Common Office Cleaning Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

A clean office is a happy office. But sometimes, even when we try our best, we miss important spots. At Smart Janitorial, we’ve seen many small cleaning mistakes turn into big problems. Here are the most common office cleaning mistakes—and how to fix them.

1. Skipping High-Touch Areas

Doorknobs, light switches, and phones get touched all day long. But they’re often missed during cleaning. This can spread germs fast.

How to fix it: Make sure high-touch spots are cleaned and disinfected every day.

2. Forgetting to Empty Trash Cans Daily

Trash that sits too long starts to smell and attract bugs.

How to fix it: Empty trash cans daily, even if they’re not full.

3. Not Cleaning Under and Behind Things

Dust hides under desks, behind printers, and around baseboards.

How to fix it: Move small furniture once a week to clean hidden spots.

4. Using the Wrong Products

Using harsh cleaners on the wrong surfaces can damage desks, floors, or electronics.

How to fix it: Use the right cleaner for each surface. Always check the label.

5. Overlooking Restrooms

Bathrooms should be cleaned every day. A dirty restroom can make workers and customers unhappy.

How to fix it: Clean toilets, sinks, and floors daily. Refill soap and paper towels.

6. Cleaning in a Rush

When cleaning is rushed, things get missed—like corners, shelves, or air vents.

How to fix it: Give cleaning teams the time they need to do it right. Quality matters.

7. No Checklist

Without a checklist, it’s easy to forget tasks.

How to fix it: Use a cleaning checklist. It keeps the team on track and nothing gets missed.

8. Not Hiring Professionals

Sometimes, staff is asked to clean, even though it’s not their job. This can lead to poor results.

How to fix it: Hire a professional janitorial team like Smart Janitorial. We are trained to clean the right way, every time.

Why It Matters

A clean office helps everyone feel better, work better, and stay healthy. It also gives visitors a great first impression.

Need help keeping your office clean the right way?

Smart Janitorial has over 12 years of experience and more than 2,500 happy customers. We serve offices, warehouses, and more in Orange County and Los Angeles County.

Schedule a Free Quote today! Or call 888-994-6439