Hiring a Commercial Cleaning Team: What Businesses Need to Know

Jul 24

A clean workplace isn’t just about looking good, it can actually help your business run better. Studies show that poor indoor air quality and cluttered workspaces reduce employee productivity by up to 9%, while properly maintained buildings can improve customer satisfaction and staff morale.

If you're thinking about hiring a commercial cleaning team, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from choosing the right cleaning service provider to setting up service agreements and making sure your workspace gets the attention it deserves.

Why Businesses Choose to Outsource Cleaning

Outsourcing cleaning is more than just a convenience, it’s a smart business move. Here’s why:

Cost-Effective: Hiring office cleaning staff in-house means managing payroll, training, and supervision. Outsourcing shifts all that to a professional commercial cleaning company, saving you time and money.
Consistency: Professional teams work from a schedule and follow specific checklists.
Expertise: Trained cleaners use the right tools, products, and processes to get the job done efficiently and safely.

The Real Value of Professional Janitorial Services

Hiring professional janitorial services means more than just emptying trash and vacuuming floors. Here’s what you can expect:

Scheduled Deep Cleaning for high-touch areas
Sanitization using EPA-approved disinfectants
Flexible cleaning team scheduling (after-hours, weekends, daily, weekly)
Specialized services like floor polishing, carpet extraction, and window washing

👉 Companies that outsource janitorial services report a 12% decrease in maintenance-related complaints over a 6-month period.

Key Traits to Look For in a Commercial Cleaning Company

When evaluating a potential commercial cleaning company, consider these features:

Bonded and Insured Cleaners: Always confirm liability coverage and worker’s compensation insurance.
Background-Checked Cleaners: Trust is key, ensure the team entering your facility has passed criminal and employment checks.
Customizable Service Level Agreement (SLA): A well-drafted SLA outlines the scope of services, response times, quality expectations, and pricing terms.

📌 Tip: Always ask if their team has been trained in OSHA standards, especially if your facility has compliance requirements.

How to Create an Effective Cleaning Plan

Your cleaning needs may differ depending on your space, hours of operation, and staff size. Here’s how to set up a plan:

1. Assess the Property

Walk through the entire building and identify:

High-traffic zones (e.g., lobbies, restrooms)
Sensitive areas (e.g., break rooms, conference spaces)
Storage zones (often overlooked but essential)

2. Set Priorities

Some areas may need daily attention (restrooms, kitchens), while others like windows or HVAC vents can be cleaned monthly.

3. Choose a Cleaning Frequency

Ask your provider for flexible plans:

Daily janitorial
Weekly deep cleaning
Seasonal disinfecting

How to Evaluate and Compare Cleaning Vendors

Vendor selection isn’t just about price. Here’s how to conduct a cleaning vendor evaluation:

Criteria	What to Look For
Industry Experience	Years in business and types of buildings serviced
Certifications	ISSA, GBAC, LEED, or Green Seal standards
Customer Reviews	Google and Yelp reviews, BBB accreditation
Tools and Technology	Use of HEPA vacuums, color-coded systems, etc.
Communication Process	24/7 contact availability, on-site supervisors
SLA Flexibility	Can the scope be adjusted as needs change?

Why Service Level Agreements (SLAs) Matter

An SLA keeps both parties on the same page. It defines:

Scope of services (daily cleaning, carpet care, windows, etc.)
Timelines and response standards
Penalties for non-performance
Emergency protocols (e.g., spill response, after-hours access)

📌 Pro Tip: SLAs can include metrics like dust level tests, bacteria count reductions, or even staff satisfaction ratings.

Common Commercial Cleaning Services Offered

Depending on the provider and your building’s needs, these services are typically included or available:

General janitorial services
Floor stripping and waxing
Carpet shampooing
Window washing
Restroom sanitization
Supply restocking (toilet paper, soap, hand sanitizer)
Post-construction cleanup

Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Options

Today’s best cleaning service providers offer green options:

Use of non-toxic, biodegradable cleaners
HEPA filtration vacuums to reduce airborne allergens
Microfiber cloth systems that trap dirt better than traditional rags
Waste-reducing strategies like refillable chemical stations

Businesses that use environmentally friendly commercial cleaning services often see:

Better indoor air quality
Fewer sick days among employees
Stronger brand reputation

Scheduling and Communication with Your Cleaning Team

Setting up the right cleaning team scheduling ensures minimal disruption and maximum coverage.

After-Hours Cleaning: Ideal for busy offices and retail spaces
Day Porters: On-site staff for high-traffic buildings
Weekend Schedules: Useful for venues and event spaces

You should have a dedicated point of contact and a digital logbook or app for real-time updates, quality checks, and issue resolution.

Cost Considerations and Budget Planning

Cleaning costs can vary based on square footage, service frequency, and complexity.

Typical Pricing Models:

Per square foot: Common for large office buildings
Flat rate: For small offices with consistent needs
Hourly rate: For unpredictable or custom work

Average monthly cleaning costs for a 5,000 sq. ft. office range between $600 to $1,200, depending on your region and service level.

Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring a Cleaning Company

Before you sign any contract, watch out for these red flags:

No proof of insurance or bonding
No references or client testimonials
Vague contract terms or no SLA
No walkthrough offered before quoting
Lack of flexible scheduling options

A reliable partner in commercial facility maintenance will be transparent, responsive, and flexible.

Final Thoughts

Hiring a commercial cleaning team is about more than mops and vacuums. It’s about protecting your employees, making a good impression, and keeping your business running smoothly. When done right, this partnership saves you time, boosts your image, and creates a healthier space for everyone.

Before choosing a provider, make sure they offer:

Bonded and insured cleaners
Custom service level agreements (SLA)
Verified background-checked cleaners
Clear cleaning vendor evaluation process

Choose wisely, and your workspace will not just look better, it’ll feel better too.