Whether you’re considering starting a commercial cleaning business or have been tasked by a higher-up to clean your workplace, having the essential equipment is crucial. This is a detailed guide on the list of basic cleaning supplies. It will equip you with the know-how to stock your cleaning arsenal, whatever you plan to do with the knowledge.
General cleaning refers to basic cleaning tasks that don’t require too many specialized equipment. These activities could cover vacuuming, sweeping, mopping, and dusting. Most general cleaning is done on a daily or weekly basis to maintain a relative level of cleanliness.
All-Purpose Cleaners
Look for options that can tackle grime, ferns, and dirt, while not being too harsh on various materials.
Disinfectant Wipes/Spray
Preferably, go with EPA-approved disinfectants to clean high-touch surfaces.
Microfiber Cloths
These are more effective at trapping dirt and leaving behind no streaks. They’re highly absorbent as well.
Sponges
Don’t use metal foams or stainless steel scrubs, opt for non-abrasive ones to avoid scratching delicate surfaces.
Paper Towels
These are handy for cleaning emergency spills.
Trash Bags
Choose heavy-duty trash bags that don’t easily tear or leak, especially for disposing of waste from bathrooms or kitchens.
Duster
Most commercial cleaning jobs involve high-ceiling cleaning. Use a duster with an extendable handle that can reach ceiling fans, light fixtures, and high corners.
Broom and Dustpan
Get these for general sweeping and debris collection.
Floors
Floors are among the hardest hit in any commercial space, due to the influx of people coming, and going, and the impact their foot traffic has on a floor’s cleanliness and shine. These materials should be on your watch list.
Floor Buffers
Choose industrial floor buffers that have a multi-purpose function. Most in the market can do various tasks like cleaning, shining, scrubbing, buffing, and stripping.
Floor Cleaners
Not all floor cleaners are formulated equally. Choose those appropriate for the type of flooring you’re expecting to clean. Avoid ammonia, or bleach-based ones, as these damage hardwood and other delicate flooring. Opt for non-harsh cleaning solutions or bleach alternatives instead.
Vacuum Cleaner
Like floor buffers, most vacuum cleaners in the market are multipurpose and can be used for wet and dry cleaning— go for those. Choose vacuums effective in siphoning dust.
Floor Stripper/Waxer
For vinyl or linoleum floors, a floor stripping solution is essential to remove a buildup of old wax. It also helps restore shine and protects the surface with another coating.
Carpet Shampooer
Commercial cleaning jobs that involve offices or lobbies will involve carpets. So make sure to have this at the ready for deep cleaning to help remove carpet stains, embedded dirt, allergens, debris, and the like.
Restrooms
Bathrooms can make or break people’s impression of a commercial space. These should be kept clean at all times, not just for the employees’ benefit, but for everyone’s health and safety. Here are the cleaning supplies you should have to keep your restrooms sparkling clean:
Toilet Bowl Cleaner
Invest in a sturdy toilet bowl cleaner to help you remove stains easily.
Disinfectant
Multi-surface disinfectants are great for wiping down countertops, sinks, mirrors, and other high-touch areas in a restroom.
Glass Cleaner
Not just any all-purpose cleaner will work for glass. Use a streak-free solution that can keep mirrors and windows in restrooms spotless.
Toilet Brush
Toilet brushes help you reach difficult-to-clean zones. They can make the job of cleaning toilets easier (and less disgusting).
Plunger
Use this to unblock clogged toilets and sinks so they remain functional and hygienic.
Hand Soap & Sanitizer
Always make sure hand soaps and sanitizers are well stocked in any restroom so users have access to them.
Paper Towel Dispenser
Stock the bathroom with paper towels as well to keep hands dry and also for cleaning up easy spills.
Toilet Paper Dispenser
Ensure bathroom cubicles have a stocked supply of toilet paper towels, regardless of them having a bidet at the ready.
Kitchen/Break Room
Clean and well-stocked breakrooms improve employee satisfaction and productivity. It also encourages them to clean up after themselves, especially if they tie a sense of ownership to this space. Keep this space sparkling clean with these crucial supplies:
Dish Soap
Staff and employees need dish soap so they can easily wash utensils, dishes, and the like.
Dishwasher Detergent
For break rooms with a dishwasher, make sure to stock up on good-quality detergents for better cleaning and sanitization.
Sponges and Scrub Brushes
Sponges are ideal for general cleaning and scrubbing brushes (stainless steel wool) are for tougher messes, and harder-to-clean stains on dishes and break room appliances.
Coffee Machine Cleaning Powder
Invest in a coffee machine cleaning powder to easily get rid of grease, coffee ground stains, and the like. While dish soap can work, coffee machine cleaning powders get the job done much more efficiently.
Windows
Windows provide a glimpse into a commercial space’s interiors and also allow natural light to flow inside. Keep them clean, clear, and streak-free with these essential tools:
Squeegee
A squeegee is used for cleaning larger windows or glass surfaces by removing excess water without leaving behind streaks. Choose one with a rubber blade and an ergonomic handle for easy use.
Extension Poles
Extension poles are for cleaning high-rise windows. Most are already pre-attached with squeegees or microfiber cloths to allow safe and efficient cleaning from the ground.
Bucket and Water
This is pretty basic. Have a clean bucket and water to rinse away dirty squeegees and remove any excess residue.
Specialized Cleaning Solutions
Beyond general, everyday cleaning, commercial spaces need specialized solutions and equipment for industry-specific cleaning challenges. Here’s a general list of what you’ll need to help you tackle jobs like that:
- Carpet Stain Remover: These can eliminate deep-seated coffee spill stains and muddy footprints.
- Grout Cleaners: Applicable for tile-online surfaces. But they’re crucial as most tile walls or flooring can discolor easily. Get a dedicated grout cleaner from well-known brands like Zep or Goo Gone.
- Stainless Steel Polish: Weiman Stainless Steel Cleaner & Polish is recommended for stainless steel fixtures and equipment. These are streak-free and also help remove fingerprint smudges, restoring shine in the process.
- Wood Polish: For offices or commercial spaces with wood furniture or paneling, use a gentle wood polish like Pledge.
- Degreasers: Usually for heavy-duty cleaning in industrial settings like kitchens. Degreasers help remove tough grime and stains on walls, like those from smoke or nicotine
- Hospital-Grade Disinfectants: Hospitals and healthcare facilities need cleaning that adheres to the highest health standards. Choose disinfectants strictly labeled as hospital-grade.
Personal Protective Equipment
Cleaning products and tools are essential, but you shouldn’t overlook your safety as part of the cleaning staff. The following protective wear ensures the cleaning process remains safe for both you and the workspace:
- Heavy-Duty Rubber Gloves: These protect hands from corrosive cleaning solutions and possible irritants. Choose comfortable and durable ones that fit snugly to prevent slipping.
- Face Masks: Common cleaning accidents include inhaling toxic fumes due to dangerous mixtures of chemicals and glasses. Don’t be part of the statistics by wearing a face mask, which helps protect your respiratory system. Look for those with specific hazard ratings for commercial spaces that you’ll anticipate cleaning.
- Cleaning Caddy: Having a well-organized and well-stocked cleaning caddy allows you easy access to common cleaning tools you’ll need to use during the job. If you’re a commercial cleaning business, make sure each of your staff has this so they can do the cleaning much faster.
- Warning Signs: Prevent falls and accidents by placing “Wet Floor” warning signs in areas where cleaning is in progress, especially when cleaning during non-off-peak hours. This allows building patrons to take caution, preventing slips.
- First Aid Kit: A basic first aid kit should be at the ready in case of minor injuries. Stock it with essential supplies like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers.
Customize Your Cleaning Supplies Or Equipment Based On The Job
While this article provides a comprehensive list of cleaning tools and equipment for commercial cleaning tasks, don’t consider these to be set in stone. Every commercial space is unique, and so are its cleaning requirements.
Customizing your cleaning arsenal is crucial to achieve maximum results and ensure your client’s satisfaction. Consider the specific surfaces, materials, and challenges of each space before selecting your tools and products. A little research and flexibility can go a long way in delivering a truly exceptional clean.