How COVID-19 Changed the Commercial Cleaning Industry: New Standards and Practices
Henrique Dantas • January 11, 2025

The COVID-19 pandemic dramatically transformed many industries, and commercial cleaning is no exception. In the wake of the global health crisis, businesses and organizations have had to rethink how they maintain cleanliness and sanitation in their spaces. What was once considered "routine" cleaning has evolved into a more comprehensive and frequent approach to ensure the safety and health of employees, customers, and visitors.



In this blog post, we’ll explore how COVID-19 changed the commercial cleaning industry and the new standards and practices that businesses must adopt in a post-pandemic world.

How COVID-19 Changed the Commercial Cleaning Industry: New Standards and Practices

1. Increased Focus on High-Touch Surfaces


Before COVID-19, routine cleaning focused largely on floors, windows, and general dusting. Post-pandemic, there’s been a significant shift toward sanitizing high-touch surfaces, which are areas that individuals frequently come into contact with throughout the day. These include:


  • Door handles
  • Light switches
  • Elevator buttons
  • Shared office equipment (printers, copiers, phones)
  • Kitchen and bathroom surfaces


The increased awareness of the spread of viruses means that businesses now need to sanitize these surfaces multiple times a day, especially in high-traffic areas, to reduce the risk of infection.


2. The Rise of Electrostatic Disinfecting Sprayers


One of the most significant advancements in commercial cleaning technology has been the rise of electrostatic disinfecting sprayers. These machines help cleaners disinfect large areas quickly and efficiently, ensuring that every surface is evenly coated with cleaning solutions. Electrostatic sprayers use an electrically charged mist that clings to surfaces, providing better coverage compared to traditional cleaning methods.


These sprayers are now an essential part of commercial cleaning services, especially in businesses where high-traffic areas need regular disinfection, such as offices, healthcare facilities, schools, and retail spaces.


3. Increased Frequency of Cleaning


Pre-pandemic, many businesses had cleaning services scheduled on a weekly or bi-weekly basis. However, the pandemic has changed the game, pushing many businesses to opt for daily or even multiple daily cleanings. Regular sanitization of common areas, kitchens, bathrooms, and meeting rooms is now essential to reduce the spread of bacteria and viruses.


Many companies are also opting for deep cleaning services between regular cleans to ensure a thorough and comprehensive disinfection of their entire office space.


4. Use of Hospital-Grade Cleaning Products


As part of the new hygiene standards, commercial cleaning services now utilize hospital-grade disinfectants that are proven to kill viruses and bacteria effectively. These disinfectants have become the new standard in the industry, ensuring that every inch of a facility is safe for use. The cleaning products used must meet the EPA's guidelines for disinfectants, particularly in high-risk environments like offices, gyms, and public spaces.


Businesses can now expect a more thorough cleaning service with products that provide longer-lasting protection, reducing the risk of future outbreaks.


5. Enhanced Employee and Client Safety Protocols


COVID-19 has prompted businesses to enforce strict employee safety protocols, such as requiring workers to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) during cleaning operations. This ensures that both cleaning staff and clients are protected during the cleaning process.


In addition, businesses are now adopting social distancing guidelines in their cleaning processes, ensuring that cleaners work during off-hours or when employees are not present to minimize contact. These practices not only maintain a clean environment but also ensure that the workplace remains safe for everyone involved.


6. Focus on Indoor Air Quality


A clean environment isn't just about sanitized surfaces — it's also about the air we breathe. As people became more aware of how viruses can spread through the air, there was a noticeable shift toward improving indoor air quality (IAQ). Many businesses are now investing in air purifiers, HVAC cleaning, and high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters to reduce airborne contaminants.

Regular maintenance of HVAC systems is crucial to prevent the buildup of dust, mold, and bacteria that can negatively impact air quality. In commercial cleaning, this focus on air quality is becoming an essential part of routine services.


7. Touchless and Smart Cleaning Solutions


With the push for contactless experiences, touchless technology has found its place in the commercial cleaning industry. For example, touchless dispensers for hand sanitizers, soaps, and paper towels are now common in office spaces and public areas. Additionally, smart cleaning systems that monitor and report on the cleanliness of spaces in real-time have also gained traction.

These innovations help businesses maintain a cleaner environment while minimizing human contact, which is especially important in today's health-conscious world.


8. Post-Pandemic Cleaning and Disinfection Certification


Businesses are increasingly looking for certification that their space has been properly cleaned and disinfected to meet COVID-19 standards. Cleaning companies like It's All Clean San Diego now offer post-pandemic cleaning certifications, giving businesses the assurance they need to let customers and employees know they are taking every step to ensure a safe environment.

This certification not only boosts confidence but also demonstrates a company's commitment to safety and cleanliness.


9. Customer Expectations Have Evolved


Finally, COVID-19 has fundamentally changed customer expectations when it comes to cleanliness. Customers and employees alike now expect higher standards of hygiene, and businesses must meet these elevated expectations. Clients are now more likely to choose companies that prioritize cleanliness and safety, especially in industries like retail, hospitality, and corporate offices.

As businesses move forward, providing a clean, sanitized environment will remain a critical component of customer satisfaction and brand reputation.


Stay Ahead of the Curve with Professional Cleaning Services


As the commercial cleaning industry continues to evolve, businesses must adapt to the new standards and practices to ensure the health and safety of their staff and clients. By working with a professional cleaning company like It’s All Clean San Diego, you can ensure that your business is not only meeting current hygiene standards but exceeding them.


Whether you need daily cleaning, specialized disinfection services, or deep cleaning for your office or commercial space, our team is equipped with the latest tools and knowledge to keep your environment safe and spotless.


Are you ready to take cleanliness and safety to the next level? Schedule an appointment with It’s All Clean San Diego today to experience the highest standard of commercial cleaning services. Our team is here to help you maintain a clean, safe, and healthy environment for your employees and customers. Contact us now to learn more about our comprehensive cleaning solutions!

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 It's All Clean San Diego © 2021

Contact us!

Its All Clean San Diego
San Diego, CA 
info@itsallcleansandiego.com
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