Keeping your business clean and safe is essential for all business owners, but navigating the vast array of cleaning services available can be overwhelming. From commercial cleaning supplies to industrial cleaning products, understanding the different options available is key.

Both commercial and industrial cleaning services offer professional solutions to remove dirt, debris, and contaminants from business premises.

The key differences lie not just in the types of spaces they service, but also in the cleaning methods and materials the services use.

Let’s look at what each service involves and shed some light on the key distinctions between commercial and industrial cleaning so you can make an informed decision for your business cleaning needs.

Commercial cleaning

Building managers and property owners across various industries generally engage commercial cleaners to:

· improve health and safety

· enhance the appearance of the working environment

· increase staff productivity

· extend the property lifespan

· comply with regulations.

Commercial cleaners maintain a clean and hygienic environment by removing dirt, dust, and other contaminants through routine maintenance. This includes tasks such as dusting, mopping, vacuuming, and sanitising surfaces.

Commercial cleaning locations

Commercial cleaning services cater to a wide range of businesses, including:

• Offices—maintaining cleanliness through trash removal, vacuuming carpets, and general tidying.
• Food Service—keeping tables clear and surfaces sanitised in restaurants, sporting arenas, and similar establishments.
• Retail—weeping floors, mopping entryways, and ensuring overall cleanliness in stores of all kinds.­
• Schools—wiping down desks between classes and maintaining hygiene in classrooms and common areas.
• Daycares—providing c­onstant cleaning throughout the day to ensure a safe and tidy environment for children.

The cleaning frequency depends on the specific location and traffic level:

• High-traffic areas (offices, stores, restaurants, gyms)
  • Daily cleaning is recommended.
• Schools and offices (workstations and common areas)
  • 2-3 times a week is typical.
• Floors and windows
  • Generally require weekly cleaning.

Commercial cleaning materials

A professional cleaner may use various commercial cleaning supplies such as:

• microfibre cloths and mops
• rubbish bags and liners
• vacuum cleaners
• brooms and dustpans
• buckets and sponges
• soap-based detergents
• disinfectant wipes and sprays
• polishes, waxes, and buffers
• degreasers
• window cleaning squeegees and cloths
• carpet extractors
• steam cleaners

Industrial cleaning

Industrial cleaning is specialist heavy-duty cleaning that deals with potentially hazardous materials to ensure safety and hygiene. Industrial cleaners must adhere to strict safety protocols and when necessary, wear personal protective equipment (PPE) like biohazard suits for safety. Typical tasks of an industrial cleaner include:

• deep-cleaning machinery
• pressure washing
• removing hazardous waste.

Industrial cleaning practices:

• prevents contamination, protecting surfaces and equipment from damage or buildup of substances. These include oil, fats, dust, waterborne compounds, and chemicals.
• maintains hygiene, ensuring a clean and sanitary environment for workers to minimise health risks.

Locations for industrial cleaning

Industrial cleaning occurs in facilities that handle or generate potentially hazardous materials and require specialised cleaning procedures. Common locations include:

• factories and manufacturing plants—production lines, machinery, and storage areas all require regular cleaning to prevent contamination and ensure proper equipment function.
• warehouses—these large spaces can accumulate dust, dirt, and debris, and require cleaning to maintain a safe working environment and prevent fire hazards.
• power plants—maintaining cleanliness in power plants is crucial for safety and efficiency. Industrial cleaning ensures the removal of dust, grime, and potential contaminants from critical equipment.
• pharmaceutical facilities—these facilities require stringent cleaning protocols to prevent contamination and ensure the sterility of medical supplies.
• other industrial settings such as chemical plants, oil refineries, and food processing facilities can all benefit from industrial cleaning services.

Industrial cleaning materials

Industrial cleaning often relies on industrial cleaning products like:

• Solvents such as:
  • acetone
  • esters
  • alcohols for various cleaning tasks.
• Acids such as sulfuric and hydrochloric acid (used cautiously by trained professionals) for breaking down tough stains.

Key differences between commercial and industrial cleaning

Cleaning focus

• Commercial cleaning targets areas frequently used by people (restaurants, offices, schools).
• Industrial cleaning tackles tougher tasks like heavy-duty scrubbing, foaming, and pressure washing in factories and warehouses.
• Industrial cleaning must adhere to stricter industry regulations and environmental protocols compared to commercial cleaning.
• The business environments differ. Office spaces typically require commercial cleaning, while factories necessitate industrial cleaning.

Cleaning intensity

• Commercial cleaning removes dirt and grime from readily accessible areas.
• Industrial cleaning handles deep cleaning of machinery, high areas, and heavily soiled floors exposed to chemicals.

Choosing the right cleaning partner

The ideal cleaning service hinges on your specific needs. Consider these factors:

• Do you need routine maintenance or deep cleaning for heavy machinery or hazardous materials?
• Check if your industry has specific cleaning regulations that require specialised services and industrial cleaners.
• Some cleaning companies offer additional services like managing and disposing of hazardous waste generated during the cleaning process.
• Consider companies that prioritise eco-friendly cleaning products and practices whenever possible, promoting a healthy environment both inside and outside your business.
• Opt for a reputable cleaning company with experience in your industry and a commitment to quality service, safety, and providing the necessary commercial cleaning supplies in Melbourne or industrial cleaning products required for the job

Make the right decision with knowledge

Empowering yourself with knowledge is the key to creating a clean, safe, and healthy environment for your employees, customers, and visitors. By understanding your business’s specific cleaning requirements, the distinctions between commercial and industrial cleaning services, and any relevant regulations that may apply to your industry, you’ll be well-equipped to make an informed decision. Prioritising a clean, healthy business goes beyond aesthetics; it’s an investment in the well-being of your staff, the positive perception of your business, and ultimately, its success.