Cutting Through the Clutter: Making Tech Work for Cleaning Businesses
Welcome back to the Five Door Media Podcast blog, where we pull out the golden nuggets from our latest episodes with the top minds in home services. This week, we welcomed Libby DeLucien, cleaning industry powerhouse, software founder, and bold-as-they-come business coach.
If you run a cleaning company and feel overwhelmed by software, AI, and the never-ending promise of tech that "does it all," this episode is your lifeline. Libby knows the real-world challenges of running a home service business, and she’s on the front lines helping owners implement technology that actually works.
Here are the key takeaways from our jam-packed conversation with Libby:
From Rock Bottom to Industry Leader
Libby’s journey into the cleaning world didn’t start in a boardroom. It started on a curb, locked out of her home, with nothing but the clothes on her back. Within a few short years, she built a seven-figure organizing and cleaning business. That drive later led to two software companies: WootRecruit (recruiting automation for home service teams) and Sell Convert Clean (a quoting tool for residential cleaners).
Her origin story isn't just inspiring, it’s a reminder that urgency and scrappiness often lead to the most innovative solutions.
Tech Overload: The #1 Mistake Cleaning Owners Make
Libby didn’t mince words: most cleaning company owners are buying too much software. And worse? They're using technology to fix problems they haven’t even defined yet.
"Software isn’t the solution to your problem. Chaos, order, then automate. If you skip steps, you're just automating chaos."
Before you chase the next shiny tool, she recommends:
Mapping your process on paper first.
Testing it with your team.
Only then choosing software that supports it.
That alone could save your business thousands of dollars and hours of confusion.
Why All-in-Ones Aren’t Always the Answer
In the last 12–18 months, the market has exploded with all-in-one platforms claiming to handle every aspect of your business. Libby warns that while they may sound attractive, they often sacrifice quality for breadth and many are white-labeled, faceless, and not built by people who actually understand the cleaning world.
"We’re in a new MLM era with tech. It’s creating confusion for the small business owner who just wants help."
Her tip? Vet your software the same way you'd vet a new hire. Do they know the industry? Do they speak your language? Were they built to solve your problem or someone else’s?
Real Tech Wins: What Smart Companies Are Doing
The best companies Libby sees aren’t using AI and automation to replace people, they’re using it to make their people better.
Here’s how:
AI for back-office efficiency: Email responses, quote generation, and internal task automation.
Tech to support, not replace: Using automation for scheduling or SOP delivery, not for client phone calls or interviews.
Training teams alongside tech: Libby shares her "Tech Tuesdays," where team members explore and share how AI can support their roles.
"We call them SAPs: standard automated procedures. What can we automate so our humans can do the stuff that actually matters?"
The Human Element Still Wins
Libby might run technology companies, but she’s crystal clear on one thing: software will never beat great service.
Don’t use AI to answer your phones. You pay too much for calls to let a robot ruin the first impression.
Don’t screen potential hires with AI voice calls. Human interaction still builds trust best.
Don’t buy software just because it’s cheap. If it’s too cheap, it probably isn’t sustainable or supported.
"Tech without connection is just noise. What sets you apart is the human experience."
Coaching, Community, and Choosing the Right Software
One surprising trend Libby highlighted? The best software companies are becoming education companies, too.
From including coaching calls to launching support communities, software providers are recognizing that their users need more than just tools; they need training, community, and a face they can trust.
Libby also stresses the importance of choosing software from people who get the cleaning industry. Tools like WootRecruit and Sell Convert Clean were built out of real pain points. They solve actual problems with simplicity and speed.
"You shouldn’t be turning to AI to fix your process. You should be turning to AI to support a process you’ve already dialed in."
Final Word: Lead With Vision, Stay Human
In a time where it feels like every day brings a new tool, trend, or technology platform, Libby’s advice is refreshingly grounded:
Lead with process.
Keep it simple.
Choose tech that supports your humans.
And always, always keep the customer experience front and center.
Libby’s episode isn’t just a masterclass in modern technology strategy. It’s a reality check for overwhelmed business owners who feel like they’re falling behind. The truth? You don’t need more technology. You need better systems and a clear strategy.
Watch the full episode and learn how to cut through the clutter, make smarter software decisions, and keep your cleaning business focused on what matters most.
