What is a Special Cleaning Service, really? And do you need one?

What is a Special Cleaning Service, really? And does your business need one?

Why would one-time on-demand cleaning services be needed when regular janitorial services are already provided?  How are they different from commercial janitorial cleaning services? 

Normally, janitorial or porter services are used for daily or weekly cleanings that include trash removal, vacuuming, dusting, restroom and breakroom cleaning. “Special Services” are ordered to supplement janitorial services. They can range from deep seasonal cleanings, annual strip & wax floor refinishing projects to long-overdue desperate carpet cleaning jobs ( before and after video ) . Historically, spring and fall are notorious seasons for “Special Services” requests. But our pros handle Special Services all year long. Here, our team answers the most common questions  about “Special Services”.

What are one-time commercial cleaning “Special Services”?

There is more to "Special Services" than just deep cleanings. Regardless of whether you maintain your facility with daily or weekly janitorial service, certain immediate, on-demand cleaning projects must be performed. This ensures your workplace remains in good condition, while preventing costly repairs due to seasonal wear and tear.  By maintaining a clean and organized environment, you can increase worker productivity , improve business reputation , and improve the image of your business  to visitors and employees.

SPECIAL CLEANING SERVICES ARE:

1. Unique programs that meet customer-specific needs and frequencies

2. Quarterly service program based on best practices for a given industry

3. One-time requests

4. Usually “on-demand”

 Which "Special Cleaning Services" are most popular?

The 17 years we have spent in the industry have taught us what to expect. We have completed thousands of commercial cleaning projects for our clients, and here are the results. The following "on-demand" services are the most requested  by business owners, property managers, facility and operations managers, as well as a multitude of office managers in addition to their regular, recurring janitorial service:   

Floor Restoration Services

Carpet Shampooing, Extraction & Steam Cleaning

Floor Strip & Wax, Buff, Scrub, Burnish & Polish

Window Cleaning & Pressure Washing

Deep Cleaning

Disinfection & Antimicrobial Treatments

Pre & Post Construction or Renovation Cleanup

Apartment Rental Move-in / Move-out Cleaning Services

How often should carpet cleaning occur in a professional setting?

Cleaning carpet is not a one-size-fits-all process.

How often should you perform "Special Services" now that you understand what they are? The frequency is completely determined by your facility, industry, and traffic flow. We see carpet cleaning and restoration as one of the most popular requests this time of year, no matter what. Cleaning your carpets once a year may be sufficient for a home setting, but it will not be enough for a business setting. Depending on your industry and traffic levels, you should plan on a higher frequency to adequately protect your investment and ensure your expensive carpeting won’t have to be replaced too soon. 

A simple rule of thumb is: Every 3 months: High-spill businesses, like restaurants. Every 3-6 months: High-traffic businesses, like retail stores. Every 3 months: Medical facilities and offices. Every 6 months: Lower-traffic businesses, like offices. Want to avoid the most common carpeting cleaning mistakes? Have your carpets taken a beating lately? Or you’ve delayed regular cleaning? Here’s a handy guide to the many stains we’ve conquered.

How often should a strip and wax occur in commercial facilities?

 Flooring is a big investment for any business. Here's how to protect it.

Strip and wax "Special Service" requests are just as popular (and as important) as carpet cleaning. There is a difference between "strip & wax" vs "scrub & recoat" .  Is it time to strip and wax or scrub and recoat? Here are some pointers to help you determine at which stage your flooring is. 

A simple rule of thumb is: Every 12 months:  We don't recommend delaying a strip and wax for more than 12 months (1 year) if you and your team haven't been adhering to a regular maintenance schedule, or if you don't know when the last time your floor was scrubbed and recoated. A thorough stripping and waxing will allow you to start from scratch, giving you a better understanding of future maintenance needs.  Every 6 months: It is recommended that in a facility with average foot traffic, a scrub and recoat is done at least once every six months. Want to avoid the most common carpet cleaning mistakes? Have your carpets taken a beating lately? Or you’ve delayed regular cleaning? Here’s a handy guide to the many stains we’ve conquered.

How often should disinfection and antimicrobial treatments be applied in a commercial setting?

Workplace safety and cleanliness continue to rank high with customers and staff.

2 years ago, System4 IPS became the leading antimicrobial coating provider in the Northeast, and it continues to serve the largest client list across all industries.

Electrostatic sprayers were acquired for our team, and an elite group of professionals was trained on how to apply these coatings.

A simple rule of thumb is: Every 3 months, antimicrobial coatings, when applied correctly, create a strong and lasting bond to surfaces. It’s best practice to clean, disinfect, and reapply antimicrobial coating once a quarter, especially to high-touch surfaces. Repeated contact and abrasion remove antimicrobial coatings. A handrail or elevator button will need reapplication every 90 days to keep your workers and visitors safe. 

What is the process for ordering a “Special Cleaning Service”?

Professional cleaning services are heavily booked during the spring and fall. Contact your provider or System4 IPS now to get on the schedule.

Depending on your current maintenance plan and the state of your property, it may be difficult to coordinate and implement "Special Service" cleaning. This is also the busiest time of year for "Special Service" requests. If you are considering a one-time service, don't delay. Now is the time to make things happen so you can be entered into the client queue. The process of finding the right professional for your job can take some time and coordination. By visiting our website and using our automated chat tool, you can get a quick response if you know exactly what you need. You will hear from a specialist in your area almost immediately. We provide free quotes quickly and easily. Everything is electronic. The quote can be reviewed, signed, and paid online. If you're not sure what you need, no worries; our experts can help and guide you. Start a chat conversation on our website. A sales representative in your area will arrange a meeting at a convenient time for you. They will know what questions to ask so that they can accurately assess your needs and make the appropriate recommendations. We offer full-service facility management and infection control solutions. Our services range from flooring restoration treatments, carpet steam cleaning, window washing, quarterly or seasonal deep cleaning, to daily janitorial services.     

Not sure where to start?

Concerned about a staffing shortage and whether you are using the right cleaning service for your workplace? It's not too late to find the perfect janitorial team that will keep your workplace clean and safe. Look for solid custodian referrals and consult with  System4 IPS .

Has disinfection become a standard line item on your budget?  You need a comprehensive list for your office, workplace or school. How about a FREE Disinfection Checklist?
Download and share it with your co-workers.