10 Common Commercial Cleaning Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Think about this – the cleanliness of a business can change a customer’s impression in an instant. 

Studies show that 92% of people consider a business’s cleanliness before deciding to enter, and 90% say they’d steer clear after reading negative reviews that mention unclean conditions. 

For workplaces, hygiene isn’t just about appearance; 98% of office workers pick up some form of infectious disease during their careers, often due to inadequate cleaning practices.

Commercial cleaning can be a significant investment, as seen in Europe, where businesses spent roughly $26 billion on cleaning rentals in 2015 alone. 

But getting it wrong can lead to wasted time, resources, and even revenue. Here are some common cleaning pitfalls and simple ways to avoid them, ensuring your business leaves a spotless impression every time.

Mistake 1: Cleaning Only Visible Dirt

Window Cleaning

Many people think if surfaces look clean, then they must be clean. But hidden dirt is often the bigger problem. 

Germs, dust, and bacteria love to settle into spots we don’t usually notice, like behind furniture, under appliances, and in vents. 

Over time, this hidden grime can create more than just an unsightly mess—it impacts air quality, spreads allergens, and increases the chance of illness.

Why Hidden Dirt Matters

  • Air Quality: Dust buildup in hard-to-reach areas can get stirred up and circulate, reducing air quality and causing allergies or respiratory issues.
  • Health Risks: Bacteria and germs thrive in these ignored spots, potentially spreading illnesses around the office or workspace.
  • Damage to Assets: Dirt can accumulate on electronics, clogging ventilation and shortening their lifespan. Dust on floors can even damage surfaces over time.

How to Fix It

  1. Schedule Deep Cleaning: Plan deep cleaning sessions to reach those overlooked areas. This might include moving furniture, cleaning air vents, and targeting corners and ledges.
  2. Check High Spots and Low Spots:
    • High: Tops of cabinets, light fixtures, and shelves.
    • Low: Under desks, behind appliances, and floor edges.
  3. Vent and Duct Maintenance: Air ducts and vents are often missed in regular cleaning. Regular duct cleaning can dramatically improve air quality.
  4. Regular Inspections: Make it routine to inspect these hidden areas for dust buildup. A quick check every month can keep hidden dirt in check.

For example, if a business neglects to clean behind equipment or in storage areas, dust and dirt can build up to a point where it affects the machinery’s efficiency and lifespan. With routine deep cleans, you can avoid these issues and ensure a healthy, efficient workplace.

Mistake 2: Skipping High-Touch Surfaces

Cleaning Sink

High-touch surfaces are the unsung heroes (and culprits) of workplace cleanliness. 

Even though they may look clean, these spots—like light switches, door handles, keyboards, and handrails—are prime hotspots for germs. 

They’re touched countless times each day, which makes them ideal for spreading bacteria and viruses.

Why High-Touch Surfaces Matter

  • Frequent Contact: These surfaces see constant action, often by multiple people, turning them into quick germ carriers.
  • Invisible Risks: Germs and bacteria aren’t visible to the naked eye, making it easy to underestimate the need for regular cleaning.
  • Health Impact: High-touch areas are often responsible for the spread of illnesses in shared spaces.

How to Fix It

  1. Create a Cleaning Checklist for High-Touch Points: Identify the most frequently touched surfaces in your space. Common ones include:
    • Light switches
    • Door handles (entry, restroom, office)
    • Keyboards and computer mice
    • Elevator buttons
    • Shared equipment like phones and tablets
  2. Establish a Routine Cleaning Schedule: Set up a daily or multiple-times-a-day schedule for cleaning these surfaces. For example, wiping down door handles and keyboards after peak usage times (such as the beginning of the workday or right after lunch) can make a significant difference.
  3. Use the Right Cleaning Products: Standard cleaners don’t always kill germs effectively. Use disinfectant sprays or wipes that are effective against bacteria and viruses, especially on shared equipment like phones or computers.
  4. Encourage Personal Responsibility: Remind employees to wipe down their own high-touch surfaces like keyboards and phones. Providing disinfecting wipes at each desk can encourage a quick, daily clean-up that helps reduce germ spread.

Real-Life Impact Example

In a busy office setting, think about the door handle to the break room. Without regular disinfection, anyone who touches it after coughing or sneezing could leave behind germs, which everyone else who enters will then pick up. A simple, routine wipe-down could prevent the spread of illnesses and keep the team healthier.

Mistake 3: Neglecting Proper Disinfection Techniques

Commercial Cleaning

A quick wipe with a cloth might make a surface look clean, but appearances can be deceiving. General cleaning removes visible dirt, but it doesn’t get rid of all germs. 

Disinfection goes a step further, killing bacteria and viruses that can linger on surfaces and lead to illness. 

Without proper disinfection, workspaces are left vulnerable to germ spread, which can quickly impact everyone’s health.

Why Proper Disinfection Matters

  • Health Risks: Surfaces like desks, tables, and counters can harbor bacteria and viruses that survive for hours or even days, making it easy for these germs to pass from person to person.
  • False Sense of Cleanliness: A surface may look spotless, but that doesn’t mean it’s germ-free. Without disinfection, harmful microorganisms can thrive on “clean” surfaces.
  • Infection Control: Especially in shared spaces, proper disinfection is essential for preventing the spread of colds, flu, and other contagious illnesses.

How to Fix It

  1. Choose the Right Disinfectants: Use EPA- or Health Department-approved disinfectants that are proven effective against a broad spectrum of bacteria and viruses. Ordinary cleaning sprays aren’t designed for germ elimination.
    • Look for disinfectants labeled to kill specific pathogens, like influenza or staph, for effective protection.
  2. Follow Dwell Time Instructions: Disinfectants need time to work—spraying and wiping immediately doesn’t allow enough contact time to kill germs effectively. Always read the instructions on disinfectants, which typically recommend leaving the solution on the surface for a few minutes before wiping.
    • If a disinfectant requires a 5-minute dwell time, allow it to sit on surfaces for the full duration to ensure effectiveness.
  3. Target High-Risk Areas: Focus disinfection efforts on areas with frequent hand contact, like:
    • Restroom surfaces (faucets, flush handles)
    • Break room tables and countertops
    • Shared equipment, such as printers and copy machines
  4. Use Separate Cleaning Tools: Cross-contamination can occur if the same cloth or sponge is used across different areas. For example, using the same cloth to clean a restroom and a kitchen can spread bacteria rather than eliminate it.
    • Use color-coded or dedicated tools for different spaces (e.g., red cloths for restrooms, blue for kitchen areas) to reduce cross-contamination risks.

Mistake 4: Using Incorrect Cleaning Supplies for Surfaces

Commercial Cleaning

When it comes to cleaning, one size does not fit all. Different materials require different cleaning agents, and using the wrong product can cause permanent damage. 

For example, using a harsh cleaner on wood can strip its finish, while using an abrasive scrub on glass can leave scratches. Choosing the right products protects your assets and ensures they last longer.

Why Choosing the Right Cleaning Supplies Matters

  • Material-Specific Needs: Each material has its unique properties and reacts differently to chemicals. For example:
    • Wood: Needs gentle, non-abrasive products to avoid stripping natural oils or finishes.
    • Glass: Requires non-abrasive solutions to avoid scratching or leaving streaks.
    • Metal: Needs cleaners that prevent rust and corrosion without leaving residue.
  • Cost of Replacement: Damage from incorrect cleaning supplies often means costly repairs or replacements. Protecting your surfaces saves money in the long run.
  • Safety Concerns: Some cleaning agents, like bleach or ammonia, are safe on tiles but can harm softer materials like marble or certain plastics, potentially releasing harmful fumes if misused.

How to Fix It

  1. Match Cleaning Products to Materials: Make sure each cleaning agent is designed for the surface you’re cleaning. Use labels and clear guidelines for different cleaning supplies to avoid confusion. Some examples include:
    • Wood Surfaces: Use wood-safe polish or mild soap to preserve finish and prevent warping.
    • Glass Surfaces: Stick to streak-free sprays specifically made for glass.
    • Stone or Marble: Choose pH-neutral cleaners to avoid etching and corrosion.
  2. Test on a Small Area First: For new cleaning products or techniques, test on an inconspicuous area first. This simple step can prevent large-scale damage and reveal if a product is safe to use on that surface.
    • Test an all-purpose cleaner on the back of a cabinet door or underneath a desk before applying it to the entire surface.
  3. Educate Cleaning Staff on Product Use: Ensure that cleaning staff understand which products work for each material. This can prevent accidental use of harsh chemicals on delicate surfaces. Consider training that covers:
    • Reading labels for specific uses
    • Knowing which surfaces need gentler cleaning methods
    • Avoiding common mistakes like using bleach on stone surfaces
  4. Invest in Multi-Surface Cleaners (When Suitable): In some cases, multi-surface cleaners can simplify routines, especially when they are safe for a variety of materials. Just be sure to verify the cleaner’s claims to avoid potential damage.

Imagine using a powerful degreaser on a stainless steel appliance. While it may clean initially, over time, the chemicals could erode the surface, leaving it dull and prone to rust. By using a stainless-steel-safe cleaner, you maintain the appliance’s shine and longevity without risking damage.

Mistake 5: Inconsistent Waste Disposal

Commercial Cleaning

Keeping waste under control is crucial for a clean, pleasant environment. When garbage isn’t taken out regularly, it creates a breeding ground for bacteria, pests, and foul odours that quickly turn a workspace into an unpleasant place. 

Inconsistent waste disposal doesn’t just affect appearance; it impacts health and hygiene, creating risks for everyone who enters the area.

Why Consistent Waste Disposal Matters

  • Odour Control: Rotting waste, particularly food scraps, can release strong, lingering odours that spread throughout the space.
  • Pest Prevention: Pests like rodents and insects are drawn to leftover food and damp trash. Once they find a source, they’ll keep coming back, and pest infestations are hard to eliminate once they start.
  • Hygiene and Health: Piles of garbage promote bacterial growth and can even release airborne particles that affect air quality. This increases the risk of infections and respiratory issues for staff and visitors.

How to Fix It

  1. Set a Daily Trash Removal Schedule: Establish a daily routine for emptying bins, especially in areas where food is present, like kitchens, break rooms, and cafeterias. This helps keep smells and pests under control.
    • Offices may choose to empty break room bins every afternoon to prevent overnight food buildup.
  2. Use the Right Trash Bags and Bins: Choose durable, sealed trash bags that prevent leaks, especially for food waste. Make sure bins have lids to contain odours and deter pests.
    • Tip: Place bins with lids in areas where food or liquids are commonly disposed of, like near kitchenettes, to contain messes and prevent leakage.
  3. Educate Staff on Waste Separation: Encourage staff to separate waste correctly. Recycling bins, compost bins, and general waste bins each serve specific purposes. Misplaced waste can lead to overflows and pest problems.
    • In an office with recycling, food scraps shouldn’t be tossed in recycling bins. This keeps everything clean and makes proper waste disposal easier.
  4. Install Air Fresheners Near Waste Areas (If Needed): In high-traffic or high-waste areas, air fresheners can help combat odours between waste removal times. Choose subtle, eco-friendly air fresheners that won’t overpower the space.
    • Tip: Automatic air fresheners or odour-neutralising sprays can maintain a fresh environment in places like break rooms and restrooms.
  5. Monitor and Adjust the Frequency of Disposal as Needed: Certain days might require more frequent trash removal, like after team events or busy work periods. Keeping an eye on waste levels allows you to adjust schedules and avoid any overflow.

Mistake 6: Mixing Up Cleaning Equipment

Commercial cleaning perth

Using the same mop, cloth, or brush for different areas might seem efficient, but it’s one of the quickest ways to spread germs from one place to another. 

When cleaning tools are shared between spaces like restrooms, kitchens, and office areas, they can transfer bacteria and contaminants, increasing the risk of cross-contamination. 

This can turn a clean-looking environment into a hotspot for bacteria and viruses.

Why Dedicated Cleaning Tools Matter

  • Prevents Cross-Contamination: Each area of a workspace has unique cleaning needs and potential contaminants. Mixing tools between areas can spread germs, especially between restrooms, kitchens, and shared workspaces.
  • Improves Hygiene Standards: Using dedicated tools for each area helps keep spaces genuinely clean and reduces the spread of bacteria and viruses.
  • Ensures Cleaning Effectiveness: Tools used repeatedly in multiple areas can wear out quickly or get dirty, reducing their effectiveness.

How to Fix It

  1. Color-Code Cleaning Equipment: Use a simple color-coding system to designate tools for specific areas. This visual cue helps ensure that the right mop, cloth, or sponge is used in the correct space.
    • Example of a Color System:
      • Red: Restrooms
      • Blue: Kitchens or break rooms
      • Green: Desks and office areas
      • Yellow: General surfaces, such as lobbies
  2. Label and Store Equipment Separately: Clearly label cleaning tools and supplies according to their designated area, and store them in separate caddies or storage areas to prevent mix-ups.
    • Tip: Use storage racks or bins with labels for each color-coded set of supplies, so that each area has its own designated cleaning tools ready to go.
  3. Educate Cleaning Staff on Cross-Contamination Risks: Staff should understand why dedicated tools are essential for different areas. A quick training on cross-contamination can help reinforce the importance of using the right equipment in the right places.
    • Key Points for Training:
      • Why cross-contamination is a concern
      • Proper use and care of each tool
      • Importance of cleaning and disinfecting equipment after each use
  4. Regularly Disinfect Cleaning Equipment: Even with color-coding, cleaning tools should be disinfected after use, especially for high-risk areas like restrooms. This extra step ensures that bacteria aren’t lingering on the tools themselves.
    • Mops and cloths used in restrooms should be washed with a disinfectant solution after each use to remove any germs that might otherwise transfer back into the space.
  5. Avoid Sharing Certain Tools Altogether: Some tools, such as restroom toilet brushes, should be strictly designated for single-use or specific areas, never shared or repurposed elsewhere.

Mistake 7: Forgetting About Windows and Window Treatments

Commercial Cleaning Perth

Windows and their treatments, like blinds or curtains, are often overlooked in regular cleaning routines. 

But over time, these areas collect dust, grime, and allergens that impact both the look and air quality of your workspace. Clean, clear windows improve natural lighting, make a space feel more open, and contribute to a healthy environment. 

Leaving them neglected can result in buildup that’s hard to remove and diminishes the overall appeal of your facility.

Why Windows and Treatments Matter

  • Air Quality: Dusty blinds and curtains release particles into the air each time they’re moved or disturbed. This affects air quality and can trigger allergies among employees and visitors.
  • Aesthetic Appeal: Dirty windows and dusty treatments create a dull, unprofessional appearance, which impacts the impression clients and employees have of the space.
  • Natural Lighting: Clear windows allow natural light to fill the room, creating a more pleasant environment. Dirt buildup blocks sunlight, making the space feel darker and less welcoming.

How to Fix It

  1. Create a Cleaning Schedule for Windows and Treatments: Set up a monthly or bi-monthly cleaning schedule for windows, depending on the location and amount of outdoor exposure. Treatments like blinds and curtains benefit from dusting or washing every few weeks.
    • Example Schedule:
      • Windows: Clean monthly in office settings or more often for buildings on busy streets where dust and pollution are higher.
      • Blinds and Curtains: Dust or vacuum weekly, and deep clean every 2–3 months to prevent heavy dust accumulation.
  2. Use the Right Cleaning Tools and Products: Use non-abrasive glass cleaners to avoid streaks on windows and a microfiber cloth for gentle, effective dust removal on blinds. For curtains, use a vacuum with a brush attachment or remove and launder them if the fabric allows.
    • Example Tips:
      • Use a squeegee and glass-safe solution to keep windows streak-free.
      • Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage window treatments or leave a residue.
  3. Dust Window Sills and Frames: Windowsills and frames gather dust and dirt just like blinds and glass. Include these in your cleaning routine to prevent buildup in corners and ledges that can be forgotten.
    • Tip: Use a small brush or a vacuum attachment to get into tight corners.
  4. Consider Seasonal Deep Cleans: For areas exposed to seasonal pollen, rain, or wind, a quarterly or seasonal deep clean may be necessary. This ensures that windows and treatments are kept fresh despite changing conditions.
  5. Incorporate UV-Resistant Treatments for Longevity: Sun exposure can cause discoloration or fading in treatments over time. Look for UV-resistant curtains or blinds to maintain their appearance longer, reducing the need for replacements.

Mistake 8: Cleaning During Business Hours

Commercial Cleaning Perth

Cleaning during business hours might seem convenient, but it can quickly become a distraction for employees and even disrupt important activities. 

From the sound of vacuum cleaners to the movement of cleaning staff around desks, in-office cleaning while employees are working can make it hard to focus, affect productivity, and interrupt meetings or phone calls. 

A clean environment is essential, but the timing of cleaning sessions can make a big difference in maintaining a smooth workflow.

Why Scheduling Cleaning Outside Business Hours Matters

  • Minimises Distractions: Interruptions like vacuum noise, strong cleaning product smells, or seeing movement around the workspace can take employees out of their concentration zone.
  • Avoids Health Concerns: Certain cleaning chemicals have strong odours or fumes that may be unpleasant or even harmful for some people, especially those with allergies or sensitivities.
  • Prevents Workplace Accidents: Cleaning equipment or freshly mopped floors during work hours can create hazards, increasing the chance of slips or spills while people are moving around.

How to Fix It

  1. Schedule Cleaning After Hours or Early Morning: Plan routine cleaning sessions for early mornings or evenings when the office is empty. This allows thorough cleaning without causing disruptions to the day-to-day activities.
  2. Coordinate Special Cleaning Tasks with the Office Schedule: For occasional deep cleaning tasks, like carpet shampooing or floor polishing, check for days when fewer employees are in or coordinate with management to select a time with minimal disruption.
    • Tip: Consider scheduling major cleaning tasks on weekends or public holidays when the office is typically empty.
  3. Use Silent or Low-Noise Equipment for Urgent Cleaning Needs: In cases where cleaning must happen during the day, invest in quiet cleaning tools. For example, using low-noise vacuums or battery-powered equipment can help keep disturbances to a minimum.
  4. Implement “Do Not Disturb” Zones During Meetings: Cleaning staff should be informed of key areas that should be left alone when meetings are in progress. This avoids disruption and respects the quiet needed for conference calls, presentations, or brainstorming sessions.
    • Tip: Use signs or a scheduling board in shared spaces to inform cleaning staff of meeting times.
  5. Educate Staff on the Benefits of After-Hours Cleaning: If employees are used to seeing cleaning happen during business hours, explaining the shift to after-hours cleaning can help them understand the goal is to improve their productivity and comfort.

Mistake 9: Overlooking Floors and Carpets

Commercial Cleaning Perth

Floors and carpets endure a lot of daily wear, especially in high-traffic areas. Dirt, dust, and grime build up quickly, not just affecting how they look but also impacting indoor air quality. 

Without regular cleaning, floors can lose their shine, carpets can become matted, and allergens can accumulate, leading to health concerns for those in the space. 

Maintaining clean floors and carpets isn’t just about appearance—it’s essential for a healthy, comfortable environment.

Why Regular Floor and Carpet Care Matters

  • Improves Air Quality: Dust and allergens settle into carpets and on hard floors, where they can be kicked up and affect air quality, especially for people with respiratory issues.
  • Extends Lifespan of Materials: Regular cleaning prevents dirt from wearing down carpets and damaging hard flooring, helping them last longer and maintain their look.
  • Enhances Appearance and Cleanliness: Clean floors and carpets contribute to a professional, welcoming atmosphere, reflecting positively on the business.

How to Fix It

  1. Establish a Daily Vacuuming Routine: Daily vacuuming is essential for keeping dust and dirt at bay, especially in entryways, hallways, and other high-traffic areas. This helps prevent dirt from settling deep into carpet fibers and keeps hard floors looking fresh.
  2. Schedule Regular Deep Cleaning and Floor Scrubbing: Hard floors benefit from periodic deep cleaning and scrubbing to maintain their shine and durability. Carpets need deep cleaning to lift embedded dirt and refresh fibers.
    • Tip: Plan carpet steam cleaning and hard floor polishing at least twice a year, more often for areas with high foot traffic.
  3. Use Floor Mats at Entrances: Floor mats help trap dirt and moisture before it reaches carpets and floors, making it easier to keep them clean and reducing wear. Mats at entry points can save cleaning time and prevent floor damage.
  4. Rotate Rugs and Mats Regularly: Moving rugs or mats in high-traffic areas can help distribute wear more evenly. This keeps areas from getting overly worn and can help prolong the life of both the rug and the underlying floor.
    • Tip: In lobbies or waiting areas, rotating rugs every few months can prevent them from developing noticeable worn spots.
  5. Use Proper Cleaning Agents for Floor Types: Different flooring materials require specific cleaning products to prevent damage. Using the wrong cleaner can strip finishes, leave streaks, or damage the material.
    • Use pH-neutral cleaners on stone floors and wood-safe products for wooden surfaces to preserve their natural appearance and prevent damage.
  6. Encourage a No-Shoes Policy for Carpeted Areas (if practical): For carpeted office areas or conference rooms, a no-shoes policy (or offering indoor slippers) can help reduce dirt and wear on carpets, especially in spaces with lighter or high-maintenance carpeting.

Mistake 10: Neglecting Staff Training

Commercial Cleaning Perth

Cleaning may seem straightforward, but effective, safe cleaning requires the right techniques and a solid understanding of hygiene practices. 

Without proper training, cleaning staff might unknowingly use incorrect methods, which can spread germs, damage surfaces, or lead to inconsistent results. Well-trained staff are essential for maintaining a clean, safe environment.

Why Staff Training is Essential

  • Improves Efficiency: Trained staff can work more effectively, knowing exactly which tools and techniques to use for each task, reducing time spent on repeated or ineffective cleaning.
  • Reduces Cross-Contamination Risks: Proper training includes understanding how to avoid cross-contamination, especially between restrooms, kitchens, and work areas.
  • Ensures Safety: Using cleaning equipment incorrectly can be dangerous. Training prevents accidents and ensures that staff know how to handle chemicals and tools safely.

How to Fix It

  1. Implement a Comprehensive Training Program: Offer a structured training program that covers essential cleaning practices, tool usage, and hygiene standards. Training can be provided in-house or through a professional cleaning organization.
    • Topics to Cover:
      • Correct use of cleaning products and chemicals
      • Safe handling and storage of cleaning supplies
      • Hygiene and cross-contamination prevention methods
  2. Teach Proper Equipment Usage: Every piece of equipment has a specific way it should be used. For example, vacuum cleaners have specific settings for different surfaces, and mops require proper wringing to avoid spreading dirty water.
    • Tip: Demonstrate the use of each tool and have staff practice to ensure they understand the correct methods.
  3. Train Staff on Colour-Coding Systems for Equipment: Colour-coding equipment is effective only when everyone understands it. Make sure staff are trained on which colours correspond to specific areas, like red for restrooms or blue for break rooms.
    • Colour-coded cloths, mops, and brushes prevent cross-contamination, but staff need to be clear on these distinctions and how to apply them consistently.
  4. Provide Safety Training for Chemical Handling:
    Many cleaning agents contain chemicals that require careful handling. Staff should be trained on using gloves, masks, and protective gear when working with strong cleaners.
    • Topics to Include:
      • Reading and following product labels
      • Safe storage of chemicals away from heat and direct sunlight
      • What to do in case of accidental spills or skin contact
  5. Conduct Regular Refresher Courses and Updates:
    Cleaning methods, products, and regulations can change over time. Offering refresher training helps keep skills sharp and ensures that staff stay up-to-date with the latest cleaning standards.
  6. Monitor and Provide Feedback on Performance:
    Supervisors should observe cleaning routines and offer constructive feedback. This helps reinforce good practices and correct any issues before they become routine errors.
    • Tip: Regular feedback sessions help identify training gaps, reinforce techniques, and show staff that their work is valued.

Key Takeaway

A clean workspace goes way beyond just looking good – it makes the environment healthier, keeps employees happier, and even extends the life of furniture, floors, and equipment. 

By steering clear of these common cleaning mistakes, you’re creating a space where everyone can focus, breathe easier, and feel comfortable.

From keeping high-touch areas germ-free to making sure floors stay fresh and windows sparkle, every little effort adds up. 

And when you invest in the right cleaning techniques and training, you’re setting the stage for long-term cleanliness and fewer issues down the road. Want to take your office cleanliness up a notch? Check out Cleann for expert help in creating a spotless, productive workspace.

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