First impressions matter. In the world of commerce, that first impression often comes in the form of a clean and inviting environment. For high-traffic areas like lobbies, hallways, and restrooms, keeping things spotless can feel like an uphill battle. But, with a well-defined strategy, you can keep your commercial facility clean. Here’s how:
Develop a cleaning schedule
The cornerstone of any successful cleaning plan is a clearly defined schedule. This ensures no area gets overlooked, and high-traffic zones receive the frequent attention they deserve. Think of it as a roadmap to cleanliness!
Your schedule should be a multi-layered approach, incorporating daily, weekly, and monthly tasks. For instance, daily cleaning might involve sweeping or mopping floors, disinfecting surfaces everyone touches (more on that later), and emptying overflowing waste bins.
Weekly tasks could then include vacuuming carpets, wiping down furniture for dust bunnies, and cleaning windows well to let the sunshine in. Meanwhile, monthly deep cleaning is when you could tackle grime on floors, refresh carpets with shampoo, and ensure those air vents aren’t clogged with dust bunnies.
Focus on high-touch surfaces
Ever pushed an elevator button or opened a door and wondered how many other hands had touched that same spot? You’re not alone. Doorknobs, elevator buttons, handrails, countertops—these frequently touched surfaces are germ magnets. To keep these areas from becoming breeding grounds for illness, make regular disinfection a priority.
The key is to use disinfectants approved by the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) and follow the manufacturer’s instructions to a tee when giving these surfaces a good wipe-down! By incorporating this practice into your cleaning routine, you’re actively reducing the spread of germs and creating a healthier environment for everyone. (1)
Invest in proper cleaning equipment
Just like any skilled professional, you need the right tools to get the job done effectively. When it comes to high-traffic commercial areas, there are a few cleaning must-haves:
Vacuum cleaners with HEPA filters
These superheroes of the cleaning world go beyond just sucking up surface dirt. HEPA filters trap dust, allergens, and other microscopic nasties, ensuring a cleaner and healthier environment, especially for those with allergies.
Microfiber cloths and mops
Ditch the traditional cotton cloths! Microfiber traps and removes bacteria and debris from hard surfaces far more effectively, leaving you with clean floors and counters.
Automatic cleaning systems
For large spaces with expansive floors, consider investing in automatic cleaning systems like floor scrubbers or steam cleaners. These time-saving wonders can streamline your cleaning process, freeing up your team for other tasks.
Add entryway mats
Dirt and debris tracked into your building can wreak havoc on your floors and increase cleaning costs. But there’s a simple solution: strategically placed entryway mats.
These mats act as the first line of defence, trapping dirt and debris from shoes before they enter your space. This translates to cleaner floors, reduced maintenance costs, and a more polished first impression for visitors. Remember, prevention is key! But don’t forget to regularly clean or replace these mats—a dirty doormat defeats the whole purpose.
Provide ample waste bins
You’ve been in this situation—searching high and low for a bin to dispose of that crumpled receipt. The solution? Ample and accessible garbage receptacles! Placing them strategically throughout high-traffic areas encourages proper waste disposal and keeps your space looking neat and tidy. Think convenience—the easier it is to find a bin, the less likely people are to litter.
Aside from convenience, adding as many bins as you can helps you contribute to the country’s rubbish problem. In fact, according to a non-government organisation, there are 190,000 tonnes of litter collected in the streets alone. Add the rubbish accumulated in commercial areas, and this number will surely skyrocket. Hence, waste bins would be helpful for everyone, not just your space. (2)
Encourage good hygiene
Handwashing is a simple yet powerful tool in the fight against germs, and the New Zealand government has been very ‘hands-on’ with implementing proper hand hygiene. In fact, upon the surfacing of the Hand Hygiene New Zealand (HHNZ) programme in 2012, hand hygiene compliance grew from 62.1% to 86.7%. Your organisation could follow suit with this initiative. (3)
But let’s face it, sometimes soap and water aren’t readily available. That’s where hand sanitiser comes in! By placing hand sanitiser dispensers in high-traffic areas, you’re empowering employees and customers to practice good hand hygiene, further reducing the spread of germs and promoting a healthier environment for everyone.
Consider professional help
Running a business can be all-consuming, especially when you factor in keeping up with cleaning duties. For one, high foot traffic and limited resources can make maintaining a clean environment a constant struggle.
This is where a professional cleaning service comes in.
By outsourcing cleaning tasks, you can:
- Free Up Valuable Time: Focus on core business activities while professionals handle the cleaning.
- Boost Employee Productivity: A clean and organised work environment fosters a more productive and positive atmosphere.
- Enhance Customer Perception: Make a lasting impression on visitors with a clean office or building.
- Maintain a Healthy Workplace: Regular professional cleaning reduces the risk of germs and allergens, promoting a healthier work environment for employees.
Don’t let cleaning become a burden; reclaim your time and prioritise core business activities. Consider partnering with a professional cleaning service today!
Final thoughts
Maintaining a clean and healthy high-traffic commercial space is an ongoing effort, but with a well-defined plan, tools, and collaborative effort, it’s achievable. By following the tips explained above, you can create a welcoming and healthy environment that makes a positive impression on everyone who walks through your doors.
Don’t hesitate to reach out to professionals, too. At Professional Property & Cleaning Services (PPCS), we understand the challenges businesses with high foot traffic face. We offer professional cleaning services designed to take the pressure off. Our team of experts has the knowledge, experience, and the right tools to ensure your business space remains spotless and professional.
References
- ‘Cleaning Products (Subsidiary Hazard) Group Standard 2020’, Source: https://www.epa.govt.nz/assets/RecordsAPI/Cleaning-Products-Subsidiary-Hazard-Group-Standard-2020-HSR002530.pdf
- ‘Clean, green NZ? Litterbugs and loads of rubbish tarnish image’, Source: https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/clean-green-nz-litterbugs-and-loads-of-rubbish-tarnish-image/IMDYIREALHYRGY67QIVEH7ZFMU/#:~:text=190%2C000%20tonnes%20of%20litter%20was%20collected
- ‘Hand Hygiene New Zealand celebrates 10 years’, Source: https://www.hqsc.govt.nz/news/hand-hygiene-new-zealand-celebrates-10-years/#:~:text=hand%20hygiene%20compliance%20has%20increased%20from%2062.1%20percent%20to%2086.7%20percent
