Category: Commercial Cleaning

20 Jan 2023
medical facility cleaning

WHY HIRE MEDICAL FACILITY CLEANING SPECIALISTS?

medical facility cleaning

Hiring medical facility cleaning specialists to manage the cleaning and disinfecting of your facility has many benefits. Medical facility cleaning companies understand the strict cleaning and disinfecting requirements of the medical profession. They will ensure that your facility is cleaned to the standards expected by patients, staff, and regulating agencies.

INFECTION CONTROL

One of the greatest concerns for a medical facility is the spread of germs. In fact, patients, staff, and regulating bodies like CMS and HHS have high expectations when it comes to infection control. A professional cleaning crew that specializes in medical facility cleaning understands the importance of infection control. Additionally, their cleaning and disinfecting procedures play a pivotal role.

Cleaning specialists are well-versed in infection control protocols and procedures, understand the dangers of cross-contamination, and have policies and procedures in place to mitigate the spread of germs. It follows that they know how to clean, disinfect, sanitize, and even terminally clean any space in your facility.

HAZARD AWARENESS

Medical facilities are ripe with hazards not found in most other environments. Biological waste, hazardous materials, sharps, etc. are all hazards with which specialized medical facility cleaning crews are familiar. They understand and follow the procedures and protocols prescribed for the handling of these items.

In addition to the hazards specific to the medical profession, trained medical facility cleaning crews are also taught to mitigate hazards caused by the work they do. They also follow OSHA safety guidelines, know how to handle cleaning chemicals and solutions safely, and are hyperaware of any safety hazards that their work may inadvertently cause.

PATIENT PRIVACY AND DIGNITY

The privacy and dignity of patients in your medical facility is a major concern and cleaning contractors that specialize in medical facility cleaning train their staff in this important area. They understand patient dignity and privacy concerns and are discreet, respectful, compassionate, and professional when working with patient populations.

While not medical professionals, medical facility cleaning crews should be familiar with HIPPA and FERPA regulations and how they relate to the privacy and dignity of patient populations.

INTERPERSONAL COMMUNICATIONS SKILLS

Medical facility cleaning providers must be able to work well in an environment made up of patients, visitors, and providers and must act with respect and professionalism toward all. Well-trained healthcare cleaning staff know how to do their work quickly, safely, and respectfully with minimal disruption to those around them. 

Not everyone is cut out for these types of interactions and responsible healthcare cleaning services proactively train their staff to hone excellent interpersonal communication skills. A well-trained cleaning crew will have positive impacts on patients, visitors, and staff both through their cleaning expertise and their daily interactions.

CONSISTENT AND RIGOROUS CLEANING PROTOCOLS

Qualified medical facility cleaning providers have consistent and rigorous cleaning and disinfecting protocols that are specific to medical facilities. Plus, they provide regular training and education to medical facility cleaning staff and regularly evaluate their performance.

This ensures that your facility is cleaned to the highest standards each and every time.

NEED HELP WITH YOUR MEDICAL FACILITY CLEANING?

Complete Care Maintenance has cleaning crews specifically trained to work within medical facilities. Call or contact us today to learn how we can help.

10 Jan 2023
green cleaning

HOW TRADITIONAL CLEANING PRACTICES HARM THE ENVIRONMENT

traditional cleaning and the environment

Traditional cleaning products and practices cause harm to the environment in many ways. It is one of the reasons why businesses and individuals are looking for more sustainable cleaning solutions. As a result, green cleaning solutions are growing in popularity and those who adopt green cleaning practices are reaping the benefits. If you are on the fence with regard to green cleaning, knowing how traditional cleaning solutions impact the environment may help you to make a more informed decision.

Here are just a few of the negative impacts of traditional cleaning practices:

AIR QUALITY

Many traditional cleaning products contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These compound are released into the air and can cause respiratory distress for many individuals, particularly those with an existing respiratory disease like asthma.

Even individuals without preexisting conditions may experience eye, nose, or throat irritation and in some cases VOCs can cause headaches, nausea, and dizziness.

WATER POLLUTION

Toxic chemicals contained in many traditional cleaning products eventually make their way into the bodies of water that we humans rely on. Ammonia, Ammonium compounds, Chlorine, Sodium Hydroxide, and Butoxyethanol are just a few of the toxic chemical food in common cleaning products.

Many of the chemicals found in traditional cleaning products biodegrade slowly or biodegrade into more toxic and persistent chemicals. Once they enter the fresh water system these chemicals eventually enter the food chain, impacting marine life and those that consume marine life.

SOLID WASTE

Many traditional cleaning products are made from, or contained in, non-recyclable materials that typically end up in a landfill. Many landfills are poorly managed and many solid wastes take decades to decompose. This can result in increased air pollution and water and soil contamination.

WHAT CAN YOU DO TO REDUCE THE IMPACT OF TRADITIONAL CLEANING?

As the environmental impacts of traditional cleaning solutions are better understood, many are opting for green cleaning solutions. This demand for green cleaning solutions has created an entire industry dedicated to providing more sustainable cleaning products.

There are many options now available for both individuals and organizations and for many the only thing standing in the way of more sustainable cleaning practices is making the decision to switch.

Today, most reputable commercial cleaning service providers offer green cleaning solutions and for organizations looking to reduce their environmental footprint, professional cleaning can be a very good option.

For those who choose to manage their own green cleaning program the best place to start is with the chemicals you use to clean. Simply switching to non-toxic, biodegradable cleaning products can significantly reduce your environmental impact. Just be sure that you are choosing products that are genuinely green.

CHOOSING GREEN CLEANING PRODUCTS

Despite the increased popularity of green cleaning products, they can be difficult to identify. Many cleaning product manufacturers use labels that imply environmentally conscious ingredients, but may still contain harmful chemicals. To ensure that you are buying green cleaning products you should look for the seal of approval from one of the following third-party certification authorities.

Green Seal –  Green Seal is a non-profit, green cleaning certification authority that has been around since 1989. They evaluate the entire life-cycle of cleaning products to ensure that they meet both independent and international standards.

Safer Choice – Safer Choice is the Environmental Protection Agency’s (E.P.A.) certification program for green products and is designed to help individuals and businesses find products that are safer for human health and the environment.

ECOLOGO – ECOLOGO certifications are provided by Underwriters Laboratories, a company that has been developing safety standards for more than a century. ECOLOGO certifies products, services, and packaging for reduced environmental impact.

NEED HELP WITH YOUR GREEN CLEANING INITIATIVES?

Complete Care Maintenance has years of experience developing and utilizing green cleaning programs for businesses of all shapes and sizes. Call or contact us today to learn how we can help you go green!

20 Dec 2022
cleanliness

MAKE CLEANLINESS A PRIORITY IN 2023

cleanliness

Is Cleanliness On Your List Of Priorities? 

As a business owner, you know that you need to prioritize in order to succeed. In particular, you need to prioritize your limited resources to generate maximum profits. For most businesses, money is the most limited resource and it must be spent in ways that maximize income.

Generally speaking, most companies prioritize their expenditures based on a perceived return on investment. Things like marketing, productivity enhancing tools and technology, recruitment, training, and retention of employees, and customer service initiatives are often where the bulk of the money is spent.

While these are all tried and true methods for generating business income, there is another list item that many companies overlook – and it is costing them in more ways than they realize. Interestingly, the missing item invariably contributes to the return on investment realized from nearly every other priority on the list.

What Is Missing From Your List Of Business Priorities?

In a word – cleanliness. 

Good old-fashioned cleanliness is the one item that most businesses do not place on their list of priorities and it is the one item that directly impacts nearly every other item on their list of priorities. Let’s take a look at how cleanliness impacts the other priorities on your list:

How Cleanliness Impacts Marketing

Even before the pandemic of recent years came into play, studies showed that cleanliness was an important consideration for consumers. A new awareness and higher standards of cleanliness emerged from the pandemic and businesses that failed to make cleanliness a priority began losing customers.

By making cleanliness a priority businesses can add another arrow to their marketing quiver. Smart businesses are using upgraded cleaning protocols to attract new customers and retain existing ones. Employing on-site day porters or asking employees to clean high-touch surfaces throughout the business day allows customers to see your business’s commitment to providing a clean and safe environment.

How Cleanliness Impacts Recruitment And Retention Of Staff

Like the customers that your business serves, the staff that your business employs are hyper-aware of cleanliness. They want to work in a safe and clean environment. In fact, studies show that 72% of employees are reluctant to recommend a business with poor office hygiene to job seekers and 70% of employees feel that poor office hygiene genuinely affects their overall job satisfaction. As many as 71% of employees expect their employer to provide extra cleaning to ensure hygiene.

How Cleanliness Enhances Productivity

Businesses spend a lot of money on tools and technology in an effort to enhance productivity. In general, this is money well spent as these tools and technologies often make employees more efficient. Research shows that adding cleanliness to this equation promotes even greater productivity.

In a clean and organized work environment employees are healthier, less stressed, and better able to focus on their work. According to data collected by the International Data Corporation, untidy workplaces lose an estimated $2.5 million dollars per year due to lost productivity.

It should also be noted that unclean conditions promote the spread of harmful bacteria, resulting in increased sick days for employees. One study found that employees missing work due to illness or injury cost employers $225 billion annually. 

Cleaning Is Customer Service

Believe it or not, customers equate cleanliness with your level of customer service. Providing a visibly clean and safe environment for your customers is a service that you must provide if you are serious about customer service. 99% of U.S. customers recently surveyed said they would not return to a business if it had poor hygiene and levels of cleanliness. Ninety-nine percent!

Providing a clean and safe environment with visible cleaning and sanitizing protocols shows customers that you take their heath and safety seriously. It shows that you are conscientious of your employees health and safety as well and ensures a good first impression for your business.

Make Cleaning A Priority In 2023

It is rather amazing how a simple thing like cleanliness can impact almost every aspect of your business. When you are making a list of priorities for the new year, or setting your annual budget, be sure to add cleaning and sanitation to the top of your list. Consider hiring a commercial cleaning company to take your cleaning to the next level. After all, it will impact every other line item on the list.

10 Dec 2022
end of lease cleaning

END OF COMMERCIAL LEASE CLEANING? HIRE A PRO

end of lease cleaning

Moving your business operations to a new commercial space can be both exciting and challenging. Whether you are moving to a larger space to accommodate your growing business or a smaller space to reduce overhead costs, clearing out and cleaning your current space is a top priority. Unfortunately, this aspect of your move is likely not one that you are looking forward to.

On top of all the logistics involved with packing and moving your office equipment, furniture, and files, you also need to make time for cleaning your current rental space. That is where it pays to hire a professional cleaning service.

You might feel that end-of-lease cleaning is a job that you and your staff can manage but the reality is that you are much better off hiring a qualified commercial cleaner. Here are just a few reasons why hiring professional cleaners can make your move easier and less stressful:

You’ll Get A Thorough Cleaning

While you and your staff may be able to manage the day-to-day cleaning of your commercial space, end-of-lease cleaning is a much bigger task. Once all of your company belongings are gone, there will be years of accumulated dust, dirt, and grime. If your commercial rental included furniture, appliances, and other amenities, these will require cleaning as well. When was the last time someone cleaned behind the refrigerator or copy machine?

Professional end-of-lease cleaning crews understand the importance of leaving a leased space thoroughly clean. They will bring all the necessary cleaning equipment, chemicals, and knowledge necessary to ensure that your leased space looks as good or better than the day you moved in.

It Will Save You Time

Relocating your business operations takes time, and time is money when it comes to business operations. The longer it takes you to complete your move the less downtime your business will incur. Professional cleaning crews have procedures and processes in place that make end-of-lease cleaning much more efficient, saving you time.

That is time that you can spend, moving, unpacking, and setting up your new commercial space. This allows you to get the new space up and running sooner, reducing downtime and making the entire transition smoother.

It Will Make Your Move Less Stressful

Moving is stressful. There is so much preparation involved when moving your business to a new address. Organizing, packing, inventory, address changes, updating of marketing materials, unpacking, reorganizing – the list goes on and on. Taking end-of-lease cleaning out of the equation will lighten your workload and reduce the stress placed on you and your staff.

You Are More Likely To Receive Your Full Deposit

Most, if not all landlords require tenants to pay a security deposit. In order to get that deposit back your commercial space needs to be thoroughly cleaned at the end of your lease and any damages need to be addressed. Vacuuming your office carpets will not remove coffee stains and wet mopping your hard-surface floors will not make them look new again. Professional cleaning services will address these issues with high-pressure carpet cleaning and floor polishing to ensure your commercial space looks its best.

In addition, once your space is thoroughly cleaned, it will be much easier to assess the property for any residual damage like chipped paint or torn carpets. This way you will be better prepared and able to make any necessary repairs.

It Makes You A Better Candidate For Future Leases

Nobody knows what the future holds and you never know when you might need to relocate your business again. It may seem unlikely while in the midst of your current relocation but it is always a possibility. Leaving your current leased property in pristine condition will make leasing a new property much easier down the road. Just like a good reference from a former employer makes you a better job candidate, a great reference from a former landlord makes your a better lease candidate.

The Bottom-Line

The bottom-line is that hiring professional end-of-lease cleaning services will save you time, money, and stress when the time comes to move your business operations to a new location. It will allow you to focus on all the many other things that come with relocating and be one less thing that you will need to worry about. 

30 Nov 2022
business goals

NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS TO UPGRADE YOUR WORKPLACE

business goals

If you own or manage a business you have undoubtedly seen the recent shifts in employee and consumer expectations. Consumers are much more conscious of cleanliness and sanitation protocols and employees

have become much more willing to seek greener pastures.

The ‘Great Resignation’ saw employees leaving workplaces at unprecedented rates in 2022 and employers struggling to staff their organizations. The COVID scare that began early in 2021 continues to this day and has shifted consumer expectations with regard to where and with whom they will do business.

While these economic shifts have caused some hardships for businesses and organizations, they also present opportunities. With the new year right around the corner now is the time to consider what policies and procedures you can implement to ensure success in 2023. Here are a few suggestions:

GET ORGANIZED

Take a serious look around your place of business. Is it optimizing your workflow or inhibiting your workflow? If the design of your workspace promotes chaos it is likely hurting your bottom line and aggravating your staff. 

Consider holding a staff meeting to brainstorm ideas on how to make your workplace more efficient. You may find that your employees are a great source of inspiration. They work within the environment every day and are sure to have suggestions that will make their jobs easier.

Consider all suggestions and implement new policies and procedures that help promote efficiency and reduce chaos. Your staff will appreciate the fact that you value their opinions and you will likely realize greater efficiency.

ESTABLISH AND ENFORCE CLEANING PROTOCOLS

Over the last couple of years, consumers’ expectations for cleanliness have grown exponentially. The same is true of employees. Both groups expect to see visible cleaning and sanitizing efforts as well as personal hygiene practices.

Establish a cleaning and disinfecting protocol that addresses these expectations. Whether you decide to utilize in-house staff or hire a commercial cleaning provider, establishing and enforcing cleaning protocols in the workplace is a win-win-win situation. It provides a safe place for you and your staff, is proven to increase productivity, and assures your customers that you take their health and safety seriously.

Be sure to offer and encourage the use of personal hygiene supplies such as hand sanitizers, face masks, and tissues. Also, be sure that soap dispensers, paper towels, and hand dryers are regularly stocked and operational.

GO GREEN

Implementing environmental policies in the workplace can be as easy as adding recycle bins and utilizing green cleaning products. If you have the resources you might consider reducing paper waste by bringing your entire workflow online. Either way, going green not only benefits the environment but can benefit your bottom line as well.

Environmental friendliness is something that is almost universally appreciated. Your customers will respect the fact that you are doing your part to protect the environment and your employees will take pride in doing their part.

PROMOTE YOUR NEW WORKPLACE

You should promote your cleaning and disinfecting protocols so that your customers feel safe in your establishment. Let them know with signage, flyers, and visible cleaning and disinfecting practices. Consider hiring a day porter or janitorial staff to maintain your facility during business hours.

You should also continue to promote the sharing of ideas among staff members with regard to optimizing your organization’s workflow. Consider asking employees to evaluate the changes that were made to see if they need tweaking and to ask for additional suggestions on how you can help them work smarter.

Keep your recycling bins clean and visible so that they get used and be sure to offer recycling options to your clients. Use recycled receipt paper and other green initiatives that consumers will take notice of.

IN CONCLUSION

While the business landscape has changed in recent years, there are steps that you can take to turn these changes into opportunities. Making small changes like those suggested here can help you to retain and attract staff, impress clients, and improve productivity.

If you would like to learn more about cleaning and sanitation protocols and the options that are available to you, feel free to contact Complete Care Maintenance.

20 Nov 2022
commercial cleaning

MISTAKES TO AVOID WHEN HIRING A COMMERCIAL CLEANER

commercial cleaning

As businesses and organizations around the globe realize the value of a clean and organized workplace, more and more companies are hiring commercial cleaning services to manage their cleaning needs. The costs associated with maintaining in-house cleaning staff, the growing consumer demand for visible cleaning and sanitation protocols, and the promise of higher productivity and reduced absenteeism are just three of the considerations that compel organizations to outsource their cleaning. 

For most businesses, the decision to hire a commercial cleaning company is a no-brainer. They understand that hiring a professional cleaning service will save them time and money in the long haul. Unfortunately, for many businesses hiring a commercial cleaning provider can be wrought with pitfalls and missteps.

In an effort to help you to make the right choice and get more bang for your buck, we have put together a list of some common mistakes organizations make when choosing a commercial cleaning service.

PAYING TOO MUCH

Hiring a commercial cleaning service should be a win-win proposition. You should view it as an investment and like any investment, you want to make sure you are receiving a decent return. This means that you need to hire a service that not only fits within your long-term budget but one that will provide long-term benefits for your organization.

It is important that you understand what particular services you require, how much you can afford to pay for those services, and whether or not a prospective provider can meet your cleaning and budgetary needs. Do your homework and take the time to weigh the offerings provided by several prospects.

PAYING TOO LITTLE

While you certainly do not want to overpay for commercial cleaning, a cut-rate cleaning service will likely not provide the level of service and expertise that you expect. Remember, this is an investment and you want a reasonable return on that investment. 

Commercial cleaning companies come in all shapes and sizes. Some have decades of experience while others are just starting out. Generally speaking, the longer a company has been providing the types of services you require the better they will be at providing those services. 

An experienced company will have quality assurance programs, employee retention programs, training programs, and established cleaning protocols and procedures. Not to mention, a track record in the industry.

NOT THOROUGHLY VETTING PROSPECTIVE PROVIDERS

Easily one of the most important (and time-consuming) steps involved in hiring a commercial cleaning company is vetting prospective providers. While you may have a good idea of what services you require and a solid budget, your vetting process needs to go beyond ‘can they do what I want for what I want to pay?’.

There are dozens of questions that you should be asking each prospect before making a hiring decision. Here are just a few:

  • Are they bonded and insured? 
  • What are their hiring practices?
  • How do they screen employees?
  • What is their employee retention rate? 
  • Do they utilize third-party certification programs? 
  • Do they have OSHA certification?
  • What type of training do employees receive? 
  • Is there on-site management? 
  • Are there established communications protocols?
  • Are there established safety protocols?
  • How do they handle privacy and confidentiality issues?
  • What about security protocols?
  • Do they have experience with similar facilities?
  • What quality control measures are in place?
  • Are specific individuals assigned to each facility?
  • Can you provide references?

These are just a few recommended questions but you will likely have more that are specific to your facility and requirements. For instance, you may have questions about green cleaning protocols, supply restocking, or specialized services like parking lot cleaning, window cleaning, or high-surface dusting. Be sure to ask about the particular services that you require.

CHOOSING A COMPANY WITH THE WRONG SPECIALIZATION

Cleaning procedures for an office complex are quite different than cleaning procedures for a medical facility. A company specializing in post-construction cleaning will not have the skills required for corporate janitorial services. 

It is important that the company you choose has experience in your industry. Many well-established commercial cleaning companies will specialize in a variety of industries and will have the references to prove they are capable. It is not unusual for a commercial cleaning company to train employees in particular specialties to expand their service offerings.

Be certain that the company you hire has verifiable experience in your industry by asking for references and following up on them.

NOT READING THE CONTRACT

Nobody likes to read a contract. For some, it is just a litany of legal jargon that they do not fully understand.  Regardless, it is very important that you understand what services are to be provided at what cost, what quality assurances are in place, what recourse you have should the service be less than expected, and what additional fees may be associated with the services.

Failing to read and understand your cleaning contract is a big no-no. If need be, send it to a lawyer to review. Making sure that you understand the agreement that you are entering into will make for a much smoother relationship with your cleaning services provider and help you avoid surprises later on.

10 Nov 2022
construction cleaning

CHOOSING THE RIGHT POST-CONSTRUCTION CLEANING COMPANY

construction cleaning

Managing large construction projects is not an easy task. Depending on the size of the project it can take months or even years complete. And the reality is that even when the construction work is complete, the project is still not over. Months or years of dust and debris, loose screws and nails, scrap wood and drywall, and a whole array of leftovers are left cluttering up your latest creation.

That is where post-construction cleaning comes into play. Before any newly constructed building is usable it will require a thorough cleaning. Dust and debris will need to be removed, windows and floors will need to be cleaned, and outside areas will need to be power-washed.

Smart contractors typically outsource post-construction cleaning to a reputable cleaning services provider. These companies specialize in post-construction cleaning and know how to make your recently completed project presentable and ready for occupants.

Hiring the right post-construction cleaning company will help ensure that the job is done right and that it is completed within the allocated time frame. Here are a few tips to ensure that the post-construction cleaning provider that you hire meets your expectations:

LOCATION

Begin your search by looking only for companies that operate within the same area where your project is being built. A nearby company can complete the work more quickly and will not charge you for travel time to and from the site. It also means that any issues that arise can be handled more quickly.

PROJECT SCOPE

Consider the size of your project and any special services that you require when vetting prospective cleaning services. Larger projects will require the services of a larger cleaning services provider that will have the requisite staff and equipment to handle the job. Hiring an understaffed or under-equipped company may result in delays or additional fees.

A professional post-construction cleaning service will be more than happy to visit your site to evaluate the project and provide an accurate estimate. These companies have the knowledge and experience to estimate the man-hours and equipment requirements for projects of all shapes and sizes.

KNOW YOUR BUDGET BUT BE FLEXIBLE

Take the time to compare quotes from several qualified providers. Bearing in mind that whomever you select will need to meet project deadlines while staying within budget. You will find that companies with the necessary resources will likely cost more than a smaller provider but they are far more likely to complete the project within the allocated time frame. Be flexible with your budget to ensure you hire someone who can meet your deadlines.

READ COMPANY REVIEWS AND ASK FOR REFERENCES

Do your research on prospective providers. Read online reviews on social media and review websites to gauge whether their customers are satisfied with the services they received. Err on the side of caution when considering a poorly reviewed company. 

In addition to online research, actual references are a great way to get a more accurate evaluation of a company’s performance. Ask prospective providers for references and take the time to speak with them directly. People who have actually worked with the cleaning service will be able to provide insights that you may not glean from an online review.

ASK ABOUT THEIR SAFETY PROTOCOLS AND INSURANCE COVERAGE

Construction sites can be dangerous. Ask all prospective providers about their safety protocols and training. Are they OSHA-certified? What is their safety record? Have they had any onsite injuries or accidents in the last year? You do not want an unsafe or inexperienced crew working on your construction site.

Any reputable provider will be bonded and insured. Make sure the company that you select can provide documentation to verify their coverage.

TAKE THE TIME TO MAKE AN INFORMED DECISION

Don’t wait until the last minute to start vetting potential contractors. Making an informed decision will take time and effort so be prepared to start early. Typically when your project is in its final stages is a good time to begin researching post-construction cleaning services. This will give you time to make an informed decision and help avoid any delays in completing the project.

NEED HELP CHOOSING A POST-CONSTRUCTION CLEANING SERVICE?

Complete Care Maintenance can help with free onsite consultations and project estimates. We have decades of experience with post-construction cleaning and will be happy to help you with your next project.

30 Oct 2022
holiday shopping

HOLIDAY CLEANING TIPS FOR RETAILERS

holiday shopping

 

A BUSY AND CHALLENGING HOLIDAY SEASON

The holiday season is fast approaching and retailers are gearing up for the inevitable rush of consumers. It is estimated that U.S. consumers will spend nearly 1.5 trillion dollars this holiday season. That accounts for 20% of total annual retail spending. It is no wonder that retailers are making every effort to claim a slice of the pie.

With more and more customers choosing to spend their dollars online, twenty-first-century brick-and-mortar retailers will need to plan ahead to take advantage of any and all in-store foot traffic. In order to make your retail operation stand out you will need to meet the needs and expectations of the ever-fickle U.S. consumer.

Providing exceptional customer service and offering holiday promotions are tried and true approaches to increased holiday sales. But in a post-pandemic world, cleanliness is still high on the list of consumer expectations. In fact, a whopping 93% of U.S. consumers state that they would not return to a dirty store.

So, how can you meet consumer expectations for store cleanliness? We are glad you asked! Here are a few tips for maintaining a clean and sanitary retail environment for your staff and customers this holiday season:

MIND YOUR ENTRYWAY

Ensuring that the entryway to your retail store is clean and inviting is the best way to draw consumers into your establishment. Make sure that sidewalks and parking lots are cleared of snow and debris and consider pressure washing your storefront prior to the holidays.

Display windows are often the consumer’s first impression of your storefront. They are a tried and true method of highlighting your wares and can often make a passerby a customer. Windows and doors on your storefront should be cleaned thoroughly every day and spot-cleaned regularly during business hours. Be sure that displays featured at the storefront are always stocked and clean.

ROLL OUT THE WELCOME MAT

If you operate in a northern or mountain state the holiday season is sure to bring rain, leaves, snow, and slush. These elements – along with deicing agents and salt – can wreak havoc on your floors and create potential hazards for your staff and customers.

Utilizing high-quality entry mats reduces the potential for slip-and-fall accidents and protects your floors from the dirt, grime, and salt being tracked in from the outdoors. According to the International Sanitary Supply Association (ISSA) six feet of matting at a facility’s entrance will remove 40% of tracked-in soil, 12 feet of matting will remove 80% of tracked-in soil, and 36 feet of matting will remove almost all of it.

KEEP FLOOR CLEANING EQUIPMENT HANDY

It is important to ensure that entry mats are vacuumed at least once per day and that they are professionally cleaned on a regular basis. Likewise, carpets and hard-surface floors should be regularly vacuumed throughout the day. 

Keep additional floor cleaning equipment like mops, dust brooms, and wet floor signage at the ready to address wet floors, spills, and any tracked-in debris. Also, consider keeping a commercial cleaning company on retainer to regularly buff your hard-surface flooring and deep clean your carpets to help minimize damage from tracked-in soils. 

MAKE CLEANING AND SANITIZING PART OF YOUR DAILY ROUTINE

In a post-pandemic world, after-hours cleaning is no longer enough. Customers want to see that you are committed to their health and safety. This means regular cleaning of high-touch surfaces, restrooms, and flooring. Consider hiring a day porter or matron service to manage these tasks for you or add additional staff.

Keep in mind that display fixtures and the items that they hold are being touched throughout the day. Be sure to include these in your high-touch cleaning and disinfecting protocol.

Even though most restrictions have been lifted with regard to public gatherings, people still expect to have access to hand sanitizer and face masks. Make certain that you are making these items readily available to your staff and customers.