Important places to have on your spring cleaning checklist

It's spring cleaning time!

Birds are chirping and flowers are blooming, which means it's the glorious season of spring; which also means it's time for a major spring cleaning at your business. Beyond the basic areas that get cleaned on a regular basis, a deep spring clean should cover extra places that are overlooked throughout the year.

Every room, surface, office, floor, common area, item, and piece of equipment should be cleaned and/or replaced during spring cleaning.

To get the most thorough cleaning results, don't forget to tackle these important areas this year.

Tip: clean from the top down so debris won’t fall on your freshly-cleaned floors.

AC/HVAC Units

Failing to take proper care of commercial HVAC systems can lead to inefficiencies and costly failures, increasing operating costs and reducing equipment lifespans. Did you know that dirty coils can increase energy consumption by 37%? This is why it's important to clean your dirty AC coils.

Air Filters & Vents

Replace dirty air filters and clean air vents during spring cleaning. First, vacuum the vents to remove most of the dust and dirt. Then take a damp microfiber cloth to wipe the outside of the vent.

Be sure to wipe the wall and ceiling around it as well. Do not use water or cleaning chemicals, as the wetness will smear the dirt around and make it harder to remove buildup.

Baseboards

One of the most overlooked places when it comes to cleaning is baseboards . They can harbor dust and allergens so it's important to clean them well. First, you want to blast away the dust with a vacuum brush attachment or stiff broom. Then use a clean cloth to dry them. Finally, swipe with a dryer sheet to reduce dust buildup in the future.

Bathrooms

At the top of the list of rooms to keep clean are bathrooms. In addition to germs and bacteria collecting on sinks, toilets, and urinals, foul odors can lurk when urine isn't properly cleaned off the floor. A deep clean that addresses all areas of bathroom cleanliness is vital. Spring cleaning is also a great time to make sure bathrooms are stocked with bathroom supplies like toilet paper, paper towels, urinal screens, deodorizers, and hand soap.

Building Exteriors

Customers don't focus as much on the exterior of a business' building but that doesn't mean you should ignore the outward appearance of your facility. At least once a year, pressure wash the outside of the building to remove any dirt or other elements that might have become embedded due to winter weather conditions. Maintaining a presentable landscape helps with corporate curb appeal as well.

Devices & Gadgets

Those technical devices and accessories that are used on a daily basis should definitely be cleaned regularly, as they can easily pass germs around. To clean keyboards, screens, phones, and headsets, first use compressed air to remove crumbs, dust, and other particulates. Follow up by using a dry or dampened (depending on which device you're cleaning) microfiber cloth and wipe down. Use disinfectant wipes on surfaces that are safe to use them on.

Fire Extinguishers & Smoke Detectors

Work emergencies don't happen often but if one were to occur, you want to be prepared. Check the expiration date on all fire extinguishers and test smoke detectors. Change batteries and/or replace them as needed. You also want to make sure that any first aid kits are fully stocked and the medications are not expired.

Floors & Floor Mats

With the number of people walking on floors every day, it should go without saying that floors are one of the filthiest surfaces. Interior floors in kitchens and bathrooms, lobby carpets, hallways, gymnasiums, and other floors should be deep cleaned at least once a year. The process for cleaning your floors will depend on which flooring type(s) your facility has. Commercial floor cleaning is not the same as cleaning your floors at home.

Don't forget to clean or replace your floor mats as well. High-traffic areas trap a large amount of dirt and debris, which can cause wear and tear on mats. Check entryway mats, chair mats, anti-fatigue mats, and wiper mats.

Furniture

It's not just carpets that need a deep spring cleaning; upholstery and furniture should also get a good refresh. The products and cleaning process to use will depend on the type of fabric or material (plastic, wood, metal, leather, etc.) the furniture is made of but in most cases, you can use a mild upholstery soap and warm water to spot-clean office furniture . This won't necessarily fight off germs and/or bacteria but it will keep your furniture looking and smelling clean.

Kitchen Appliances

A full kitchen cleaning is obviously important but so is making sure that all ovens, refrigerators, microwaves, beverage machines, and other kitchen appliances are well-cleaned. Make sure to go through the refrigerator and other food storage areas and get rid of any foods that are expired. Spring cleaning is also a great time to restock supplies like disposable food service items for the kitchen and break room.

Lamp Shades & Light Fixtures

In your lobby and office, you likely have lamps and lighting to keep things bright and cheery. But that light will grow dim if you don't keep the light sources clean. Make sure to dust any lamp shades and light fixtures and replace light bulbs as necessary. Clean light switches with a damp cloth and mild soap but make sure to turn off the power before cleaning.

Printers & Other Machines

You won't have to clean printers, scanners, copiers, or fax machines if they aren't dirty beyond normal wear and tear. But during spring cleaning, you should check to make sure ink, toner, paper, and other printer supplies are all well-stocked and fully loaded.

Waste Removal Bins

Don't leave those smelly trash cans around with dirty trash in them. Make sure to empty the trash, then clean and disinfect it. This will help to combat unpleasant odors, as well as eliminate the risk of spreading germs and illnesses. If your trash cans are old and dingy, it might be time to replace them altogether.

Windows & Window Treatments

Many businesses hire window cleaning companies to give their windows a good, thorough cleaning. Dust and debris can collect on window sills and ledges, so you want to make sure those allergens are wiped away. If windows have blinds, curtains, or other treatments, those should be professionally cleaned as well.

Shop with American Paper & Twine

Let the team at AP&T help you find the best cleaning products for your business. Whether you need to do a full spring cleaning or just have areas that need regular touch-ups, we are here to provide top-notch service and offer our expertise. We can also train your staff on proper cleaning techniques.

Contact us for a FREE consultation or visit ShopAPT.com .

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