6 Essential Tips for Hiring the Right Commercial Cleaning Company

A clean and hygienic workspace is more than just a luxury—it’s a necessity. Whether you manage a bustling office, a healthcare facility, or a retail store, maintaining a spotless environment contributes to productivity, health, and a positive first impression for clients and employees alike.

With over 875,000 commercial cleaning companies operating in the U.S., according to Upmetrics, the sheer number of options can feel overwhelming. How do you find the right cleaning partner? Not all providers deliver the same level of service, and making the wrong choice can lead to inconsistent results, hidden costs, or even sanitation risks.

To simplify your decision, here are six crucial tips to help you choose a commercial cleaning company that aligns with your needs and expectations.

1. Evaluate Their Services

Not all cleaning companies offer the same range of services. Some specialize in basic janitorial tasks, while others provide comprehensive deep-cleaning solutions tailored to different industries. Before committing to a provider, assess the full spectrum of their services to ensure they meet your specific requirements.

A top-tier commercial cleaning company should offer:

Routine janitorial services – Daily or weekly cleaning to maintain general tidiness
Disinfecting and sanitization – Essential for high-touch surfaces in offices, medical facilities, and retail spaces
Medical and terminal cleaning – Critical for hospitals, clinics, and laboratories
Dust-free environment maintenance – Helps reduce allergens and improve indoor air quality
100% dry extraction carpet cleaning – A moisture-free method that removes dirt without leaving behind damp residue
Hard floor stripping and waxing – Preserves and extends the life of tile, vinyl, and hardwood floors
Restroom disinfection – Prevents the spread of germs in shared spaces

Selecting a company that offers all-in-one cleaning solutions reduces the hassle of coordinating multiple providers and ensures a consistent level of cleanliness across your facility.

2. Check Their Experience and Expertise

When it comes to commercial cleaning, experience isn’t just a bonus—it’s a necessity. An established company with a proven track record will have refined their processes, invested in the right equipment, and developed efficient cleaning techniques over time.

Consider the following when evaluating a company’s expertise:

Years in business – A long-standing company is more likely to provide reliable and effective services
Industry experience – Cleaning a corporate office is vastly different from sanitizing a hospital; make sure they specialize in your industry
Client portfolio – Reputable companies often serve well-known businesses or have long-term client relationships
Training and staff development – A company that continuously educates its employees on new cleaning techniques is likely to deliver superior results

If your industry requires specialized cleaning protocols, such as healthcare, food service, or industrial sanitation, choosing an experienced provider is non-negotiable.

3. Verify Their Certifications and Training

A cleaning company’s certifications and training programs are clear indicators of its professionalism and commitment to industry standards. Certifications ensure that the company adheres to best practices, complies with safety regulations, and follows environmentally responsible cleaning methods.

Look for these key certifications:

ISSA's Cleaning Industry Management Standard (CIMS) – A certification that verifies excellence in cleaning services and management
OSHA Compliance – Ensures that the company follows health and safety guidelines to protect workers and clients
GBAC STAR™ Accreditation – Recognized for expertise in biohazard decontamination and infectious disease control
LEED Certification – Indicates that the company employs eco-friendly cleaning practices and products

Additionally, ask if their staff undergo continuous training in:

Proper disinfection techniques
Handling hazardous cleaning agents
Emergency response cleaning (for spills, floods, or biohazard situations)
Equipment operation and maintenance

A well-trained cleaning team ensures that your workspace isn’t just tidy—but truly sanitary and safe.

4. Inquire About Their Cleaning Products and Equipment

The cleaning products and tools a company uses can directly impact your workspace’s cleanliness, safety, and environmental footprint. Some companies still use harsh chemicals that leave behind strong odors and residue, while others prioritize green cleaning solutions that are safer for both people and the planet.

When evaluating a cleaning company, ask about:

Non-toxic and eco-friendly products – Reduces exposure to harsh chemicals and improves indoor air quality
HEPA-filter vacuums – Capture fine dust, allergens, and airborne contaminants
Electrostatic sprayers – Used for high-touch surface disinfection in offices, schools, and medical facilities
Microfiber cloth technology – More effective at trapping dirt and bacteria compared to traditional rags
100% dry extraction carpet cleaning – A residue-free, moisture-free carpet cleaning method

A company that invests in modern, high-quality cleaning equipment and eco-conscious products is likely to provide a safer and more effective cleaning experience.

5. Look for Customizable Cleaning Plans

Your business has unique cleaning needs, and a one-size-fits-all approach may not be the best solution. A great commercial cleaning company should offer customizable service plans that align with your specific operational requirements.

Look for providers that offer:

Flexible cleaning schedules – Daily, weekly, biweekly, or even one-time deep cleans
Industry-specific cleaning programs – Tailored solutions for healthcare, retail, corporate, and industrial spaces
Emergency cleaning services – Rapid response for spills, contamination, or unexpected cleaning needs
Scalable packages – The ability to adjust services as your business grows or changes

A cleaning company that listens to your needs and adapts their services accordingly demonstrates professionalism and commitment to customer satisfaction.

6. Read Reviews and Ask for References

A company’s reputation speaks volumes about its service quality, reliability, and professionalism. Before making a final decision, take the time to research customer reviews and ask for client references.

Here’s how to assess their credibility:

Google and Yelp reviews – Look for trends in feedback related to punctuality, thoroughness, and professionalism
Testimonials on their website – These can be helpful but should be supplemented with third-party reviews
Case studies or success stories – Established cleaning companies often share documented client success stories
Direct references from past clients – Speaking to a company’s long-term clients can provide valuable insights

If multiple reviews highlight consistent service quality, professionalism, and attention to detail, it’s a strong indicator that the company is trustworthy and capable.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right commercial cleaning company is a strategic decision that affects your business’s cleanliness, health, and overall reputation. By carefully evaluating services, experience, certifications, cleaning products, flexibility, and customer feedback, you can ensure that your workspace remains pristine and inviting.

For top-tier commercial cleaning services that prioritize quality, reliability, and customer satisfaction, contact W.I.L.E.S. Commercial Cleaning, Inc. today.