what category do you put housekeeping/custodial services in

2 min read 02-02-2025

what category do you put housekeeping/custodial services in

Housekeeping and custodial services are essential for maintaining clean and healthy environments. But when it comes to categorizing these services, the right label depends on the context. This article will explore various ways to categorize these vital services, considering different business models and industries.

Defining the Scope: Housekeeping vs. Custodial Services

While often used interchangeably, there's a subtle difference:

Housekeeping: Typically focuses on residential cleaning, maintaining the cleanliness and order of private homes. This can include tasks like dusting, vacuuming, mopping, laundry, and sometimes even meal preparation or light gardening.
Custodial Services: Primarily focuses on commercial cleaning, encompassing the upkeep of larger spaces like offices, schools, hospitals, and industrial facilities. This often involves more specialized cleaning tasks and equipment. They might deal with things like floor waxing, carpet cleaning, restroom sanitation, and waste disposal.

Categorization by Industry and Business Model

The category for housekeeping/custodial services varies depending on the industry and business structure:

1. Business Classifications (NAICS & SIC Codes):

North American Industry Classification System (NAICS): In the US, housekeeping and custodial services typically fall under the NAICS code 561730 – Janitorial Services. This broadly covers cleaning services for businesses.
Standard Industrial Classification (SIC): The older SIC system used codes like 7342 (Cleaning and Maintenance) to categorize these services.

These codes are important for business registration, tax purposes, and industry statistics.

2. Online Marketplaces and Directories:

Cleaning Services: This is a common and broad category used by online platforms like Yelp, Angie's List, and Thumbtack. Many businesses offering both residential and commercial cleaning fall under this umbrella.
Commercial Cleaning: Websites specializing in business services often have a dedicated section for commercial cleaning services. This clearly differentiates it from residential options.
Residential Cleaning: Similarly, websites focusing on home services will typically have a separate category for residential cleaning, highlighting housekeepers and maid services.
Janitorial Services: This category often implies larger-scale commercial cleaning operations, often involving contracts with businesses or institutions.

3. Industry-Specific Categories:

The category will also be influenced by the specific industry the services support:

Healthcare: Within the healthcare industry, cleaning services might fall under "Environmental Services" or "Infection Control," highlighting the importance of hygiene and sanitation.
Hospitality: Hotels and other hospitality businesses may classify their cleaning staff under "Housekeeping" or "Room Service" departments.
Education: Schools typically categorize these services under "Facilities Management" or "Maintenance."

Choosing the Right Category: Best Practices

Clarity is Key: Select a category that accurately reflects your services. If you offer both residential and commercial cleaning, you might list your business under both categories on relevant online platforms.
Target Audience: Consider who you're trying to reach. If your target market is homeowners, emphasize "Residential Cleaning." For businesses, highlight "Commercial Cleaning" or "Janitorial Services."
Consistency: Use consistent terminology across your website, marketing materials, and business registrations.

By understanding the nuances of categorization and tailoring your approach to your target audience and industry, you can effectively market your housekeeping/custodial services and reach the right clients.