell tobacco products ranges from $15 to nearly $1,000, with most being under $200, while a permit for selling foods or milk products often costs between $100 and $300. You may also need to pay a per-device fee with your local government. Contact them to find out the fee per device or location.

5. State Licensing for Machine Vending

Texas, California, and Florida are where the majority of our traffic for vending machine businesses originates, so we’ve added a little extra information for you. We’ll add other locations as justified.

How to Get a Vending Machine License in Texas?

To get a license for vending machines in Texas:
  1. Create an LLC on the Secretary of State website.
  2. Get a sales tax permit from the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts. 
  3. Check to see if you have any local requirements.

How to Get a Vending Machine License in Florida?

Screenshot of ods.myflorida.com website To get a vending machine license in Florida, you should:
  1. Create an LLC from the Florida Department of State.
  2. Get a business license from the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR).
  3. Get a vending machine permit for the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. The closest permit I can find is the retail food establishment. Call the department of Agriculture before applying.  
  4. Obtain a sales tax permit from the Florida Department of Revenue.
  5. Check with your local government for requirements in your area.

How to Get a Vending Machine License in California?

Getting a vending machine license in California will require these steps:
  1. Go to the California Secretary of State. Use the business startup to create an LLC or corporation.
  2. Obtain a seller's permit from the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration. It should be accessible from the wizard under “My Work Queue.” 
  3. Check with your local government for requirements in your area.

More Vending Machine Resources

Check out our other blogs about machines vending: Check out our other blogs about vending machines including:
  1. Start A Vending Business
  2. Vending Machine Types
  3. Best Vending Machines
  4. Vending Locations
Then sign up for our Vending Machine Bootcamp.

Build Your Vending Machine Business 

Now that you know how to get your vending machine business registered with the government, make sure to sign up for our free vending machine training to help you get started. What challenges have you had while creating a vending machine business?
  • Finding vending machine financing
  • Finding good deals on food and drinks
  • Finding new locations
Business ideas

The Ultimate Cleaning Checklist: 24 Downloadable Templates
What kind of cleaning checklist do you need? You should find it here! We took the time to find a list of more than 250 cleaning checklist terms, then narrowed those down to 24 groups. We’re giving you free access to more cleaning checklists than anyone has ever tackled. For ease of use, I’d suggest starting by choosing the type of cleaning checklist you need out of the following categories. You can download any or all of the free cleaning checklist templates as either:
  1. A free printable cleaning checklist pdf 
  2. A free printable cleaning checklist spreadsheet
Download the zip file with all the spreadsheets and pdf versions below.

Starting a Cleaning Business Checklist

For those looking for a startup checklist, we wrote a blog that goes into detail about the following steps. It has a checklist for cleaning company activities:
  1. Planning steps
  2. Naming steps
  3. Business formation steps
  4. Financial tools
  5. Insurance needs
  6. Equipment required
  7. Selecting software 
  8. Marketing setup
  9. Supply lists for 15 types of cleaning companies
Check out the blog Starting a Cleaning Company Checklist. Download the cleaning business startup checklist pdf to get the whole list of steps to start a cleaning company. 

Cleaning Supply Checklist

This cleaning supply checklist is from our first interview with Christopher Mondragon, the CEO of Queen Bee Cleaning service. Check out the interview below. [su_youtube url="https://youtu.be/d4Iip7BHXwg"] You’ll need the following cleaning products to be able to effectively clean homes and businesses
  • Glass cleaner (Windex or similar)
  • Aprons
  • Vacuum cleaner
  • Wet floor signs
  • Microfiber mop (optional if you are just starting)
  • Regular mop
  • Microfiber cloths
  • Gloves
  • Toilet bowl brush
  • Bags for dirty rags
  • Crevice tool
  • Bags to carry clean rags
  • Neutral floor cleaner (Bona or similar)
  • Disinfectant cleaner
  • Cleaning bucket
  • Mini grout brush
You should also take the time to read our cleaning supplies checklist blog. It will help you find high-quality products used by the various cleaning supply companies we have interviewed. Read about cleaning supplies. Get our cleaning supply checklist with links to our all-time favorite products. Just input your email below and we’ll send the downloadable pdf to you.

How Thoroughly Are You Cleaning?

You’ll need different cleaning checklists depending on how well you are trying to clean. We’ve separated the cleaning checklist options into five categories:
  1. Basic cleaning
  2. House cleaning
  3. Deep cleaning
  4. Professional cleaning
  5. Hoarder cleaning checklist
Each cleaning list will include all of the tasks in the previous categories plus new tasks. Levels of cleanliness infographic

Basic Cleaning Checklist

If you’re cleaning homes where people handle their own basic straightening like doing the laundry and washing the dishes, you’ll probably want to offer the following services. These are also some cleaning tasks that family members will want to do when they clean the house.
  • Dust ceiling fans. 
  • Clean light fixtures.
  • Dust furniture and shelves. 
  • Wipe down countertops.
  • Vacuum and mop floors.
  • Disinfect toilets.
  • Clean sinks.
  • Scrub showers.
  • Vacuum and mop floors.
  • Clean vacuum. 
  • Take out the trash.
Download our editable printable basic house cleaning pdf below. Basic House Cleaning Checklist

House Cleaning Checklist

Most housekeepers will perform the following tasks when cleaning a house.
  • Complete everything on the basic house cleaning checklist. 
  • Wash dirty dishes.
  • Wash laundry.
  • Iron clothes.
Download our free printable house cleaning checklist pdf below. It’s the perfect residential cleaning checklist for housekeeper services. Residential Cleaning Checklist

Deep Cleaning Checklist

In addition to the housekeeping cleaning checklist, you will probably want to deep clean a home several times a year. That’s why we made a professional deep cleaning house checklist. We’ve organized the deep cleaning checklist by room type to make it easier to make sure your whole house is clean. The checklist for deep cleaning an entire home includes:
  • Complete everything in the home cleaning checklist. 
  • Clean window frames.
  • Wash curtains.
  • Wash garbage bins.
  • Clean blinds. 
  • Wash garbage bins.
  • Clean windows
  • Replace air filters and mark the filter with the date you changed it.
  • Clean baseboards.
  • Wash door frames.
  • Disinfect doorknobs.
  • Wipe light switches.
  • Test fire alarms.
  • Verify that the Carbon Monoxide detector works.
  • Perform room-specific tasks.
This is the perfect deep cleaning checklist for housekeeper cleaning services or families that want to deep clean their homes. You can download the printable pdf for cleaning the whole house below or just download the room(s) you need to clean.

Deep cleaning kitchen checklist

Deep cleaning kitchen checklist The professional kitchen deep cleaning checklist pdf includes:
  • Remove expired food from the fridge.
  • Throw away freezer-burnt food.
  • Clean refrigerator and freezer interiors.
  • Clean inside the oven.
  • Eliminate all grime from the stovetop.
  • Clean hood fan.
  • Clean all stove grates.
  • Wipe fronts of kitchen cabinets.
  • Clean inside kitchen cabinets.
  • Empty dishwasher filter.
  • Clear dishwasher drain.
  • Sanitize the dishwasher control panel.
  • Clean the dishwasher inside with baking soda, bleach, and vinegar during an empty wash cycle.
  • Sanitize counters.
  • Wash the backsplash(es).
  • Organize pantry shelves, vacuum, and label where everything goes.
  • Clean utensil holders.
  • Wash the coffee maker including running a pot with vinegar and warm water.
Download your printable deep cleaning kitchen checklist pdf below. Kitchen Deep Cleaning Checklist

Deep cleaning bedroom checklist

Deep cleaning bedroom checklist The bedroom deep cleaning checklist includes tasks that professional cleaners and families do when they are performing a deep clean on a bedroom. In addition to the items that should be done throughout the house, you’ll want to take special care to perform the following tasks.
  • Wash curtains. 
  • Rotate or flip mattress(es).
  • Clean out closets.
  • Eliminate anything you want to get rid of (families only).
  • Clean dresser and end table drawers.
  • Dust dressers and end tables.
  • Get everything out from under the bed.
Download your printable bedroom deep cleaning checklist pdf below. Bedroom Deep Cleaning Checklist

Deep cleaning bathroom checklist

The bathroom deep cleaning checklist includes:
  • Perform all deep cleaning tasks common to all rooms.
  • Complete basic cleaning bathroom tasks.
  • Wash the shower curtain.
  • Clean mirrors.
  • Wash rugs
  • Clean toothbrush holders.
  • Clean the toilet tank.
Download your printable deep cleaning checklist pdf for bathrooms below. Bathroom Deep Cleaning Checklist

Deep cleaning living room checklist

Living room deep cleaning checklist If you need a free deep cleaning checklist for a living room, check out the one below. In addition to the basic and housekeeping cleaning checklist, you’ll also need to:
  • Vacuum the couch(es).
  • Wash pillow covers and blankets.
  • Clean the TV remotes.
  • Clean electronics with a keyboard duster and anti-streak cleaning agents.
  • Shampoo rugs and carpets.
  • Mop wood floors.
Download your printable living room deep cleaning checklist pdf below. Living Room Deep Cleaning Checklist

Deep cleaning checklist for outside the home

Outside the home deep cleaning checklist If you offer cleaning services for the exterior of buildings, you might want the deep cleaning service checklist for outdoors. It includes:
  • Collect debris from gutters.
  • vacuum and rinse outdoor furniture.
  • Clean exterior doors including garage.
  • Sweep and pressure wash the porch.
  • Pressure wash the driveway, roof, and walls.
Check out the printable deep cleaning checklist for outside homes. Outside the Home Deep Cleaning Checklist

Full House Professional House Cleaning Checklist Printable

The professional house cleaning checklist is perfect for making sure your housekeepers don’t miss anything while cleaning your customer’s property. This includes all the services you offer customers. We have created both an editable, printable checklist and a spreadsheet to make it easy for you to create a custom checklist for your teams to use at each customer’s house. Residential Cleaning Professional House Cleaning Checklist Printable Professional House Cleaning Checklist Download the professional house cleaning checklist spreadsheet template  Professional House Cleaning Checklist Spreadsheet

Hoarder Cleanup Checklist

To clean out a hoarder’s house requires extensive manpower even before you start cleaning. You’ll need to perform the following checklist: [su_note note_color="#dbeafc"]
  1. Expect the full process to take at least a week or two, but it may be much longer with a smaller team or if someone is living in the space.
  2. Get trained on hazardous waste removal if you aren’t already.
  3. Buy Hazmat suits and Clorox Pro Electrostatic Cleaners.
  4. Develop a plan to help people process the changes taking place as a result of cleaning activities.
  5. Get specialists involved for tasks you don’t have experience with, including mold remediation, pest control, and junk removal.
  6. You may also want a psychologist to help with the emotional aspects of the project.
  7. Order a temporary dumpster or have a vehicle that can haul large amounts of waste to the dump.
  8. Bring a full box of heavy-duty trash bags to remove all trash.
  9. Create a staging area to determine what to keep and what to toss.
  10. Start with the bathroom (if accessible).
  11. Remove all trash. 
  12. Check everything for valuables. People will be upset if they lose meaningful items.
  13. Place trash in a dumpster or trailer to be hauled.
  14. Remove all furniture.
  15. Have a refurbishing specialist inspect and repair any furniture that can be repaired.
  16. Perform pest control.
  17. Have a professional home inspector evaluate what needs to be repaired and replaced.
  18. Remove and replace carpeting and any property that is beyond repair. 
  19. Perform the deep house cleaning checklist.
  20. Spray the whole house with electrostatic cleaners.
[/su_note]

Cleaning Checklists By Room

In addition to the deep cleaning checklist by room, you’ll also want a basic cleaning checklist for each room. We’ve included a:

Restroom Cleaning Checklist

Woman cleaning the bathroom A cleaning company should include the following tasks in their cleaning restroom checklist:
  • Take before pictures.
  • Empty the trash.
  • Dust decorative items.
  • Wash windows and clean mirrors.
  • Clean counters.
  • Sanitize shower, bathtub, sinks, and toilets.
  • Vacuum and mop floors.
  • Sanitize door handles and light switches.
  • Take after pictures.
You’ll also want to include a space for notes, pictures, and who cleaned the room for documentation purposes. Notes:  ____________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ Attach pictures here if using an electronic format: Cleaned by:________________________________________ Download the printable restroom cleaning checklist pdf below. Restroom Cleaning Checklist

Bedroom Cleaning Checklist

Woman fixing the bedsheet A bedroom cleaning checklist for a cleaning company will commonly include:
  • Take before pictures.
  • Empty the trash.
  • Dust furniture, fans, window sills, blinds, and other surfaces.
  • Remove sheets and pillows.
  • Change sheets or make beds.
  • Wash windows.
  • Clean mirrors.
  • Clean counters.
  • Vacuum and mop floors.
  • Sanitize door handles and light switches before leaving the room.
  • Take after pictures.
Don’t forget a space for notes, pictures, and who cleaned the space.  Download the printable bedroom cleaning checklist pdf below. Bedroom Cleaning Checklist

Teenage Bedroom Cleaning Tips Checklist

You may want to charge extra to clean a teenager or messy adult’s room(s). The room(s) may be harder to clean because of clothes and other stuff on the floor. While the cleaning checklist will be the same, the room may require work that is somewhere between a first-time clean and a hoarder cleanup. Take some extra precautions before bidding on cleaning messy people’s rooms including: [su_note note_color="#dbeafc"]
  1. Request pictures of each room in the house before estimating the cleaning fee.
  2. Have an excessive mess fee for rooms that are not organized.
  3. Make sure to bring gloves. There might be things you don’t want to touch with your skin.
[/su_note] Next, let’s look at the living room cleaning list.

Living Room Cleaning Checklist

Young woman cleaning the living room table You’ll want to perform the following tasks when cleaning a living room.
  • Take before pictures.
  • Empty the trash.
  • Dust furniture, fans, window sills, blinds, and other surfaces.
  • Vacuum the couch.
  • Change sheets if there is a fold-out bed that has been used.
  • Wash windows.
  • Clean mirrors.
  • Clean the TV.
  • Vacuum and mop floors.
  • Sanitize light switches before leaving the room.
  • Take after pictures.
Don’t forget a space for notes, pictures, and who cleaned the space.  Download the printable living room cleaning checklist pdf below. Living Room Cleaning Checklist

Residential Kitchen Cleaning Checklist

Woman cleaning the kitchen When you are cleaning a kitchen, you’ll want to make sure to include the following tasks in your cleaning checklist for residential kitchens.
  • Take before pictures.
  • Wash the dishes.
  • Wash windows and mirrors.
  • Clean counters.
  • Sanitize sinks.
  • Clean the fronts of large appliances.
  • Vacuum and mop the kitchen floor.
  • Sanitize door handles and light switches.
  • Take after pictures.
Don’t forget a space for notes, pictures, and who cleaned the space.  Download the printable kitchen cleaning checklist pdf below. Kitchen Cleaning Checklist

Cleaning Tips Based on Frequency of Cleaning

A professional cleaning checklist will vary depending on how frequently your cleaning business cleans the location. You’ll probably need a separate printable cleaning checklist template for:
  1. First Time Cleaning 
  2. Daily Cleaning
  3. Weekly Cleaning
  4. Monthly Cleaning
  5. Quarterly Cleaning

New House Cleaning Checklist

New house cleaning checklist Your new house cleaning checklist should be virtually identical to the home deep cleaning checklist. You’ll want to include:
  • Clean window frames.
  • Wash curtains.
  • Wash garbage bins.
  • Clean blinds.
  • Wash garbage bins.
  • Clean windows.
  • Replace air filters and mark the filter with the date you changed it.
  • Clean baseboards.
  • Wash door frames.
  • Disinfect doorknobs.
  • Wipe light switches.
  • Test fire alarms.
  • Verify that the Carbon Monoxide detector works.
  • Perform room-specific tasks.
  • Remove expired food from the fridge.
  • Throw away freezer-burnt food.
  • Clean refrigerator and freezer interiors.
  • Clean inside the oven.
  • Eliminate all grime from the stovetop.
  • Clean hood fan.
  • Clean all stove grates.
  • Wipe fronts of kitchen cabinets.
  • Clean inside kitchen cabinets.
  • Empty dishwasher filter, if present.
  • Clear dishwasher drain.
  • Sanitize the dishwasher control panel.
  • Clean the dishwasher inside with baking soda, bleach, and vinegar during an empty wash cycle.
  • Sanitize counters.
  • Wash backsplash.
  • Organize pantry shelves, vacuum, and label where everything goes.
  • Clean utensil holders.
  • Wash the coffee maker including running a pot with a cleaning solution and warm water.
  • Rotate or flip mattresses.
  • Clean out closets.
  • Eliminate anything you want to get rid of (families only).
  • Clean dresser and end table drawers.
  • Dust dressers and end tables.
  • Get everything out from under the bed.
  • Wash the shower curtain.
  • Clean mirrors.
  • Wash rugs.
  • Clean toothbrush holders.
  • Clean the toilet tank.
  • Vacuum couch(es).
  • Wash pillow covers and blankets.
  • Clean the TV remotes.
  • Clean electronics with keyboard duster and anti-streak cleaning agents.
  • Shampoo rugs and carpets. 
  • Mop wood floors.
  • Collect debris from gutters.
  • vacuum and rinse outdoor furniture
  • Clean exterior doors including garage
  • Sweep and pressure wash the porch
  • Pressure wash driveway, roof, and walls
UpFlip New Home Cleaning Checklist This is a much longer residential cleaning checklist than the daily cleaning checklist, which we’ll discuss next.

Printable Daily Cleaning Checklist Template

Printable daily cleaning checklist A daily cleaning checklist should make it easy to keep a space clean every day. We have created one for homes because most businesses will normally require more intense cleaning on a daily basis. This is primarily for homeowners and renters of apartments, but it can also be used for live-in maids, nannies, and other people that work in a wealthy family's home on a daily basis. Make sure to do the following on a daily basis:
  1. Make beds.
  2. Collect laundry from bathrooms and bedrooms.
  3. Do laundry.
  4. Wash dishes.
  5. Collect trash and take it outside.
  6. Remove tracked in dirt.
  7. Remove marks from shoes on floors.
  8. Change light bulbs if they have burned out.
If you feel overwhelmed trying to keep your home clean, download our printable daily cleaning checklist pdf below. Printable Daily Cleaning Checklist

House Cleaning Weekly Checklist

Weekly house cleaning checklist A weekly cleaning checklist should be used to maintain a clean home on a regular basis. I have five brothers and sisters, so my mom needed to get the whole family involved in the weekly house cleaning checklist. Our cleaning routine checklist included:
  1. Start in one room.
  2. Dust furniture.
  3. Make bed(s).
  4. Pick up toys.
  5. Change trash bags.
  6. Put any dirty clothes in the laundry room to clean.
  7. Vacuum wall-to-wall carpeting.
  8. Spot mop.
  9. Move to the next room.
  10. Repeat for each room.
As an adult, you’d probably want to include the bathroom cleaning checklist, too.  Download the printable weekly cleaning checklist pdf below. Weekly Cleaning Checklist

Monthly Cleaning Checklist

You’ll also have tasks that you want to do monthly.
  • Start in one room.
  • Dust furniture.
  • Make beds.
  • Pick up toys.
  • Change trash bags.
  • Put any dirty clothes in the laundry room to clean.
  • Vacuum wall-to-wall carpeting.
  • Mop hard floors.
  • Clean out old food from the refrigerator.
  • Spot clean the inside of the oven and stovetop.
  • Replace or sanitize sponges.
  • Move to the next room.
  • Repeat for each room.
The next checklist is for making sure you keep your routine.

Daily, Weekly, and Monthly Cleaning Checklist

Daily, weekly, and monthly cleaning checklist This combines the daily, weekly, and monthly cleaning checklist into a calendar view checklist so you can mark off what you’ve done each day. You might want to give this to anyone you know who needs an ADHD cleaning checklist because it can help keep them on track with their housework. Download the cleaning checklist Daily, Weekly, Monthly, Cleaning Checklist Printable below. Daily, Weekly, and Monthly Cleaning Checklist

Commercial Cleaning Checklist

A commercial cleaning checklist template will be different for each type of business. We’ve created a checklist for cleaning businesses that service:
  1. Restaurants
  2. Construction sites
  3. Airbnb rentals
Let’s start with the restaurant cleaning checklist.

Printable Restaurant Kitchen Cleaning Checklist

A cleaning checklist for restaurants will include two areas, the front-of-house (dining area and restroom) and the back-of-house (the kitchen, break room, and office). Each will require special considerations due to the frequency of traffic and activity in the areas.

Restaurant Dining Room

Restaurant dining room cleaning checklist Restaurants have some unique cleaning requirements for their dining rooms. This checklist is meant for both cleaning companies and restaurant staff that will need to clean the dining room on a regular basis. You’ll need to:
  • Clean plastic menus.
  • Clean ketchup, salt, pepper, and any other dispensers at the table.
  • Wipe down the top and sides of tables, chairs, and booths.
  • Scrape any gum from the underside of the table.
  • Wipe the hostess stand, including any computers.
  • Clean bar(s), sinks, and bottles.
  • Wash out the soda machine heads.
  • Roll silverware (restaurant staff only).
  • Take out the trash.
  • Vacuum rugs and roll them up.
  • Spot sweep carpets and hard floors.
  • Vacuum carpets and hard floors.
  • Mop (or scrub and squeegee hard floors if they have drains).
Download our commercial dining room cleaning checklist for business owners below. Commercial Dining Room Cleaning Checklist

Restroom Cleaning Checklist for Businesses

Restaurant restroom cleaning checklist For most businesses restrooms, you’ll want to:
  • Wash mirrors.
  • Clean sinks.
  • Sterilize handles and door knobs.
  • Refill soap and sanitizer dispensers.
  • Check and refill the paper towels and toilet paper dispensers.
  • Sanitize dispensers and toilets.
  • Sweep and mop floors.
  • Take out the trash.
Download our printable bathroom cleaning checklist template for businesses below. Commercial Restroom Cleaning Checklist

Restaurants Cleaning Checklist for Kitchens

A commercial kitchen will need daily, weekly, and monthly cleaning.

Cleaning Business Kitchens Daily Checklist

Cleaning business kitchen cleaning checklist Commercial kitchens will need to perform the following tasks daily:
  • Spot wipe walls.
  • Clean cooking equipment. 
  • Replace foil lining on any equipment.
  • Clean drink machines, coffee makers, microwaves, and other appliances.
  • Sanitize the prep area.
  • Wash soda machine heads in sterilizer solution.
  • Finish washing dishes and dry them with a clean towel.
  • Clean sinks. 
  • Wash and dry fabrics in a washing machine.
  • Refill soap and sanitizer.
  • Refill paper towel rolls.
  • Sweep and mop walk-in coolers and storage spaces.
  • Sweep and mop the kitchen floors.
  • Take out the trash and recycling.
  • Disinfect the trash cans.
Download our daily commercial kitchen cleaning checklist. Daily Commercial Kitchen Cleaning Business 

Weekly Commercial Kitchen Cleaning Checklist

Weekly cleaning for commercial kitchens includes: [su_note note_color="#dbeafc"]
  • Remove calcium and lime build-up from faucets and dishwashers.
  • Clean walls, doors, and racks of ovens.
  • Sanitize walk-in freezers and coolers. 
  • Boil out the deep fryer.
  • Clean all anti-slip rugs and mats.
  • Pour drain cleaner into all drains.
[/su_note] Download the weekly cleaning tasks for a restaurant kitchen below. Weekly Commercial Kitchen Cleaning Checklist

Commercial Kitchen Monthly Cleaning Tasks

You’ll want to perform the following tasks monthly:
  • Clean behind the cooking equipment to remove all grease. 
  • Run any drink machines with a sanitizing solution. Make sure to run clean water through afterward to remove the taste.
  • Empty ice machines and sanitize them. (Seriously, it’s really gross if you don’t. See the picture below.)
  • Sanitize the freezer.
  • Remove dust from the cooling equipment coils.
  • Remove grease build-up from the ceiling and walls.
  • Clean grease off vent hoods.
  • Check any pest control traps.
Dirty ice machine maker Download the pdf and spreadsheet checklists for monthly commercial kitchen cleaning. Commercial Kitchen Monthly Cleaning Checklist

Post-Construction Cleaning Checklist PDF

Construction cleanup is needed after a building is built or remodeled. The processes are normally similar for every kind of building, but some will have special requirements. Make sure to ask the client for their standards and procedures before estimating. Cleaning tasks after construction include: [su_note note_color="#dbeafc"]
  • Make sure all HVAC vents are clean and untapped.
  • Change the HVAC filter.
  • Vacuum and dust all interior and exterior lighting fixtures and ceiling fans.
  • Verify that all interior and exterior lighting works properly.
  • Remove any paint splatters from all hinges.
  • Vacuum, dust, and polish all interior and exterior doors, frames, and door knobs.
  • Clean sinks and backsplashes.
  • Vacuum, dust, and sanitize all shelves, cabinets, counters, and drawers (inside and out).
  • Remove any paint or tape that is stuck on light switches, floors, windows, electrical, outlets, and baseboards.
  • Polish all metal fixtures, including handles and knobs.
  • Gently scrape paint speckles off window fixtures. Then vacuum and wash windows, window sill, and tracks. Make sure they all open properly.
  • Clean all mirrors.
  • Vacuum and sanitize all sinks, tubs, showers, and toilets 
  • Clean appliances inside and out. Make them shine!
  • Remove all trash.
  • Sweep, vacuum, and mop floors.
  • Sweep entryways.
  • Vacuum all porches, patios, decks, and outdoor cooking equipment.
  • Clean garage door(s) and mailbox.
  • Vacuum and pressure wash the sidewalks, driveways, and exterior of the building.
  • Remove all trash from the premises.
[/su_note] Download our new construction house cleaning checklist below. Post-Construction House Cleaning Checklist

Airbnb Cleaning Checklist

Our vacation rental cleaning checklist includes: 1. Inspecting the house for:
  • Damaged furniture
  • Stained carpets
  • Items removed from property
  • HVAC working
  • Broken doors or window panes
  • Hot water
  • Bugs, including bed bugs
2. Performing the following tasks in each bedroom:
  • Take before pictures.
  • Empty the trash.
  • Dust furniture, fans, window sills, blinds, and other surfaces.
  • Remove sheets and pillows. Inspect for bed bugs (in some states, the property owner can be held liable).
  • Change sheets or make beds.
  • Wash windows.
  • Clean mirrors.
  • Clean counters.
  • Leave a piece of candy on the bed with a note to the customer.
  • Vacuum and mop floors.
  • Sanitize door handles and light switches before leaving the room.
  • Take after pictures.
3. Performing the following tasks in each bathroom:
  • Take before pictures.
  • Refill or replace soap, shampoo, and conditioner.
  • Provide toilet paper equal to 2x the tenant’s stay.
  • Provide one towel per tenant +1 extra each day.
  • Empty the trash.
  • Dust.
  • Wash windows and clean mirrors.
  • Clean counters.
  • Sanitize shower, bathtub, sinks, and toilets.
  • Vacuum and mop floors.
  • Sanitize door handles and light switches.
  • Take after pictures.
4. You’ll also want to perform the following tasks for the living room, dining room, and kitchen.
  • Take before pictures.
  • Empty the trash.
  • Dust furniture, fans, window sills, blinds, and other surfaces.
  • Inspect couch(es) for bed bugs (in some states the property owner can be held liable).
  • Vacuum the couch(es).
  • Change the sheets if there is a fold-out bed.
  • Wash windows.
  • Clean mirrors.
  • Test the TV.
  • Test remote.
  • Clean the TV.
  • Vacuum and mop floors.
  • Dust tables, fans, window sills, blinds, and other surfaces.
  • Sanitize the table before leaving the room.
  • Refill or replace hand soap and dish soap.
  • Clean inside the refrigerator, oven, microwave, and other appliances.
  • Wash the dishes.
  • Clean counters.
  • Sanitize sinks.
  • Sanitize light switches before leaving the room.
  • Take after pictures.
Don’t forget to do the following before you leave:
  • Take out the trash and dirty linens.
  • Set the alarm.
  • Lock the door(s).
  • Leave a door hanger or meet the customer at the arranged time and place.
  • Send documentation to the client.
We discuss the Airbnb cleaning checklist pdf in more detail in the blog about Airbnb cleaning, or watch the video about rental move-out cleaning below. [su_youtube url="https://youtu.be/YcYIYdqegGA"] Excited about the prospects! Download our vacation rental cleaning checklist pdf below: Vacation Rental Cleaning Checklist

Find the Checklist You Needed?

Now you have a checklist for home and commercial cleaning. We hope to add to this list in the future. What cleaning checklist would you like to see us add to the page?
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