When it comes to keeping the workplace clean, most people think of emptying bins or vacuuming carpets. But the real challenge lies in the hidden germ hotspots that can often get forgotten about (very easily so.) Without a consistent office cleaning routine, bacteria and dirt quickly build up, leading to more sick days and reduced productivity.
Our office cleaning tips go beyond the basics. It focuses on the places employees touch most often, ensuring a healthier environment for everyone. Here are the top five office germ hotspots and our office cleaning tips to deal with them.
Keyboards and Mice
Studies show that keyboards can have up to 400 times more bacteria than a toilet seat. Crumbs, dust, and dead skin cells build up between the keys (that’s a lot of built up germs!) Mice have a very similar problem.
Office cleaning tip: Encourage staff to wipe down their own equipment regularly with antibacterial wipes, but make sure keyboards and mice are also disinfected properly as part of your professional office cleaning schedule. Give keyboards and laptops a gentle tap, this should remove any clogged up crumbs etc or use air canisters to get the tiny bits of debris.
Phones and Shared Devices
Office phones and shared equipment such as printers, vending machines, or lift buttons are some of the dirtiest places in the workplace. Research shows that office phones can carry thousands of bacteria per square inch.
Office cleaning tip: Set up a daily sanitising rota for shared devices and regularly seek professional office cleaning teams who will know how to disinfect these high-touch areas without damaging any tech.
Kitchen and Breakroom Areas
From kettle handles to fridge doors, the kitchen is a major germ hotspot. Mugs, and microwaves are often handled by multiple people throughout the day but rarely cleaned properly.
Office cleaning tip: Make sure your breakroom is included in the daily office cleaning routine; don’t forget door and cupboard handles. Regularly disinfecting appliances and encouraging staff to wash their hands before preparing food can dramatically reduce the amount of bacteria in the office.
Bathroom Facilities and Tap Handles
It’s no surprise that bathrooms can be one of the dirtiest areas in an office. Even when surfaces look clean, tap handles, flush buttons, and door handles carry huge amounts of bacteria.
Office cleaning tip: Thorough and regular cleaning of all restroom facilities is vital. We’re guessing you won’t be overrun with volunteers for this area so it might be prudent to enlist the support of a professional office cleaning company. Ensuring bathrooms are spotless will also impact on the spread of illnesses that could keep staff from coming into work.
Desks and High-Touch Surfaces
Desks may look tidy, but research suggests the average desk is a breeding ground for germs – far worse than many toilets. Light switches, door handles and shared meeting tables also carry bacteria that spread easily from person to person.
Office cleaning tip: Daily wiping of desks and shared surfaces with disinfectant is crucial. Providing staff with an easy means to clean their areas at the end of the day will mean they are more likely to do it. There may also be team initiatives you can think of to motivate people to clean heir desks before they leave at the end of the day.
Why Professional Office Cleaning Matters
While staff can play their part by keeping personal areas tidy, the most effective way to deal with hidden germ hotspots is through professional office cleaning. Trained cleaners know where germs hide, how to disinfect properly, and which products are safe for different surfaces.
A clean office isn’t just about appearances. It helps reduce staff illness, improves air quality, boosts morale, and creates a positive impression for visitors / clients. Creating a culture that encourages accountability and Investing in regular office cleaning is an investment in the health and productivity of your business.