How many cleaning companies operate in Nairobi, Kenya?

Determining the exact number of cleaning companies operating in Nairobi, Kenya, is challenging due to the dynamic nature of the industry, which includes both formally registered businesses and informal operators. However, based on available data from industry listings, business directories, and online reviews, estimates suggest that there are over 100 cleaning companies actively providing services in Nairobi as of 2025. This figure encompasses a mix of well-established firms, mid-sized enterprises, and smaller, localized service providers catering to residential, commercial, and industrial clients.

The cleaning industry in Nairobi has grown significantly in recent years, driven by increasing demand for professional cleaning services in urban areas. Companies range from large, ISO-certified organizations like Parapet Cleaning Services, which has been in operation since 1998, to newer entrants such as Dulytec Cleaning Services, established in 2018. Industry sources indicate that the market includes both specialized firms offering services like carpet cleaning, sofa cleaning, and post-construction cleaning, as well as comprehensive facility management companies that integrate cleaning with other services like pest control and landscaping. For instance, Bestcare Facilities Management and Colnet Limited are noted for their wide-ranging offerings, serving diverse sectors including banks, offices, and residential properties.

Business directories, such as those compiled by Tuko.co.ke and businesslist.co.ke, highlight a robust ecosystem of cleaning companies in Nairobi, with some sources listing between 10 to 25 top-tier companies alone. These lists often focus on prominent names like GM Cleaning Services, Titossy Cleaning Services, and Safitime Cleaning Services, which are recognized for their professionalism and customer satisfaction. However, these represent only a fraction of the total market, as many smaller companies operate without significant online visibility or formal registration, particularly in residential cleaning and informal sectors.

The growth of Nairobi’s cleaning industry is further evidenced by the presence of companies with countrywide networks, such as One Way Cleaning Services Limited, which employs over 1,200 staff and operates in both Nairobi and Mombasa. This scale suggests a competitive market, with firms differentiating themselves through certifications, eco-friendly practices, and specialized services like high-access cleaning or fumigation. For example, Parapet Cleaning Services is ISO 9001:2008 certified and a member of the International Sanitary Services Association (ISSA), indicating a high standard of operation that appeals to corporate clients.

Online platforms and customer reviews also provide insight into the market’s size. Websites like bestcarecleaning.co.ke and shiftersmovers.com frequently update lists of top cleaning companies, with some citing up to 16 or 25 notable firms in Nairobi. These sources emphasize the diversity of services, from office cleaning to specialized tasks like swimming pool maintenance, indicating a broad market catering to varied needs. Additionally, the rise of digital marketing has led to increased visibility for companies like Gesan Cleaning Services and Kejani Cleaning Services, which leverage online bookings and customer feedback to expand their reach.

The informal sector further complicates estimating the total number of cleaning companies. Many small-scale operators, often individuals or small teams, provide ad-hoc cleaning services to households and small businesses without formal registration. These operators may not appear in directories but contribute significantly to the overall market, particularly in residential areas. Industry growth is also supported by Nairobi’s urban expansion and the increasing need for hygiene in commercial spaces, suggesting that the number of cleaning companies, both formal and informal, will likely continue to rise.