How Often Should You Clean Your Office And The Surprising Office Equipment That Holds The Most Bacteria
A clean and organised office environment is not only aesthetically pleasing but also crucial for the wellbeing and productivity of employees. As a business owner, building manager or office worker, understanding the importance of regular office cleaning and being aware of the surprising equipment that harbours the most bacteria can contribute significantly to a healthier and more efficient workplace.
In this post, we’ll detail just how often you should clean your office and the areas you need to pay particular attention to.
Striking the right balance with office cleaning
A common question among business owners is, "How often should I clean my office?" The answer depends on various factors, including:
- The size of the office
- The nature of the work conducted
- The number of employees
While cleaning frequency will vary from office to office, a general guideline is to schedule a thorough cleaning at least once a week. Busier offices may require daily cleaning, especially during the winter months when cold and viruses are more likely to spread.
Regular cleaning schedules to keep your office looking fresh
As well as a regular cleaning schedule, there are other things you can do to help keep your office looking fresh:
Daily maintenance
Encourage employees to maintain a clean workspace by decluttering desks, disposing of rubbish, and wiping down surfaces daily. This not only promotes a tidy environment but also minimises the accumulation of dust and germs.
Weekly deep cleaning
A more comprehensive cleaning routine, including vacuuming, mopping, and disinfecting commonly touched surfaces, should be performed weekly. Special attention should be paid to shared spaces, such as kitchens and washrooms.
Seasonal and annual tasks
Consider scheduling seasonal or annual deep cleans for tasks like carpet cleaning, window washing, and checking ventilation systems. This ensures a thorough elimination of allergens and improves indoor air quality.
Surprising office equipment prone to bacterial build-up
While some areas of the office are obvious hotspots for bacteria, others might surprise you. Identifying and regularly cleaning these often-neglected items can contribute significantly to a healthier workspace.
Computer keyboards and mice
Employees interact with their keyboards and mice daily, making these surfaces breeding grounds for bacteria. Encourage the use of antibacterial wipes to clean these devices regularly.
Desk phones
Shared office phones can accumulate bacteria from constant use. Wipe down phone units and keypads frequently to reduce the risk of spreading germs.
Office chairs
Office chairs, such as fabric-covered chairs, in particular, can harbour bacteria and allergens. Consider using upholstery cleaner or regularly vacuuming chairs to keep them clean and fresh.
Elevator buttons
In multi-story office buildings, elevator buttons are touched by numerous people throughout the day. Provide hand sanitiser near elevators for employees to use before and after entering a lift.
Tea/coffee-making areas and water dispensers
These communal appliances are often overlooked during cleaning routines. Regularly clean and disinfect kettles, coffee machines, water dispensers, and the surrounding areas to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.
Fridge handles
Office fridges can be a breeding ground for bacteria, especially on the handles. Wipe down fridge handles regularly and encourage employees to label and date their food to minimise the risk of forgotten items turning into something a little more unappetising.
Promoting a clean office culture with help from your employees
Maintaining a clean office is a collective effort. Encourage employees to take responsibility for their individual workspaces and common areas. Consider implementing office-wide initiatives such as:
Clean desk policies
Encourage employees to keep their desks tidy and clutter-free. A clean workspace not only improves productivity but also reduces the risk of bacteria build-up. Keep office wet wipes within easy reach of desks for employees to wipe down their areas as needed throughout the day.
Hand hygiene practices
Provide hand sanitisers at strategic locations throughout the office and promote proper hand hygiene among employees. Regular handwashing and sanitising can significantly reduce the spread of germs, which is especially important during peak cold and flu season.
Education and training
Conduct training sessions to educate employees on the importance of cleanliness in the workplace. Highlight the connection between a clean environment and overall wellbeing. Signage around the office can help enforce good habits and ensure office hygiene practices are well-communicated throughout the office.
Maintaining a clean office is not just about aesthetics; it directly impacts the health and productivity of employees. By establishing a regular cleaning schedule, paying attention to often-neglected areas, and fostering a culture of cleanliness among employees, business owners can create a workspace that promotes wellbeing and success. Remember, a healthy office is a happy and productive office, so do your bit to establish and maintain a healthy work environment.
At phs Direct, you can stock up on all of the necessary supplies to keep your office clean and fresh. Explore our full product range and either place an order online or talk to our team to discuss your needs.