A deep clean is a process that goes beyond the regular cleaning routine. It’s an opportunity to get in amongst all those hard-to-reach places, such as behind the kitchen appliances or under the bathroom sink, and eradicate any built-up dirt and grime. In addition, regular office deep cleaning can help to improve air quality by removing airborne allergens and pollutants. (Cleancorp's office cleaning is the best in the biz - check us out!)
And let’s be honest, it is lovely to come in after the office has been given a really thorough deep cleaning treatment. It just feels better to work in the space.
While the disruption of deep cleaning an office can be daunting for any business, coordinating the logistics of providing access to the commercial cleaning company keeping the space orderly, free from germs, and clutter-free has never been more important, especially if you’re offering a hybrid working model to your team.
However, it can be challenging to know where to start, especially if the office has been neglected for a while.
In this blog post, we’ll explain how to deep clean an office and create a healthy and productive working environment. Let’s get started.
Deep Cleaning for Offices: The Essential Tasks that Make Your Workspace Sparkle
Regular office deep cleaning is essential to help combat the spread of germs and protect the health and safety of your employees. But what exactly should be included in the task list? Here’s what you should focus on when you’re deep cleaning your office:
-
Clean light fixtures, switches, and door handles
-
Vacuum the carpet with a professional cleaner
-
Clean and vacuum blinds, windowsills, and wipe down signage
-
Clean and vacuum office furniture, including chairs
-
Clean inside and behind the fridge and other appliances
-
Sanitize the toilets and other bathroom surfaces
-
Dust skirting boards, ledges, and vents
-
Disinfect all kitchen surfaces, including cupboards and bins
-
Sanitize desks, monitors, phones, and keyboards
-
Check air filters and replace them if needed
Why Deep Cleaning Matters in a Hybrid Workplace
With hybrid working now common across Australia, office usage patterns have changed. Spaces may sit partially unused for days, then suddenly operate at full capacity. This inconsistency can allow dust to settle, kitchens to be neglected, and bathrooms to receive irregular use.
Deep cleaning ensures your workspace remains:
-
Hygienic during fluctuating occupancy
-
Safe from mould or bacteria growth in underused areas
-
Ready for client visits at any time
-
Consistent in presentation and professionalism
Coordinating access for deep cleaning may feel disruptive, but the long-term benefits to employee wellbeing, productivity, and brand perception outweigh the short-term inconvenience.
How to Deep Clean an Office: 5 Top Tips
When your office is sparkling, your business is primed for success. Not only will your staff appreciate the clean, tidy and newly-sanitized surroundings - increasing productivity and the happiness factor of actually being in the office instead of working from home.
A freshly-scrubbed space creates a welcoming and inviting environment for any prospective clients and customers who walk through the door. Here are 5 top tips for deep cleaning your office:
1. Remove everything ahead of the clean
Start by decluttering and getting rid of any unnecessary items, such as old paperwork, trash, or unused office supplies. For any paper items, consider a secure removal service.
Next step, move any furniture and appliances out and away from the walls so you can clean behind them. With everything out of the way, it’s easier to reach the hidden dirt and grime that prevents your office space from sparkling.
2. Clean from the ceiling to the floor
Empty all of the drawers, cabinets, and storage areas, and wipe them down with a damp cloth or an all-purpose cleaner. Then dust all surfaces, including walls, light fixtures, and baseboards, using a microfiber cloth or duster to avoid sending dust particles into the air. Vacuum all carpets and rugs, paying extra attention to high-traffic areas, and the edges and corners, and shampooing or steaming them for a deeper clean wherever possible.
3. Rearrange the workspace
Reconsider the layout and introduce desk storage for your staff to make the newly-clean environment easier to maintain in the long term. While deep cleaning your office can be disruptive, it’s also an opportunity to create a more efficient and ergonomic system, which means less clutter. Plus, it’ll expedite your office deep cleaning regimen next time.
4. Don’t forget the ‘obvious’ places
That means cleaning windows and glass surfaces, using a streak-free cleaner and lint-free cloth for the best results. Be sure to clean any fingerprints or smudges from mirrors as well. Finally, disinfect all commonly touched surfaces, like door handles, light switches, and countertops. This will help to prevent the spread of germs.
5. Stay on top of a cleaning regimen
A deep clean is only effective if you maintain it. Create a cleaning schedule and make sure to stick to it, and if you and your colleagues don’t want to have to clean each day, consider hiring a commercial cleaning company to provide this service for you.
Encourage your staff to take a certain amount of responsibility for keeping the space clean by providing antibacterial wipes so they can sanitize their desks at the end of each day. Install a dishwasher in the office kitchen so the staff can clean after lunch breaks. These small daily efforts will help to keep your office free of dirt, dust, mold and grime all year round.
Signs Your Office Is Due for a Deep Clean
If you’re unsure whether it’s time, here are common indicators:
-
Persistent odours in kitchens or bathrooms
-
Increased staff allergies or respiratory complaints
-
Stained carpets that don’t improve with regular vacuuming
-
Dust visible on vents, skirting boards, or high ledges
-
Grease build-up in kitchen cupboards or appliances
-
Discoloured grout or bathroom sealant
If the office has been neglected for a period (or you’re moving into a new space) a deep clean should be a priority before resuming full operations.
How Often Should You Deep Clean an Office?
Frequency depends on office size, foot traffic, and industry.
As a general guideline:
-
Corporate offices: Every 6–12 months
-
High-traffic environments: Every 3–6 months
-
Healthcare or high-risk settings: More frequent, based on compliance requirements
-
Post-renovation or move-in: Immediately prior to occupancy
Regular daily cleaning reduces the need for excessive deep cleaning, but it does not replace it.
DIY vs Professional Office Deep Cleaning
While some businesses attempt to manage deep cleaning internally, there’s a significant difference between a surface-level effort and a professionally executed deep clean. Professional cleaning teams use commercial-grade equipment that delivers far more effective results than standard office vacuums or supermarket products.
They’re trained to use compliant, workplace-safe chemicals correctly, ensuring both effectiveness and safety. A professional service can also complete the work efficiently and often outside business hours, minimising disruption to your team. Importantly, reputable cleaning providers follow documented procedures that support regulatory compliance and workplace safety standards.
They’re experienced in handling mould, biohazards, and heavy equipment safely, and they understand how to protect sensitive surfaces, flooring, and electronics from damage. In many cases, investing in a professional deep clean saves time, reduces risk, and delivers a far more thorough outcome.
FAQs About Office Deep Cleaning
1. What is included in a professional office deep clean?
A professional office deep clean includes high-level dusting, carpet steam cleaning, upholstery cleaning, appliance detailing, bathroom sanitisation, kitchen degreasing, and disinfecting high-touch surfaces. It covers areas not typically addressed in routine cleaning.
2. How long does an office deep clean take?
The timeframe depends on office size and condition. A small office may take several hours, while larger corporate spaces can require a full day or multiple shifts to complete thoroughly.
3. Do we need to close the office during a deep clean?
Not necessarily. Many deep cleans are scheduled after hours or on weekends to avoid disruption. However, in some cases (particularly for carpet steam cleaning) temporary area closures may be recommended.
4. How often should carpets be professionally cleaned in an office?
High-traffic office carpets should ideally be professionally cleaned every 6–12 months. Heavier-use environments may require cleaning every 3–6 months to maintain hygiene and appearance.
5. Is office deep cleaning worth the investment?
Yes. Deep cleaning reduces illness, protects assets, enhances workplace morale, and strengthens brand perception. Over time, preventative cleaning reduces costly repairs and replacements.
For Reliable and Effective Office Deep Cleaning Services, Choose Cleancorp
No time or resources for a regular office deep cleaning regimen? As Australia’s number one fastest growing cleaning company for businesses, Cleancorp is here to help. Our office deep cleaning services are available in locations across Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth and New Zealand, as well as regional hubs Australia-wide. Get a free quote from our friendly team today.