Top 5 Cleaning Areas You Should Focus on This Autumn
As the leaves begin to turn and the air grows crisp, it’s time for businesses to shift their focus to autumn cleaning. A thorough clean not only enhances the appearance of your commercial space but also contributes to a healthier, more productive work environment. This article highlights the top five areas you should prioritise in your autumn cleaning routine.
#1 HVAC systems and air ducts
With colder weather approaching, your heating system will soon be working overtime. Ensuring it’s clean and efficient is crucial for both comfort and cost-effectiveness.
Why it’s crucial in Autumn
Summer dust and debris can accumulate in your HVAC system, reducing its efficiency and potentially circulating allergens throughout your space. A clean system runs more efficiently, saving on energy costs and improving indoor air quality.
Steps for Proper Cleaning
- Replace or clean air filters
- Clean air vents and registers
- Schedule a professional inspection and cleaning of the entire system
Impact on indoor air quality and energy efficiency
A well-maintained HVAC system can significantly improve indoor air quality, reducing the spread of airborne illnesses and creating a more comfortable work environment. It can also lead to substantial energy savings, as a clean system doesn’t have to work as hard to maintain desired temperatures.
#2 Floor care and deep cleaning
Floors take a beating during the summer months with increased foot traffic. Autumn is the perfect time to address this wear and tear.
Addressing summer wear and tear
Inspect your floors for scuffs, stains and general wear. Deep cleaning can revitalise your flooring, making it look fresh and well-maintained.
Preparing for wet Autumn weather
As autumn brings more rain and potentially snow, prepare your entryways with adequate matting to trap moisture and dirt. This proactive step can protect your floors throughout the wetter seasons.
Different approaches for various floor types
- Carpets: Schedule a professional deep clean to remove embedded dirt and refresh fibres
- Hard floors: Strip and reseal if necessary, or at minimum, apply a fresh coat of polish
- Tile and grout: Deep clean and reseal grout lines to prevent moisture absorption
#3 Office equipment and high-touch surfaces
With cold and flu season approaching, paying extra attention to frequently touched surfaces is crucial.
Importance in preventing illness spread
Regularly cleaning and disinfecting high-touch surfaces can significantly reduce the spread of germs in the workplace, potentially decreasing employee sick days.
Key areas to focus on
- Keyboards and mice
- Telephones
- Door handles and light switches
- Shared equipment (e.g. printers, coffee machines)
Recommended cleaning products and frequency
Use disinfectant wipes or sprays approved for use on electronics. Aim to clean these surfaces daily, or provide employees with the means to clean their personal spaces frequently.
#4 Windows and building exterior
As daylight hours decrease, maximising natural light becomes increasingly important for both aesthetics and employee well-being.
Maximising natural light for darker autumn days
Clean windows inside and out to allow as much natural light as possible into your space. This can improve mood and productivity while reducing the need for artificial lighting.
Preparing the exterior for Autumn weather
- Clean gutters and downspouts to prevent water damage
- Inspect the building exterior for cracks or gaps that may let in cold air or moisture
- Clean and store any outdoor furniture or equipment
Safety considerations for hard-to-reach areas
Always prioritise safety when cleaning exterior windows or high areas. Consider hiring professionals for these tasks to ensure they’re done safely and effectively.
#5 Storage areas and inventory spaces
Autumn is an excellent time to organise and clean storage areas, preparing for potential holiday inventory or end-of-year assessments.
Organising for efficiency
• Review and reorganise inventory
• Implement or update labelling systems
• Consider more efficient storage solutions if needed
Addressing potential pest issues
As temperatures drop, pests may seek shelter indoors. Inspect storage areas for signs of pests and take preventative measures.
Ensuring proper ventilation and humidity control
Proper ventilation and humidity control in storage areas can prevent mould growth and protect inventory. Consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas.
Take a proactive approach to your autumn cleaning. Consider creating a comprehensive checklist to ensure no area is overlooked. For the best results, don’t hesitate to enlist the help of professional cleaning services, especially for specialised tasks like HVAC cleaning or exterior maintenance.
Wixted Cleaning Limited recognises this importance for our clients, which is why we offer customised deep cleaning programmes using the latest techniques and equipment. By partnering with an experienced cleaning contractor, businesses can ensure this vital cleaning component remains a priority.