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Top 12 Connecteam Alternatives for Janitorial Businesses in 2025

Written by Jaclyn Tyson | June 18, 2025

Why Janitorial Businesses Are Turning to Connecteam Alternatives

Connecteam has established itself as "The World's #1 Employee App" for deskless teams, with solid features like time tracking, scheduling, task management, and team communication. It’s a solid fit for many industries—but janitorial business owners know their challenges don’t fit into a one-size-fits-all app.

Here’s why janitorial pros are searching for Connecteam alternatives:

  • Janitorial-specific tools: Cleaning operations demand features for supply tracking, quality checks, and specialized workflows that generic apps just don’t deliver.

  • Pricing headaches: Connecteam’s per-user pricing can quickly add up for cleaning businesses with large, spread-out teams.

  • Client transparency: Janitorial companies need client portals and real-time visibility—areas where Connecteam falls short.

  • Language support: Diverse cleaning crews require strong translation features to keep communication smooth, beyond what typical workforce apps offer.

  • Operational focus: Commercial cleaning workflows are unique and benefit from software built specifically for the industry.

This guide dives into the best Connecteam alternatives tailored to janitorial and commercial cleaning businesses in 2025—helping you find the perfect fit for your operation.

TL;DR: Quick Comparison of Top Connecteam Alternatives

Software Best For Pricing Model What Sets It Apart Free Option?
Swept Commercial cleaning operations Location-based Purpose-built for janitorial businesses No
Deputy Workforce compliance Per user Advanced compliance features No
When I Work Shift notifications Per user Simple scheduling interface Yes (limited)
7shifts Restaurant cleaning Per location Food service specialization Yes (limited)
Skedulo Deskless workforce Per user

Intelligent scheduling

Yes (limited)
Hubstaff Productivity insights Per user Detailed activity monitoring Yes (limited)
Homebase Small teams Per location Hiring and onboarding tools Yes (limited)
Buddy Punch Simple time tracking Per user + base fee User-friendly interface No
Sling Communication Per user Free scheduling tools Yes
TeamSense Absence management Per user

Text-based absence reporting

No
Xenia Frontline operations Per user Quality control checklists Yes (limited)
Workyard Construction cleaning Per user + base fee Construction job costing No
 

Detailed Reviews of the Best Connecteam Alternatives

1. Swept - Best for Commercial Cleaning Operations

Overview: Swept isn’t just another workforce app—it’s built exclusively for janitorial businesses. From scheduling to supply tracking to cleaner communication, every feature is designed to solve the real challenges cleaning companies face. If you’re serious about growing your commercial cleaning business, Swept gives you the tools to clean better, scale faster, and win more contracts.

Key Features:

  • Time & Attendance Verification - GPS-verified clock-in/out to prevent time theft
  • Supply Management - Digital supply requests and inventory tracking across locations
  • Quality Control - Cleaning-specific inspections, checklists, and photo documentation
  • Multilingual Support - Automatic translation across 100+ languages for diverse teams
  • Location-Based Communication - Centralized messaging tied to specific cleaning sites

Pricing:

  • Launch: $30/month (up to 15 locations)
  • Optimize: $150/month (more locations, enhanced features)
  • Scale: $225/month (unlimited locations available, advanced capabilities)
  • Location-based pricing with unlimited users, average customer pays $360/month

Pros:

  • Purpose-built for janitorial businesses with specialized features
  • Location-based pricing (vs. per-user) scales with the customer’s growth
  • Multilingual support breaks down communication barriers in diverse teams
  • Verified growth enablement (customers have grown from $90K to $9M+ revenue)
  • Fast implementation with value in days, not months

Cons:

  • No free plan (though $30/month entry point is affordable)
  • Focused exclusively on cleaning businesses (not suitable for multi-industry operations)
  • Mobile app has fewer features than web version in some areas

Best For: Built for commercial cleaning companies managing 7 to 100+ locations who demand software that centralizes operations, confirms cleaner check-ins, bridges language gaps, and supports serious growth—without growing your overhead.

Learn More About Swept!


2. Deputy - Best for Workforce Compliance

Overview: Deputy is a comprehensive workforce management platform with strong scheduling, time tracking, and compliance features. It's used across industries but has particular strengths in compliance management.

Key Features:

  • Scheduling - AI-assisted scheduling and forecasting
  • Time Clock - Biometric verification and audit trails
  • Award Interpretation - Automatic compliance with labor regulations
  • Task Management - Assign and track tasks and confirm completion
  • News Feed - Communication and engagement tools

Pricing:

  • Premium: $4.90 USD/user/month (scheduling + time & attendance)
  • Enterprise: Custom pricing (adds advanced features)
  • Per-user pricing

Pros:

  • Strong compliance features for labor regulations
  • Robust reporting and analytics
  • Good mobile app experience
  • Integrates with many payroll systems

Cons:

  • Per-user pricing can be expensive for large teams
  • No specialized janitorial features
  • Limited client-facing capabilities

Best For: Janitorial businesses operating in heavily regulated environments who need strong compliance features and detailed audit trails for their workforce management.

3. When I Work - Best for Shift Notifications

Overview: When I Work is a straightforward scheduling and time tracking solution with strong communication features, particularly for shift notifications and changes.

Key Features:

  • Employee Scheduling - Drag-and-drop scheduler
  • Time Clock - GPS-verified attendance
  • Team Messaging - Built-in chat and communication
  • Shift Notifications - Alerts for schedule changes
  • Attendance Tracking - Absence management and reporting

Pricing:

  • Standard: $3/user/month
  • Advanced: $5.00/user/month
  • Premium: Custom pricing
  • Free for up to 75 users (basic scheduling)

Pros:

  • User-friendly interface
  • Strong mobile experience
  • Excellent shift notification system

Cons:

  • Limited reporting capabilities
  • Not specialized for janitorial operations
  • Basic time tracking features

Best For: Small to medium janitorial businesses looking for simple scheduling and shift management with good communication tools at an affordable price point.

4. 7shifts - Best for Restaurant Cleaning

Overview: 7shifts was built specifically for the restaurant industry but has features that work well for cleaning businesses servicing restaurants and food service locations.

Key Features:

  • Scheduling - Restaurant-focused scheduling tools
  • Time Clocking - Multiple clock-in methods
  • Team Communication - Built-in chat and announcements
  • Task Management - Assign and track cleaning tasks
  • Compliance - Labor compliance and reporting

Pricing:

  • Comp: Free (basic scheduling)
  • Entrée: $29.99/location/month
  • The Works: $69.99/location/month
  • Per-location pricing with unlimited employees

Pros:

  • Location-based pricing (similar to Swept)
  • Specialized for food service environments
  • Strong compliance features for restaurants
  • Good task management for daily cleaning duties

Cons:

  • Primarily designed for restaurants (not general janitorial)
  • Limited customization options
  • Basic report functionality

Best For: Janitorial businesses primarily focused on restaurant and food service cleaning who need specialized tools for these environments.

5. Skedulo - Best for Deskless Workforce Management

Overview: Skedulo is a comprehensive workforce management platform designed for deskless workers across industries, with strong scheduling optimization and job management.

Key Features:

  • Intelligent Scheduling - Automated matching and optimization
  • Mobile Workforce Management - Field team coordination
  • Route Optimization - Efficient travel planning
  • Job Management - Assign and track field service work
  • Real-Time Communication - Team messaging and updates

Pricing:

  • Starter: $59/user/month
  • Business: Custom pricing
  • Enterprise: Custom pricing
  • Per-user pricing

Pros:

  • Advanced scheduling algorithms
  • Strong route optimization
  • Good for multi-location businesses
  • Comprehensive mobile experience

Cons:

  • Expensive per-user pricing
  • Complex implementation
  • Not specialized for janitorial operations

Best For: Larger janitorial businesses with complex scheduling needs across wide geographic areas who need advanced optimization and routing capabilities.

6. Hubstaff - Best for Productivity Insights

Overview: Hubstaff focuses on time tracking and productivity monitoring, offering detailed insights into employee activities and work patterns.

Key Features:

  • Time Tracking - Automatic time capture with screenshots
  • Activity Monitoring - Productivity measurement
  • GPS Tracking - Real-time location tracking
  • Comprehensive Reporting - Detailed productivity analytics
  • Project Budgeting - Track time against project budgets

Pricing:

  • Starter: $4.99/user/month
  • Grow: $7/user/month
  • Team: $10/user/month
  • Enterprise: $25/user/month
  • Per-user pricing

Pros:

  • Detailed productivity insights
  • Comprehensive time tracking
  • Strong reporting and analytics
  • Good for identifying efficiency opportunities

Cons:

  • Can feel intrusive to employees (screenshots, activity monitoring)
  • Limited scheduling features
  • Not specialized for janitorial operations

Best For: Janitorial businesses concerned about remote team productivity and wanting detailed insights into how time is spent across the organization.

7. Homebase - Best for Small Teams

Overview: Homebase provides scheduling, time tracking, and team communication with a focus on small businesses and hourly workers.

Key Features:

  • Scheduling - Simple drag-and-drop scheduler
  • Time Clock - Clock in/out via app or tablet
  • Team Communication - Chat and announcements
  • Hiring and Onboarding - Built-in hiring tools
  • Payroll Integration - Connect with major payroll providers

Pricing:

  • Basic: Free (scheduling, time clock, messaging)
  • Essentials: $20/location/month
  • Plus: $48/location/month
  • All In One: $80/location/month
  • Per-location pricing with unlimited employees

Pros:

  • Generous free plan
  • Location-based pricing (like Swept)
  • Easy to use interface
  • Good hiring and onboarding tools

Cons:

  • Limited advanced features
  • Basic reporting capabilities
  • Not specialized for janitorial operations

Best For: Small janitorial businesses with 1-5 locations who need basic scheduling and time tracking with a focus on hiring and team communication.

8. Buddy Punch - Best for Simple Time Tracking

Overview: Buddy Punch focuses on straightforward time tracking with versatile punch-in options and strong administrative controls.

Key Features:

  • Time Tracking - Multiple punch-in methods
  • GPS Enforcement - Location verification
  • PTO Management - Leave tracking and approval
  • Notifications - Alerts for missed punches and overtime
  • Payroll Reporting - Detailed time reports

Pricing:

  • Standard: $3.99/user/month + $19/month base fee
  • Pro: $4.99/user/month + $19/month base fee
  • Enterprise: Custom pricing
  • Per-user pricing plus base fee

Pros:

  • Simple, user-friendly interface
  • Strong administrative controls
  • Good mobile experience
  • Reliable GPS verification

Cons:

  • Limited scheduling capabilities
  • Basic reporting features
  • Not specialized for janitorial operations

Best For: Janitorial businesses primarily focused on accurate time tracking and attendance verification with simple administrative needs

9. Sling - Best for Communication


Overview: Sling combines scheduling tools with strong communication features, making it good for teams that need to stay connected.

Key Features:

  • Employee Scheduling - Visual scheduling interface
  • Shift Swapping - Employee-managed shift exchanges
  • Internal Communication - Robust messaging platform
  • Task Management - Assign and track tasks
  • News Feed - Team announcements and updates

Pricing:

  • Free: Basic scheduling and communication
  • Premium: $2/user/month
  • Business: $4/user/month
  • Per-user pricing

Pros:

  • Strong communication tools
  • Free basic version
  • User-friendly interface
  • Good shift swapping capabilities

Cons:

  • Limited time tracking features
  • Basic reporting capabilities
  • Not specialized for janitorial operations

Best For: Janitorial businesses prioritizing team communication and simple scheduling who want affordable tools with good messaging capabilities.

10. TeamSense - Best for Absence Management

Overview: TeamSense focuses on absence reporting and management through an innovative text-based system that doesn't require app downloads.

Key Features:

  • Text-Based Absence Reporting - Report absences via SMS
  • Attendance Tracking - Monitor attendance patterns
  • Shift Coverage - Find replacements for absent workers
  • Analytics - Absence trends and insights
  • Points System - Track attendance with points system

Pricing:

  • Basic: $3/user/month (annual billing)
  • Plus: $4/user/month (annual billing)
  • Pro: $5/user/month (annual billing)
  • Per-user pricing

Pros:

  • No app required (text-based system)
  • Simple for employees to use
  • Reduces absence-related issues
  • Good for multilingual workforces

Cons:

  • Limited to absence management
  • Few additional features
  • Not specialized for janitorial operations

Best For: Janitorial businesses struggling with high absence rates who need a simple system for employees to report absences and find coverage.

11. Xenia - Best for Frontline Operations

Overview: Xenia is a mobile-first operations platform designed for frontline teams with strong task management and quality control features.

Key Features:

  • Task Management - Assign and track operational tasks
  • Quality Control - Inspections and audits
  • Maintenance Management - Equipment tracking and servicing
  • Communication - Team messaging and updates
  • Analytics - Operational performance insights

Pricing:

  • Free: Limited features (up to 5 users)
  • Pro: $79/user/month (annual billing)
  • Enterprise: Custom pricing
  • Per-user pricing

Pros:

  • Strong quality control features
  • Good for maintenance tracking
  • Mobile-first design for field teams
  • AI-powered features

Cons:

  • Expensive per-user pricing
  • Can be complex to set up
  • Not specialized for janitorial operations

Best For: Janitorial businesses with complex quality control needs and equipment maintenance requirements who want detailed tracking and reporting.

12. Workyard - Best for Construction Cleaning

Overview: Workyard specializes in workforce management for construction and related field services, including post-construction cleaning.

Key Features:

  • GPS Time Tracking - Accurate location verification
  • Job Costing - Track labor costs by project
  • Scheduling - Assign teams to jobs and projects
  • Custom Pay Rates - Different rates for different jobs
  • Photo Documentation - Work verification with photos

Pricing:

  • Field Service: $6/user/month + $50/month base fee (annual billing)
  • General Contractor: Custom pricing
  • Per-user pricing plus base fee

Pros:

  • Strong job costing features
  • Good for project-based cleaning
  • Detailed labor cost tracking
  • Designed for field service work

Cons:

  • Primarily focused on construction
  • Limited recurring service features
  • Not specialized for ongoing janitorial operations

Best For: Janitorial businesses that specialize in post-construction cleaning or project-based work who need job costing and construction industry features.

How Connecteam Compares: Features Breakdown

To help you determine which alternative best matches your needs, here's how Connecteam's key features compare to the alternatives:

Feature Connecteam Swept Deputy When I Work 7shifts Skedulo
Time Tracking GPS verification GPS verification with janitorial focus Biometric & GPS verification Basic GPS verification Multiple clock-in methods Advanced GPS verification
Scheduling General scheduling tools Location-based janitorial scheduling AI-assisted scheduling Simple drag-and-drop Restaurant-focused Intelligent optimization
Communication In-app messaging Location-based messaging with translation Team newsfeed

Built-in chat

Team chat

Real-time updates
Forms & Checklists Customizable forms Janitorial-specific inspections Basic forms

Limited forms

Food safety checklists

Field service forms

Client Features

Limited

Client portal

Limited

None

None

Limited

Industry Focus

General deskless

Janitorial-specific

Multi-industry

Multi-industry

Restaurant

Multi-industry

Pricing Model

Per user

Per location

Per user

Per user

Per location

Per user

Language Support

Limited

100+ languages

Limited

Limited

Limited

Limited


How Connecteam Compares: Features Breakdown

When selecting the best Connecteam alternative for your janitorial business, consider these key factors:

1. Business Size and Scope

  • Small operations (1-5 locations): Consider Homebase, When I Work, or Swept's Launch plan
  • Mid-size operations (6-35 locations): Swept's Optimize plan, Deputy, or 7shifts
  • Large operations (36+ locations): Swept's Scale plan, Skedulo, or Hubstaff

2. Primary Pain Points

  • Communication challenges: Focus on Swept (multilingual), Sling, or TeamSense
  • Time theft concerns: Prioritize Swept, Hubstaff, or Deputy
  • Scheduling complexity: Look at Skedulo, Deputy, or 7shifts
  • Quality control needs: Consider Swept, Xenia, or Workyard

3. Team Composition

  • Multilingual workforce: Swept (100+ languages) is the clear leader
  • High turnover: Look at Homebase (hiring tools) or Buddy Punch (simple onboarding)
  • Distributed teams: Skedulo, Swept, or Hubstaff offer strong remote management

4. Budget Considerations

  • Free options: When I Work, Homebase, or Sling offer limited free plans
  • Cost-effective for large teams: Location-based pricing (Swept, 7shifts, Homebase) typically costs less than per-user pricing for larger teams
  • Pay-as-you-grow: Swept's tiered location-based pricing scales with your business

5. Implementation Timeline

  • Quick setup needed: Swept (days, not months), Buddy Punch, or Homebase
  • Comprehensive rollout: Skedulo, Deputy, or Hubstaff may require more setup time

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Best Connecteam Alternative for Your Janitorial Business

After reviewing the top alternatives to Connecteam, the best choice for your janitorial business depends primarily on your specific operational needs:

  • If you need janitorial-specific features with location-based pricing, Swept stands out as the purpose-built solution for commercial cleaning businesses
  • For businesses primarily concerned with compliance, Deputy offers strong workforce management with regulatory features
  • If simple scheduling is your main requirement, When I Work or Homebase provide user-friendly options
  • For operations with complex scheduling needs across wide areas, Skedulo's optimization capabilities excel
  • If detailed productivity tracking is essential, Hubstaff's monitoring features offer comprehensive insights

The most important consideration is finding software that addresses your specific pain points while offering a pricing structure that aligns with your business model. For janitorial businesses managing multiple locations with diverse teams, purpose-built solutions typically offer better long-term value than general workforce apps.

We recommend taking advantage of free trials when available to test how each platform fits your specific workflow before making a decision.

 

FAQ: Connecteam Alternatives for Janitorial Businesses

Can I migrate my data from Connecteam to another platform?

Most alternatives offer migration assistance, though the process varies by platform. Swept provides dedicated onboarding support to help transfer your location and employee data with minimal disruption.

Which Connecteam alternative is most affordable for large teams?

Platforms with location-based pricing (like Swept, 7shifts, and Homebase) are typically more cost-effective for large janitorial teams than those with per-user pricing models.

Do any Connecteam alternatives offer true multilingual support?

Swept stands out with automatic translation across 100+ languages, making it ideal for diverse cleaning teams. Most other alternatives offer limited language options or none at all.

Which alternative has the best mobile experience?

Deputy, Swept, and Skedulo consistently receive high ratings for their mobile apps, with features designed specifically for deskless workers.

Can these alternatives handle both recurring services and one-time projects?

Swept, Deputy, and Skedulo handle both recurring services and one-time projects effectively, while Workyard specializes in project-based work like post-construction cleaning.