Maintaining a clean and organised workspace is essential for the health, safety, and productivity of any business. However, choosing the right type of cleaning service can be challenging without understanding the differences between commercial cleaning and janitorial services.
This article will explain how commercial cleaning differs from janitorial services by exploring key factors such as the frequency of cleaning, scope of tasks, and the types of facilities serviced.
By clarifying these distinctions, the aim is to help businesses make informed decisions about which service best suits their cleaning needs and operational requirements.
What Is The Difference Between Commercial Cleaning And Janitorial Services?
Understanding the distinction between commercial cleaning and janitorial services is essential for business owners and office managers who want to maintain a clean and professional environment.
By knowing what each service entails, you can choose the best option that suits your specific business needs, whether it’s regular upkeep or occasional deep cleaning. Let’s explore the unique characteristics of both services to give you a clearer picture.
Commercial Cleaning
Commercial cleaning refers to specialised, thorough cleaning services that are performed on a less frequent basis, typically involving more intensive tasks. These services are designed to address deeper, more complex cleaning challenges that go beyond everyday maintenance.
Commercial cleaning is perfect for businesses that require occasional but comprehensive cleaning to ensure their facilities are hygienic, presentable, and safe for employees, clients, and customers.
Businesses that operate in specific sectors, such as manufacturing, food production, or healthcare, often require this level of expertise to meet industry standards and compliance regulations.
Some common examples of commercial cleaning tasks include:
- Deep Carpet Cleaning: This involves using steam or hot water extraction methods to remove embedded dirt, allergens, and stains from carpets that daily vacuuming cannot reach.
It’s essential for maintaining air quality and prolonging the life of carpets in high-traffic areas like lobbies and conference rooms.
- Window Washing: For commercial buildings with large glass facades or windows in hard-to-reach areas, commercial cleaning services offer professional window washing to remove grime, fingerprints, and weather buildup.
This not only enhances the appearance of the building but also lets in more natural light, creating a brighter work environment.
- Upholstery Cleaning: Chairs, sofas, and other fabric-covered furniture in offices or waiting areas can collect dust, allergens, and spills over time.
Commercial cleaning services use specialised techniques to clean and sanitise upholstery, ensuring that your office furniture looks fresh and inviting.
- Floor Stripping and Waxing: Floors in commercial spaces take a lot of wear and tear, especially in high-traffic areas. Commercial cleaners can strip old wax layers, clean the floors thoroughly, and apply a new coat of wax to protect the surface and keep it looking polished.
- Industrial Equipment Cleaning: For factories and large-scale operations, commercial cleaning may include cleaning machinery, industrial equipment, and even ventilation systems to ensure that dust, grease, or other contaminants don’t affect productivity or safety.
Janitorial Cleaning
Janitorial cleaning refers to the routine, daily maintenance tasks that keep your workplace clean, hygienic, and organised on a day-to-day basis.
The primary goal of janitorial services is to ensure that your commercial space remains presentable and functional for employees, clients, and visitors throughout the day.
Unlike commercial cleaning, which focuses on deep cleaning tasks carried out periodically, janitorial cleaning is more focused on maintaining cleanliness through regular upkeep and attention to detail.
Janitorial cleaning also involves the day-to-day maintenance of critical areas such as kitchens and restrooms, which require constant attention due to their high usage.
Regular sanitisation of restrooms, including the cleaning of toilets, sinks, and countertops, is crucial for preventing the spread of bacteria and ensuring that facilities are fresh and usable throughout the day.
Likewise, break rooms and kitchens must be kept clean to avoid food contamination and promote a healthy workspace for employees.
Some common examples of janitorial cleaning tasks include:
- Vacuuming Carpets and Rugs: Daily vacuuming helps remove dust, dirt, and debris from carpets, keeping them clean and preventing allergens from accumulating. This is particularly important in high-traffic areas like office corridors and reception areas.
- Mopping and Sweeping Floors: Regular sweeping and mopping are necessary to keep hard floors, such as those in entryways, kitchens, or hallways, clean and free from dust, spills, and stains. This not only enhances the overall appearance of the workplace but also helps prevent slips and falls.
- Restroom Cleaning and Sanitisation: Restrooms are one of the most critical areas for janitorial cleaning. Routine tasks include scrubbing toilets, disinfecting sinks and countertops, restocking supplies (e.g., soap, paper towels), and ensuring that everything is functioning properly.
- Emptying Rubbish Bins: Janitorial services include the regular collection and disposal of rubbish to keep the office clutter-free and prevent unpleasant odours. Emptying bins regularly is also crucial for maintaining a clean and tidy appearance in public-facing areas.
- Wiping and Disinfecting Surfaces: High-touch surfaces such as desks, door handles, light switches, and shared equipment (e.g., printers, keyboards) are cleaned and disinfected to reduce the spread of germs and maintain a sanitary environment for employees.
- Window Cleaning (Interior): While exterior windows may require commercial cleaning, interior window cleaning is often part of janitorial duties. Keeping windows and glass partitions free from smudges and fingerprints enhances the overall look of the office.
- Restocking Supplies: Janitors also ensure that essential supplies, such as toilet paper, paper towels, hand sanitiser, and soap, are replenished regularly in restrooms and communal areas to maintain hygiene and convenience for staff and visitors.
5 Differences Of Commercial Cleaning And Janitorial Cleaning
When deciding between commercial cleaning and janitorial services, understanding the key differences can help you select the right option for your business.
While both are essential for maintaining cleanliness in commercial spaces, they differ significantly in several areas, including the frequency of cleaning, scope of tasks, types of facilities serviced, cost structure, and equipment and products used.
Let’s explore each of these distinctions in more detail to give you a clearer picture of what to expect from each service.
#1. Frequency Of Cleaning
One of the most significant differences between commercial cleaning and janitorial services lies in how often each service is performed.
Commercial cleaning is typically scheduled based on specific needs and is conducted less frequently than janitorial services. Businesses usually book commercial cleaning on a monthly, quarterly, or even annual basis.
This is because commercial cleaning tasks focus on deep cleaning areas that do not require daily attention but are essential for maintaining a high level of hygiene and aesthetics over time.
For example, carpet shampooing, window washing, and floor waxing are tasks that don’t need to be done daily, but when performed periodically, they significantly enhance the cleanliness and appearance of your premises.
Commercial cleaning is often requested for thorough, one-off cleans following events, seasonal changes, or as part of routine building maintenance. It’s ideal for large-scale cleaning projects that target less frequently used areas or specialised spaces like industrial warehouses or healthcare facilities.
Since these tasks are intensive, they require more time, effort, and equipment, hence the longer intervals between each cleaning session.
On the other hand, janitorial cleaning is performed much more frequently. Most businesses opt for janitorial services on a daily or weekly basis to maintain cleanliness and hygiene in high-traffic areas like lobbies, restrooms, and workspaces.
The aim of janitorial cleaning is to provide continuous upkeep, ensuring that the environment is consistently tidy and presentable.
For example, janitorial staff will vacuum carpets, mop floors, wipe down surfaces, and empty rubbish bins daily or multiple times per week, depending on the needs of the business.
This routine cleaning helps prevent dirt and grime from building up, ensuring that the space remains clean and comfortable for employees and visitors alike.
Since these tasks are less intensive than those performed by commercial cleaners, they are scheduled more regularly to keep the business environment in top condition every day.
#2. Scope Of Cleaning
The scope of cleaning is another significant difference between commercial cleaning and janitorial services, primarily determined by the nature of tasks performed and the intensity of the work required.
Commercial cleaning covers extensive, specialised tasks that go far beyond the regular upkeep provided by janitorial services. These tasks are generally more complex and often require trained professionals who use specialised equipment and techniques to achieve a thorough clean.
For example, commercial cleaners might perform deep-cleaning tasks such as floor stripping and waxing, pressure washing, industrial carpet cleaning, and ventilation system sanitisation.
These services are typically designed to maintain the hygiene and appearance of larger spaces or high-traffic areas that are exposed to heavy use over time.
Commercial cleaning services may also involve tasks that need to comply with specific industry standards, such as deep disinfection in healthcare facilities, removing hazardous materials from industrial sites, or even post-construction clean-up after a building project.
The nature of these tasks means they are carried out less frequently but are essential for maintaining the long-term integrity and cleanliness of a facility.
In contrast, janitorial services focus on routine, surface-level tasks necessary for the daily operation of a business. These tasks are geared towards maintaining a clean and orderly environment on a day-to-day basis.
Janitorial staff will handle regular duties such as vacuuming, mopping floors, dusting, emptying bins, and cleaning restrooms. These tasks ensure that the business remains presentable and functional, providing a clean and comfortable space for employees, customers, and visitors alike.
While janitorial services may not involve deep-cleaning or specialised tasks, their role is critical in preventing dirt, grime, and clutter from building up. By maintaining cleanliness and hygiene daily, janitorial services ensure that the workplace remains a safe, welcoming, and professional environment.
#3. Types Of Facilities Serviced
The types of facilities serviced can vary significantly between commercial cleaning and janitorial services, often depending on the scale and complexity of the cleaning tasks required.
Commercial cleaning is often needed in larger or more complex facilities, such as hospitals, industrial sites, factories, and corporate offices. These types of environments demand more intensive cleaning to ensure compliance with health and safety standards or to manage the sheer size and foot traffic of the facility.
For example, hospitals require deep disinfection of medical equipment and patient rooms, while factories may need periodic cleaning of machinery, production lines, and ventilation systems. Commercial cleaning is essential for maintaining hygiene, safety, and operational efficiency in these large-scale environments.
Other facilities that might require commercial cleaning include high-rise buildings, where services such as window cleaning and façade maintenance are required, or warehouses, where deep floor cleaning and racking dust removal are critical to ensuring a safe and productive workspace.
The complexity and specialised needs of these facilities make commercial cleaning the go-to solution for maintaining the cleanliness and functionality of such spaces.
On the other hand, janitorial services cater to a wide variety of environments, ranging from small offices to large educational institutions. Janitorial services are versatile and suitable for businesses of all sizes, providing essential cleaning tasks that keep the workplace tidy and presentable on a daily basis.
Whether it’s a small law office needing regular cleaning of desks, floors, and restrooms, or a large university requiring daily maintenance across classrooms, corridors, and common areas, janitorial services offer the ongoing care needed to support the day-to-day operations of these facilities.
Janitorial services are also commonly used in retail environments, schools, restaurants, and apartment complexes, where maintaining cleanliness is crucial for both functionality and customer satisfaction.
The broad applicability of janitorial services makes them an essential part of maintaining cleanliness in nearly every type of business or public institution.
#4. Cost Differences
When comparing the cost differences between commercial cleaning and janitorial services, it’s important to consider the nature and intensity of the tasks involved.
Commercial cleaning services generally come at a higher cost, largely due to the extensive nature of the work and the specialised equipment and techniques required. Commercial cleaning involves deep-cleaning tasks that demand more time, expertise, and often more advanced tools to achieve the desired results.
For example, tasks like carpet shampooing, industrial floor scrubbing, or window cleaning on high-rise buildings all require specialised machines and trained professionals to carry out the work effectively and safely.
Additionally, commercial cleaning services are often scheduled less frequently, such as monthly, quarterly, or even annually, meaning that the work performed during each session is much more comprehensive.
While the upfront cost per session may be higher, the infrequency of these deep-cleaning services means that the cost is distributed over a longer period.
However, for businesses that require specialised cleaning to meet industry standards (such as healthcare or manufacturing), these costs are often necessary and justified to ensure a high standard of hygiene and safety.
On the other hand, janitorial services typically come with a lower cost per session because they focus on routine, day-to-day cleaning tasks. However, since janitorial services are performed on a daily or weekly basis, the overall cost can add up over time due to the regular frequency.
Janitorial services handle tasks such as vacuuming, mopping, dusting, and emptying bins, which are less intensive and require fewer resources compared to commercial cleaning.
These tasks are essential for maintaining a presentable and hygienic workspace but don’t involve the same level of deep cleaning or specialised equipment.
For smaller businesses or those with straightforward cleaning needs, janitorial services may be the more cost-effective option in the long run, as they keep the space tidy without the need for high-intensity, high-cost interventions.
However, larger businesses or those with specific cleaning requirements may find that the periodic investment in commercial cleaning is worth the higher cost to ensure a deeper level of cleanliness and professional maintenance.
#5. Equipments And Products Used
Another key difference between commercial cleaning and janitorial services lies in the equipment and products used to carry out the tasks.
Commercial cleaning often involves the use of heavy-duty cleaning machines and stronger cleaning agents to tackle tough stains, buildups, and areas that require a deeper level of cleaning.
For instance, industrial carpet cleaners, floor scrubbers, and high-pressure washers are commonly used in commercial cleaning to ensure that large areas, such as warehouse floors or commercial kitchens, are cleaned thoroughly.
These machines are designed to handle significant wear and tear, remove embedded dirt, and sanitise large surfaces quickly and effectively.
In addition, strong chemicals are often employed to sanitise areas that require higher levels of hygiene, such as hospitals or food production facilities. These may include disinfectants, degreasers, or chemical solvents that can remove grease, oil, or hazardous substances.
While these products are highly effective, they require proper handling by trained professionals to ensure safety and avoid damage to surfaces or equipment.
In contrast, janitorial services typically use more routine cleaning tools and milder cleaning agents, which are sufficient for day-to-day maintenance. Standard equipment like mops, brooms, vacuum cleaners, and microfibre cloths are commonly used to keep floors, desks, and other surfaces free from dust and debris.
The cleaning supplies for janitorial tasks are often chosen for their practicality and ease of use, allowing janitorial staff to quickly and efficiently maintain the cleanliness of an office or commercial space.
For example, eco-friendly cleaning agents and non-toxic disinfectants are often used in janitorial services, especially in office settings where the health and safety of employees and visitors are a priority. These products are effective for routine sanitisation without posing any risk to indoor air quality or the environment.
Additionally, janitors may use basic cleaning machines, such as lightweight vacuums or floor buffers, to handle regular maintenance tasks without the need for industrial-grade equipment.
Commercial Cleaning Vs. Janitorial Services: Which Is Right For Your Business?
The right choice depends on various factors unique to your business, including your facility size, employee count, and industry type. Let’s explore how to assess your specific needs and make the best decision for your company’s cleaning requirements.
Assessing Your Business’s Specific Needs
When determining whether commercial cleaning, janitorial services, or a combination of the two is right for your business, it’s essential to consider the following factors:
- Facility Size: The size of your facility plays a major role in the type of cleaning services you need. Larger facilities, such as warehouses, factories, or multi-story office buildings, may require commercial cleaning to handle more extensive areas and deep-cleaning tasks.
Commercial cleaning services can ensure that these spaces receive the attention they need for hard-to-reach or heavily used areas like floors, carpets, and windows.
On the other hand, smaller businesses with more straightforward layouts may benefit from regular janitorial services, which focus on day-to-day cleaning to maintain an organised and tidy workspace.
- Employee Count: The number of employees in your office or facility also influences your cleaning needs.
Businesses with a higher employee count typically require more frequent cleaning to manage foot traffic, maintain hygiene, and ensure that shared spaces such as kitchens, restrooms, and meeting rooms stay sanitary throughout the day.
Janitorial services are ideal for businesses with a high volume of employees, as they provide the regular maintenance necessary to keep areas clean and safe for daily use.
However, if your workspace has fewer employees but sees regular client or customer traffic, you might still require occasional commercial cleaning to maintain a polished appearance for visitors.
- Industry Type: Your industry can also dictate the type of cleaning services your business requires. Certain sectors, such as healthcare, manufacturing, or food services, may have specialised cleaning needs that can only be met through commercial cleaning services.
These industries often require deep cleaning, sanitisation, and compliance with health and safety standards, which necessitate the use of industrial-grade equipment and highly trained professionals.
For example, hospitals need regular disinfection of equipment and patient rooms, while industrial facilities may require deep cleaning of machinery and ventilation systems.
On the other hand, offices, retail stores, and schools may primarily need janitorial services to keep high-traffic areas clean and tidy on a daily basis.
How About Both?
Once you’ve assessed your facility’s size, employee count, and industry requirements, you can make an informed decision about whether commercial cleaning, janitorial services, or a combination of both is best for your business.
- Commercial Cleaning: If your business requires deep, periodic cleaning—especially for large or complex facilities—commercial cleaning is likely the best option.
This service is ideal for tackling more intensive tasks like floor waxing, carpet shampooing, and window cleaning, which don’t need to be performed on a daily basis but are crucial for maintaining the long-term cleanliness and professionalism of your space.
Commercial cleaning is also recommended for businesses in regulated industries that require specialised sanitisation procedures to comply with health and safety standards.
- Janitorial Services: For businesses that need ongoing, routine maintenance to ensure a clean and welcoming environment, janitorial services are the way to go.
Janitorial staff can handle everyday cleaning tasks such as vacuuming, mopping, dusting, and restroom sanitation, ensuring that your workplace stays tidy and hygienic.
This service is particularly useful for high-traffic areas that require constant upkeep, such as office lobbies, retail spaces, or educational facilities. Janitorial services are also more cost-effective if your business only requires surface-level cleaning on a regular basis.
- Combination of Both: Many businesses find that a combination of commercial cleaning and janitorial services offers the most comprehensive solution.
For example, you might choose to have daily janitorial services to handle routine cleaning tasks, while scheduling commercial cleaning periodically to take care of deeper cleaning needs.
This approach ensures that your business remains clean and professional every day, while also receiving thorough attention for areas that require specialised care.
A combination strategy is particularly effective for businesses with a mix of high-traffic areas and large facilities that demand both regular maintenance and occasional deep cleaning.
Consulting With Professional Cleaning Services
If you’re unsure which cleaning solution is best for your business, it’s always a good idea to consult with a professional cleaning service. Cleaning experts can assess your facility and provide tailored recommendations based on your specific needs, industry standards, and budget.
They can help you determine the right balance between commercial cleaning and janitorial services, ensuring that your business stays clean, compliant, and cost-effective.
Professional cleaning companies also offer customisable service plans, so you can adjust the frequency and scope of cleaning as your business grows or your cleaning needs change.
Whether you need daily janitorial upkeep, periodic deep cleaning, or a mix of both, professional cleaners can create a flexible schedule that works for you.
Conclusion About Commercial Cleaning Vs. Janitorial Cleaning
The choice between commercial cleaning and janitorial services comes down to understanding your business’s unique needs. Each plays an important role in maintaining a clean, safe, and professional business environment, but choosing the right one is essential for operational efficiency and overall hygiene.
Selecting the appropriate cleaning service ensures that your business remains both productive and inviting, whether you’re a small office needing daily upkeep or a large facility requiring periodic deep cleans.
We encourage you to consider ESP Cleaning Services, one of Singapore’s most trusted cleaning providers. Our services range from residential to commercial cleaning for facilities like offices, healthcare centres, education institutions, and retail spaces.
Whether you are an SME or a Fortune 500 company, we take pride in offering hands-on, customised solutions that meet your exact requirements.
With 100% in-house cleaners (not freelancers), public liability insurance coverage, and guaranteed cleaner deployment within 48 hours, ESP Cleaning Services ensures your peace of mind.
Our site inspection schedule ensures we maintain the highest quality standards, and our use of environmentally fragrant liquids prevents any unpleasant chemical smells.
We invite you to contact ESP Cleaning Services today for a Free Site Assessment and Non-Obligatory Quotation. Let us handle your cleaning needs so you can focus on what matters most—running your business efficiently.
Frequently Asked Questions About Commercial Cleaning Vs. Janitorial Cleaning
Is Janitorial Cleaning Enough For Businesses With Heavy Foot Traffic?
Janitorial cleaning may not always be sufficient for businesses with heavy foot traffic. While it handles daily maintenance tasks like vacuuming, mopping, and surface cleaning, high-traffic areas often accumulate more dirt, wear, and tear over time.
In such cases, periodic commercial cleaning is necessary to tackle deeper cleaning tasks like carpet shampooing, floor stripping, and deep disinfection, ensuring the facility remains clean and presentable for both employees and visitors.
Can Commercial Cleaning Be Scheduled Outside Of Regular Business Hours?
Yes, commercial cleaning services can typically be scheduled outside of regular business hours.
Many businesses prefer after-hours cleaning to avoid disruptions during the workday, ensuring that cleaning tasks like deep floor cleaning, window washing, or disinfection are completed without interfering with normal operations.
This flexibility allows businesses to maintain cleanliness while keeping productivity intact, offering a seamless experience for both staff and customers.
When Should A Business Consider Switching From Janitorial To Commercial Cleaning Services?
A business should consider switching to or supplementing janitorial services with commercial cleaning when routine tasks are no longer sufficient to maintain the cleanliness and hygiene of the facility.
For example, if deep cleaning needs such as carpet stains, grout buildup, or air duct cleaning arise, it’s a sign that commercial cleaning is necessary.
Additionally, businesses in highly regulated industries like healthcare or food service, where strict hygiene standards are required, may need more specialised cleaning services beyond what janitorial staff can provide.
Is Commercial Cleaning Recommended For Businesses With Strict Hygiene Standards?
Yes, commercial cleaning is highly recommended for businesses with strict hygiene standards, such as healthcare facilities, food processing plants, and laboratories. These environments require thorough and specialised cleaning procedures to ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.
Commercial cleaners are equipped with the right tools, disinfectants, and expertise to meet these high standards, providing deep cleaning and sanitisation that goes beyond the surface-level tasks handled by janitorial staff.