Cleaning and sanitizing are necessary for facilities in every industry – especially in the wake of the pandemic. We have watched in recent months as cleaning requirements have changed and become more stringent. While increased cleaning can improve safety, it can also increase cleaning costs, from personnel to specialty cleaners and sanitizers.
Read below for some of our cost saving cleaning tips. Although some of these suggestions may require an investment on the front end, they more than pay for themselves in the long run. See which money saving strategies will work for your facility.
Choose Products that are Multi-Purpose
Some surfaces may require special products, but most are pretty easy to care for, and a good multi-surface cleaner will work well. Using one multi-surface cleaner instead of several specialty products will help save costs because you can purchase bulk quantities of one item, and can help ensure that your janitorial supply closet is always stocked.
Train Your Janitorial Staff
Training your staff can help you cut costs in some surprising areas. Your equipment may last longer because employees will know how to use it properly and will be less likely to abuse it. Additionally, proper training on product usage will cut down on overuse and waste.
Don’t Skimp on Quality
Quality costs more, but it can also reduce your overall cleaning costs. Quality cleaning products tend to be more effective, easier to use, last longer, and don’t require as much work. Your team can get the work done faster and more efficiently with quality products that do the job right the first time.
Automate Cleaning Practices
Automating cleaning practices can save time and money while improving sanitation even more. A mop and bucket are time consuming and back breaking, not to mention spreading more grime and contaminants than they clean. Replacing the mop and bucket with a walk behind or riding scrubber will cut your cleaning time dramatically and leave your facility much cleaner.
Establish a Protocol for Reordering
Put protocols in place that include an inventory of products, and a reorder process that prevents you from ever running out. This can prevent the added expense of rush orders, buying off the shelf, and expedited shipping costs. When your supply gets to a certain level, say one or two full containers of product, put in for a reorder. Ordering ahead also gives you time to make other arrangements when a product is sold out or discontinued.
Purchase Concentrated Product in Bulk
Many manufacturers of cleaning products will give discounts for bulk orders, such as a five-gallon bucket of concentrate as opposed to a ready to use product in a smaller container. Make sure that your janitorial team has what they need to mix the product and prepare it, including training.
Invest in More Efficient Equipment
When it comes down to it, your equipment matters. There are new cleaning technologies like floor scrubbers and floor sweepers on the market right now that will streamline your operation and give you a deeper, truer clean. At the same time, it will reduce your labor expenses and make it easier for your team to do their job.
