Keeping a workspace sanitised isn’t just about appearances—there’s a lot riding on it, from productivity to the well-being of everyone who steps inside.

Think about this: the average office desk harbours 400 times more germs than a toilet seat, making it crucial to stay on top of cleanliness (source: GJK Facility Services).

Poor hygiene can lead to higher rates of illness, which adds up quickly; sick leave costs Australian businesses around $20,000 per year, per company (Employsure).

And germs spread fast—a single virus on a doorknob can reach half of all people and surfaces nearby within three hours (source: GJK Facility Services).

Maintaining a clean environment keeps everyone healthier, boosts morale, and leaves a positive impression on clients and staff alike. Here are some easy ways to make that happen.

High-Traffic and High-Touch Areas to Prioritise

High-traffic and high-touch areas are the busiest spots in any workplace, so they need frequent cleaning to keep everyone healthy and comfortable. When you focus on these spaces, you can create a cleaner environment without adding too much to your daily routine.

1.) Entrances and Lobbies

Everyone walks through these areas, often bringing dirt, dust, and germs from outside. Regularly cleaning door handles, push plates, and entry mats helps stop dirt at the door. A quick daily sweep or vacuum keeps floors fresh, and disinfecting any seating or shared touchpoints limits bacteria buildup.

2.) Desks and Workstations

Desks see a lot of touchpoints—keyboards, phones, pens—and can become germ hubs if not cleaned frequently. Encouraging a clean desk policy where employees wipe down their desks weekly can make a big difference. Provide disinfectant wipes for keyboards and mice; regular cleaning can reduce germs without the need for an intensive daily routine.

3.) Restrooms

Germs spread quickly in restrooms, especially on taps, toilet handles, and door handles. Cleaning these high-touch spots at least once a day helps reduce the spread of bacteria. Stocking soap and paper towels ensures everyone has what they need for good hygiene, and a weekly deep clean, including mirrors and floors, keeps things feeling fresh.

4.) Meeting Rooms and Break Rooms

These shared spaces see lots of hands on remotes, whiteboards, coffee machines, and tables. Encourage employees to sanitise tables and any shared devices before and after use. Regularly emptying bins and cleaning shared appliances weekly prevents bad smells and keeps the break room inviting for everyone.

Developing an Effective Cleaning Schedule

Creating a clear cleaning schedule is the backbone of maintaining a spotless and healthy workspace. A structured approach helps prevent build-up, ensures every area gets attention, and makes the overall job easier.

When you set up daily, weekly, and monthly tasks, you can keep your business running smoothly and hygienically.

Here’s how to develop an effective cleaning routine and decide who should take on each responsibility.

Daily Tasks

Daily cleaning tackles high-touch areas that need constant attention to keep germs at bay and maintain a tidy appearance.

High-Touch Surfaces: Wipe down door handles, light switches, keyboards, phones, and desks. These spots are frequently used and can easily spread germs if left untouched.
Restrooms: Clean and disinfect toilets, sinks, and counters, and ensure there’s a constant supply of soap and paper towels. Restrooms are high-traffic areas, and regular cleaning helps keep them sanitary and fresh.
Floors in High-Traffic Areas: Sweep or vacuum main walkways, entrances, and lobbies to manage dust and dirt from foot traffic.
Trash Bins: Empty all bins, especially in break rooms and restrooms, to prevent odours and discourage pests.

Weekly Tasks

Weekly tasks focus on deeper cleaning that goes beyond the surface and keeps the workspace in top condition.

Desks and Workstations: Ask employees to declutter their desks at the end of the week. This makes weekly dusting and disinfecting easier and more effective.
Floors and Carpets: Vacuum or mop all floors, including areas that aren’t cleaned daily, to remove built-up dirt and allergens.
Break Rooms and Kitchen Areas: Deep clean sinks, microwaves, fridges, and counters. Encourage employees to clear out any food items that may spoil.
Windows and Glass Doors: Wipe down windows and any glass partitions to remove fingerprints and smudges for a cleaner look.

Monthly Tasks

Monthly tasks are essential for areas and items that don’t require frequent cleaning but still need regular maintenance.

Deep Clean Carpets and Upholstery: Consider using a professional service for a thorough clean that removes embedded dirt, dust, and allergens.
HVAC Vents and Air Filters: Dust and replace air filters monthly to improve indoor air quality and keep the ventilation system working efficiently.
Storage Areas and Less-Used Spaces: Clean storage rooms, supply closets, and less-frequented areas to ensure dust and clutter don’t accumulate over time.
Detailed Restroom Cleaning: Do a deep clean of restroom floors, walls, and fixtures to remove any residue that daily cleaning might miss.

Assigning Responsibilities

Establishing a clear routine only works if everyone knows their part. For small tasks, consider a shared responsibility system among employees:

Daily Duties: Assign daily tasks to employees on a rotating schedule, such as wiping down shared desks and emptying bins.
Weekly Duties: For tasks like deep-cleaning break rooms or meeting rooms, have a designated person or group handle these on a set day each week.

For larger spaces or more intensive monthly tasks, hiring a professional cleaning service can be highly beneficial. Professionals bring expertise, equipment, and efficiency that often make a significant difference in maintaining hygiene standards across the workplace. When weighing this option, consider:

Budget and Frequency: Hiring professionals weekly or monthly can save time and effort on deeper cleaning tasks.
Specialised Cleaning Needs: For tasks like carpet cleaning, HVAC maintenance, and thorough restroom sanitation, professional cleaners may have specialised equipment and methods that are hard to match in-house.

An effective cleaning schedule combines structured routines, shared responsibilities, and professional support, creating a seamless approach to workplace cleanliness that benefits everyone involved.

Keeping Air Quality High: Filters, Purifiers, and Ventilation

Good air quality is key to a healthy workplace, helping everyone breathe easier and feel more comfortable.

Poor air quality can lead to fatigue, allergies, and even illness, which can impact productivity and morale.

Here’s how to keep indoor air fresh, clean, and safe by focusing on HVAC systems, air purifiers, and regular filter changes.

Regular Maintenance of HVAC Systems

The HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system plays a huge role in circulating and filtering air throughout the building. Without regular maintenance, these systems can trap and circulate dust, allergens, and other airborne particles.

Scheduled Cleanings: HVAC systems should be inspected and cleaned at least twice a year. Dust, pollen, and other particles can build up inside ducts and vents, reducing air quality and spreading contaminants.

Many businesses clean HVAC systems just before summer and winter to handle the extra load during extreme temperatures.

Check for Leaks and Moisture Buildup: Moisture trapped in HVAC ducts can lead to mold growth, affecting air quality and respiratory issues. Regular inspections help catch and address any potential moisture issues before they spread.

Using Air Purifiers for Additional Filtration

Air purifiers are effective tools that remove pollutants, allergens, and odors from the air, adding an extra layer of cleanliness to the workspace.

They work well in high-traffic areas, break rooms, or anywhere employees gather frequently.

HEPA Filters: Choose purifiers with HEPA filters, which capture 99.97% of airborne particles as small as 0.3 microns. These filters are excellent at removing allergens and dust, making a noticeable difference in air quality.
Placement Matters: To capture contaminants before they spread, position air purifiers in areas where people spend the most time, such as open office spaces, conference rooms, or near entryways.

Changing Air Filters Regularly

Air filters are the first line of defense in keeping dust, allergens, and pollutants from circulating. Over time, they get clogged, which restricts airflow and reduces their effectiveness.

Frequency of Change: Change filters every 1-3 months, depending on the environment and the volume of traffic in the building. If your business is in an area with a lot of dust or pollen, or if there are pets on site, consider changing filters monthly.

High-traffic environments, like retail stores or restaurants, often require more frequent filter changes compared to small offices.

Upgrade Filters if Necessary: Standard filters work well for basic filtration, but in environments where people are sensitive to dust or allergens, high-efficiency filters can capture smaller particles and improve overall air quality.

Ensuring Proper Ventilation

Ventilation is essential for bringing in fresh air and removing stale, polluted air from the workplace. Without it, airborne pollutants can become concentrated, causing stuffiness and discomfort.

Open Windows and Doors When Possible: Allowing fresh air to flow through the office, even for a short time each day, can improve air quality significantly. This simple habit reduces indoor pollutants and brings in clean air.
Use Exhaust Fans in Key Areas: Areas like restrooms, kitchens, or break rooms can benefit from exhaust fans that vent stale or odorous air outside. Exhaust fans are effective in preventing moisture and smells from accumulating in closed spaces.

Creating an Air Quality Checklist for the Workplace

Setting up a checklist can help keep air quality on track by reminding staff of regular tasks that make a big difference:

Monthly Tasks: Check and replace HVAC filters, dust vents and air intakes, and ensure air purifiers are working properly.
Seasonal Tasks: Schedule HVAC inspections twice a year, ideally in spring and autumn. Clean ducts, inspect for leaks, and address any issues that may affect airflow.
Daily Tasks: If possible, open windows briefly for fresh air and run exhaust fans to keep air circulating.

Improving air quality in the workplace doesn’t have to be complicated, but a regular approach can make all the difference. A clean, fresh environment supports better health, increased focus, and overall satisfaction among employees and visitors.

Green Cleaning Solutions for Healthier Spaces

Green cleaning is a smart, sustainable approach that keeps your workplace spotless without relying on harsh chemicals.

Using eco-friendly cleaning practices, you can create a healthier environment for employees, reduce environmental impact, and even lower overall maintenance costs.

Here’s how to implement green cleaning and why it makes such a difference.

Eco-Friendly Cleaning Practices

Switching to greener practices can be as simple as changing the products and techniques used daily. Here are some effective ways to clean responsibly:

Choose Plant-Based Cleaners: Many cleaning products today are derived from plants instead of chemicals. Look for labels that say “non-toxic” or “biodegradable” to ensure products are safe for both employees and the environment. Plant-based cleaners handle everything from glass and floors to disinfecting restrooms effectively.
Use Microfiber Cloths: Microfiber cloths are excellent for trapping dust and dirt without needing strong chemicals. They are reusable, highly effective, and reduce waste associated with disposable cleaning supplies. When used damp, they can even capture some bacteria from surfaces.
Limit Water and Energy Use: Eco-friendly cleaning isn’t just about products. Simple practices like mopping with less water, using cold water whenever possible, and turning off equipment when not in use can conserve energy and reduce utility costs.

The Benefits of Green Cleaning

Green cleaning provides significant benefits for both health and the environment, making it a valuable choice for businesses focused on sustainability.

Improved Indoor Air Quality: Many traditional cleaning products release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air, which can cause headaches, respiratory issues, and even allergies. Green products release fewer or no VOCs, leading to fresher indoor air and fewer health concerns for employees.

QUICK TIP: Switching to low-VOC cleaners in high-traffic areas, like lobbies or break rooms, can make a noticeable difference in air quality.

Reduced Chemical Residue: Surfaces cleaned with eco-friendly products don’t leave behind strong chemical residues, which can irritate skin or respiratory systems. Employees can safely use shared areas without worrying about chemical sensitivities or allergies.
Environmental Impact: Eco-friendly products are often biodegradable, meaning they break down more naturally and won’t contribute to environmental pollution. By using green cleaning practices, businesses can reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Choosing Green Products Wisely

Not all products labeled “green” are created equally. Look for trusted certifications to ensure products meet high environmental and safety standards.

Certifications to Look For: Certifications like Green Seal, EcoLogo, and Safer Choice verify that products meet strict environmental and health guidelines.
Avoid Harmful Ingredients: Even in eco-friendly products, avoid ingredients like phthalates, triclosan, and chlorine, which can still pose health risks. Instead, look for simple ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and plant-based enzymes, which are effective and safe.

Implementing Green Cleaning in Your Workplace

Switching to green cleaning can be easy and gradual. Start with a few key changes and expand from there:

Switch Core Products First: Begin with high-use items like surface cleaners, floor cleaners, and hand soaps. Once these are in place, look at replacing less common products with green options.
Train Cleaning Staff on Eco-Friendly Practices: A quick training on using green products effectively will help staff adjust. For example, they can learn how much product to use, proper disposal, and efficient cleaning techniques to reduce waste.
Encourage Employees to Help: Encourage everyone to be mindful of green practices, such as recycling, conserving water, and reporting spills promptly to avoid unnecessary chemical use.

Making green cleaning a part of your workplace shows a commitment to health, sustainability, and employee well-being. It’s a simple but effective step toward creating a more comfortable, healthy, and environmentally-friendly workspace for all.

Maintaining Common Areas: Kitchen and Restroom Hygiene

Maintaining cleanliness in common areas like kitchens and restrooms is essential for a safe and welcoming workplace.

These spaces see heavy daily use, making them prone to germs, spills, and clutter.

Here’s a practical approach to keeping breakrooms and restrooms clean, hygienic, and comfortable for everyone.

Kitchen Hygiene

The breakroom is a shared space where food prep and relaxation happen, so regular cleaning keeps it pleasant and safe from bacteria or unpleasant odours.

Daily Surface Cleaning: Wipe down countertops, tables, and any shared appliances (like the microwave or kettle) with a mild disinfectant. This prevents food particles and spills from breeding grounds for bacteria.

Tip: Provide surface wipes near high-use areas, making it easy for employees to wipe down after use.

Fridge and Food Storage: Leftover food can spoil quickly and lead to unpleasant smells or mould. Designate a day each week for fridge clean-outs, where old or expired items are removed.

Example: Send a reminder each Friday for everyone to take their food items home, keeping the fridge clear and clean for the following week.

Dish Cleaning Policy: To prevent pile-ups, encourage employees to wash their dishes immediately after use or have a designated time when all dishes are cleaned. If possible, provide a small dishwasher for convenience and quick cleaning.
Trash Management: Empty the kitchen trash daily to avoid odours, especially if there’s food waste. Use bins with lids to contain smells, and consider compost bins for organic waste to promote eco-friendliness.

Restroom Hygiene

Restrooms need a consistent cleaning routine to maintain hygiene and comfort, as they are high-traffic areas with many touchpoints.

Daily Disinfection of High-Touch Surfaces: Restroom fixtures like sinks, taps, and toilet handles should be disinfected daily to prevent germ buildup. Pay close attention to door handles, as these are touched by everyone.
- Example: In restrooms with multiple stalls, rotating the cleaning of each stall during the day can help maintain overall cleanliness without disrupting employees.
Stocking Essentials: Keeping supplies like soap, paper towels, and toilet paper well-stocked is crucial. Check these items at least once a day, as running out can lead to hygiene lapses.
- Tip: Install automatic dispensers for soap and paper towels if possible; they help reduce touchpoints and are more efficient for high-traffic areas.
Weekly Deep Clean: Restrooms benefit from a thorough clean once a week. This includes scrubbing floors, sanitising walls, and deep cleaning sinks and toilets. Use a mild bleach solution or an eco-friendly disinfectant for a thorough job without harsh chemical smells.
Odour Control: Freshness in restrooms makes a big difference. Using air fresheners or small odour absorbers helps keep restrooms smelling pleasant, which boosts comfort and creates a more inviting space for employees.

The Benefits of Professional Cleaning Services

When businesses grow or experience high traffic, it becomes challenging for in-house staff to keep up with cleaning demands while balancing their primary responsibilities.

This is where professional cleaning services come in, offering expertise, time-saving benefits, and a thoroughness that’s hard to match.

Professional cleaners bring a high level of expertise, using advanced tools and effective cleaning products that target specific needs, like stain removal, allergen control, and sanitation in hard-to-reach areas.

Their specialised training ensures that areas like restrooms, break rooms, and high-touch surfaces are not only clean but also hygienic, reducing the spread of germs and supporting a healthier workplace environment.

Time-saving is another key benefit. By outsourcing cleaning tasks, employees can focus on their main roles, boosting overall productivity.

Instead of diverting energy toward tidying up, businesses can rely on scheduled cleaning from professionals who work efficiently and often outside of business hours. This way, the workspace remains spotless without disrupting the daily workflow.

Thoroughness is a standout advantage of professional services. Regular, detailed cleaning includes attention to often-overlooked spots like vents, carpets, and upholstery. Professionals also ensure that no area is missed, from high-touch surfaces to shared equipment, creating a consistently clean space that positively impacts employee morale and client impressions.

Seasonal Cleaning Tips for Australian Businesses

Seasonal changes in Australia bring unique cleaning challenges, from summer heat and dust storms to rainy winter days.

Tailoring your cleaning efforts to each season helps keep your business environment fresh, comfortable, and hygienic throughout the year.

Here are practical tips for tackling seasonal needs effectively.

Summer Cleaning Tips

The Australian summer brings intense heat, dust, and increased foot traffic, making it essential to keep areas clean and cool.

Dust and Air Quality: High temperatures and dry conditions mean more dust. Regularly dust surfaces, especially in high-traffic areas, and clean air filters to maintain air quality.
Humidity Control: Consider using air purifiers and dehumidifiers to control indoor humidity and reduce the chance of mold, particularly in restrooms and kitchens.
Increased Floor Cleaning: With higher foot traffic, floors can get dusty or sticky quickly. Mopping and vacuuming more frequently helps maintain a polished look.

Autumn Cleaning Tips

As temperatures drop, prepare for cooler months with some pre-winter maintenance.

Window and Blind Cleaning: Autumn is a great time to thoroughly clean windows and blinds, clearing off dust and grime that may have accumulated over summer.
Outdoor Areas: Sweep and maintain outdoor areas, as leaves can quickly clutter entrances and walkways, creating slip hazards.
HVAC Prep: Clean and inspect HVAC systems before winter. Dusting vents and ensuring everything is functioning well improves indoor air quality as you rely more on heating.

Winter Cleaning Tips

Rainy days can lead to mud, moisture, and more indoor allergens, making extra cleaning measures essential.

Entry Mats and Rugs: Use entry mats to keep mud and moisture from being tracked indoors. Clean mats regularly to prevent dirt buildup.
Carpet and Upholstery Maintenance: Moisture can lead to mold or mildew in carpets and furniture, so schedule deeper cleanings for these areas.
Restroom Maintenance: Increased indoor time means restroom areas see more use. Regular disinfecting and moisture control keep them hygienic and fresh.

Spring Cleaning Tips

Spring is the perfect season for a fresh start, clearing out any winter buildup and making the space feel renewed.

Deep Clean Surfaces: Wipe down surfaces, walls, and baseboards, removing any dust and grime that settled over winter.
Declutter and Organise: Tidy up storage spaces, discard expired items in break rooms, and organise supplies for the year ahead.
Check for Pests: Spring can attract pests like ants and flies. Ensure break rooms and waste bins are clean, and consider pest control measures if necessary.

Protecting Floors and Furniture: Carpet and Upholstery Care

Maintaining carpets and upholstered furniture is essential for keeping your office looking fresh and professional.

Regular care prevents wear and tear, extends the lifespan of these assets, and creates a more inviting environment for both employees and clients.

Here’s how to keep your floors and furniture in top shape with some simple maintenance routines and professional support.

Daily and Weekly Care

Regular upkeep helps prevent dirt, stains, and odours from building up over time, making it easier to maintain a clean look.

Daily Vacuuming for High-Traffic Areas: Carpets in busy areas, like entrances and hallways, quickly gather dust and debris. A daily vacuum keeps dirt from getting embedded, reducing long-term wear.
Weekly Vacuuming for Low-Traffic Areas: For less-used areas, a weekly vacuuming schedule is enough to keep dirt under control and prevent it from dulling the carpet.
Spot Cleaning Upholstery: Accidents happen—whether it’s a coffee spill or a food stain. Cleaning spills right away with a mild cleaner and a microfiber cloth helps avoid lasting stains on upholstery.

Monthly and Quarterly Deep Cleaning

In addition to regular vacuuming, scheduling deeper cleans periodically is key to maintaining a fresh appearance and removing embedded dirt or allergens.

Monthly Shampooing or Steam Cleaning Carpets: Monthly treatments are ideal for removing more stubborn dirt and refreshing the fibres. Steam cleaning is especially effective for offices with pets or lots of foot traffic, as it removes particles trapped deep within the carpet.
Quarterly Upholstery Cleaning: Dust and allergens build up in upholstered furniture, so a quarterly steam cleaning or professional upholstery service can make a noticeable difference in air quality and cleanliness.

Professional Cleaning Benefits

Bringing in professionals for a deep clean at least twice a year can revitalise both carpets and upholstery, giving them a longer life and a consistently polished look.

Expertise and Equipment: Professional cleaners have specialised tools and techniques to remove dirt, allergens, and stains that regular vacuuming can’t handle. This reduces odours, brightens colours, and helps the material last longer.
Preserving Fabric and Fibres: Deep-cleaned carpets and upholstery regularly stay in better condition. This reduces the frequency of replacements, saving money on office assets over time.

Safety and Compliance: Ensuring a Sanitised Workplace Meets Standards

Meeting safety and compliance standards is crucial for keeping a workplace clean, safe, and aligned with industry-specific regulations.

Different sectors, such as healthcare, food service, and hospitality, each have unique requirements, but maintaining cleanliness and sanitation is fundamental across the board.

Here’s a breakdown of key compliance steps and how regular cleaning helps meet these standards.

Healthcare Industry

In healthcare settings, stringent hygiene standards help prevent the spread of infections and protect patient safety.

Use of Hospital-Grade Disinfectants: All surfaces, especially high-touch areas, need regular disinfection with approved hospital-grade products to eliminate bacteria and viruses effectively.
Terminal Cleaning Protocols: Terminal cleaning is essential in operating rooms and patient areas. It involves a thorough cleaning process after each patient to sanitise surfaces and prevent cross-contamination.
Routine Checks and Documentation: Compliance involves documented cleaning routines, so be sure to record each cleaning task to ensure standards are consistently met and ready for inspection.

Food Service Industry

In food service, hygiene practices are necessary to keep food safe for customers and prevent contamination.

Daily Cleaning and Disinfection of Food Prep Areas: Sinks, counters, cutting boards, and utensils must be cleaned and disinfected frequently to reduce bacteria risks.
Pest Control and Waste Management: Effective waste disposal and pest control are essential to avoid infestations. Regular inspections ensure that food storage areas remain clean and comply with food safety standards.
Compliance with HACCP Guidelines: Following the Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) system, identify any risks of contamination, establish cleaning procedures, and ensure proper handling of all food items.

Office and Retail Spaces

While less strict than healthcare or food services, office and retail environments still require regular sanitation to ensure employee and customer safety.

Regular Surface Disinfection: High-touch areas like door handles, desks, and counters should be disinfected daily to maintain a healthy environment.
Safe Chemical Storage: Cleaning chemicals should be stored safely and labelled correctly to prevent accidents and ensure compliance with workplace safety standards.
Air Quality and Ventilation: HVAC systems should be cleaned and filters changed regularly to maintain good indoor air quality, reducing allergens and pollutants.

Hospitality and Accommodation

In the hospitality industry, cleanliness standards are crucial for guest safety and comfort.

Daily Room Sanitation: Guest rooms require daily cleaning and disinfection, including surfaces, linens, and bathrooms. This helps prevent the spread of germs among visitors.
Laundry and Linen Hygiene: Laundry practices need to comply with high-temperature washing protocols to effectively remove bacteria from bedding, towels, and uniforms.
Public Area Cleaning: Lobbies, elevators, and dining areas should be cleaned frequently, with an emphasis on surfaces guests touch regularly.

The Role of Regular Cleaning in Compliance

Routine cleaning goes beyond aesthetics—it is essential for health and safety. Regular disinfection of high-touch surfaces, monitoring air quality, and ensuring proper storage of cleaning supplies all contribute to a safer workplace.

This also reduces the risk of illness outbreaks, improves employee well-being, and enhances customer trust.

Ultimately, maintaining compliance through regular cleaning practices shows a commitment to safety, supporting a healthier and more professional environment for everyone.

Key Takeaway

A clean workspace does wonders—it’s healthier, more inviting, and just makes everyone feel better.

Imagine walking into a spotless office or breakroom that’s fresh and organised. It sets a positive tone for the day and shows that care goes into every part of the business, from how employees feel to how clients perceive you.

Keeping your business sanitised is less about big efforts and more about consistent, thoughtful routines.

Taking care of high-traffic areas, managing air quality, and using green cleaning practices are simple ways to make sure everyone who steps inside feels comfortable and confident.

And when things get busy, or you want a little extra help, having professionals step in with expertise and thoroughness can make all the difference.

Ready to elevate the cleanliness in your workplace? Contact us now at Cleann.com.au to see how we can support you with tailored, professional cleaning services that keep your business in top shape, every season, every day.