Comprehensive Guide to Commercial Cleaning Services

What every Building Maintenance manager should Know

Commercial cleaning services play a critical role in maintaining healthy, hygienic, and productive work environments. From offices to manufacturing plants, clean and well-maintained facilities foster better morale, prevent illness, and create a positive impression on clients and visitors. In this guide, we’ll explore the key components of commercial cleaning services, why they’re essential, and how companies benefit from them.

 

 

1. What Are Commercial Cleaning Services?

Commercial cleaning services refer to professional janitorial or custodial services provided to businesses, organizations, or institutions. These services go beyond basic housekeeping and focus on cleaning larger facilities such as office buildings, retail stores, warehouses, schools, and healthcare centers. They involve specialized cleaning practices to ensure thorough sanitization, safety, and hygiene for various types of commercial spaces.

2. Why Do Companies Need Commercial Janitorial Cleaning Services?

1. Health and Hygiene

A clean workplace is vital for maintaining the health of employees, visitors, and customers. Dust, dirt, and germs accumulate quickly in high-traffic areas, leading to the spread of bacteria and viruses. 

Regular janitorial cleaning ensures that surfaces, floors, and restrooms are properly sanitized, reducing the risk of infections and illnesses such as colds, flu, and more severe issues like COVID-19. 

High-touch areas such as doorknobs, desks, and shared equipment must be regularly disinfected to limit the transmission of germs. Moreover, clean air, free of allergens like dust and mold, can improve air quality, contributing to fewer respiratory issues and overall better well-being for everyone in the building.

2. Compliance and Regulation

Certain industries, such as healthcare, food services, and manufacturing, are subject to strict regulatory standards regarding cleanliness and sanitation. 

Regular and comprehensive cleaning services help ensure compliance with government regulations such as those set by OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) and the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency). For example, failure to meet cleanliness standards in healthcare environments can result in legal penalties, health code violations, or even facility shutdowns. 

Regular cleaning also helps in passing inspections and maintaining certifications for various industries. It is especially critical in environments where the presence of contaminants could harm the integrity of products, such as in laboratories or food production facilities.

3. Positive Client Impressions

Oscar Wilde said, “You never get a second chance to make a first impression.” First impressions matter, and the cleanliness of a commercial building can significantly impact how clients, partners, and potential customers perceive a business. 

A clean and well-maintained facility reflects professionalism and attention to detail. On the other hand, unkempt facilities can damage a company’s reputation, suggesting a lack of care in other areas of the business as well. 

Regular janitorial cleaning ensures that floors are polished, windows are clear, restrooms are spotless, and the overall atmosphere of the building remains inviting and professional. A neat environment can instill confidence in clients and visitors, reinforcing a company’s credibility.

4. Employee Morale and Productivity

The cleanliness of a workspace has a direct impact on employee satisfaction and productivity. A study by Johan Van Orpen and Paul Terpstra found that a higher standard of cleanliness correlates significantly with increased productivity in office environments. 

In other words, a cluttered, dirty environment can create distractions, reduce motivation, and lead to poor mental and physical health while a clean and organized workspace fosters a positive working environment, which can boost morale and increase productivity. 

Employees feel more valued when their company invests in maintaining a hygienic and pleasant work setting. Since workstations on average have more than 800 bacteria per square inch, it is easy to see the ROI in clean offices as reduced sick days, due to fewer germs in the office, lead to higher overall productivity. 

5. Preservation of Assets and Infrastructure

Beyond the health and productivity benefits, regular cleaning helps preserve the longevity of a building’s assets. Flooring, carpets, furniture, and other surfaces degrade faster when they are not regularly maintained. 

Dirt and grime can cause permanent damage to materials, resulting in costly repairs or replacements. Professional janitorial services can extend the life of these assets, saving businesses money in the long term.

6. Cost Savings

Investing in high-quality commercial cleaning services frequently lead to long-term cost savings. 

By maintaining a clean environment, businesses reduce the likelihood of equipment breakdowns, health-related absences, and the need for extensive cleaning or repairs in the future. 

Additionally, the cost of hiring professional cleaners can be far less than the potential losses incurred from non-compliance with regulations or the need to replace worn-out assets.

 

3. Standards and Compliance in Commercial Cleaning Services

Adherence to industry standards is critical in commercial cleaning, especially for sectors with stringent regulations.

• OSHA Compliance: The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) sets standards for workplace safety, including cleaning protocols. Commercial cleaning companies must ensure compliance with these regulations to protect workers from hazards such as chemical exposure and slips.
• EPA Guidelines: The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates the use of cleaning chemicals to minimize environmental impact. Green cleaning practices are becoming more prevalent as businesses aim to reduce their ecological footprint.
• ISO 9001: This standard focuses on quality management systems, ensuring that the cleaning process consistently meets the client’s requirements and that the facility is maintained to a high standard.
  SourceONE Building Maintenance is ISO 9001:2015 certified.
• Industry-Specific Regulations: Some industries, such as healthcare, adhere to guidelines set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other regulatory bodies to prevent the spread of infections.

4. Different Services Involved in Commercial Janitorial Cleaning

Commercial cleaning services cover a broad spectrum of tasks, tailored to the specific needs of the facility. Some of the most common services include:

Commercial janitorial cleaning services cover a broad range of cleaning tasks designed to maintain the cleanliness, hygiene, and appearance of commercial buildings such as offices, retail spaces, warehouses, and healthcare facilities. These services go beyond basic surface cleaning to cover specialized tasks necessary for maintaining a healthy and professional environment. The different services involved in commercial janitorial cleaning include: 

1. General Cleaning Services

General cleaning is the foundation of any commercial janitorial service. It involves routine cleaning tasks aimed at maintaining the basic cleanliness of the facility.

• Dusting: Regular dusting of surfaces such as desks, countertops, shelves, and electronics to remove dirt and allergens.
• Sweeping and Mopping Floors: Sweeping hard surfaces and mopping them with appropriate cleaning agents to keep them clean and presentable.
• Vacuuming Carpets: Using commercial-grade vacuums to remove dirt, debris, and allergens from carpets.
• Emptying Trash Bins: Daily removal of waste from trash bins and replacing liners.
• Sanitizing Surfaces: Disinfecting high-touch surfaces like doorknobs, handrails, light switches, and communal equipment.

2. Restroom Cleaning Services

Restrooms are high-traffic areas that require specialized cleaning due to their high risk of germ and bacteria buildup. 

• Disinfecting Toilets and Urinals: Thorough cleaning of toilet bowls, urinals, and surrounding areas to eliminate germs and odors.
• Sanitizing Sinks and Countertops: Cleaning and disinfecting sinks, mirrors, and countertops to prevent the spread of bacteria and maintain a clean appearance.
• Refilling Supplies: Restocking toilet paper, hand soap, paper towels, and other necessary supplies.
• Floor Cleaning: Mopping restroom floors with disinfectant solutions to prevent the spread of germs.
• Waste Removal: Emptying sanitary disposal units and trash bins to maintain cleanliness and odor control.

3. Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning

Carpets and upholstered furniture can harbor dirt, allergens, and bacteria if not cleaned regularly. Professional janitorial services include deep cleaning of these materials to extend their life and maintain cleanliness.

• Carpet Shampooing: Using commercial carpet shampoo machines to deep clean carpets, removing embedded dirt and stains.
• Steam Cleaning: Applying hot water extraction to sanitize carpets and upholstered surfaces, eliminating germs and allergens.
• Spot Cleaning: Treating specific stains on carpets or furniture with specialized cleaning solutions to prevent permanent damage.

4. Floor Care Services

Commercial cleaning includes specialized floor care services designed to maintain the longevity and appearance of a variety of flooring types, including tile, wood, and vinyl.

• Stripping and Waxing: Stripping old wax from hard floors and applying new coats of wax to restore shine and protect the surface.
• Buffing: Using a floor buffer to polish and maintain the luster of hard floors.
• Tile and Grout Cleaning: Deep cleaning of tiles and grout to remove stains, mold, and dirt buildup.
• Hardwood Floor Cleaning: Applying cleaning and conditioning products to maintain the appearance of wood floors and prevent damage.

5. Window and Glass Cleaning

Clean windows and glass surfaces create a positive first impression for customers and employees.

• Interior Window Washing: Cleaning the inside of windows to remove smudges, fingerprints, and dust.
• Exterior Window Washing: Cleaning the outside of windows, which may involve the use of specialized equipment for high-rise buildings.
• Glass Partition Cleaning: Cleaning and polishing glass partitions and doors in offices and conference rooms.

6. Specialized Disinfection Services

With increasing awareness of the importance of hygiene, specialized disinfection services have become a key part of commercial janitorial cleaning. These services focus on eliminating germs and bacteria from high-touch and high-risk areas.

• Electrostatic Spraying: Using electrostatic sprayers to coat surfaces with disinfectant, ensuring even and thorough coverage.
• Fogging: Dispersing disinfectant mist throughout an area to kill airborne and surface contaminants.
• Touchpoint Disinfection: Focusing on sanitizing high-touch areas such as elevator buttons, door handles, light switches, and shared office equipment.

7. Post-Construction Cleaning

After construction or renovation work, commercial spaces require thorough cleaning to remove dust, debris, and construction residue. Post-construction cleaning prepares the building for occupancy or business use.

• Debris Removal: Cleaning up leftover materials, dust, and debris from construction or renovation projects.
• Dusting and Polishing: Dusting all surfaces, including walls, ceilings, and fixtures, to remove construction dust.
• Floor Cleaning: Removing paint splatters, dust, and debris from floors, followed by polishing or waxing as needed.

8. Green Cleaning Services

As sustainability becomes more important, many businesses are opting for green cleaning services that use eco-friendly products and practices to minimize environmental impact.

• Use of Non-Toxic Cleaning Products: Utilizing cleaning agents that are free of harmful chemicals and safe for both humans and the environment.
• Sustainable Equipment: Using energy-efficient cleaning equipment such as low-water-use floor scrubbers.
• Recycling Programs: Implementing waste management and recycling programs as part of the cleaning process.

 

Learn More About SourceONE

 

5. Benefits of Comprehensive and High-Quality Commercial Cleaning

• Improved Air Quality: Regular cleaning helps remove dust, mold, and allergens, improving the air quality within the facility.
• Enhanced Appearance and Longevity: Well-maintained facilities last longer. Regular cleaning helps preserve carpets, flooring, and surfaces, reducing wear and tear and extending the life of these assets.
• Cost Savings: By maintaining a clean environment, businesses avoid costly repairs and replacements of damaged flooring, carpeting, and furniture.
• Increased Safety: Clean floors, walkways, and workspaces prevent accidents, reducing the likelihood of slips, trips, and falls.

6. The Cost of Not Doing Regular Commercial Cleaning

While it is easy to see the benefits related to frequent and high-quality commercial cleanings, it is not so difficult to realize the opposite, the costs related to neglecting regular commercial cleanings:

• Health Risks: Dirty environments contribute to the spread of illnesses and infections, which can lead to employee absenteeism and reduced productivity.
• Poor Public Perception: A lack of cleanliness can deter potential clients, customers, and partners, harming a company’s reputation.
• Compliance Issues: Failure to maintain sanitation standards can result in fines or shutdowns in industries like healthcare, food service, and manufacturing.
• Increased Maintenance Costs: Dirt and grime buildup can cause damage to floors, equipment, and furnishings, leading to costly repairs and replacements.

7. Equipment, Materials, and Cleaning Solutions

In commercial janitorial cleaning, a range of specialized equipment, materials, and cleaning solutions are used to ensure effective sanitation, safety, and efficiency across different types of facilities. These elements are tailored to meet the unique needs of environments like offices, industrial settings, healthcare facilities, and cleanrooms. Below are the key equipment, materials, and cleaning solutions used in this industry.

1. Equipment

1. Vacuum Cleaners
   Commercial janitorial services rely heavily on high-efficiency vacuum cleaners to maintain carpets, floors, and upholstery.
   Commercial-grade vacuum cleaners often include HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filters to trap small particles, which is essential in environments like healthcare facilities where air quality is critical. Backpack vacuums, upright vacuums, and wet-dry vacuums are all commonly used, depending on the setting and cleaning requirements.
2. Floor Cleaning Machines
   Hard surfaces in commercial spaces require specialized floor cleaning equipment to maintain cleanliness and prevent wear. Floor scrubbers, buffers, and sweepers are commonly used for this purpose.
   Automatic Scrubbers are equipped with rotating brushes and a built-in vacuum system to wash and dry floors simultaneously, making them highly efficient for large spaces.
   Buffers and Burnishers are used to polish floors and restore shine to surfaces like tile, hardwood, and vinyl, ensuring a clean and professional appearance.
3. Carpet Extractors
   Carpet extractors are essential for deep cleaning carpets, removing stains, and extracting dirt that vacuum cleaners cannot reach. These machines inject cleaning solutions deep into the carpet fibers and then extract the liquid along with debris, ensuring a thorough clean.
4. Pressure Washers
   For outdoor spaces and surfaces like sidewalks, building exteriors, and parking lots, pressure washers are commonly used. These machines deliver high-pressure water jets to remove dirt, grime, mold, and other contaminants from hard surfaces.
5. Steam Cleaners
   In environments where sanitation is paramount, such as healthcare or food processing areas, steam cleaners are used. These machines use high-temperature steam to kill bacteria, mold, and viruses without the need for harsh chemicals.
6. Microfiber Cleaning Tools
   Microfiber mops, dusters, and cloths have become industry standards due to their ability to trap more dirt and bacteria than traditional cleaning materials. Microfiber is particularly effective in reducing cross-contamination, which is essential in sensitive environments like hospitals and laboratories.

2. Materials

1. Cleaning Cloths and Rags
   Cleaning cloths, including microfiber, cotton, and disposable cloths, are necessary for wiping down surfaces, dusting, and sanitizing. Microfiber is often preferred for its absorbency and ability to trap dust without the use of additional chemicals.
2. Mops and Buckets
   Different types of mops, such as string mops, flat mops, and dust mops, are used for various floor-cleaning tasks. Wet mops, combined with a bucket and wringer system, are used for mopping up spills and washing hard surfaces. Flat microfiber mops are popular in environments requiring frequent disinfection because they can easily be laundered and reused.
3. Paper Products
   Paper towels, toilet paper, and tissues are essential consumables in commercial cleaning. Janitorial services typically supply these in bulk for restrooms, kitchens, and common areas. Many businesses prefer eco-friendly, recycled paper products to align with their sustainability goals.
4. Gloves and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
   Gloves, masks, and other personal protective equipment are standard in janitorial services, especially in healthcare settings where exposure to harmful pathogens is a risk. PPE ensures the safety of workers and prevents cross-contamination.

3. Cleaning Solutions

1. General Purpose Cleaners
   General-purpose cleaners are formulated to handle dirt and grime on a variety of surfaces, from countertops to floors. These cleaners typically contain surfactants that break down oils and grease. Concentrated formulas are often diluted for cost-efficiency and safety.
2. Disinfectants and Sanitizers
   Disinfectants are crucial in environments requiring high levels of sanitation, such as hospitals, food service areas, and schools. Disinfectants kill bacteria, viruses, and fungi, ensuring the environment is hygienic.
   Quaternary Ammonium Compounds (Quats) are popular disinfectants due to their effectiveness against a broad spectrum of pathogens.
   Bleach (sodium hypochlorite) and hydrogen peroxide-based cleaners are also common, especially for their ability to kill bacteria and viruses on surfaces.
   In sensitive environments, such as biotech labs and pharmaceutical facilities, the use of non-corrosive, non-toxic disinfectants is crucial to avoid contamination of experiments and products.
3. Green Cleaning Solutions
   Green cleaning solutions are biodegradable and free from harsh chemicals. These green products reduce the environmental impact of cleaning operations while still delivering effective results. Examples include plant-based cleaners and hydrogen peroxide solutions.
4. Degreasers
   Degreasers are used in industrial and kitchen environments to remove heavy buildup of oils and grease. These are essential in food service establishments where grease buildup can lead to safety hazards and equipment malfunctions.
5. Glass Cleaners
   Commercial-grade glass cleaners are used to achieve streak-free finishes on windows, mirrors, and glass partitions. Most contain ammonia or alcohol for quick drying and clarity, making them essential for maintaining a professional, polished appearance.
6. Specialty Cleaners
   Certain environments require specialized cleaning solutions to address unique challenges. For instance, in healthcare settings, enzymatic cleaners are used to break down organic material like blood or bodily fluids, ensuring safe and thorough cleaning.

8. New and Future Technologies in Commercial Cleaning Services

As cleaning demands evolve, new technologies continue to emerge, revolutionizing the industry. Some cutting-edge advancements include:

• Robotic Cleaners: Autonomous robots are increasingly used to clean large areas such as office buildings, malls, and airports. These robots can vacuum, scrub, and disinfect surfaces efficiently, freeing the cleaning teams to focus on more detailed tasks.
• UV-C Light Technology: UV-C light has been adopted in healthcare and high-risk environments to kill pathogens like bacteria, viruses, and fungi. This technology is effective in disinfecting air and surfaces without the use of chemicals.
• IoT and Smart Cleaning Solutions: Smart sensors are integrated into cleaning equipment to monitor the cleanliness of high-traffic areas. Internet of Things (IoT) technology helps cleaning staff target areas that need the most attention.
• Green Cleaning Innovations: As sustainability becomes a key focus, innovations in eco-friendly cleaning solutions and energy-efficient equipment are driving the industry toward greener practices.
• Antimicrobial Surface Coatings: These coatings are being applied to high-touch areas, such as door handles and workstations, to prevent the spread of germs and bacteria over extended periods.

 

In summary, by adhering to regulatory standards, employing modern technologies, and implementing comprehensive cleaning protocols, companies can enjoy improved employee health, enhanced facility appearance, and long-term cost savings.

Take the first step towards a cleaner, more professional space today. Contact SourceONE for a free quote!