As the old saying goes, “Preparation is the key to success.” Commercial cleaning can be as straightforward or as tedious as any other kind of service. One of your biggest challenges is that you don’t know what cleaning supplies you need until you visit the business location for the first time.
We always visit first to provide an accurate quote and determine what you need to get the job done right. It is a best practice to be over-prepared for first appointments with a new client. In this article, we’ll list the bare necessities needed as a thorough commercial cleaning service that will leave a great first impression.
The Bare Necessities
Bucket or Container for Supplies
You likely won’t need a bucket every time you clean, but when you do, you’ll be happy you have it. When not using it for something else, utilize it as a caddy for carrying your other cleaning supplies. Having a large carrying container is crucial for carrying and organizing the long list of cleaning supplies listed below. A lot of time and energy can be saved just from being organized.
Rubber Gloves
A durable set of thick rubber gloves is affordable and an absolute necessity for keeping your hands dry. Your hands should also be protected from cleaning chemicals and whatever grime you’re facing. Rubber gloves last far longer than regular latex gloves and should be used often when cleaning.
Paper Towels
As you probably know, paper towels are a kind of a highly absorbent towel that is great for general cleaning. They pair well with almost any type of cleaner and are very affordable. However, it would be best to avoid using too many to minimize your environmental impact while cleaning.
Mop and Bucket
To save yourself some time, you will want a mop for cleaning hard surface floors. Depending on the type of mop, they can be effortless to use, clean and carry.
Vacuum
A vacuum cleaner is a definite must-have, even if your clients don’t have carpeted floors to clean. For how much dirt and dust they remove, they can’t even be compared to sweeping with a broom. If you don’t have space or budget for a stand-up vacuum, you can purchase a handheld one. They’re great for vacuuming problem areas like baseboards, couches, and errant pet fur anywhere it ends up.
Extendable Duster
As its name suggests, this is a necessity for all the dusting you’ll be doing. You’ll want a duster that can extend, so you can reach the tough spots that tend to collect the most dust. A good duster will be sturdy but still lightweight and easy to maneuver.
Toilet Brush and Holder
A bristle toilet brush will help you get a toilet bowl sparkling with very minimal effort. For the sake of the environment and your wallet, buy a reusable one and replace it accordingly.
Tile and Grout Brush
You’ll need one of these for tackling the tough stuff that doesn’t easily wipe away. This goes for cleaning soap scum, mould, mildew and rust build-up. Combine a tile and grout brush with a strong concentrated cleaner/degreaser for the cleanest result and lowest effort.
Disinfecting Multi-purpose Cleaner
A great multi-surface, all-purpose cleaner is one of the essential cleaning products you can own. All-purpose cleaners effectively take care of grease, dirt, and stains, and most don’t require much more than a spray and a wipe. It pairs well with paper towels for fast and effective cleaning of most surfaces.
Glass Cleaner
This is required to clean mirrors and windows effectively. It shouldn’t be mixed with any other cleaning products and should only be used on glass surfaces for your clients.
Stainless Steel Cleaner
For a cleaning that will last until your next visit, you’ll want to use a cleaning product specifically for stainless steel. Depending on the quality, it can leave a protective coating that helps prevent fingerprints and other smudges.
Wood Surface Cleaner
Like for the last two cleaners, you’ll want a cleaner made explicitly for this surface. Using this over a general surface cleaner can make a big difference in having the wood show its colour.
Garbage Bags
Depending on the client, you may need several garbage bags per visit. They’re affordable, lightweight and accommodating for gathering trash while cleaning. Changing garbage bags may also be one of the services you offer.
Conclusion
Keep in mind that some essential cleaning products might not be necessary for your clients. For example, if they don’t have any granite to clean, then you certainly shouldn’t invest in a specific cleaner for it.
This list offers a strong base of necessities for you to start with. As discussed, every client will have different needs, so you will likely require more supplies to service them effectively. An excellent cleaning service is one that is customized to each client’s specific needs.
