Keeping a workplace clean is far more than just an aesthetic choice. A properly maintained office impacts productivity, workplace health, staff morale, and even the long-term lifespan of equipment and furniture. With rising standards in hygiene and workplace safety, the importance of professional office cleaning cannot be overstated.
This comprehensive guide covers what professional office cleaning includes, rules and systems that govern it, best practices, daily cleaning checklists, pay rates for cleaners, and how businesses can maintain consistent standards. If you want to understand exactly how offices are cleaned and what to expect from professional services, this is your go-to resource.
Professional office cleaning covers a wide range of tasks that go beyond simply wiping down desks. Cleaning companies follow structured systems that ensure every part of the workspace is hygienic and presentable.
A standard office cleaning routine includes:
Surface dusting and wiping (desks, tables, shelves, windowsills).
Vacuuming and mopping floors (tiles, carpets, and hard surfaces).
Bathroom sanitation (toilets, sinks, mirrors, restocking consumables).
Kitchen and breakroom cleaning (microwave, fridge exterior, benches).
Emptying bins and replacing liners.
Cleaning high-touch areas like door handles, phones, keyboards, and elevator buttons.
An office is considered “professionally cleaned” when:
All visible dirt and debris are removed.
Germ hotspots are disinfected.
Floors are free of dust, stains, or streaks.
Toilets and kitchens smell fresh and look spotless.
Cleaning standards are consistent and verifiable through checklists.
A full clean is more detailed than a daily routine. It includes deep cleaning tasks such as:
Carpet steam cleaning.
Window washing (interior and exterior).
Upholstery and curtain cleaning.
Scrubbing bathroom tiles and grout.
Pressure washing entryways or outdoor areas.
Strip and sealing of vinyl or wooden floors.
A well-cleaned office requires structured systems. Professional cleaning companies use rules, time-based methods, and frameworks like 5S to ensure efficiency and consistency.
The 20-minute rule is often used for productivity: instead of letting mess pile up, employees and cleaners commit 20 minutes daily to cleaning up small areas. This prevents dirt from accumulating and keeps the environment manageable.
6/10 Rule: Employees and cleaners leave spaces at least 60% cleaner than they found them, a habit-based standard that builds into workplace culture.
20/10 Rule: Cleaners spend 20 minutes on heavy-use areas and 10 minutes on light-use areas to balance efficiency.
Borrowed from Japanese lean management, the 5S method provides a framework for office cleaning:
Sort – Remove unnecessary items.
Set in order – Organize everything for easy access.
Shine – Clean and inspect all workspaces.
Standardize – Establish consistent rules and checklists.
Sustain – Make cleanliness a habit.
A structured system involves:
Setting a daily cleaning checklist.
Assigning cleaning responsibilities.
Using logbooks or digital tracking apps for accountability.
Scheduling weekly and monthly deep cleaning tasks.
Training staff on workplace hygiene practices.
A daily cleaning checklist typically includes:
Emptying bins and recycling stations.
Wiping desks, screens, and chairs.
Vacuuming and mopping floors.
Sanitizing shared equipment.
Cleaning and restocking bathrooms.
Kitchen wipe-down and sanitization.
Carpet vacuuming with detail edging.
Deep cleaning bathrooms and kitchens.
Dusting blinds and vents.
Checking and replacing consumables (soap, tissues, sanitizers).
The frequency depends on business size and type.
Small offices: Daily surface cleaning, weekly deep cleaning.
Medium to large offices: Daily cleaning with multiple checks during working hours.
Medical or food-related offices: Twice-daily cleaning due to health regulations.
In 2025, the average hourly rate for cleaners in Australia ranges between $30–$45, depending on location and service type.
Commercial cleaners typically charge $35–$50 per hour, with some companies offering fixed per-square-metre pricing for larger contracts.
Casual cleaners: $200–$280 per day (full shift).
Specialist cleaners (with equipment, chemicals): $300–$400 per day.
The most lucrative cleaning jobs are:
Biohazard cleaning.
Industrial and hazardous waste cleaning.
Commercial kitchen degreasing and pressure washing.
Self-employed cleaners charge $30–$60 per hour, depending on reputation, skill set, and whether they supply their own cleaning products.
Annual income can range from $50,000 to $90,000, with top earners exceeding $100,000 if they manage multiple contracts.
Why Office Cleaning Is a Business Expense Worth Prioritizing
Office cleaning is classified as an operational expense (OPEX). It directly contributes to workplace efficiency, staff health, and customer experience. Unlike one-off investments, cleaning is an ongoing necessity that preserves business assets and reduces sick leave.
Gather cleaning supplies (disinfectants, microfiber cloths, mops).
Empty bins and recycling.
Wipe desks, monitors, and phones.
Dust shelves, skirting boards, and vents.
Vacuum and mop floors.
Clean bathrooms and restock supplies.
Sanitize kitchens and high-touch areas.
Inspect final result and log completion.
Office cleaners are expected to:
Be punctual and reliable.
Follow health and safety regulations.
Respect confidential documents and equipment.
Use eco-friendly products where possible.
Report damages, hazards, or maintenance needs.
The cleaning industry is evolving with:
Green cleaning products to reduce environmental impact.
Smart cleaning systems (apps, QR codes for checklists).
Electrostatic disinfection sprayers for high-traffic areas.
Flexible service models (on-demand, subscription-based).
With increased focus on workplace hygiene post-COVID, professional cleaning is no longer optional—it’s a standard part of running a competitive business.
Conclusion
Professional office cleaning in Australia is not just about dusting desks. It involves structured systems, specific rules, deep cleaning schedules, and cost management. Businesses that invest in reliable cleaning services enjoy healthier staff, improved productivity, and a professional image that clients respect.
Whether hiring a commercial company or self-employed cleaner, understanding the standards and rates ensures businesses make informed decisions. Cleanliness is an investment that pays off every single day.
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