The Common Cleaning Mistakes Businesses Make (and How to Avoid Them)

Running a business comes with many responsibilities, and one of the most important is maintaining a clean and sanitary workplace. However, even with the best intentions, many businesses make common cleaning mistakes that can compromise the health and safety of their employees and customers. Here are some of the most common cleaning mistakes businesses make and how to avoid them.

1. Failing to Establish a Regular Cleaning Schedule: One of the biggest mistakes businesses make is failing to establish a regular cleaning schedule. Without a set cleaning routine, it’s easy for areas to be neglected or forgotten, which can lead to the buildup of dirt, dust, and other contaminants. To avoid this mistake, businesses should work with their cleaning service to establish a regular cleaning schedule that includes daily, weekly, and monthly tasks.
2. Using the Wrong Cleaning Products or Equipment: Another common cleaning mistake is using the wrong cleaning products or equipment for the job. For example, using a harsh chemical cleaner on a delicate surface can damage the material, while using a vacuum with a clogged filter can actually spread dust and allergens around the room. To avoid this mistake, businesses should work with their cleaning service to ensure they use the right products and equipment for each cleaning task.
3. Neglecting High-Traffic Areas: High-traffic areas like entryways, lobbies, and restrooms are some of the most important areas to keep clean in a business. However, they’re also some of the most neglected areas when it comes to cleaning. Neglecting these areas can lead to the buildup of dirt, grime, and germs, which can compromise the health and safety of employees and customers. To avoid this mistake, businesses should ensure that these areas are given special attention during each cleaning cycle.
4. Not Properly Cleaning and Sanitizing Restrooms: Restrooms are some of the most heavily used areas in any business, and they’re also some of the most important areas to keep clean and sanitary. However, many businesses make the mistake of not properly cleaning and sanitizing their restrooms, which can lead to the spread of germs and illnesses. To avoid this mistake, businesses should work with their cleaning service to establish a thorough restroom cleaning and sanitization routine that includes regular cleaning of all surfaces, floors, and fixtures.
5. Overlooking Small Details: Another common cleaning mistake businesses make is overlooking small details, like wiping down light switches, cleaning windowsills, or dusting blinds. While these tasks may seem minor, they can contribute to the overall cleanliness and appearance of a business. To avoid this mistake, businesses should work with their cleaning service to establish a detailed cleaning checklist that includes all the small details that may be overlooked.
6. Failing to Train Employees on Proper Cleaning Procedures: Even with the best cleaning service in place, employees may still make cleaning mistakes if they’re not properly trained on cleaning procedures. This can lead to inconsistent cleaning results and compromise the overall cleanliness and safety of the workplace. To avoid this mistake, businesses should work with their cleaning service to provide employee training on proper cleaning techniques and procedures.
7. Using Dirty Cleaning Tools: Using dirty cleaning tools like mops, sponges, and rags can spread germs and bacteria around the workplace rather than removing them. To avoid this mistake, businesses should ensure that their cleaning service is using clean and sanitized tools for each cleaning task.
8. Not Allowing Time for Cleaning Tasks: Businesses may make the mistake of not allowing enough time for cleaning tasks to be completed. Rushing through cleaning tasks can lead to incomplete or ineffective cleaning, which can compromise the health and safety of the workplace. To avoid this mistake, businesses should work with their cleaning service to ensure that they’re allowing enough time for each cleaning task to be completed thoroughly.
9. Not Addressing Specific Cleaning Needs: Different businesses may have different cleaning needs depending on the nature of their work. For instance, a restaurant may require more attention to its kitchen area, while an office may need more attention to its electronic equipment. Not addressing specific cleaning needs can lead to unsanitary conditions and even potential safety hazards. To avoid this mistake, businesses should work with their cleaning service to develop a cleaning plan that addresses their specific cleaning needs.
10. Ignoring Feedback from Employees and Customers: Ignoring feedback from employees and customers regarding the cleanliness of the workplace can lead to a decline in employee morale and even a loss of business. If employees or customers notice unclean areas or other issues, it’s important for the business to take action to address those concerns. To avoid this mistake, businesses should have an open communication channel with their cleaning service to address any concerns or feedback and make necessary adjustments.

Maintaining a clean and sanitary workplace is crucial for the health and safety of employees and customers, as well as for the overall success of a business. By avoiding these common cleaning mistakes and working with a professional cleaning service, businesses can ensure that their workplace is clean and welcoming for all who enter.