Finding the right janitorial service company for your facility can feel overwhelming. I've worked in the commercial cleaning industry for over 10 years, and I've seen facility managers make costly mistakes when choosing cleaning contractors. The wrong choice leads to poor service, hidden fees, and constant headaches.
Your facility's cleanliness directly impacts your business operations, employee health, and customer impressions. A dirty office drives away clients. Unclean restrooms create health risks. Poorly maintained floors become safety hazards.
I'll share six critical factors that separate exceptional janitorial companies from mediocre ones. These tips will help you make an informed decision that benefits your facility and budget.
Before diving into the selection tips, let's understand why this decision is crucial. Your facility's appearance reflects your business professionalism. Clean workspaces boost employee productivity and reduce sick days. Proper cleaning prevents costly repairs and extends your facility's lifespan.
Poor janitorial services create multiple problems:
A janitorial company's reputation tells you everything about their service quality. I always recommend checking multiple sources before making your decision.
Start with online reviews on Google, Yelp, and Facebook. Look for patterns in customer feedback. Do clients mention reliable service? Are there complaints about missed cleanings or poor communication?
Ask for references from current commercial clients. A reputable company will gladly provide contact information for satisfied customers. Call these references and ask specific questions:
Check their Better Business Bureau rating. Look for any unresolved complaints or patterns of issues.
Research how long they've been in business. Companies with 5+ years of experience understand the challenges of commercial cleaning. They've solved problems you haven't even encountered yet.
Pricing transparency separates professional janitorial services from fly-by-night operations. Avoid companies that won't provide detailed quotes or give vague estimates over the phone.
Professional cleaning companies should provide written quotes that include:
Watch out for these pricing red flags:
Compare quotes from at least three companies. The lowest price isn't always the best value. Factor in service quality, reliability, and included services when making your decision.
Ask about price increases. Reputable companies lock in rates for specific periods and provide advance notice of any changes.
Modern commercial cleaning requires professional-grade supplies and equipment. The products your janitorial service uses directly impact cleaning effectiveness and safety.
Ask potential contractors about their cleaning supplies:
Professional janitorial companies invest in quality equipment. They should have:
Green cleaning options are increasingly important. Many facilities require environmentally friendly products to meet sustainability goals and protect employee health.
Clear communication prevents most janitorial service problems. You need a company that responds quickly to concerns and maintains open dialogue.
Evaluate their communication during the sales process. Do they return calls promptly? Are they professional in emails? Do they ask detailed questions about your facility's needs?
Ask about their management structure:
Good janitorial companies assign dedicated account managers to handle your facility. This person becomes familiar with your specific needs and ensures consistent service quality.
Technology improves communication. Some companies use apps or online portals where you can submit requests, view service schedules, and track cleaning completion.
Exceptional customer service distinguishes great janitorial companies from average ones. Your cleaning contractor should treat your facility like their most important client.
Look for these customer service indicators:
Ask about their staff training programs. Well-trained cleaners provide better service and handle your facility more carefully. They should understand proper cleaning techniques, safety protocols, and customer interaction standards.
Inquire about backup plans. What happens if your regular cleaner is sick or quits? Professional companies have systems to ensure uninterrupted service.
Every facility has unique cleaning requirements. Your janitorial service should adapt their plans to match your specific needs, not force you into a one-size-fits-all package.
Customization options should include:
Discuss your facility's particular challenges. Do you have high-traffic areas that need extra attention? Are there sensitive areas requiring special cleaning protocols? Does your business generate specific types of dirt or debris?
A good janitorial company will walk through your facility and create a tailored cleaning plan. They'll identify problem areas and recommend appropriate solutions.
Flexibility is key. Your cleaning needs may change as your business grows or evolves. Your janitorial service should accommodate these changes without penalty fees or contract renegotiation.
Beyond the six main tips, consider these important factors:
Insurance and Bonding: Verify that the company carries liability insurance and bonds their employees. This protects you from accidents and theft.
Employee Background Checks: Ask about their hiring practices. Do they conduct background checks and drug screenings for all staff?
Quality Control: How do they ensure consistent service quality? Do they conduct regular inspections or use quality checklists?
Contract Terms: Review contract length, cancellation policies, and renewal terms. Avoid companies requiring long-term commitments without proven service quality.
After evaluating potential janitorial services using these six criteria, you should have a clear picture of which company best fits your needs.
Create a comparison chart rating each company on:
Don't rush this decision. A good janitorial service becomes a long-term partner in maintaining your facility. Take time to thoroughly evaluate your options.
Consider starting with a trial period if possible. Some companies offer short-term contracts to demonstrate their service quality before committing to longer agreements.
Choosing the right janitorial service doesn't have to be complicated when you know what to look for. These six tips will help you identify companies that deliver reliable, professional cleaning services.
At Bliss Cleaning Services, we understand the challenges facility managers face when selecting commercial cleaning contractors. For over 10 years, we've helped Salt Lake Valley businesses maintain clean, healthy facilities through transparent pricing, professional service, and customized cleaning plans.
If you're ready to experience the difference that expert janitorial service makes, we'd love to discuss your facility's unique needs. Contact us today for a free, detailed quote tailored to your specific requirements.
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Commercial cleaning costs vary based on facility size, cleaning frequency, and specific services needed. Most companies charge $0.05 to $0.15 per square foot for basic janitorial services. Request detailed quotes from multiple providers to compare pricing accurately.
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Most offices require daily or weekly cleaning depending on employee count and foot traffic. High-traffic areas like restrooms and lobbies need daily attention, while private offices may only need weekly service. Your janitorial company should assess your facility and recommend appropriate frequency.
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Standard commercial cleaning typically includes trash removal, restroom sanitization, floor vacuuming or mopping, dusting surfaces, and basic kitchen area cleaning. Window cleaning, carpet cleaning, and deep cleaning services usually cost extra.
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