Let’s face it - keeping your workplace clean isn't the most glamorous job. But a sparkling clean office does more than just make the place look good. It keeps your team healthy, boosts morale, and shows clients you’ve got your act together.
So, how do you pick a cleaning company that’s worth their weight in sponges? We’ve got you covered with this guide.
Why Choosing the Right Cleaning Company Is So Important
A cleaning provider isn’t just about emptying bins and wiping desks. The right company helps your business thrive by:
- Cutting down on sick days (bye-bye germ factories).
- Keeping employees happy and productive (people love clean spaces, who knew?).
- Making a great impression on clients (dusty conference tables are a no-go).
Follow the steps below to help you choose your behind-the-scenes cleaning superheros!
Step 1: What Are Your Cleaning Needs?
Before you start scrolling through Google reviews, take a moment to assess your cleaning wish list.
- What type of business are you running? A dentist’s office has different needs than a corporate high-rise.
- How big is your space? Cleaning one office is a breeze. Cleaning an entire campus? That’s another story.
- How often do you need cleaning? Daily? Weekly? Just after your annual team pizza party?
- Do you need anything special? Carpet cleaning, window washing, or cleaning high-up places?
Knowing what you need will help you find the right cleaning crew for the job.
Step 2: Review Their Commercial Cleaning Services
A good cleaning company isn’t just there to take out the trash - they’re your one-stop shop for all things spotless. Here’s what they should offer:
- Office Cleaning: Dusting, vacuuming, sanitising, and making the breakroom less scary.
- Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning: Removing years of coffee spills and mystery stains.
- Hard Floor Care: Think shiny, non-slip floors that take your space to the next-level.
- Window Cleaning: Clear views and no streaks. Bonus points if they tackle skyscraper heights.
- Restroom Cleaning: No one likes a grimy loo - keep it fresh and fully stocked.
- Waste Removal and Recycling: Helping you go green without the headache.
- Specialised Cleaning: From post-construction chaos to medical-grade sanitation, they should handle it all.
If they can’t do at least most of this, it’s time to keep looking. Check out our article on What Do Commercial Cleaning Services Include?
Step 3: Check Their Cleaning Expertise and Reputation
When it comes to cleaning, experience is everything. You want a crew that knows their way around an industrial floor polisher, not one that’s learning on the job.
- Industry Knowledge: Are they pros in your industry? (Hint: check their website to see who’ve they’ve worked with before.)
- Proven Track Record: Testimonials and reviews don’t lie - look for glowing praise from businesses like yours.
- Certifications: If they’re ticking compliance boxes and have all the right credentials (think sustainability, B-Corp, awards) you’re in good hands.
Step 4: Prioritise Eco-Friendly Cleaning Practices
Eco-friendly cleaning isn’t just trendy, it’s better for your team, your clients, and the planet. Ask if they use:
- Non-toxic products (safe for humans and office plants).
- Energy-efficient tools (cleaning with a conscience).
- Recycling programs (because throwing everything in one bin is so last decade).
Bonus: going green makes your business look great too
Step 5: Assess Their Flexibility
The cleaning company you choose should be able to roll with whatever your business throws their way. Big meeting tomorrow? They should spruce things up on short notice. Office growing faster than your to-do list? They need to scale their services without missing a beat.
Whether it’s late-night cleaning, last-minute messes, or dealing with multi-site operations, flexibility separates the pros from the pretenders.
Step 6: Are They Easy to Work With?
Nobody wants to chase down their cleaner like they’re playing hide and seek. Communication is non-negotiable. Your ideal cleaning company should:
- Have one main contact for all your questions (no passing the buck).
- Respond quickly when you need them (hello, clean-up on aisle four).
- Send clear updates or reports (so you know what’s been done).
If they’re ghosting you, it’s time to swipe left.
Step 7: Understand Commercial Cleaning Pricing and Value
Let’s talk money. Cleaning doesn’t have to break the bank, but you also get what you pay for. Consider:
- Transparent Pricing: No one likes surprise fees – make sure you’re clear on the pricing upfront.
- Long-Term Contracts: They often mean discounts per clean.
- Value Adds: Do they offer perks like sustainability initiatives or custom plans at no extra charge?
Remember: cheap doesn’t mean good, and investing in quality saves you headaches later.
Step 8: Look for Personalisation
Cookie-cutter cleaning plans are boring and often wasteful. A great cleaning company will listen to your needs and tailor their services just for you. Whether it’s deep-cleaning carpets quarterly or sanitising every doorknob twice a day, they’ll make sure your space gets the TLC it deserves.
Step 9: Check Their Quality Control Measures
Nobody’s perfect, but a good cleaning company has systems in place to catch mistakes before you even notice them. Ask how they:
- Inspect their work.
- Handle feedback and complaints.
- Ensure their team keeps up the good work week after week.
If their plan for quality control sounds airtight, you’re in business.
Must-Ask Questions for Your Future Cleaning Partner
| Question | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| What industries do you serve? | Shows relevant experience and expertise. |
| What services do you provide? | Ensures they can meet all your needs. |
| Do you use eco-friendly products? | Important for health and sustainability. |
| Are you certified? | Proof of quality, safety, and professionalism. |
| How do you handle quality control? | Indicates reliability and accountability. |
FAQs About Choosing a Cleaning Company
How often should my business be professionally cleaned?
This depends on your industry and space usage. Offices usually need daily or weekly cleaning; medical and hospitality facilities often need daily or even multiple times a day.
Why are certifications important when choosing a cleaning company?
Certifications prove that the company meets industry standards for quality, safety, and environmental management, reducing your compliance risks. Read about Cleancorp's Certifications.
Can cleaning services work around my business hours?
Absolutely. Many professional cleaning companies offer flexible scheduling, including after-hours or overnight services to avoid disruptions.
Is eco-friendly cleaning more expensive?
While green products can be slightly higher in cost, they often lead to healthier environments and long-term savings on healthcare and maintenance. Learn more about Sustainability.
What should I look for in a cleaning contract?
Look for clear pricing, a detailed scope of work, flexible scheduling options, and strong quality control clauses. Read more in our blog What To Look For In A Commercial Cleaning Contract For Your Office.
Final Thoughts: Find Your Cleaning Dream Team
Choosing the right cleaning company doesn’t have to feel like rocket science. With the right mix of expertise, flexibility, and stellar communication, you’ll find a provider who makes your life easier and your workspace shine.
So, take your time, ask the right questions, and don’t settle for “just OK.” Because a clean office isn’t just about looking good - it’s about setting the stage for your business to thrive.