Why Cleaning Quality Drops After 90 Days & How to Prevent It
In the latest episode of the Cleaning Indy Podcast, hosts Tom and Sarah Moore from American Facility Care tackle a prevalent issue in the janitorial industry: the noticeable decline in cleaning service quality after the initial 90 days. This phenomenon, often referred to as the end of the “honeymoon phase,” can lead to dissatisfaction among clients and challenges for service providers. Understanding the causes and implementing preventive measures are crucial for maintaining consistent cleanliness standards.
The Initial Cleaning “Honeymoon Phase”
At the onset of a new cleaning contract, companies frequently conduct a comprehensive deep clean, leaving facilities immaculate. This sets high expectations and showcases the company’s capabilities. However, without a structured maintenance plan, the effects of this initial deep clean diminish over time, resulting in a gradual decline in cleanliness.
Common Signs of Declining Quality
Clients may observe several indicators of reduced cleaning standards, including:
Missed Trash Cans: Overflowing or unattended waste bins.
Dust Accumulation: Visible dust on surfaces, equipment, or fixtures.
Unvacuumed Floors: Debris or dirt left on carpets and flooring.
Unstocked Restrooms: Insufficient supplies like soap, paper towels, or toilet paper.
Understanding the Root Causes
Several factors contribute to the decline in cleaning quality after the initial period:
Lack of Ongoing Training: Without continuous training, staff may not stay updated on best practices, leading to inconsistent cleaning methods.
Inconsistent Inspections and Supervision: Irregular oversight can result in overlooked tasks and declining standards.
Weak Communication Channels: Poor communication between clients and cleaning staff can cause unresolved issues to persist.
Increased Foot Traffic: Higher usage of facilities can lead to quicker wear and tear, necessitating more frequent cleaning.
Preventive Measures to Maintain Quality
To ensure sustained cleaning excellence, consider the following strategies:
Ask the Right Questions During the Bidding Process:
Complaint Resolution: Inquire about the company’s procedures for addressing complaints.
Supervision Structure: Understand the number of supervisors and managers dedicated to quality control.
Performance Tracking Systems: Determine if they utilize software, work orders, or inspections to monitor performance.
Enhance Communication and Relationship Building:
Regular Check-ins: Schedule frequent meetings with the cleaning team to address concerns promptly.
Specific Feedback: Provide detailed feedback rather than general comments to facilitate targeted improvements.
Foster Strong Relationships: A robust partnership with the contractor often leads to better service outcomes.
Assess and Adapt to Changing Cleaning Needs:
Monitor Facility Usage: Evaluate if increased foot traffic requires adjustments in cleaning frequency or methods.
Adjust Schedules Accordingly: Determine if current cleaning schedules suffice or if additional shifts are necessary.
Set Clear Expectations and Hold Contractors Accountable:
Define Scope of Work: Ensure all essential tasks are clearly outlined in the contract.
Implement Review Processes: Establish structured review mechanisms to consistently track performance.
Real-World Insight
Tom and Sarah highlight a case where a company switched cleaning providers due to poor complaint handling. The previous contractor’s approach involved reprimanding employees rather than addressing the root causes of issues. This underscores the importance of hiring a team with effective systems for managing concerns professionally.
Maintaining high-quality cleaning services beyond the initial 90 days requires proactive measures, including thorough vetting during the selection process, fostering open communication, adapting to changing needs, and setting clear expectations. By implementing these strategies, businesses can ensure a consistently clean environment, leading to enhanced satisfaction for both clients and employees.
Tom Moore has been a part of the commercial cleaning and facility management industry since 2005. He co-founded American Facility Care in 2014 with the idea of bringing safety and aesthetics to buildings across central Indiana. He has an APIC certification in Infection Control and Prevention, and enjoys passing that knowledge on to his team using their exclusive Hygienic Training Method of cleaning. Tom co-hosts The Cleaning Indy Podcast, and would love a chance to connect with you and perhaps have you as a guest of the show.
