Managing cleaning costs while maintaining a clean facility can feel like walking a tightrope. Lean too far toward cutting expenses, and you risk lowering the quality of service. But spending too much on cleaning services may strain your budget unnecessarily. Striking the right balance is key to achieving both a tidy facility and a healthy bottom line.
If you’ve ever considered asking your cleaning company for a discount, you’ve likely discovered that this often leads to reduced service quality. Instead of going down that road, here are two strategies to help you save money while keeping your space clean and welcoming.
1. Reassess Cleaning Frequencies
Labor is the biggest expense in the janitorial industry, accounting for about 60% of the costs. To lower your expenses, consider whether some tasks can be done less frequently. Many companies stick to cleaning schedules that were set up long ago without questioning whether they still make sense. Adjusting these routines can reveal opportunities to save money.
For example, some areas in your facility may currently be cleaned daily, even though they don’t get much use. Offices that see minimal foot traffic might not require cleaning every day and could instead be cleaned weekly. By reallocating labor hours, you can ensure high-traffic areas still receive regular attention while cutting back on less essential tasks.
Action Step: Take a fresh look at your cleaning needs. Which areas are used the most and need frequent cleaning? Which spaces could have their cleaning schedules scaled back? A professional cleaning provider can help you analyze your facility and recommend adjustments to keep it looking its best while reducing unnecessary labor.
2. Pay for Project Work Only When Needed
Special services, like floor stripping, carpet cleaning, or window washing, often make up a significant part of your janitorial expenses. These tasks are important, but some contracts automatically include them on a pre-set schedule, whether they’re needed or not. This approach can lead to wasted spending on services that could be done less often.
A better option is to arrange for project work on an as-needed basis instead of bundling it into your monthly bill. For example, you might find that floor waxing twice a year is sufficient instead of the four times included in your contract. By scheduling these services only when required, you can significantly lower your annual cleaning costs.
Action Step: Talk to your cleaning contractor about establishing a unit price for extra services, such as window washing or carpet cleaning. Instead of having these tasks automatically included in your monthly bill, schedule them only as needed. This simple change can save you money without compromising the overall cleanliness of your facility.
Balancing cost and quality in your cleaning program doesn’t have to feel like walking a tightrope. By reassessing your cleaning needs and rethinking how you pay for project work, you can maintain a clean, professional space while keeping expenses under control.
Need help finding the right balance? Reach out for a free consultation, and we’ll work with you to create a customized cleaning plan that fits your needs and budget.
