Spring cleaning is crucial for facility managers across Canada but often comes with its fair share of challenges. From tight deadlines and limited budgets to staffing shortages, navigating the complexities of spring cleaning requires careful planning and strategic approaches. This article will explore practical strategies for maximizing efficiency and streamlining the spring cleaning process, helping you overcome common obstacles and achieve optimal results.
Prioritize Cleaning Tasks:
Begin by prioritizing cleaning tasks based on urgency and importance. Identify high-traffic areas or problem spots that require immediate attention, such as parking lots, entryways, washrooms, and communal spaces. By focusing on these areas first, you can address critical cleaning needs efficiently and minimize disruptions to daily operations.
- Doorknobs and handles
- Light switches
- Handrails
- Faucet handles
- Toilet flush handles
- Keyboards and computer mice
- Phones and tablets
- Remote controls
- Kitchen appliances handles (e.g., refrigerator, microwave)
- Tabletops and countertops
Implement a Comprehensive Cleaning Plan
Develop a comprehensive cleaning plan that outlines specific tasks, timelines, and responsibilities for each cleaning team member. Communicate expectations and establish realistic goals to ensure accountability and streamline the cleaning process. Consider utilizing cleaning checklists or scheduling software to track progress and monitor the completion of tasks.
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ORGANIZE, ASSESS & RESTOCK YOUR CUSTODIAL CUPBOARD
⬜ Check expiry dates & safely dispose
⬜ Evaluate stock levels & pre-order
⬜ Consider chemical dispenser units for safe, efficient inventory management
⬜ Don’t forget PPE inventory
⬜ Assess safety of set up (heavy objects on low shelves for minimal lifting and reaching, cool, dry ventilated areas for chemicals).
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SERVICE EQUIPMENT & SCHEDULE TRAINING
⬜ Book preventative maintenance assessment
⬜ Check vents for blockages
⬜ Update cleaning protocol checklists for seasonal changes
⬜ Provide updated training for product and equipment use
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DEEP CLEAN AND RESTORE THE FLOORS
⬜ Remove corrosive winter debris
⬜ Scrub and partial restore with no-slip neutral floor cleaners
⬜ Clean or replace entrance matting (depending on type use carpet extractor or power washer)
⬜ Treat, wash and thoroughly dry interior carpets
⬜ Powerwash entrance stairs and pavement
⬜ Sweep parking lots and sidewalks
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LET THE LIGHT IN
⬜ Remove the film on the interior + exterior of windows + glass doors
⬜ Vacuum window screens and blinds
⬜ Test, dust and replace lighting fixtures as necessary
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PURIFY THE AIR
⬜ Remove airborne allergens with purifiers (allergy season!)
⬜ Clean vents and replace filters
⬜ Dust top down including ledges, baseboards, light fixtures
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DISINFECT BEYOND THE VISIBLE DIRT
⬜ Clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces
⬜ Validate cleaning with imaging and management software
Leverage Time-Saving Cleaning Products and Equipment
Invest in high-quality cleaning products and equipment designed to enhance efficiency and effectiveness. Consider incorporating tools such as sweepers, wet/dry vacuums, and pressure washers into your cleaning arsenal to tackle tough cleaning challenges easily. These innovative solutions can help you achieve superior results in less time, maximizing productivity and minimizing labour costs.
Recommended
Tennant® S6 Walk-Behind Battery Sweeper
Kärcher HD 1.8/13 C Ed Pressure Washer
Embrace Eco-Responsible Cleaning Practices:
Explore eco-responsible cleaning practices and products that promote sustainability while delivering exceptional cleaning performance. Look for environmentally responsible cleaning solutions that are safe for commercial facilities and comply with green cleaning standards. By adopting green cleaning practices, you can reduce your environmental footprint and create a healthier indoor environment for building occupants.
Recommended
Swish Clean & Green® Glass Cleaner
Enviro-Solutions® ES77 No Flash Point Glass Cleaner
Invest in Staff Training and Development:
Provide ongoing training and development opportunities for your cleaning staff to enhance their skills and knowledge. Equip them with the necessary tools and resources to perform their duties effectively and efficiently. Investing in staff training can empower your team to deliver consistent, high-quality cleaning results and contribute to overall operational excellence.
Regular Maintenance and Inspection
Schedule regular maintenance and inspection of cleaning equipment to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Conduct routine inspections to identify issues or malfunctions and address them promptly to prevent costly downtime. By staying proactive with equipment maintenance, you can avoid unexpected breakdowns and keep your cleaning operations running smoothly.
Need help figuring out where to start? Let our experts help identify issues and provide evidence-based recommendations with a Swish Clean Checkup assessment. Find out more about the service here. Â
In conclusion, maximizing efficiency in spring cleaning requires careful planning, strategic implementation, and a commitment to continuous improvement. By prioritizing cleaning tasks, implementing comprehensive cleaning plans, leveraging time-saving products and equipment, embracing eco-responsible practices, investing in staff training, and conducting regular maintenance and inspection, facility managers can streamline the spring cleaning process and achieve optimal results in Canadian facilities.
