6 Tips for More Efficient Industrial and Warehouse Cleaning

Keeping your business clean can be a challenge in the fast-paced environment of manufacturing and logistics.

At Prestige Janitorial Services, we’ve solved this problem!

Our specialists put together the following 6 tips on how to get the most out of your industrial and warehouse cleaning responsibilities:

1. Know the Difference Between Clean, Sanitization, and Disinfection

Why is it critical to know the difference between cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting? It’s important because these three methods produce the best results when used correctly together, and it goes without saying that a well-cleaned facility is a more productive one.

So, what’s the catch?

The problem is that many people don’t realize there are major differences between the three and that what looks clean to the eye may be harboring pathogens that could seriously harm production.

What Is Cleaning?

Cleaning is designed to remove visible dust, dirt, and grime from surfaces through the acts of scrubbing, washing, and rinsing.

A good example of cleaning is wiping down counter surfaces with a cloth and soapy water.

This removes large particles of dirt and buildup but doesn’t have the power to kill bacteria, viruses, and spores.

Cleaning is typically the first step of the process but must be followed by further janitorial measures to keep you in compliance with industry regulations.

What Is Sanitization?

Sanitization addresses bacteria only.

It works to reduce populations of germs, though it is only effective against bacteria listed on the cleaning solutions product label.

Sanitizers must also be applied then allowed to sit for specific lengths of time to be effective. These instructions can all be found on the products label.

What Is Disinfection?

Disinfection destroys both viruses and germs but is limited to removing only the pathogens identified on the cleaning products label and can be used on hard surfaces only.

Disinfection is the best tool to prevent pathogens from spreading through frequent touching of hard surface areas.

Be sure to refer to the cleaning products label so you know exactly how long each type of cleaning solution should rest on a surface before being removed.

2. Define Your Cleaning Goals

Everyone knows that a clean businesses environment is a better option than a grimy one, but sometimes it’s easier said than done in a warehouse setting. With so much movement, the aisles, docks areas, and floors take a real pounding, and dust seems to accumulate faster than it can be removed!

What do you do in this situation?

Defining your cleaning goals will help you set a clear path forward. Here are some questions you can ask yourself that can help start this process:

  • Do you require employees to participate in the maintenance and upkeep of your warehouse, or do you leave it to a team of professionals?
  • Do you have the proper cleaning supplies and equipment on hand?
  • Would schedules help to ensure timely completion of janitorial duties?
  • Does your inventory turn on a regular basis, or does it also need to be cleaned?
  • Are there machines and hardware that are sitting around unused and collecting dust?
  • Are you performing regular inspections to ensure you comply with regulations?
  • Could production and employee morale be increased by implementing a more comprehensive cleaning regiment?

Whether you choose to employ industrial cleaning technicians or take on the job in-house, defining your cleaning objectives will help you uncover the challenges that need to be addressed.

3. Align with an Industrial Facility Cleaning Company that Puts You First

Opting to partner with an industrial facility cleaning company has many benefits.

First and foremost, it allows you to focus on the business at hand and gives you access to industry-leading specialists who work quickly and efficiently to meet your goals.

Facility cleaning specialists also:

Stay Up to Date on All Health and Safety Regulations

Did you know health and safety guidelines and regulations are amended frequently? Commercial cleaning professionals are committed to understanding the fine details of these laws and making sure you remain in compliance. 

Receive Continuous Training and Are Licensed and Insured

Licensing and insurance are janitorial best practices. Don’t forget to check the credentials of any team you partner with.

Use High-Quality Warehouse Cleaning Supplies

When we reviewed the difference between cleaning, sanitization, and disinfection, we mentioned reading labels to understand which chemicals are required for each surface and how long to apply them.

Dedicated warehouse cleaners know these fine details by memory and can work quickly and more efficiently.

Identify Opportunities for Cost-Savings

Connecting you with cost-saving opportunities allows you to pack more of the commercial janitorial services you need into your budget. That’s just good business!

4. Tailor Commercial Cleaning to Your Unique Needs

Save time and money by customizing your commercial cleaning to the unique needs of your organization.

Do you need cleaners to perform their duties after operational hours? Are there services you only need occasionally? Are there areas in your facility that need special attention and care?

Communication is vital in creating a clean, thriving atmosphere. Be sure to take advantage of a comprehensive consultation with your industrial cleaning team, and don’t be afraid to tweak your services should your needs shift.

5. Pay Special Attention to Warehouse Floor Cleaning

Keeping floors clean is particularly challenging for business owners across every sector, but it can sometimes seem downright impossible in the warehousing world. With things constantly on the move, it can be difficult to keep up with floor maintenance—unless you have a plan.

6. Consider Green Cleaning Practices

More and more, companies are seeking green cleaning solutions that are an environmentally friendlier option to traditional chemical cleaners. This is because consumers want to buy from businesses that are stewards of a more sustainable environment.

Explore your options!

You might be surprised at the great response from your clients.

If these tips helped you streamline your warehouse and industrial cleaning protocol, we want to know about it!

Let us know what you thought in the comments below.