Regional Spotlight: India's cleaning and hygiene market developments

In this edition of our Regional Spotlight series we zoom in on India, to explore the current state of the cleaning and hygiene industry. We spoke with Mohana M, Editor of Clean India Journal. 

How would you describe the current state of the cleaning and hygiene industry in your country?

 India’s cleaning and hygiene industry has entered a high-growth phase. The sector is valued at US $13.6 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach US $24.4 billion by 2033, registering a steady CAGR of 6.7 per cent. This growth is driven by multiple factors, including rapid urbanisation, expanding healthcare infrastructure, the rise of IT parks, metro networks, and airports, as well as increasing middle-class incomes that boost demand for professional cleaning services across residential and commercial segments. 

India’s real estate sector plays a pivotal role in this growth story. Currently contributing 7 per cent to the country’s GDP, the sector is expected to achieve a size of US $1 trillion by 2030 and reach US $5.8 trillion by 2047, potentially contributing 15.5 per cent to GDP. As commercial spaces, industrial parks, and high-rise residential complexes continue to expand, the demand for systematic cleaning and hygiene solutions is becoming essential rather than optional. 

Industrial corridors such as Delhi–Mumbai, Chennai–Bangalore, and Visakhapatnam–Chennai are transforming India into a global manufacturing hub. Every new expressway, airport, metro station or logistics park creates a direct need for specialised cleaning services to maintain hygiene standards in line with global benchmarks. 

What are the top trends shaping your market right now? 

The cleaning and hygiene industry in India is evolving with three transformative trends. Technology-led cleaning solutions are now entering mainstream use across airports, metro stations, shopping malls, and corporate campuses. Robotic cleaners, IoT-based hygiene monitoring systems, and automated dispensers ensure higher efficiency and consistency while reducing dependence on manual labour. 

Green cleaning is another growing priority. Under government-led initiatives such as the Swachh Bharat Mission and certification schemes like Green Pro, industries are increasingly adopting water-efficient cleaning machines and eco-friendly chemicals. This not only aligns with sustainability goals but also addresses growing environmental concerns. Finally, India’s ambition to become a US $5 trillion economy by 2027–28 is fuelling massive industrialisation. Thereby creating long-term opportunities for the cleaning and hygiene sector. 

Are there any standout innovations or technologies being adopted in your country? 

India is transitioning from being primarily a consumer, to a producer of advanced cleaning technologies. Domestic manufacturing of robotic floor scrubbers, UV-based disinfection systems, high-pressure cleaning machines, and smart washroom dispensers is growing rapidly. 

Collaborations between Indian companies and European and Asian technology leaders are bringing automation, AI, and data-driven solutions to Indian facilities. These joint ventures support the government’s “Make in India” mission while catering to the specific cleaning needs of industries ranging from healthcare to manufacturing. 

Digitalisation is changing the way cleaning operations are managed. Tools such as digital checklists, real-time hygiene monitoring sensors, and mobile quality control applications enable centralised management of multi-location facilities. Airports, retail chains, and corporate campuses now use remote dashboards to monitor cleanliness levels, optimise manpower deployment, and maintain quality standards across sites. 

Further, Green Pro Certification encourages manufacturers to produce eco-friendly cleaning equipment and chemicals. Solid Waste Management Rules 2016 make waste segregation and recycling mandatory for commercial establishments, while occupational safety regulations improve worker safety in handling cleaning chemicals and equipment. 

What are important developments in your country right now? 

The Indian government’s ambition to position the country as a global manufacturing hub is evident in initiatives like Make in India and Production Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes. Sectors like electronics, pharmaceuticals, automotive, food processing, and textiles are expanding capacity to meet global demand. As production scales up, so does the need for industrial cleaning technologies that ensure efficiency, worker safety, and compliance with international standards. 

India is also witnessing growth in ancillary industries that support this industrial boom. The manufacturing of cleaning equipment is one such sector gaining momentum. Indian manufacturers are scaling up production capacities while adopting advanced technologies to meet domestic and international demand. International companies are entering joint ventures and technology tie-ups with Indian firms, bringing in global expertise and opening doors for innovation in cleaning solutions tailored to India’s diverse industries. 

The country’s economic growth is driving demand for world-class cleaning technologies. From automated cleaning equipment to sustainable sanitation solutions, India is becoming a significant market for global players. As every industry, from infrastructure to manufacturing, sets its sights on global targets, the demand for professional cleaning services and equipment will only continue to grow.