This business plan outlines how to launch a mobile screen cleaning business using a specialized portable screen-washing machine. Inspired by the success of door-to-door window washing entrepreneurs, this concept focuses on offering quick, affordable, and hassle-free screen cleaning services to residential customers. With low startup costs and minimal competition, this business provides an accessible path to earning a high hourly income and long-term scalability.
Problem & Opportunity
Millions of homeowners neglect the cleaning of their window and door screens. While there’s strong awareness around clean windows, screens are often overlooked despite their effect on indoor air quality and exterior appearance. Traditional cleaning methods are time-consuming or require disassembling screens, which deters homeowners.
This business addresses that gap with a mobile, efficient service that cleans screens on-site in minutes — no home entry required, and minimal prep from the homeowner. Since the service isn’t yet widespread, it presents a valuable early-mover advantage.
Business Concept
What the Business Does
Cleans window and door screens at the customer’s home.
Uses a portable screen-washing unit with built-in water brushes.
Charges per screen or per house (bundle pricing model).
Customer Value Proposition
Fast (under 30 minutes per visit).
Affordable (far cheaper than full window washing).
Convenient (on-site, no screen removal or home access needed).
Flexible (single screen to full-home packages).
Service Options
Per screen ($10–$20).
Small package (e.g., 3–5 screens for $50).
Whole-home bundle (e.g., up to 10 screens for $100+).
Market Analysis
Target Market
Suburban homeowners.
Seniors who can’t clean screens themselves.
Real estate agents prepping homes for sale.
Airbnb/short-term rental hosts maintaining curb appeal.
Property managers and HOAs.
Market Trends
Growing preference for on-demand and mobile home services.
Homeowners investing more in exterior upkeep and air quality.
The gig economy's rise has normalized hiring niche specialists for short tasks.
Competition
Limited direct competitors focusing exclusively on screens.
Some window washers offer screen cleaning as an upsell — but with less speed or specialized tools.
This business stands out by offering a focused, fast, lower-cost alternative.
Startup Plan
Step 1: Acquire Equipment
Purchase a portable screen washing machine (approx. $365).
Buy or repurpose a wagon or cart for door-to-door transport.
Stock basic supplies (towels, soap, hose connector, water source).
Step 2: Build Your Brand
Name your business something catchy and clear.
Create basic branding: t-shirts, magnets, flyers, yard signs.
Get a logo via Canva or Fiverr for as little as $25.
Step 3: Launch Locally
Start in a neighborhood with high homeownership and walkability.
Begin door-to-door outreach with in-person pitches and live demonstrations.
Offer an opening-week discount to encourage trial and word-of-mouth.
Marketing & Customer Acquisition
Initial Strategies
Door-to-door outreach: Offer free demos or discounted first cleans.
Yard signs: Simple messaging like “We Clean Window Screens – Fast & Affordable.”
Flyers & door hangers: Before/after photos, pricing, contact info.
Social media: Use Facebook groups, Nextdoor, and local pages to post videos and reviews.
Google Business Profile: List yourself for local service searches.
Referral program: Give $10 off for each new customer referral.
Retention & Reviews
Collect testimonials after each job.
Request Google and Yelp reviews.
Keep records to follow up for seasonal or annual re-cleans.
Operations Plan
Daily Workflow
Load supplies and tools.
Target a pre-mapped neighborhood or set route.
Knock or follow up on previous inquiries.
Clean on the spot or schedule appointments.
Record payments and contacts for follow-up.
Tools Needed
Screen washer: ~$365
Cart or small wagon: ~$100
Soap, towels, accessories: ~$50
Optional: Water tank if no hose access (approx. $100)
Labor
Solo operation initially.
Expand by hiring part-time workers or training others once demand grows.
Financial Plan
Startup Costs
| Expense | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Screen washing machine | $365 |
| Transport cart or wagon | $100 |
| Cleaning supplies (soap, towels) | $50 |
| Branding materials (flyers, shirts, signs) | $100 |
| Optional water tank | $100 |
| Total Initial Investment | $665–$715 |
Revenue Potential
| Scenario | Revenue |
|---|---|
| 3 houses/day × $75 avg | $225/day |
| 20 workdays/month | $4,500/month |
| Expenses (gas, supplies) | ~10% |
| Net profit/month | ~$4,000 |
Growth Potential
Upsell whole-home seasonal bundles.
Offer group discounts for neighborhoods or HOAs.
License your model in nearby cities.
Hire and train additional operators.
Develop branded kits and training to expand as a franchise.
Scaling Strategy
Phase 1: Perfect the Local Model
Build local reputation.
Gather strong testimonials and reviews.
Create systems for scheduling and follow-ups.
Phase 2: Duplicate Success in New Areas
Hire assistants or launch a second vehicle.
Use route optimization tools (like Circuit or Routific).
Use local contractors for expansion in new zip codes.
Phase 3: Licensing & Franchising
Package equipment list, training manual, and marketing templates.
License the business to others in nearby cities or states.
Offer backend support and branding for a fee.
Risks & Mitigations
| Risk | Solution |
|---|---|
| Bad weather | Build flexibility into scheduling. |
| Equipment malfunction | Maintain backups or spare parts. |
| Customer trust | Wear uniforms, get reviews, be insured. |
| Physical fatigue | Limit daily jobs, hire help early. |
| Market saturation | Focus on reputation and referrals. |
Conclusion
This screen cleaning business offers an exceptional combination of low startup costs, strong local demand, and fast cash flow. It's perfect for individuals looking to start a business that’s easy to launch, scalable, and community-based. With some hustle and a clear value proposition, entrepreneurs can build a sustainable, high-margin operation with potential for regional or national expansion.