Looking for a Janitorial Cleaning Service Provider? Consider these 7 Factors

Many business owners and facility managers may not realize the full impact of a clean environment. For those who appreciate data and measurable outcomes, here are some compelling statistics to consider:

• A University of Arizona study found that office desks harbor over 400 times more bacteria than a typical toilet seat.
• A Staples survey revealed that 94% of employees feel more productive in a clean workspace.
•  The Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine reported that workplace respiratory illnesses can cost employers $134 per employee annually.
• According to Intouch Insight, 53% of consumers consider cleanliness a key factor when choosing a convenience store.

These statistics highlight the real value of investing in quality janitorial services. Your facility’s cleanliness directly affects employee productivity, customer impressions, and your bottom line.

In a previous article, we covered the key factors to prioritize when choosing a facility maintenance provider. Now, let’s focus on the essential considerations for selecting the right janitorial service provider.

7 Considerations for Evaluating Janitorial Cleaning and General Janitorial Services

1) Scope of Janitorial Services Provided

When selecting a janitorial service provider, it’s crucial to assess the comprehensiveness of their offerings and how well they align with your specific needs. Janitorial companies often provide diverse services, which aren’t always standardized across the industry. Therefore, it’s essential to choose a provider that can fully meet your company’s unique needs so you won’t have to seek additional services as your business grows. For example, here at US&S, our janitorial services include:

• Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning
• Clean Room Services
• COVID-19 Cleaning & Disinfecting
• Day Porters & Nightly Attendants
• Facility Sanitization & Sterile Cleaning
• General Janitorial Services
• Green Cleaning & Recycling Support
• Hard Surface Floor Care
• Lighting Cleaning
• Supply Management & Inventory Control
• Windows & Blinds Cleaning

2) Experience in Your Industry

Industry-specific experience is paramount, especially in sectors where cleanliness standards are non-negotiable, such as healthcare, education, or food processing. A janitorial service provider with relevant experience will understand your industry’s unique challenges and regulatory requirements. They’ll have the specialized skills, established procedures, and appropriate equipment to maintain the required level of cleanliness and hygiene. 

For instance, in a healthcare setting — like medical office cleaning — the janitorial staff should be familiar with infection control protocols and the proper handling of biohazardous waste. In an educational environment, they should know how to maintain cleanliness while working around busy class schedules. This industry-specific knowledge ensures that the cleaning staff can perform their duties efficiently and effectively, meeting all necessary standards and regulations.

3) Sustainable Cleaning Practices

Sustainability is becoming a key aspect of janitorial cleaning services. Green cleaning practices 

benefit the environment and the health of your employees and clients. When considering a janitorial service provider, inquire about their cleaning supplies and methods. For instance, ask whether they use eco-friendly products free from harsh chemicals. Do they employ sustainable multi-use cleaning items such as refillable spray bottles and microfiber cloths? Are water-saving techniques part of their standard procedures? 

Janitorial companies prioritizing sustainable cleaning demonstrate a commitment to corporate responsibility, and the advantages to your facility are multifaceted. From reducing your facility’s environmental footprint to enhancing its image, this forward-thinking and environmentally-aware approach adds long-term value to your operations.

4) Compliance & Certifications

A trustworthy and reputable janitorial service provider will possess all necessary licenses, insurance coverage, and industry certifications. These credentials offer protection to both you and them, and serve as indicators of their commitment to delivering high-quality services. Start by verifying that the company is licensed and insured, which safeguards you from liability in case of accidents or property damage during cleaning operations. Beyond these basics, look for compliance with national, regional, and industry-specific standards. Certifications serve as tangible proof of a provider’s commitment to maintaining quality, adhering to safety protocols, following environmental regulations, and pursuing sustainability initiatives. 

Here at US&S, we have been honored with the following awards and certifications:

• CIMS with Honors
• CIMS-GB with honors (Green Building) — A certification by the International Sanitary Supply Association (ISSA)
• SDVOSB (Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business)
• NMSDC (National Minority Supplier Development Council)
• CVMSDC (Carolinas-Virginia Supplier Development Council)

5) Single-Source Facility Services

Opting for a janitorial service provider that offers a wide range of facility management services can significantly streamline your operations through vendor consolidation. By bringing maintenance, operations, janitorial cleaning, supply management, and inventory control under one roof, you gain increased flexibility and scalability. This consolidated approach allows quick adjustments to meet evolving facility needs while simplifying administration through a single point of contact. 

If you prefer to begin with a smaller scope, choose a janitorial service provider that also offers specialized commercial cleaning services. This will simplify your vendor relationships and lead to cost efficiencies.

6) Customer Service

The quality of customer service can make or break your experience with your selected janitorial service provider. Strong communication and a client-centric approach are fundamental to a successful long-term collaboration. Look for a provider that values transparent communication, demonstrates prompt responsiveness to inquiries or concerns, and offers regular reporting on facility performance. A provider with excellent customer service will be proactive in addressing issues, open to feedback, and willing to adapt their services to better meet your needs. 

Outstanding customer support enhances overall satisfaction and ensures that any issues are quickly resolved, constantly maintaining the high standard of cleanliness your facility requires.

7) Budget Considerations

While budget is an important factor when selecting a janitorial service provider, it’s essential to balance cost with value. Rather than simply choosing the lowest price, it’s important to consider what you’re getting for your investment. A reliable provider should offer a comprehensive range of services that meet your specific needs without compromising on quality.

By investing in a janitorial service that delivers consistent results, you can avoid potential hidden costs, such as the negative impact of inadequate cleaning on employee health, client impressions, or the longevity of your facility’s materials. The goal is to find a provider who offers dependable service at a fair price, ensuring that your facility remains clean, safe, and well-maintained for the long term.

Clean Spaces, Thriving Businesses

Don’t overlook the dust! If you’re a business owner or facility manager, who doesn’t notice the dust. This is the time to consider hiring a professional janitorial service provider to take care of it for you. By carefully considering the seven factors listed above, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your needs and budget. Remember, investing in quality janitorial services is an investment in your business’s success and longevity.

Ready to improve your facility’s cleanliness and boost productivity? Contact US&S today for a free consultation on how we can meet your janitorial service needs.