What Can Cleaning Business Owners Write Off?
Save money by knowing what’s deductible!
If you run a cleaning business — whether you’re a solo cleaner or managing a small crew — you’re probably spending money on supplies, tools, fuel, marketing, and more.
But did you know many of those everyday expenses can be written off on your taxes?
Understanding what you can (and can’t) deduct is one of the best ways to keep more of your hard-earned money and avoid overpaying Uncle Sam.
Here’s a helpful guide to what cleaning business owners can write off — and how to track it all properly.
What Is a “Write-Off” or Deduction?
A business write-off (or deduction) is an expense that the IRS allows you to subtract from your total income — reducing the amount of income you’re taxed on.
So, if your cleaning business made $60,000 last year and you had $15,000 in legitimate business expenses, you’d only be taxed on $45,000.
That’s why good bookkeeping (and knowing what counts) can literally save you thousands.
Common Cleaning Business Write-Offs
Here’s a breakdown of deductible expenses most cleaning businesses can write off:
1. Supplies and Materials
Cleaning solutions (disinfectants, degreasers, etc.)
Gloves, rags, paper towels, brushes, sponges
Mops, buckets, vacuums, brooms
Spray bottles and containers
Trash bags and liners
2. Mileage and Vehicle Expenses
If you drive between jobs, you can write off:
Mileage (standard IRS rate — currently 65.5 cents per mile in 2023)
Or actual vehicle expenses, like:
Gas
Oil changes
Insurance
Maintenance
Depreciation
Tip: Use a mileage tracking app like Everlance or MileIQ to keep records.
3. Phone and Internet
A portion of your mobile phone plan
Internet service (if used for scheduling, email, or client communication)
If you use your phone for both personal and business, you can deduct the business-use percentage.
4. Uniforms and Work Clothing
Branded t-shirts or polos
Aprons
Protective footwear
Laundry costs for uniforms
Everyday clothing (like jeans or sneakers) typically does not qualify unless it’s clearly for work and not worn personally.
5. Advertising and Marketing
Business cards and flyers
Facebook/Instagram ads
Website hosting and domain
Yard signs, car magnets
Referral bonuses
6. Business Insurance
General liability insurance
Workers’ compensation
Equipment insurance
Bonding costs
7. Equipment and Repairs
Vacuum cleaners, carpet extractors
Steamers and power washers
Tool repairs or replacements
If it’s a larger piece of equipment, you may need to depreciate it over a few years — your bookkeeper or tax pro can help with that.
8. Software and Apps
Scheduling tools (Jobber, Housecall Pro, etc.)
Accounting software (QuickBooks, Wave, etc.)
CRM or customer management tools
Mileage tracking apps
9. Office Supplies
Pens, notebooks, clipboards
Printer ink or paper
File folders, binders
10. Bank and Payment Processing Fees
Credit card processing fees (Stripe, Square, Venmo Business)
Bank fees on your business account
What Can’t You Write Off?
Personal expenses (groceries, Netflix, etc.)
Meals not related to business
Home cleaning supplies (if not used in your biz)
Clothes you wear outside of work
Fines, penalties, or illegal activity
When in doubt, only write off expenses that are ordinary and necessary for running your business.
Bonus: How to Stay Organized
To make tax time easier:
Use a separate business bank account and credit card
Track expenses weekly (or hire a bookkeeper to do it)
Save receipts or use a receipt-scanning app
Reconcile your accounts monthly
Final Thoughts
The more organized you are, the more you’ll save.
Every dollar you can write off reduces your taxable income — which means more profit in your pocket.
Not sure if you're missing out on deductions?
Let’s do a free Bookkeeping Health Check and make sure you’re not leaving money on the table.
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or send us an email at David@RuckandReconcile.com
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And as always, thanks for reading and we’ll see you next week!