Preparing for Commercial Cleaning Services

Whether it’s your first cleaning or part of a recurring schedule, discover the simple steps you can take to ensure a smooth experience. You’ll learn exactly what to do before cleaners arrive, how to streamline communication, and how to reduce downtime across your facility.

Why Preparation Matters

Professional janitorial teams bring the tools, experience, and training to keep your business clean and compliant—but even the best crew can only do so much if your space isn’t ready for them. Properly preparing for commercial cleaning service ensures the job can be done thoroughly and efficiently, without unnecessary delays or disruptions.

From daily janitorial support to one-time deep cleans, a few simple steps can dramatically improve outcomes. Being proactive helps cleaners access every surface, follow your specific requests, and finish on time. It also reduces the chance of miscommunication or missed tasks. If you’ve ever wondered what to do before cleaners arrive, the tips below will walk you through exactly how to get your space ready.

Step 1: Clear the Floors

One of the easiest ways to help your cleaners is to ensure that your floors are completely clear of obstacles. This includes both personal items and temporary coverings that may seem helpful but can actually slow things down.

Before your cleaning service arrives:

Remove cardboard mats, plastic coverings, or floor protection: These often trap debris and prevent proper vacuuming or mopping.
Move personal bags or boxes: Clear pathways allow cleaners to cover more ground efficiently and safely.
Secure loose rugs or mats: Prevent slipping hazards and make floor care more manageable.

A clutter-free floor not only saves time but also ensures the cleaning crew can properly treat all surfaces, from tile to carpet.

Step 2: Tidy and Declutter Workspaces

One of the most important parts of business cleaning prep is making sure desks and shared surfaces are accessible. While cleaners won’t move personal belongings or handle documents, they will clean available surfaces, so make them available.

Encourage your staff to:

Clear papers, folders, and office supplies from desktops: This allows cleaners to wipe surfaces thoroughly without moving sensitive materials.
Tidy up shared tables and kitchen counters: Keeps cleaning efficient and avoids accidental damage.
Empty trash bins when possible: While janitorial teams will handle trash, consolidating helps speed up the process.

If you’re wondering how to prep for office cleaners without disrupting your team, a quick 5-minute desk sweep at the end of the day can make a big difference.

Step 3: Secure Sensitive or Confidential Materials

Even with a trusted cleaning provider, it’s a good practice to secure any documents, equipment, or items that are private or sensitive. Doing so protects your business and ensures cleaners can work without hesitation.

Key actions include:

Lock file drawers or cabinets that contain private materials
Log off and shut down computers, if not in use during cleaning
Store client or patient documents away from open surfaces

This isn’t just about privacy, it’s about giving professional cleaners a clear message that your workspace is ready and professional boundaries are in place.

Step 4: Communicate Special Instructions Clearly

Every facility has its quirks—whether it’s a tricky stain, an off-limits room, or an area that always needs extra attention. The best time to relay these details is before the cleaning starts. The most effective method is to walk the job with your cleaners before they begin.

Make sure to:

Point out high-priority areas: Spots like breakrooms, restrooms, or entrances often need extra care.
Clarify restricted areas: Let your cleaners know where not to go.
Flag any special requests: Whether it’s a new floor finish or a supply restock, mention it upfront.

This step prevents confusion and ensures you get exactly what you’re paying for, ensuring there’s no guesswork involved.

Step 5: Set Access and Entry Protocols

If cleaning will happen after hours or when your facility is closed, your team needs a clear way to enter and exit the space. Delays due to locked doors, alarm systems, or unclear instructions can reduce cleaning time and create frustration on both sides.

Here’s how to prepare:

Provide access codes, keycards, or keys in advance
Share entry and exit instructions, including any alarm codes
Confirm who the point of contact is if the crew has questions during the job

Reliable access is one of the easiest ways to make your cleaning service more efficient and less disruptive.

Wondering how often your space should get a deeper clean? Read our guide on office space deep cleaning to make informed decisions and keep your workplace in top shape.

Learn More

Bonus Tips to Help Cleaners Work More Efficiently

Beyond the core prep steps, there are a few extra ways you can streamline the cleaning process and help your janitorial team deliver even better results. These small adjustments take very little time but make a noticeable impact, especially during recurring visits.

Label storage rooms or utility spaces: Clear signage reduces back-and-forth and helps cleaners find what they need quickly.
Empty shred bins or recycling beforehand: This keeps cleaners focused on the cleaning itself, not sorting through office waste.
Group maintenance or special requests: Instead of requesting one-off tasks every visit, keep a running list and share it all at once to improve workflow.
Check shared areas midweek: If your service is biweekly, a quick internal tidy-up of kitchens or restrooms can keep things under control between visits.

These business-friendly tips support a smoother process and demonstrate that you value your cleaning provider’s time, which is something any professional team will appreciate.

Final Thoughts: Preparing Builds Better Results

Preparing for commercial cleaning service is a smart way to protect your investment. When your space is organized and your instructions are clear, cleaners can move faster, clean more thoroughly, and deliver better long-term results.

Whether it’s your first service or part of a recurring plan, these prep steps help ensure that your cleaning team performs at their best. With a little planning on your end, you’ll get a workspace that’s cleaner, healthier, and more professional.

Get More From Every Cleaning With Quality First Services

A little preparation goes a long way, but the right partner makes all the difference. At Quality First Services, we bring professionalism, flexibility, and attention to detail to every job, so your team walks into a cleaner, healthier work environment every time.

If you’re ready to get started or have questions about preparing for commercial cleaning service, contact us today to schedule your next visit.

Your Guide to Preparing for Commercial Cleaning Services

Why Preparation Matters

Step 1: Clear the Floors

Step 2: Tidy and Declutter Workspaces

Step 3: Secure Sensitive or Confidential Materials

Step 4: Communicate Special Instructions Clearly

Step 5: Set Access and Entry Protocols

Bonus Tips to Help Cleaners Work More Efficiently

Final Thoughts: Preparing Builds Better Results

Get More From Every Cleaning With Quality First Services

Share This Post

More Like This

How Consistent Janitorial Services Reduce Risk, Improve Safety, and Elevate Experiences in Santa Clara

Strategic Facility Maintenance Planning for Santa Clara Commercial Properties

The Complete Guide to Commercial Cleaning for Santa Clara’s High-Traffic Workplaces

A Complete Winter Office Cleaning Checklist for Your Business

5 Overlooked Office Cleaning Areas and How to Address Them

How to Choose the Right Commercial Cleaning Service for Your Business

How to Improve Your Business Image With Commercial Pressure Washing Services

How Often Should You Have Your Commercial Office Cleaned?

Reasons Commercial Buildings Need Day Porter Services

About

Stay Connected

Services

Contact Us