Efficiency is something that every business values. After all, greater efficiency equals greater productivity. If your commercial cleaning service provider is not efficient, they could be costing you more money than you thought. So, how can you tell if your commercial cleaning company is efficient? Here are a few tips:
Proper Equipment
Proper equipment is essential to efficient cleaning. Well-maintained equipment designed for the task at hand helps ensure that the job gets done quickly and correctly. Poorly maintained or outdated equipment is not only less capable of doing the job but is potentially less energy-efficient and this directly impacts your bottom-line.
You should take the time to ask your commercial cleaning service about their cleaning equipment. Is it energy efficient, well-maintained, and are the staff trained in its proper operation?
Proper Cleaning Solutions
Using the appropriate cleaning solutions for various surfaces in your facility ensures proper cleaning and standardizing the chemicals used by the cleaning staff makes them more efficient. Standardizing the range of cleaning products allows your cleaning service to achieve savings through simplified training, elimination of waste, and a reduction in administrative costs. Commercial cleaning companies that realize these savings often pass those savings on to their clients.
Recognizable Processes And Procedures
If when observing the cleaning crews at work you see that they all perform their tasks with very similar patterns, you can chalk that up to efficiency. For instance, they always dust and clean higher surfaces first and work their way down, they change chemicals and/or cloths when moving on to different surface types. These are recognizable procedures and processes and indicate that the staff is well-trained and that the training is uniform. Companies that practice uniform training and enforce policies and procedures are creating more efficient employees.
Managerial Oversight
While rigorous training and enforceable policies and procedures go a long way toward building reliable staff, nothing ensures compliance as well as supervision. Does your commercial cleaning company assign crew leaders? Is there a go-to person that you can reach out to should you have questions or concerns? Does company management visit your facility to ensure satisfaction with the services provided?
Commercial cleaning companies that provide some type of oversight tend to have more efficient staff, greater policy compliance, and more uniform performance.
As a business owner, you have plenty to worry about and your parking lot is probably not the first thing that comes to mind. After all, it’s just a parking lot. Right?
Wrong.
You need to start viewing your parking lot as an asset just like your office, retail space, or other commercial building. Like these assets, your parking needs to be well-maintained and cared for. Here are five good reasons to keep your commercial parking lot clean:
First Impressions Matter
Your parking lot is likely the first thing prospective customers see when they visit your business. A clean, well-maintained lot is much more inviting than a lot riddled with potholes, oil stains, and debris. Show your customers that you care about their experience with your business by making a good first impression with a clean parking area.
It Shows You Care About The Neighborhood That You Serve
How you view your maintain your property reflects your feelings about the area in which you do business. You do not want a neighboring business to pile trash in the back, or create a hazardous or unpleasant environment. Show respect for your neighbors and the neighborhood you serve by maintaining a clean and presentable outdoor space.
It Keeps The Pests Away
A parking lot full of trash and debris can become a feeding ground for rodents and other animals. Rats, raccoons, and other unwanted animals that frequent your parking lot will eventually start frequenting your place of business. The last thing that any business wants is a rat or rodent infestation and once your business becomes infested, it can be very difficult to eradicate them.
It Extends The Life Of Your Parking Lot
Like any other asset your business owns, it pays to take care of your parking lot. Regular cleaning and maintenance of your parking area can extend the life of the asphalt by reducing wear, preventing standing water, and discouraging vandalism. The buildup of dirt, grime, oils, and chemicals can seriously impact your lot’s longevity, encouraging erosion, cracks, and potholes. In the long run, maintaining your parking lot is a great deal cheaper than replacing it.
It Reduces Liability
Debris in your parking lot can be an invitation to a lawsuit. Large debris can damage vehicles and tires and may represent a tripping hazard. Oil stains, chemical spills, and standing water are accidents waiting to happen and as the lot owner, you could be held liable. Very few things can destroy a successful business like a successful lawsuit. Keep your parking lot clean and keep the ambulance chasers at bay.
It is a brand new year and the perfect time to consider hiring a commercial cleaning service. While this seems like a pretty straightforward task, there are certain steps you should take to ensure you get the most bang for your buck. After all, your organization is unique and has specific commercial cleaning needs.
Not All Commercial Cleaning Services Are Created Equal
Commercial cleaning companies come in all shapes and sizes and not every commercial cleaning company is suited for every business. It is important that you as a business owner ask the right questions of prospective cleaning companies to ensure you find a good fit. Here are seven key questions to ask all cleaning companies that you are considering for hire.
What Cleaning Services Do They Offer?
Let’s face it if the company you are considering does not provide all of the services that you require, they are not a good fit. For instance, if your business requires parking lot sweeping services or warehouse cleaning services, you may find that many commercial cleaning services fall short in these areas.
Likewise, it is important to consider other essential cleaning services like floor care, window cleaning, and restroom cleaning. These are the areas that your customers will see and you want to make a positive impression.
How Much Do They Charge For Their Services?
As a business owner, you are always mindful of your bottom line. Because of this, the cost of commercial cleaning services is an important consideration. While we tend to gravitate toward the lowest-cost option, it is important to remember that value is not necessarily synonymous with cheap.
A professional cleaning service will want to visit your facility to provide a realistic estimate. This is a good time to point out any special needs or areas that require more attention. Onsite evaluations are valuable because they allow you to better understand what factors are being considered when preparing your estimate.
If you are working with a tight budget, the onsite evaluation can be a great time to seek advice with regard to which services are most important and which can be easily managed in-house.
Do They Offer Flexible Scheduling?
This is a very important consideration. For many businesses, commercial cleaning must be done outside of normal business hours. If this is the case for your business you need to ensure that the provider you are considering can meet your scheduling needs.
In conjunction with the scheduling options, it is important to know what type of security protocols the company employs, whether or not they have effective employee screening practices, and whether there we be management staff accompanying the off-hours cleaning crews.
Is The Company Bonded And Insured?
The answer to this question is a potential game-changer. If the commercial cleaning service you are considering is not bonded and insured, you should thank them for their time and send them on their way. You do not want to be responsible for damages or injury that occurs due to a contract employee’s negligence.
This is very important, so do not be afraid to ask for verification of insurance policies before signing on the dotted line. Any reputable company will be very well insured and will be proud to show you their coverage details.
Does The Company Have Their Own Equipment?
A professional commercial cleaning company should have modern, well-maintained equipment to meet all of your facility’s cleaning needs. Even if your facility requires unusual or unique cleaning services, your commercial cleaning provider should have the equipment and supplies required to get the job done.
If your building or facility has large areas of hard flooring, it is important that you ensure that prospective providers have high-quality equipment and the experience to properly care for your flooring. The last thing that you want is to see your cleaning crew dragging in rented stripping, waxing, or polishing machines.
What About Quality Control?
Do not be afraid to ask about quality control policies and practices when interviewing commercial cleaning service providers. Well-managed commercial cleaning companies understand the importance of regular training, procedural cleaning practices, and effective quality control measures.
Ask about procedures for training staff, evaluating performance, onsite inspection, and managerial oversight. You want to ensure that your facility is cleaned thoroughly every time and you want a cleaning company that strives for the same.
What Do Their Other Clients Say?
One of the best ways to vet prospective providers is to ask for references. If they are a regional provider it is quite possible that they service other businesses in your area. This makes it easy for you to reach out to existing customers to get reviews and insights as to how well the cleaning company performs.
While this step can be time-consuming, it is a great way to evaluate a commercial cleaner’s quality of work and determine if they work well with the companies they serve.
In Conclusion
When hiring a commercial cleaning service for your building, office, or facility it is important that you make an informed decision. Take the time to ask questions, verify documents, and reach out to current and past clients. Place more importance on quality and value rather than price and convenience. You want to build a solid, longstanding working relationship that will undoubtedly save you money in the long run.
The terms ‘cleaning’, ‘sanitizing’, and ‘disinfecting’ are often used interchangeably, but the reality is that all of these terms are distinct, and knowing the difference is imperative for maintaining a healthy workplace environment. So, what exactly do these words mean?
Cleaning
Cleaning removes allergens and microorganisms from the environment. When a surface is clean, soap or detergent has been used to remove dirt, germs, and impurities. Surface cleaning helps reduce the number of germs that can lead to infection, however, it does not necessarily kill any germs. In general, it is safe to clean surfaces where the risk of spreading pathogens from the surface is low.
Disinfecting
Disinfecting a surface means that chemicals are being used to kill germs. This does not necessarily mean that dirt, germs, and impurities are being removed from the surface, but by killing the germs, the risk of spreading infection is lowered.
For a disinfectant to kill germs, its labeled dwell time should always be allowed. A dwell time, or contact time, is the amount of time the manufacturer has determined, through laboratory testing, that the disinfectant should remain wet on a surface. If proper dwell times are not followed, germs and pathogens may survive the application.
Making sure the disinfectant stays wet is crucial. There is an array of factors that play into how long the disinfectant will stay wet including the application method and composition of ingredients in the disinfectant. The type of surface, humidity, air flow, and temperature are all factors that can affect the amount of time it takes the disinfectant to dry on a surface.
Sanitizing
Sanitary surfaces can be created either by removing germs (cleaning) or killing germs (disinfecting). There are a few different methods used to achieve a sanitary surface: heat, radiation, and chemicals.
To sanitize through use of heat, steam, hot water, or hot air can be used at the appropriate temperature for the recommended amount of time.
Chemicals that are effective sanitizers at the proper concentration include chlorine, iodine, and quaternary ammonium. Just as the proper dwell time must be followed for a disinfectant to be effective, a chemical sanitizer must also be allowed to sit for its recommended dwell time.
Other factors that influence the efficacy of a sanitizing chemical include temperature and concentration. Most chemical sanitizers should be kept between 55 degrees F and 120 degrees F. If the concentration of the sanitizing agent is too low, the microorganisms may survive the application. If the concentration is too high, the chemical could be toxic.
In Summary
Being able to understand the differences between these key phrases can help you determine the level of cleanliness necessary for a particular surface. In general, it is safe to clean surfaces where the risk of spreading pathogens from the surface is low. A disinfectant should be used on surfaces where there is a greater likelihood of pathogen transfer such as gym mats. Sanitation is commonly used on food contact surfaces as part of the food code.
Need help with cleaning, disinfecting, and sanitizing your workplace? Complete Care can help.
Let’s face it when it comes to retail sales the holidays represent one of your busiest times of the year. Increased foot traffic in and around your store presents opportunities to gain new customers, and the cleanliness of your retail space is of paramount importance. Research has shown that cleanliness and presentation in a retail environment has a direct influence on a shopper’s decision to make a purchase. A clean retail space is more inviting and encourages shoppers to stay longer. (more…)
When you’re responsible for managing a property, whether it’s a residential building, commercial space, or a mix of both, maintaining a clean and inviting environment is paramount. One key to achieving this goal is to hire a professional property management cleaning service. But what should you look for when evaluating such services? In this post, we’ll outline the essential criteria to consider.
1. Experience and Expertise
Experience in property management cleaning is crucial. A well-established cleaning service will have the knowledge and expertise needed to manage cleaning challenges that may arise in a property, whether it’s an apartment complex, office building, or retail space. Ask for references and check their track record.
2. Comprehensive Services
Your property’s cleaning needs may vary widely, from basic cleaning in common areas to specialized services for specific spaces. Ensure the cleaning company offers a comprehensive range of services, including:
Regular cleaning of common areas
Deep cleaning for vacant units
Specialized cleaning for fitness centers, pools, or laundry rooms
Window and carpet cleaning
Janitorial services for commercial spaces
Having a single service provider that can handle all these tasks will simplify management and potentially save you money.
3. Customizable Cleaning Plans
Every property is unique, and your cleaning needs may differ from one season to another. The ability to customize cleaning plans according to your specific requirements is a significant advantage. The cleaning service should work closely with you to create a cleaning schedule that aligns with the property’s needs and your budget.
4. Quality Assurance
To ensure consistent and high-quality service, look for a company that has a system in place for quality assurance. This can include regular inspections, follow-up on client feedback, and a commitment to making necessary improvements. Quality assurance ensures that you receive the level of service you expect.
5. Green Cleaning Options
With an increasing emphasis on sustainability and environmental responsibility, many property owners prefer green or eco-friendly cleaning services. These services use environmentally safe products and practices, which not only benefit the environment but can also contribute to a healthier living or working environment for your tenants.
6. Flexibility and Availability
Cleaning needs can arise at any time, especially in the case of an emergency. Choose a cleaning service with flexibility in scheduling and availability. If a tenant moves out suddenly, you want to be able to rely on your cleaning service to quickly prepare the space for the next tenant.
7. Licensing and Insurance
Ensuring that the cleaning service is licensed and insured is essential. It protects you and your property from potential liability and confirms that the company meets the necessary legal requirements. In addition, verify the insurance coverage and licensing status before finalizing any agreement.
8. Competitive Pricing
Of course, pricing is a crucial factor in your decision. You want to ensure you’re getting a fair deal for the quality and scope of services provided. Moreover, get quotes from multiple property management cleaning services and compare what each offers for the price.
9. Reputation and References
Don’t underestimate the value of reputation and references. Ask the cleaning service for references from other property managers they’ve worked with. You can also look for online reviews and ratings. A reputable company with a solid track record is more likely to provide the service you need.
10. Clear Communication
Lastly, effective communication is essential for a successful partnership with a cleaning service. The company should be responsive to your inquiries, provide clear and transparent contracts, and have a reliable point of contact for any concerns or issues.
In Conclusion
Choosing the right property management cleaning service requires careful consideration of the above factors. It’s an investment that not only maintains the cleanliness and appeal of your property but also contributes to tenant satisfaction and overall property value. Make a well-informed decision to ensure the success of your property management efforts.
Maintaining a clean and hygienic environment in a medical office is of utmost importance. In New Jersey healthcare facilities are held to high standards. Ensuring proper cleaning is vital to patient safety, staff well-being, and regulatory compliance. Medical office cleaning in NJ comes with its unique challenges, and following best practices is crucial for safe and thorough cleaning.
Thorough disinfection is the cornerstone of medical office cleaning. High-touch surfaces, such as doorknobs, countertops, and examination tables, must be disinfected frequently. Use EPA-approved disinfectants, and ensure they are applied correctly, allowing sufficient contact time to kill germs.
Color-Coding for Equipment:
To prevent cross-contamination, adopt color-coded cleaning equipment, such as microfiber cloths and mop heads. Assign specific colors to different areas to maintain a clear separation between cleaning tools.
Regular Training and Certification:
Ensure that your cleaning staff undergo regular training and certification in infection control and proper cleaning procedures. Certifications from respected organizations, like the Association for the Healthcare Environment (AHE), are highly valuable.
Use of HEPA Filters:
High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters should be used in vacuum cleaners and air purifiers. These filters can trap tiny particles, including airborne pathogens, ensuring a cleaner and healthier indoor environment.
Proper Waste Disposal:
Medical offices generate biohazardous waste, including sharps and contaminated materials. It’s essential to have a well-defined waste disposal system in place, following strict regulations. Partner with licensed medical waste disposal companies to handle these materials safely.
Dedicated Laundry Facilities:
Many medical offices, especially in NJ, have on-site laundry facilities for linens, gowns, and other textiles. Ensure these facilities meet all hygiene and sanitation standards to prevent the spread of infections through contaminated linens.
Scheduled Deep Cleaning:
In addition to regular cleaning, schedule deep cleaning sessions for hard-to-reach areas, like ventilation systems, blinds, and upholstery. Moreover, deep cleaning helps maintain indoor air quality and prevents hidden pathogens from spreading.
Patient Waiting Areas:
Waiting rooms are often the first point of contact for patients. Clean and disinfect these areas regularly. Use comfortable, cleanable furniture, and encourage social distancing measures.
Emergency Cleaning Protocols:
Develop clear emergency cleaning protocols to address situations like spills of bodily fluids or other hazardous materials. Immediate and thorough response is crucial.
Professional Services:
Consider hiring professional medical office cleaning services in NJ. Experienced companies have the expertise, equipment, and knowledge of local regulations to ensure the highest standards of cleanliness.
Feedback Mechanism:
Establish a feedback mechanism to allow staff and patients to report any cleanliness or sanitation concerns. Also, promptly address these concerns to maintain a high level of confidence in your facility.
In New Jersey, where healthcare regulations are stringent and patient expectations are high, medical office cleaning should be a top priority. Adhering to guidelines, proper training, and using the right equipment is crucial to maintaining a safe and healthy environment for both patients and staff. Whether handled in-house or outsourced, medical office cleaning is an investment in patient well-being and the reputation of your practice.
Corporate Office Cleaning Services in NJ: A Cost-Saving Strategy for Your Business
As a business owner or manager, you’re no stranger to the daily challenges of maintaining a clean and organized office space. The cleanliness of your workplace not only impacts the health and well-being of your employees but also leaves a lasting impression on clients and visitors. In a bustling state like New Jersey, where businesses thrive, it’s essential to find effective ways to keep your office space in top shape. This is where professional corporate office cleaning services in NJ can be a game-changer.
In this blog post, we’ll delve into the reasons why hiring corporate office cleaning services in NJ can actually be a cost-saving strategy for your business. From improved productivity to long-term cost benefits, you’ll discover the value of investing in a clean and pristine workspace.
1. Boosted Employee Productivity
A clean and clutter-free workspace isn’t just visually appealing; it can significantly impact employee productivity. A well-maintained office provides a conducive environment for your team to focus on their tasks. With fewer distractions, employees can work more efficiently, ultimately increasing your business’s overall productivity. This, in turn, can lead to better results and cost savings in the long run.
2. Healthier Work Environment
Maintaining a clean office space is vital for the health and well-being of your employees. Dust, allergens, and germs can accumulate in neglected areas, leading to health issues among your staff. These health issues often result in increased sick days and decreased productivity, both of which can lead to financial losses for your business. By investing in corporate office cleaning services in NJ, you create a healthier work environment, reduce absenteeism, and save on the costs associated with sick leave and reduced work output.
3. Professional Appearance
First impressions matter. When clients, partners, or potential investors visit your office, a pristine appearance can make all the difference. A clean and organized workspace reflects professionalism and attention to detail. This can lead to stronger business relationships, increased client satisfaction, and potentially more business opportunities, ultimately contributing to your bottom line.
4. Extended Equipment Lifespan
Office equipment and furnishings are significant investments for any business. Proper cleaning and maintenance can extend the lifespan of these assets. Dust and dirt can accumulate on electronic equipment, causing malfunctions or reducing their efficiency. Over time, this may lead to costly repairs or replacements. By regularly cleaning and maintaining your office equipment, you can save money in the long term by avoiding premature replacements and repairs.
5. Customized Cleaning Solutions
Professional corporate office cleaning services in NJ offer tailored solutions that fit your specific needs and budget. You can choose from a range of services, from daily cleaning routines to periodic deep cleanings. These services are designed to keep your office space consistently clean and well-maintained, helping you avoid the expenses associated with irregular or emergency cleaning needs.
6. Compliance and Safety
Businesses in New Jersey must adhere to various health and safety regulations. Maintaining a clean and safe working environment is essential to meet these requirements. Failure to comply with regulations can result in costly fines and legal issues. By hiring professional corporate office cleaning services, you ensure that your office space adheres to all necessary safety and cleanliness standards, mitigating the risk of financial penalties.
7. Focus on Your Core Business
Finally, one of the most significant benefits of outsourcing your office cleaning is that it allows you and your employees to concentrate on your core business activities. Cleaning can be time-consuming and distracting, taking you away from strategic tasks that drive your business forward. By leaving the cleaning to professionals, you free up valuable time and resources for more revenue-generating activities.
In Conclusion
Hiring corporate office cleaning services in NJ is not just an added expense; it’s a strategic investment with tangible benefits for your business. From increased productivity to a healthier work environment, the advantages of maintaining a clean and organized office far outweigh the costs. By prioritizing cleanliness, you can enhance your business’s reputation, ensure compliance, and ultimately save money in the long run. So, if you’re looking for a cost-saving strategy that has a positive impact on your bottom line, consider enlisting professional office cleaning services in the Garden State.
