Are cleaning services in Kenya a growing industry?

Are Cleaning Services in Kenya a Growing Industry?

The cleaning services industry in Kenya has experienced significant growth over the past decade, driven by urbanization, an expanding middle class, and heightened awareness of hygiene standards. Rapid urban development in cities like Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kisumu has increased demand for professional cleaning services across residential, commercial, and industrial sectors. As Kenya’s urban population grows, with over 27% of the population living in urban areas as of 2024, the need for clean and well-maintained spaces has surged. This is fueled by the construction of commercial real estate, including office buildings, retail spaces, and hospitality establishments, which require regular cleaning to meet operational and regulatory standards. The rise in dual-income households, where both partners work, has further boosted demand for residential cleaning services, as busy lifestyles leave little time for household chores.

A key factor contributing to the industry’s growth is the increased focus on hygiene, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic. Public and private sectors have prioritized workplace and residential sanitation, with businesses such as offices, banks, and healthcare facilities outsourcing cleaning to ensure compliance with health standards. The World Health Organization’s emphasis on disinfection to prevent disease transmission has led to a sustained demand for specialized services like deep cleaning and fumigation. Additionally, the hospitality sector, including hotels and Airbnb properties, has seen a rise in cleaning service contracts to maintain high cleanliness standards for guests, further driving market expansion.

The adoption of eco-friendly cleaning practices is another trend shaping the industry. Kenyan consumers and businesses are increasingly opting for green cleaning products, such as biodegradable detergents and non-toxic agents, due to growing environmental awareness. Companies like Bestcare Cleaning Services and Candy & Candy Cleaning Services have capitalized on this trend, offering sustainable solutions that appeal to eco-conscious clients. This shift aligns with global trends, where sustainability is becoming a standard, with 61% of Kenyan consumers preferring eco-friendly products in a 2024 survey. The rise of e-commerce platforms has also made these products more accessible, further supporting the industry’s growth.

Technological advancements are transforming the cleaning services sector in Kenya. The integration of automation, such as robotic vacuum cleaners and AI-driven scheduling systems, is enhancing efficiency and reducing labor costs. Companies like Parapet Cleaning Services have adopted modern equipment like low-noise vacuum cleaners and steam cleaners to improve service quality. Additionally, cleaning management software enables providers to streamline operations, manage bookings, and track employee performance, making services more reliable and appealing to clients. These innovations are particularly evident in commercial cleaning, which accounts for approximately 55% of the market share in Kenya as of 2023.

Despite its growth, the industry faces challenges such as intense competition and rising labor costs. The market is saturated with both established firms and new entrants, requiring companies to differentiate through specialized services or competitive pricing. Labor shortages, driven by a preference for less physically demanding jobs, also pose a challenge, with some providers struggling to maintain service quality. However, low start-up costs and a diverse customer base continue to attract entrepreneurs, making the industry lucrative and scalable. The cleaning services market in Kenya is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 5.3% from 2024 to 2031, reflecting its strong growth trajectory.

The commercial sector, particularly in Nairobi, dominates the market due to the high volume of cleaning required by offices, schools, and healthcare facilities. The real estate boom, with commercial property values expected to surpass USD 130 trillion globally by 2028, further fuels demand. Subscription-based and on-demand cleaning models are also gaining traction, offering flexibility and convenience to clients. These trends, combined with Kenya’s economic growth and increasing disposable incomes, position the cleaning services industry as a vital and expanding sector with significant opportunities for growth.