When it comes to cleaning, one of the easiest and most common mistakes people make is not straying from their routine. Many people perform the same tasks in the same order, each time, every time. They do this because it’s easy, and they know approximately how long it will take them to get the job done.
If this describes you, stop now to think about all the places that don’t get cleaned when you use this method. The seven areas mentioned below are important to clean, but are also some of the easiest to forget. If you’re cleaning an office or workspace, keeping these places clean will help your building to look its best.
1. Doorknobs
Doorknobs and door handles are some of the most commonly touched surfaces in commercial properties. Dirty door handles can spread germs like the influenza virus, causing workplace absences and illness breakouts.
Nothing will turn customers away faster than touching a sticky door handle. To prevent the spread of illnesses in the workplace, clean doorknobs and door handles routinely, at least once weekly, if not more frequently. To clean these surfaces, spray them with antibacterial cleaner, then wipe them with a handle. You can also clean handles by wiping them with antibacterial wipes.
2. Curtain and Blinds
Dust builds up easily on blinds and curtains, marring their appearance and also creating problems for people with allergies. To help reduce the sniffling and sneezing associated with dust around the office, clean curtains, and blinds monthly. Use a vacuum cleaner attachment to clean hard-to-reach areas, or wipe away dust from blinds with a damp rag.
3. Windows and Doors
Clean glass windows and doors to give employees and customers a clear, crisp view. Windows can be spot checked for cleaning, but doors (especially those at your entrances and exits) should be cleaned daily for that perfect shine associated with an upscale office. Use commercial glass cleaner and a microfiber cloth.
4. Furniture
First impressions mean a lot to a customer, and one of those things that creates a good first impression is clean furniture in your company waiting area. Vacuum furniture regularly, including under chair cushions. Dust tables, lamps, and other surfaces as well.
5. Air Vents
Dust is easily caught in the covers on air vents, and every time your central HVAC system turns on, little dust bunnies can be seen flapping in the breeze. Use a vacuum cleaner attachment to dust air vents in your commercial building every month or two, to eliminate dust bunnies and keep your vents looking their best.
6. Keyboards and Phone Receivers
Keyboards and phone receivers are another high-touch surface in the office that often aren’t cleaned as much as they should be. Plastic keyboard covers make keyboards much easier to clean: simply remove the cover and use a sanitizing wipe to clean the surface. Sanitizing wipes also make phone receivers easy to clean as well. Do this once weekly to stop the spread of germs.
7. Printer and Copy Machine Controls
Printers and copy machines are high-touch surfaces similar to door knobs and phone receivers. Use sanitizing wipes to clean these surfaces, or spray the buttons with a disinfecting mist. Do this at least once weekly, or more often during cold and flu season.
For business owners in search of a professional janitorial service that won’t miss the easily-forgotten spots on your list, contact Blue Chip Building Maintenance, Inc. Located in the NYC Metro area, we have years of experience creating and executing customized plans to meet the cleaning needs of businesses small and large. For more information and a free estimate, please call us at 212-564-0100.