By Owner
Running a cleaning company may look simple from the outside, but behind every service, every sparkling space, and every satisfied client, there is a journey filled with challenges—especially for a business like mine that grew from tradition, personal experience, and resilience.
1. Cleaning Is a Traditional Type of Work — and Often Undervalued
Cleaning is something many of us grew up doing from childhood. As an East African woman, cleaning was part of our everyday life—helping our mothers, our aunties, our households.
Because it feels “natural,” people sometimes assume it’s easy, unskilled, or not worth real payment.
But the truth is:
Cleaning is a professional service. It requires skill, training, standards, safety knowledge, and physical labor.
Yet the world often overlooks the value behind it.
2. Getting Unpaid or Underpaid
One of the hardest parts of running a cleaning company is completing a job with excellence—only for clients to delay payment or avoid paying entirely.
Some clients request discounts, negotiate down to unrealistic prices, or expect professional-quality work for free or “just for now.”
And when payment doesn’t come on time, small businesses like mine feel it immediately.
It affects our supplies, our payroll, our scheduling, and our ability to grow.
3. Clients Avoiding Contracts Before the Work Begins
Many people want the service right away but hesitate when it comes to signing a contract.
But contracts protect both sides — the client and the business.
Without a contract:
- Prices get misunderstood
- Work expectations become unclear
- Payment becomes risky
- Disputes become harder to resolve
Still, some clients disappear the moment a contract is sent.
That alone has taught me the importance of firm boundaries and professional standards.
4. Understanding the Business Side Is Not Always Easy
Building a cleaning company isn’t just about cleaning.
It’s also about:
- Marketing
- Pricing
- Hiring
- Training
- Licensing
- Insurance
- Accounting
- Supply management
- Customer service
This side of the business takes time, learning, mentorship, and constant adjustment.
There are days when the business feels overwhelming—but with purpose and faith, I continue to grow through every challenge.
5. Communication Is Not Always Clear Between Clients and Contractors
Sometimes clients assume cleaners “already know” what they want.
Other times, they don’t communicate changes, priorities, or feedback clearly.
And when communication is weak, the job becomes harder and misunderstandings increase.
Clear communication helps us serve better, schedule properly, and create long-term relationships—yet this is one of the biggest ongoing challenges.
The Purpose Behind the Struggle
Even with all these challenges, I remind myself of why I started this journey.
My company, Pedag Cleaning Company, LLC, was built from a place of healing, strength, and deep purpose.
Every obstacle has shaped me into a stronger leader, a wiser businesswoman, and a more compassionate service provider.
These challenges are real—but so is my commitment.
And every day, I rise with the intention to improve, grow, and serve my community with excellence.
