The 7 Questions to Ask Yourself Before Hiring a Commercial Cleaning Service

Hiring a commercial cleaning service is a big decision. You’re trusting someone to maintain the cleanliness, safety, and image of your business, so you want to make the right choice. But how do you figure out what you need (and which cleaning provider will fit the bill)?

When considering a cleaning service, ask yourself these seven key questions - they’ll help you clarify your needs, expectations, and priorities before you hire a cleaning company.

1. What Type of Cleaning Company Do You Want to Work With?

Not all cleaning companies are created equal. There are several types to choose from, and the one that’s right for you depends on your needs, budget, and values. Here’s a quick rundown:

• Sole Operators (Mum and Dad Teams): Great for budget-conscious clients with smaller sites. Communication is often straightforward, but reliability and access to modern equipment may be limited.
• Franchisees: Affordable and suitable for small businesses, but training and consistency can vary depending on the franchise.
• Contractors: Cost-effective and often flexible, but quality and communication can suffer due to subcontracting cycles.
• Employee-Centric Companies: High-quality service with well-trained staff who are paid fairly. These companies invest in equipment and use modern methods but might cost a bit more.
• Facilities Management Companies: Ideal for large, multi-site organisations with big budgets. They offer standardised policies and handle complex operations but may lack flexibility for custom requests.

Decide which type best suits your needs, keeping in mind that quality often comes with a price.

2. What Are You Willing to Pay?

Let’s be real: cleaning services aren’t free, and you often get what you pay for. If a quote seems suspiciously low, it’s worth digging deeper. Companies offering rock-bottom rates may be cutting corners; whether it’s by underpaying staff, skimping on training, or using outdated equipment.

• Low-cost services often come with hidden risks, such as inconsistent cleaning, missed details, or even non-compliance with safety and hygiene standards.
• Paying slightly more for a reputable provider ensures: high-quality service, fair treatment of cleaners, and professional results you can rely on.

When evaluating quotes, focus on the value and trust a company brings rather than just the price. A dependable cleaning provider will deliver not only a spotless environment but also a partnership that supports your business’s long-term success.

3. What Standards of Cleanliness Are You Expecting?

Are you looking for a quick surface clean or a deep clean that leaves your space truly spotless? This question goes hand-in-hand with understanding the tools and techniques your cleaning company uses.

• Basic Cleaning: Think vacuuming, mopping, and wiping down surfaces.
• High-Standard Cleaning: Involves advanced equipment (e.g., i-mops, HEPA-filter vacuums), thorough sanitisation, and attention to detail.

Decide whether you want your space to simply look clean or to truly be clean; free from germs, dirt, and allergens.

4. Which Areas Do You Want Cleaned?

Knowing which spaces need attention is critical for creating a clear scope of works. For example:

• Do you need the entire building cleaned or just high-traffic areas?
• What surfaces or items should be included (e.g., desks, glass, carpets)?

A detailed cleaning plan benefits both you and the cleaning company. It ensures nothing gets overlooked and helps you stay within budget.

5. How Often Should Your Site Be Cleaned?

Cleaning frequency depends on your type of business, the number of employees or visitors, and how spotless you want your space to stay.

Here’s a basic guide:

• High-Traffic Sites (e.g., warehouses, medical facilities): Daily cleaning to maintain hygiene.
• Moderate-Traffic Sites (e.g., offices, retail stores): 2–3 times a week is usually sufficient.
• Low-Traffic Sites (e.g., small businesses): Weekly or bi-weekly cleaning may work.

While you might have an idea of what works for your business, keep an open mind—professional cleaners may suggest adjustments based on their experience.

6. Do You Value Sustainability and Modern Practices?

Eco-friendly cleaning isn’t just good for the environment, it’s a smart choice for your business. Sustainable practices often involve non-toxic products and advanced equipment that minimise water and energy waste while promoting a healthier workspace.

Consider these options:

• Green Cleaning Products: Choose providers using biodegradable, non-toxic solutions that are safer for people and the planet.
• Modern Equipment: Companies that use tools like flat mops, i-mops, and HEPA vacuums achieve better results while reducing waste.
• B Corp Certification: Opt for cleaning companies with B Corp certification, which ensures they meet high standards of social and environmental responsibility.

If reducing your environmental impact matters to you, ask potential cleaning providers about their sustainability practices to ensure they align with your values.

How Budget Impacts Service Quality in Commercial Cleaning

The graph below illustrates the direct relationship between budget and service quality when it comes to commercial cleaning services. While lower-cost options may seem attractive upfront, they often deliver inconsistent and lower-quality results. Investing in a moderate or higher budget allows for better-trained staff, advanced equipment, and consistent, thorough cleaning — ultimately supporting a healthier and more professional work environment. This visual reinforces the idea that quality cleaning is an investment in your people, your brand, and your long-term success.

7. What Are You Looking To Get Out Of This Partnership?

Ultimately, you need to decide what kind of relationship you want with your cleaning company.

• Are you after a cheap, quick service with minimal interaction?
• Or do you value a partner who invests in understanding your needs, communicates openly, and delivers consistent results?

By answering these questions, you’ll gain a clear picture of what you want in a cleaning provider. When it’s time to start interviewing companies, you’ll feel confident and prepared to make the best choice for your business.

Because hiring the right cleaning company isn’t just about keeping things tidy - it’s about creating a space that reflects your values, supports your goals, and keeps everyone safe and happy.

Quick Self-Assessment Before Hiring