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Originally Posted On: https://awesomeshine.org/2024/07/19/high-traffic-areas-in-offices-that-need-frequent-cleaning/

High-Traffic Areas in Offices That Need Frequent Cleaning

In today’s fast-paced business environment, maintaining a clean and healthy office is more critical than ever. It can be easy to miss some of the most crucial areas during the cleaning process, though. These are known as the high-touch and high-traffic areas.

High-traffic areas require special attention as they accumulate dirt, germs, and clutter more quickly than other parts of the office. Join Awesome Shine Floor Care as we explore the top six high-traffic areas in offices that need frequent cleaning—and the best practices for keeping them spotless.

1. Entryways and Reception Areas

The first impression is crucial, and the reception area is where it all begins. This high-traffic zone is the face of your office and sees constant foot traffic from employees, clients, and visitors.

Some of the ways you can keep these areas clean include:

• Daily vacuuming and mopping to remove dirt and debris brought in from outside.
• Dusting surfaces such as reception desks, waiting area furniture, and decorative items.
• Cleaning glass doors and windows to remove fingerprints and smudges.
• Sanitizing high-touch points like door handles, sign-in tablets, and pens.

2. Office Hallways and Corridors

Hallways and corridors are the arteries of the office, facilitating movement throughout the workspace. However, due to constant use, these areas can quickly become cluttered and dirty.

Frequent vacuuming or sweeping will keep floors free of dust and debris that can irritate people’s eyes and create unsightly discoloration on carpets. If needed, invest in routine hardwood floor care.

3. Conference Rooms

You might not use the conference room every day, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t a mess hiding behind that door. You never know when you might need to call a meeting, and that’s all the more reason to make sure the area is always as clean as can be.

Cleaning the Conference Room: Sanitization is Key

Ensure someone sanitizes shared equipment like projectors, remote controls, and whiteboard markers. Also, be sure to clean and sanitize whiteboards and presentation tools regularly. Every little bit of effort makes your conference room all the more hygienic and professional.

4. Break Rooms and Kitchens

Break rooms and kitchens serve as vital spaces for employee relaxation and meal preparation. However, without regular cleaning, they can quickly become breeding grounds for harmful bacteria such as E. coli and Salmonella. Food spills, crumbs, and improperly stored leftovers provide ideal conditions for bacterial growth, posing significant health risks to employees.

Proper sanitation practices include:

• Routine cleaning of countertops
• Sink cleaning
• Appliance care
• Emptying trash cans
• Mopping floors
• …and more

5. Restroom Cleaning

The restroom is one of the busiest spaces in an office and requires frequent cleaning. To effectively clean restrooms, it’s essential to implement a rigorous cleaning regimen. This includes daily cleaning and sanitizing of toilets, sinks, and countertops to prevent the buildup of bacteria and viruses.

Regularly refilling soap dispensers, toilet paper, and paper towels ensures that essential hygiene supplies are always available. Mopping floors with disinfectant is crucial to eliminating germs and maintaining a sanitary environment.

What Disinfectants Should You Use to Clean Bathroom Floors?

Look for disinfectants that are specifically formulated for use on floors and effective against a broad spectrum of bacteria and viruses. Opt for products that are safe for use on various flooring materials commonly found in restrooms, such as tile, vinyl, or concrete.

It’s not enough for your cleaners to pour disinfectants on the floors. It’s important to always follow instructions for dilution ratios and contact times to ensure maximum effectiveness and safety.

6. The High-Touch Areas

The high-touch areas throughout your office, such as light switches, doorknobs, and handrails, can harbor a significant number of germs and bacteria. Numerous people touch these surfaces daily, making them prime spots for the transmission of illnesses. Ensuring these areas are cleaned frequently is essential for maintaining a healthy office environment.

Common High-Touch Areas

• Light switches: Every room and hallway in an office has light switches that are constantly used. These can accumulate germs from the many hands that touch them throughout the day.
• Doorknobs and handles: Office, restroom, and cabinet doors are touched frequently, making them hotspots for germs.
• Handrails: Staircases and ramps are equipped with handrails for safety, but they also collect germs from hands that use them for support.
• Elevator buttons: With multiple floors in office buildings, elevator buttons are pressed by numerous individuals, making them one of the dirtiest surfaces.
• Shared office equipment: Items such as printers, copiers, and communal computers are used by many employees, leading to a high accumulation of germs.
• Water coolers and coffee machines: Common areas where employees gather to get drinks are also high-touch zones that need regular cleaning.

The Importance of Regular Office Cleaning

Maintaining a clean office is more than just an aesthetic choice—it’s a crucial component of a healthy, productive, and positive work environment. Regular office cleaning plays a significant role in safeguarding the health of employees by reducing the spread of germs and allergens, thereby minimizing sick days and promoting overall well-being.

Clean Workspaces Make for Productive Workspaces

A clean office also enhances productivity, too. Employees can focus better and work more efficiently in an organized, clutter-free space. Moreover, the cleanliness of an office greatly influences first impressions. Clients and visitors are more likely to perceive a business as professional and trustworthy when they encounter a well-maintained environment.

Boost Morale Through Thorough Cleaning

Lastly, regular cleaning boosts workplace morale. When employees see that their employer values cleanliness and hygiene, it fosters a sense of pride and satisfaction in their workplace, contributing to a happier and more motivated workforce.

In essence, regular office cleaning is an investment in your team’s health, productivity, and morale, as well as your business’s professional image.

Speak With Professional Cleaners Today

Focusing on these high-traffic areas when developing a cleaning plan will ensure that your office remains a safe and pleasant place for employees, clients, and visitors alike. If you need help implementing a cleaning regimen or want to request the services of professionals, call Awesome Shine Floor Care’s office cleaning experts. We’re available at (806) 792-2555.