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What Does A Toronto Commercial Cleaning Company Do?
Commercial cleaning companies usually handle all cleaning requirements for Toronto industrial and commercial properties.
Some of the Toronto properties that commercial cleaners clean include the following.
• Shops
• High-rises
• Data centers
• Showrooms
• Restaurants
• Factories
• Schools
• Function centers
• Government facilities
• Medical facilities
• Offices
Why Should You Hire A Commercial Cleaner?
Your office is the center of your transactions, decision-making and discussions with other stakeholders. Therefore, you need to keep it clean so you can run the business effortlessly. If your office was a mess, you would have a hard time impressing clients, boosting property value and keeping everyone motivated to work.
Yes, your employees have the responsibility of organizing their personal desks. However, they might not be too keen with recycling or taking out the trash. Even worse, they might have a hard time cleaning out the fridge if someone else made a mess. You need to consider the areas in your office that need to be cleaned thoroughly, especially the common areas.
For instance, if you are inviting clients and customers, you should always make sure that your storefront is clean. Commercial cleaners should be able to clean, mop, vacuum, wax floors, dust or sanitize the bathrooms often used by the customers. If your office looks magnificent, everyone will get the message that appearance is a top priority. Even better, your clients will feel at home when they are on a clean commercial property.
Next, you should make sure that your workspace is properly maintained. Commercial cleaners can clean the floors, take out the trash, sanitize the bathrooms and eating spaces or any other required light cleaning on a regular basis. It’s a good idea to invest in cleaning services frequently such as dusting the tech and equipment or window cleaning.
Don’t forget about the cleaning supplies and how your company will handle the cleaning process. Most commercial cleaners bring their own materials, supplies and equipment, especially commercial cleaning chemicals. Of course, if there are any special requirements you may have, it’s a good idea to disclose them to the cleaning service so they can best suited to meet your commercial cleaning needs. Toronto commercial cleaning specialists should be able to take care of any cleaning related requirements you may need.
Cleaning Equipment & Methods
Most commercial cleaning companies rely on various cleaning techniques, chemicals and equipment to guarantee the best results for any job they undertake. In most cases, commercial cleaning involves routine and general cleaning such as:
• Tiles
• Internal walls
• Floors
• Partition walls
• Lighting
• Furniture
• Suspended ceilings
• Window cleaning
• Dining/kitchen areas
• Washing facilities
They can also offer carpet cleaning with hot water extracting methods, every 1-2 years. Some may offer external commercial cleaning duties that involve picking up trash, removing graffiti and much more.
Commercial Cleaning Checklist
The type of services offered by a commercial cleaner depends on their contract and your budget. Are you wondering how much you will pay for commercial cleaning services? You should contact the local commercial cleaning companies and ask for a quote. If possible, ask for at least 3 quotes and make sure they are properly detailed. That way, you can compare each quote and choose the best one for your commercial cleaning needs.
Once you choose to hire commercial cleaners for your office, you need to pay for what you can get.
In most cases, they supply a checklist of their services. We have a checklist of the common commercial cleaning services for the most affordable plans. If you don’t have a checklist ready, go through ours and find out the thoroughness of your current commercial cleaning company. Remember, we have been doing this for a very long time and understand that our competitors will never coming close to the type of services we offer.
Daily Commercial Cleaning Checklist
The reception area of your company will either make a positive or a negative first impression to everyone who walks through your doors. Make sure this area is bright, clean and inviting.
Everyone should have a clean work environment.
With a clean and well-organized workplace, it’s easy for every employee to become productive. Some of the cleaning tasks for this area and other office spaces include the following.
• Vacuuming hard floors
• Emptying waste bins and replacing liners. Washing whenever necessary
• Wiping horizontal surfaces with a damp cloth for chairs, desks, tables and any other type of furniture
• Vacuuming mats and carpets
• Dusting horizontal surfaces such as tables, chairs, desks and other types of furniture
• Mopping the hard floors using disinfectants
• Removing cobwebs from every area
• Collecting garbage, papers, bottles and anything else from the front entrance
• Make sure that every area is cleaned and arranged neatly
• Spot cleaning painted surfaces and walls
• Removing fingerprints from door frames and light switches
• Polish brass and bright work on doors and cabinets
• Wiping all internal glass
• Cleaning automatic glass doors inside and out
Bathroom And Kitchen/Break Room Cleaning Checklist
You need to have a clean and sanitized bathroom in your company. It’s the best way to ensure safety and reduce the spread of germs. The same rules should be followed for the kitchens or break-rooms where employees have their meals. These places should always be clean and sanitary, even if there is no food preparation in place. The cleaning checklist for these areas includes the following.
• Removing garbage from all the areas
• Mopping kitchen and bathroom floors using disinfectants
• Cleaning elevators and stairs
• Removing splash marks from partitions, around sinks and walls
• Dusting the top of mirrors, partitions and frames
• Cleaning and sanitizing all sinks.
• Emptying trash receptacles, wiping them down when necessary and replacing the liners
• Polishing all bright work
• Cleaning and polishing mirrors
• Wiping hand towel dispensers and hand dryers
• Stocking toilet paper, hand soap, facial tissues and hand towels
• Spot cleaning internal glass in the doors
• Vacuuming and mopping all floors
• Disinfecting and cleaning urinals and toilets, sanitizing them on both sides and wiping them dry.
Weekly Commercial Cleaning Checklist
Here are some of the weekly cleaning duties that your cleaning company should offer.
• Cleaning all the glass both outside and inside using a squeegee
• Spray buffing all hard floors
Monthly Commercial Cleaning Checklist
Every month, your commercial cleaners should vacuum vents and chairs in the commercial property.
Looking through the entire commercial cleaning checklist, you will find that these are basic cleaning processes that your commercial cleaner should handle effortlessly. If you have a cleaning service that is not doing their job as required, you can always call our company. Having been in the commercial cleaning business for a long time, we are here to help with any commercial cleaning you need.
Carpet Cleaning Technology and Equipment
You can’t always notice dirty carpets since soil tends to hide deep in the fibers below the carpet’s surface. That’s why carpet care is crucial, whether it’s in your home or office because it can affect your health, indoor air quality and cause potential allergic reactions.
If we compare the past industry cleaning trends with today’s, nothing has changed drastically. We do have a couple of encapsulate-type cleaners and some cleaning tools, but that’s not nearly enough to keep our carpets in pristine condition without putting in a lot of work.
Unfortunately, without new equipment and cleaning solutions, maintenance practices can’t evolve. That’s why in the last ten years, we have seen that carpet care industry invested a lot in automation and batteries.
Now, let’s focus more on carpet cleaning equipment and see what to expect in the future!
Green approach
Even though this isn’t necessarily new, a green certificate is starting to gain popularity as more and more companies are opting for alternative products containing this certification. Having this certificate means you are committed to keeping our environment clean.
We can definitely say that green technology will shape the production of cleaning solutions and the equipment used in this industry.
Encapsulation
We could say that cleaning solutions have advanced to some extent. We now have encapsulating carpet cleaners that are far superior to traditional carpet cleaning solutions. They are able to perform deep cleaning, lift and encapsulate the soil and dirt while minimizing musty, foul odor that sometimes happens during the extraction process.
Instead, it leaves translucent crystals that continue to draw the moisture out of the carpet, decreasing the drying time and getting rid of the odor in the longer run. If you apply this cleaning process, it will leave your carpets clean longer, which automatically minimizes the maintenance cycle.
Basically, the encapsulation process disables soil from sticking to the carpet, making fibers sleek. In that case, the dirt can’t attach to the carpet’s fibers that fast.
Motors
In recent years, we have seen the demand to increase vacuum power by using alternative sources and motors. While portable vacuum cleaners had only a fraction of the power of truck mounts, things are slowly beginning to change, and now they have similar power.
Wands
The usage of carpet cleaning wands has minimized the physical stress on users, making it much more comfortable to pull and push the wand continuously. Over time, these carpet tools have become more ergonomic, minimizing injuries among employees and saving workers from downtime.
These types of tools have also managed to boost the drying time of wet extractions. In the past, we couldn’t fully understand and embrace the science of vacuums, but now we can, and we managed to accomplish amazing results. We have concluded that it’s better to purchase a high-quality wand than a bigger truck mount.
Cordless vacuums
Cordless technology in the carpet cleaning industry has progressed significantly, allowing manpower to be more mobile while eliminating cords completely. We reached the technological breakthrough, where lithium-ion batteries are strong enough to meet the demands of cleaning professionals.
Therefore, this industry can take advantage of cordless technology. Nowadays, you can find plenty of cordless vacuum cleaners which help professional cleaners solve problems within their facilities. Let’s not forget smart vacuum cleaners, but since they just recently appeared, their cleaning capacity is limited, and they are used only for minor touch ups.
Innovative carpet cleaning and the future trends
As changes in the carpet cleaning industry happen, it’s crucial to note that robots today work alongside people and their mission isn’t to replace them, but to facilitate manual labor. Many industries use robots to boost their efficiency and not to eliminate manpower.
While robots are still far away from residential properties, we have seen some innovations in large areas such as big conference centers and airports. The cordless equipment will continue to positively impact this industry, ensuring safety, convenience, and productivity.
When it comes to battery technology, this one will also continue to have a substantial gain. In the future, we expect to see more innovative configurations, lighter weights, and longer runtimes. Considering more and more facilities are opting for cordless equipment, the uses and application of these will evolve. People will find out that vacuums can do a lot of things in a room, without the hindrance of a cord.
Chemistry compliance and new equipment rules will impose changes in cleaning products and practices. Therefore, the most important thing would be to choose products that are both effective and meet imposed regulations. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, companies will be more focused on the chemistry that sanitizes and disinfects carpets to prevent further outbreaks.
In the end, one thing is sure, with all these innovations on the horizon, carpet care will continue to evolve, creating new opportunities for people working in this industry.
Equipment Needed for Housekeeping Cleaning
Having the right cleaning equipment and supplies makes a world of difference when it comes to housekeeping cleaning, both in terms of efficiency and effectiveness. Therefore, if you are looking for ways to speed up the cleaning process and housekeeping, you should create a list of house cleaning tools and equipment.
If you don’t know where to start, we have a couple of suggestions you might find helpful.
Basic cleaning equipment
Abrasives: grit paper and sharpening stones.
Brushes: different types of brushes to accommodate various surfaces.
Housekeeping cart: often found in hotels, a trolley is used to store necessary cleaning equipment in housekeeping. You can adjust its content based on your needs.
Dustbins: can you imagine any housekeeping without a dustbin. Make sure your bins are large enough to store all the garbage and that you can close them properly.
Dusting cloths: they are soft and great for dusting all kinds of surfaces. But, make sure not to use them on a wet surface.
Dustpans: it is pretty useful for collecting dirt from the floor, but they aren’t good for deep cleaning.
Mops: you need mops in all shapes and forms. Syntactic mops, dust, or string mops all have different absorbing properties. Keep them clean and dry after every use. You can even add spray mop to your list because it’s great for quick touch-ups.
Mop wringer: this bucket allows you to rinse and twist mop without exposing yourself to dirt. It’s also essential to keep the mop wringer clean after every use.
Ironing board: make sure to have a comfortable ironing board and that it’s high or low enough, so your back doesn’t hurt.
Spray bottles: if you have some homemade cleaning solutions, they should be clearly labeled and stored in spray bottles.
Small brush: housekeeping staff tends to use a toothbrush for hard-to-reach areas, like grout between tiles, so why shouldn’t you.
Professional cleaning equipment
Vacuum: nowadays, you can find various models of vacuum cleaners on the market. However, you want to buy something that does the job and is easily maneuvered. Even though you can consider cordless vacuum cleaners, they usually don’t have a large enough battery to support you through a cleaning process.
Box sweeper: this one is great because it cleans the floors and carpets.
Polisher: you will need a polishing machine for deep cleaning occasionally. But you don’t have to buy one; you can always rent.
Vapor cleaning: this machine is used in industrial and commercial properties because it eliminates pest problems and destroys chemical odor. You can buy it if you feel the need for it. It’s useful for deep cleaning.
Steamer: if you don’t want to bother with a traditional iron, a steamer is a great choice. It basically irons the clothes without wrinkles and saves you money on dry cleaners.
Window cleaner: choose one that you can easily move and carry with ease.
Steam mop: this tool uses steam to clean carpets and floors. Compared to a regular mop, this one requires cleaning agents like detergent or bleach. With the help of heat and pressure, a steam mop is ideal when you need to disinfect floors.
Cleaning solutions
Before applying any cleaning solution, make sure to understand different products and chemicals and what they can do on what surface. For example, the following list contains the most used cleaning solutions in housekeeping:
- Water
- Vinegar
- Bathroom cleaner
- Baking soda
- Degrease
- Clean air sprays
- Laundry cleaners
- Floor cleaners
- Antibacterial cleaners
- Toilet cleaners
- Bleach
- Carpet cleaners
Of course, you can add or skip products according to your needs or cleaning preferences.
How to Cut Grass Properly – Tips and Tricks
You would say that mowing is pretty self-explanatory, right? However, every time you cut the grass, you are determining the fate of your lawn. Love or hate it, unfortunately, mowing the lawn is one of the essential jobs in the garden during spring and summer.
In fact, it’s one of the key features to make your lawn look healthy because each cut encourages grass to grow thicker. Additionally, it disables the weed to grow, making the grass more hard-wearing.
If you have a big yard, cutting the grass can be time-consuming, especially if you aren’t doing it right. That’s why we decided to share with you the ultimate tips and tricks on how to cut grass properly.
Let’s get started!
Service your mower regularly
To ensure a clean and quality cut, you need to service your mover at the start of every season. It’s basically the fastest way to cut grass. If you are dealing with blunt or chipped blades, they will bruise the grass and can cause straw-colored dieback at the tips.
While it’s pretty easy to clean this piece of equipment, you will need professional help to service your mower.
Keep the mower blade sharp
To accomplish the best results, make sure to sharpen the mower blade. With the help of a sharp blade, you will cut the grass evenly without creating an uneven, jagged edges. You will notice a lawn cut with an even and dull blade tends to develop a brownish or yellowing shade.
Make sure to sharpen the blade a couple of times during the season. Also, avoid moving over stones or thick branches because they will get caught into the mower and damage the blade faster.
Adjust the mower height
It’s essential to focus on mower height throughout the growing season. For instance, you can lift the cutting deck higher during the summer, to allow grass to grow higher. Did you know that tall grass protects the soil from sun damage and prevents weeds from growing?
Moreover, taller grass has a better-developed root, which can withstand higher temperatures and drought season.
Don’t scalp the grass
If you aren’t familiar with this term, it means don’t cut the grass too short. If your lawn is scalped, then it will be prone to infestation and disease. Over time, the grass will become sparse and weak, exposing the soil. Additionally, if you keep cutting grass too short, it won’t develop sturdy roots, which means it will be prone to damage.
Shady lawns
It’s important to make a difference between shady and well-lit lawns. Lawns that grow in shaded areas will benefit from higher grass. Therefore, don’t lower your deck when moving these types of lawns. In fact, longer grass blades are excellent for conducting photosynthesis because they have a bigger surface.
Avoid cutting damp grass
The best way to cut grass would be when it’s completely dry. While mowing a wet lawn doesn’t harm the grass, it might damage your mower.
Also, avoid mowing in soggy soil, or you risk tearing up the grass. However, sometimes you might need to cut the grass when it’s damp; in that case, spray the bottom of the mower with an oil to prevent the grass from sticking to the underside.
Mow when it’s not too hot
Plants are pretty sensitive to changes, and when you trim the plant, it can suffer a great deal of stress. That’s why grass cutting should be done during the cooler part of the day. Another option is to wait until there is shade on one side of the law. When you cut grass in the shade, it loses less water and recovers quicker.
Grasscycling
Grasscycling refers to an action where you leave grass clippings on a lawn after cutting. It doesn’t only save you time cleaning your yard, but you don’t have to purchase yard waste bags. The great thing about grasscycling is that grass clippings provide up to 25% of your lawn’s fertilizer needs.
Switch directions
Mowing a lawn can become a type of routine. However, if you want to accomplish a professional finish, you need to switch directions every time you take your mower out of the shed. By mowing in the same direction, the grass blades tend to grow at a set angle.
Tips on How to Choose a Snow Removal Service
Even though summer is just around the corner, some people believe it’s never too early to think about a snow removal service. In fact, now might be the right time to make sure your home or commercial property is ready for the winter.
Snow and ice can wreak havoc if not cleaned properly, and can cause severe injuries. Therefore, if you are looking for a snow removal service, we have a couple of tips to help you choose the best company.
Start early
As we already explained, it’s never too early to start asking about the snow removal service. Begin with your search as soon as possible. For instance, if your lawn offers a snow removal service, it’s worth taking the bargain. However, if you wait until there is snow in the forecast, you might be too late.
Assess your needs
The next thing on your list would be to know precisely what you need. For instance, do you know the difference between snow plowing and snow removal? The plowing only focuses on removing the snow out of your way, while removal includes an additional step of hauling the snow away.
Of course, the cost of snow removal will be higher than snow plowing, considering it requires more equipment and manpower. But, with this one, you get to skip the ugly piles of snow in your front yard.
You should also identify the areas that need to be cleaned. Many homeowners prefer a clean driveway, while in many towns is necessary to remove the snow from public sidewalks. Additional areas you want to consider are parking lots, walkways, outdoor stairs, and perhaps the roof of your home.
Get a couple of quotes
Check with more than one snow plowing contractor and compare their prices and services. Make sure to ask the right questions to understand exactly what services the estimate covers. For example, will they treat the ice, or will they only remove the snow? Will they clear the sidewalk, including the public ones?
Every company is different, and it doesn’t include the same service; therefore, you need to ask questions to get a clear picture.
Ask for recommendations
Don’t hesitate to ask for references or call a couple of reference names to learn more about snow removal companies. You could check with your neighbors to see who they hired, how reliable the contractor is, and did they face any potential issues.
While recommendations are an important part of this process, it doesn’t mean you have to blindly trust someone. If you feel that something isn’t right, don’t hire a particular company; trust your instinct instead.
Check the price
The majority of snow removal companies price their service according to length and how difficult it is to remove the snow from a particular surface. On the other hand, some companies have a set price, regardless of how many times they have to shovel the snow. Some of them will charge you an extra fee for cleaning sidewalks and treating ice.
Therefore, don’t be shy to ask about the price and payment options.
Ask about personnel
Some companies may be prone to use subcontractors. While we don’t have anything against subcontractors, owner-operators who actually remove the snow are more interested in keeping the customers happy.
More often than not, subcontractors will focus on speed and how quickly they can finish the job because their paycheck depends on it. Also, this isn’t a long-term business for them.
Check their equipment
Once you find a suitable company willing to deal with your snow, don’t forget to ask about their equipment and whether they use the best snow removal tools. Check if their equipment looks well-maintained and suitable for the job.
This is important if you pay the company by the hour and workers only show up with shovels. They should have the right kind of trucks to navigate unplowed streets to reach your property.
Define the process
You should revisit the process of your collaboration and define what is expected from both parties. For instance, do you need to contact the company first and tell them when to come? During a heavy storm, will they clean your driveway more than once? Where will they take the snow?
Work an agreement with them and make sure they don’t push the snow into city streets and block your neighbor’s driveway.
Focus on insurance
The company you hire should have liability insurance in case they cause any damage to your property. Be aware that snow plowing insurance is costly, and not many part-timers can afford it.
Sign a contract
The last step in this process would be to sign a contract, and any reputable service will offer you this option. Take some time to go through a contract and ask questions until you make sure everything is clear.