Commercial Cleaning Algebra: How Much Time is Needed per Square Foot?

Feb 16, 2024 | Commercial Cleaning Education, News

Ever wondered about the intricacies of cleaning a commercial space, particularly when determining how much time will be needed? The dimensions of a facility undoubtedly play a role, but the nuanced factors influencing the time investment for cleaning can complicate this process. Let’s engage in a discussion about how a commercial cleaning company like Tedesco determines the length of time needed for any amount of square feet in a commercial facility when assembling a commercial cleaning quote.

Surface Area and Complexity

Imagine navigating through a labyrinth of offices, hallways, and common areas. Going beyond the floorplan’s total area in square footage and considering the complexities of a commercial facility, such as number of bathrooms and number of stalls, sinks, etc. are pivotal in assessing the time required for cleaning. Some other facility considerations are:

  1. Total amount of kitchens or other heavy-utility areas that require additional time investment
  2. Surfaces made of special materials, such as granite or other natural stone, which require special cleaning & polishing chemicals
  3. Resilient flooring such as VCT
  4. Architectural detail
  5. Amount of spaces requiring specific disinfection protocols such as those in a medical or lab space

Properly quoting cleaning services involves addressing each distinct space individually, ensuring no detail is overlooked.

Types of Cleaning Required

Every commercial space has unique cleaning needs. From medical facilities with stringent hygiene standards to corporate offices focusing on a professional aesthetic, the type of cleaning required directly influences the time spent on each task. Quotes should delve into tailoring cleaning approaches to the specific needs of a facility, striking a balance between routine and deep cleaning.

Frequency of Cleaning

Cleaning companies will ask their clients the question, “How often should we clean?” It’s a fundamental question that impacts time investment. Regular cleaning schedules, whether daily, weekly, or monthly, establish a baseline of cleanliness. However, occasional deep dives may be necessary. Engaging in a conversation about finding the sweet spot between routine and deep cleaning optimizes the time spent on maintaining a spotless environment. Also, be sure to listen to your cleaning company’s recommendations about frequency of cleaning. They’re the experts, and they’ll either confirm or refute whether your desired cleaning schedule will result in meeting your cleaning goals.

Number & Skill Level of Cleaning Staff

Picture a team of cleaning professionals efficiently tackling tasks. The number and skill level of staff are pivotal in determining cleaning time. A larger, well-trained team can collaborate effectively, reducing the overall time needed. Our discussion should explore the correlation between staff dynamics and the efficiency of the cleaning process.

Use of Efficient Cleaning Equipment and Products

In the realm of cleaning, tools matter. The discussion broadens to include the use of cutting-edge equipment and environmentally friendly cleaning agents. Quality vacuums, floor scrubbers, and efficient products can streamline the process, saving time without compromising the quality of the results.

Preventive Maintenance Practices

What if we could prevent the need for extensive cleaning? Enter preventive maintenance practices. Our conversation should touch upon regular inspections and prompt issue resolution. Proactive measures contribute to a consistently clean and well-maintained environment, ultimately reducing the time needed for more extensive cleaning tasks.

Conclusion

When determining the right amount of time to clean a commercial facility, understanding the factors influencing time investment is key. By engaging in discussions about surface area, cleaning types, frequency, staff dynamics, tools, and preventive measures, businesses can unravel the complexities of maintaining a clean, inviting space. Let’s not just clean but engage in ongoing dialogues about optimizing our cleaning strategies for the benefit of the physical appearance, health, and well-being of our commercial environments.