floors

Do Carpet Deodorizers Help or Hurt?

2 weeks ago

Powdered carpet deodorizers offer many different scents that can brighten a room during the carpet cleaning process. Whether it’s pumpkin spice, fresh cotton, ocean breeze, or any other scents, adding them to your carpet seems harmless. But is it?

In commercial settings like offices, retail stores, and medical clinics, maintaining a clean and professional appearance is crucial. While carpet deodorizers may seem like a quick fix for unpleasant odors, their use in high-traffic business environments can lead to unintended consequences.

Do Carpet Deodorizers Help or Hurt?

Carpet deodorizers may smell good, but they contain some harmful substances. These include abrasive chemicals that can be detrimental to the health of your carpet.

Baking soda, a common household item, is among the substances used in carpet deodorizers. Other abrasive substances include calcium carbonate, sodium silicate, and hydrated silica. These substances have been known to cause carpet deterioration and delamination. So, when you use powdered deodorizers regularly, you’ll find that it causes your carpet to soil faster than normal.

commercial cleaner using vacuum to clean modern office building

When you use powdered carpet deodorizers, you’re basically spreading abrasive soils that are hard to remove. Even after vacuuming, only 65% of the overall soils get removed. This leaves 35% sitting on your carpet’s surface and roots.

Sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) is a water-soluble substance that’s one of the main ingredients in carpet deodorizers. It sticks to the carpet fibers and causes scratches every time they’re walked on. Over time, this substance sifts into the backing of the carpet, causing the carpet to lose its durability and stability. This not only damages the carpet, but the vacuum you use as well.

A hand holding a tool with caprt cleaning deodorizer on fluffy white carpet

Should I Use Carpet Deodorizers?

Of course, it’s up to you, but the use of these products will cause your carpet to deteriorate at a more rapid pace. There are deodorizers that don’t contain these harsh chemicals, so look for one of those safer alternatives. To help you decide, let’s take a quick look at the pros and cons.

Pros and Cons of Carpet Deodorizers

Pros:

Helps mask odors temporarily
Convenient and easy to use
Leaves a fresh scent

Cons:

Can contain harsh chemicals that damage carpet fibers
May build up over time and attract dirt
Not a substitute for proper cleaning
Typically not environmentally friendly
Fragrances and additives may trigger allergies or sensitivities

Better Alternatives for Odor Control in Offices and Businesses

Now that we’ve established that carpet deodorizers are not the safest or most effective cleaning solution that they are made out to be let’s look at better alternatives. Without a doubt, the most effective method for odor control and carpet cleaning for businesses with offices or other facilities is regularly scheduled commercial cleaning. Ongoing routine janitorial services from a commercial cleaning company prevent lingering odors from developing because messes are cleaned promptly, helping to keep spills, dirt and grime from building up.

Commercial Carpet Cleaning You Can Count On

Looking for a solution for cleaner carpets that won’t cause havoc? ROC Commercial Cleaning offers carpet cleaning services that will get your carpet looking and smelling fresh – safely.

Reach out to us today for carpet cleaning you can count on.

This is an updated blog that was originally published in 2022.

ROC Commercial Cleaning is your trusted Minneapolis commercial cleaning company. We provide janitor services for office buildings, medical and veterinary clinics, industrial buildings, and more. We also provide floor stripping and waxing, construction cleanup, and office disinfection services. ROC Commercial Cleaning is an experienced and reputable Minnesota corporate cleaning service provider – no job is too big or too small!
Get off the cleaning rollercoaster. Contact ROC Commercial Cleaning at 612-581-2776 for your free, no-obligation estimate.

The Benefits of Steam Carpet Cleaning for Workplaces

1 month ago

Clean carpets are a key part of a well-maintained business environment. In fact, a survey conducted by The Harris Poll revealed that 83% of respondents believe that well-maintained carpets improve their confidence in a facility’s cleanliness. Whether you’re welcoming employees or customers, or both, stain- and odor-free carpeting helps create a professional impression and supports a healthier workspace.

At ROC Commercial Cleaning, we understand firsthand the difference that clean carpets can make. That’s why our expert team is here to share several key benefits you can expect from steam carpet cleaning for your workplace.

professional commercial cleaner using steam cleaner on workplace carpets

How Can Your Workplace Benefit from Steam Carpet Cleaning?

Clean carpets don’t just look better; they contribute to a more professional, comfortable, and hygienic workplace. From offices to clinics and retail stores, here are several ways steam carpet cleaning can make a difference:

Employee Productivity

A clean workplace can have a positive effect on your company’s overall productivity. Steam carpet cleaning is just one of the ways you can ensure that your employees remain healthy and satisfied with the environment in which they work.

Keep Your Employees Happy and Productive with a Clean Workplace

Improved Air Quality

Studies in workplace environments have shown that dirty carpets can contribute to higher levels of indoor air pollution, which can even lead to health issues, especially for those spending a significant amount of time in the building, such as employees. Routine steam carpet cleaning in the workplace helps remove common allergens, leading to improved indoor air quality.

Tips to Keep Your Office Allergen-Free

Low-Cost Cleaning Solution

Compared to other cleaning options, steam cleaners are a relatively low-cost choice with a big impact.

Versatility of Steam Cleaning

There are a number of surfaces that can benefit from steam cleaning. If your workplace has couches, chairs, or any other furniture with fabric, consider steam cleaning. Cleaning both carpets and upholstery in the same way will save you time, money and resources, so you can worry about the more important things.

Get Professional Steam Carpet Cleaning Services for Your Business

If you’re looking to improve the cleanliness and comfort of your workplace, our team at ROC Commercial Cleaning is here to help. We serve businesses throughout the Minneapolis – St. Paul Twin Cities area, providing expert steam carpet cleaning for offices, clinics, retail spaces, and more. We hire only the best and use professional-grade equipment to ensure consistent, high-quality results you can see and feel.

Contact us today to schedule a cleaning or request a no-obligation estimate for your facility.

This is an updated blog that was originally published in 2022.

Sources: CMM and MDPI

ROC Commercial Cleaning is your trusted Twin Cities janitorial service. We provide contract cleaning for office buildings, medical and veterinary clinics, auto dealerships, salons and retail stores, industrial buildings, office disinfection services and more. We also provide construction cleanup during and after construction projects of all sizes. No cleaning job is too big or too small for our experienced cleaning teams!

Get off the cleaning rollercoaster. Contact ROC Commercial Cleaning at 612-581-2776 for your free, no-obligation estimate.

6 Signs Your Business Needs Professional Commercial Cleaning

6 months ago

commercial cleaning staff disinfecting a surface

Do you have a feeling that your business may be in need of a professional commercial cleaning company to help keep things in order? Whether you are just considering it for the first time or feel like your current or past janitorial cleaning service provider let you down, here are 6 signs your business could benefit from a trusted professional cleaner.

6 Signs It’s Time for Professional Cleaning Services

Dirty First Impressions

Don’t forget that just because you might not notice the dust or clutter when you walk into your business or place of employment every day, it doesn’t mean it goes unnoticed by clients or potential customers. So slow down and take a moment to see things through the eyes of your customers, and if the first impression is less than ideal, then it’s a valid sign it’s time to recruit some cleaning support from a professional cleaning team.

Morale or Productivity is Down

Studies show that a messy workplace environment can have a negative impact on employees’ attitudes, career outlook and productivity. If you start noticing more of this within your business, skip the pizza party and instead show your staff that you truly care by improving the working conditions that they spend a significant amount of time each and every week.

Keep Your Employees Happy and Productive with a Clean Workplace

What’s That Smell?

If you or other employees are noticing or complaining about any unpleasant odors, it’s another sign that upping your cleaning game is needed. It could be as simple as trash cans not being emptied frequently enough, or it could be unattended spills and stains on carpets, rugs or furniture upholstery that are causing lingering odors. Either way, getting help from a professional commercial cleaner can help identify, eliminate and prevent any unwelcome aromas throughout your organization.

Tips for Fighting Odor In the Workplace

Illness is Spreading

Sure, it could just be that seasonal flu making its way throughout the office, but if you or your staff is feeling like one person’s cough is sure to impact the rest of the team, it’s a clear sign that your business needs to increase the cleaning and disinfecting frequency.

How Commercial Cleaning Can Reduce the Spread of Illness

Time Constraints

Closely related to the previous sign, you or your staff likely just don’t have the extra time to clean the office or workplace. Expecting employees to do their own job duties and efficiently clean your business is often more than any employee can handle. So, if cleaning responsibilities are cutting into your staff’s productivity or your own workday, it’s another sign that it’s time to hire a professional cleaning company.

Professional Commercial Cleaning vs Doing It Yourself

Overlooked Areas

It could be that certain areas, like carpets, windows, or upholstery, are simply overlooked, or it could be that your team just does not have the capabilities, skills or tools needed to keep properly clean. In addition to these specialty areas, other important areas are often forgotten, such as door knobs, light switches, and break rooms. If these areas are not being cleaned, or you didn’t even realize they should be cleaned, a professional janitorial service can help you tackle these overlooked but impactful areas in your business.

Hire a Professional Cleaning Company You Can Count On

Whether you’re frustrated with working in a messy office, dealing with frequent illnesses, or juggling cleaning responsibilities, it’s time to bring in a professional cleaning service. Having a dedicated cleaning team ensures your workplace is spotless, sanitized, and ready to support your employees, all while leaving a great impression on clients.

If you are in the Minneapolis – St. Paul Twin Cities area and looking for reliable commercial cleaning for your facility you don’t need to look any further. For over 25 years, ROC Commercial Cleaning has been providing exceptional janitorial commercial cleaning services to businesses just like yours. We know you need someone you can count on, which is why we prioritize responsive communication and adaptable scheduling, all supported by our quality assurance systems, to guarantee your business’s cleaning needs are consistently met.

Get off the cleaning rollercoaster. Contact ROC Commercial Cleaning at 612-581-2776 for your free, no-obligation estimate.

Keeping Your Dental Clinic Compliant with Cleaning Standards

8 months ago

Keeping your business clean for customers and employees is important across all industries. However, medical and dental clinics must adhere to even higher standards for cleanliness, sanitation and professionalism. In order to achieve these high levels of cleanliness and stay compliant with industry standards, most dental clinic facilities hire professional commercial cleaning companies to keep up with the ongoing cleaning tasks needed to maintain a clean and well-functioning dental clinic environment. At ROC Commercial Cleaning, we are the trusted commercial cleaning partner for many medical and dental clinics in the Minnesota Twin Cities area. We understand the importance of maintaining the highest cleaning standards, and in this article, we explain why keeping your dental practice compliant with cleanliness is essential.

Dental Cleaning Standards for Keeping Compliant

Dental and medical facilities are required to follow strict cleaning guidelines to keep patients healthy and prevent the spread of infections and pathogens that could easily spread in this type of environment. Disinfecting and sanitizing each dental cleaning station between clients is critical. Achieving and maintaining a clean dental practice is important not only for compliance but also to promote a healthy environment for staff and patients.

How Commercial Cleaning Can Reduce the Spread of Illness

Cleaning Needs and Frequency Vary

Determining the specific cleaning needs and frequency for your dental practice will depend on several factors, including the size of your clinic. In general, smaller dental clinics may not require as much cleaning as often, whereas larger facilities with more patients coming in and out on a daily basis will require increased cleaning. Additionally, because larger dental clinics are typically busier, this can leave less time for their staff and employees to complete some of the daily cleaning tasks themselves. With this in mind, partnering with an experienced professional cleaning company that can assess and help you develop a suitable cleaning schedule is ideal.

Routine Cleaning for Dental Clinics

Some of the routine cleaning methods that are required for dental facilities that professional janitorial services provide include:

Clean and disinfect all surfaces
Disinfect floors, counters, and handles
Sanitize chairs, keyboards, and bathrooms
Dusting surfaces and equipment
Vacuum patient and staff areas
Wipe down light switches and door handles
Clean and disinfect waiting room areas
Sanitize computer screens and phones

Typically, the dental facilities staff remain responsible for cleaning and sterilizing dental instruments and equipment. This is because they are properly trained to complete these tasks and knowledgeable about the specific protocols and safety standards required to prevent contamination.

High Expectations and High Standards

Medical and dental clinics are responsible for the important task of caring for patients and ensuring they receive essential care. There are high expectations that these facilities are clean, compassionate and professional. Establishing and maintaining these traits in your business is a way to build customer trust and loyalty.

Keeping your dental clinic spotless and compliant doesn’t have to be as complicated as it may seem. When you partner with the right commercial cleaning company that understands the appropriate cleaning methods for your industry, you can create a safe and welcoming space for your existing and future patients. ROC Commercial Cleaning is here to help make it easier. Contact our trusted team today to ensure your dental clinic meets the highest standards.

“We expect the cleanliness of our building to represent the high level of care we provide in our clinic. ROC Commercial Cleaning has played an important role in keeping the clinic at the high level of cleanliness that our patients expect.

One of the biggest concerns that I had, as any doctors office has, is HIPAA compliance and blood borne pathogens control. It was important to me to know that ROC was certified in both of these areas.”

Paul M.

Facilities Director

Get off the cleaning rollercoaster. Contact ROC Commercial Cleaning at 612-581-2776 for your free, no-obligation estimate.

Hard Floor Maintenance Checklist for Facility Managers

9 months ago

Whether you manage an office building, apartment complex, medical or dental clinic, retail store or another type of facility, you understand the significance of keeping a clean appearance for customers, clients and employees alike. Not only does routine hard flooring cleaning and maintenance ensure an aesthetically pleasing environment, but it can also improve the air quality, prevent odors and the spread of infections keeping your facility safer for visitors. Regular floor maintenance will also enhance the longevity of the floors within your facility and lead to cost savings down the road.

Make a Plan

Developing a comprehensive maintenance and cleaning plan for the year is an effective strategy to keep up with your cleaning and maintenance schedule. By doing so, facility managers can stay on top of tasks and ensure they do not slip between the cracks. With an annual plan and a maintenance checklist, you’ll be well off to keeping your facility’s hard flooring in pristine condition.

5 Tips for Keeping Office Floors Clean

Assess Floor Type

Before tackling your hard floor maintenance, you’ll need to understand what kind of hard flooring you are dealing with. Wood, tile, linoleum, marble, concrete or perhaps a combination of several kinds? Every type of flooring requires different types of maintenance and cleaning materials. Because of this, it’s important to identify the various types of flooring in your facility so that they can be handled properly to prolong their lifespan and avoid potential damage. For example, tile floors should be wet-mopped, whereas hardwood and laminate should only be damp-mopped.

Hard Floor Maintenance Checklist

The frequency of each task will depend on your facility type, size and foot traffic of staff and customers. In general, here is an ideal guide to go by:

Daily Tasks

There are several tasks that should be performed on a daily basis to maintain a clean environment. These tasks include:

Sweep and Dust Mop

Remove dirt and debris to prevent scratches.

Vacuum Entryway Mats

Remove dirt and debris before it tracks inside.

Spot Clean Spills

Quickly address spills to avoid stains and slipping hazards.

Damp Mop High-Traffic Areas

Use a neutral cleaner to reduce grime buildup.

Weekly Tasks

As daily tasks keep your business tidy and presentable, deeper cleaning tasks are necessary to prevent the unavoidable buildup of dirt. Weekly tasks involve:

Wet Mop All Areas

For applicable flooring types, thoroughly clean floors with a mild cleaner.

Buff Floors

Restore shine and remove any scuff marks.

Check Entryway Mats

Clean or replace floor mats to prevent dirt from entering.

Monthly Tasks

Monthly tasks are essential because they tackle the deeper mess that develops regardless of daily and weekly cleanings.

Deep Clean

Remove built-up dirt with a floor scrubber.

Polish or Recoat Floors

Maintain shine and protect surfaces.

Inspect for Repairs

Address any visible damage, such as chips or scratches, to prevent further damage.

Seasonal Tasks

Depending on your location, seasonal weather can impact the demands and frequency of hard floor maintenance.

Stripping and Waxing

Strip and wax hard floors to rejuvenate their appearance and prolong their lifespan.

Update the maintenance schedule based on seasonal needs. Do floor mats need to be swapped more frequently?
Consider increasing deep cleans to account for winter salt and sand being tracked indoors.

Read our other blogs for more maintenance and cleaning tips for facility managers.

Of course, you’ll want to customize your hard floor maintenance checklist to meet the specific needs of your facility. Having a well-structured cleaning and maintenance plan in place is essential to ensuring the cleanliness and longevity of your flooring. In addition, taking time to regularly monitor the condition of the floors and making timely adjustments to your maintenance schedule is an important factor for maintaining a tidy, sanitary and well-functioning facility.

Leave The Hassle to the Pros

One of the easiest ways to handle the ongoing cleaning and maintenance of hard flooring and other areas in the facility you manage is by hiring a commercial cleaning company. Not only will a reputable professional cleaning company keep things in tip-top shape, but a good account manager can help you assess the space you manage and create a cleaning plan that is sure to meet your needs.

Get Consistently Clean Floors with ROC Commercial Cleaning

If you are in the Minneapolis – St. Paul Twin Cities area and looking for reliable commercial cleaning for your facility, ROC Commercial Cleaning has you covered. With over 25 years of experience, we are dedicated to making sure we’ll be the last commercial cleaning company you have to hire. We prioritize responsive communication and adaptable scheduling, all supported by our quality assurance systems, to ensure your business’s cleaning needs are consistently met.

Get off the cleaning rollercoaster. Contact ROC Commercial Cleaning at 612-581-2776 for your free, no-obligation estimate.

6 Spring Cleaning Tips for a Healthier Workplace

1 year ago

Spring is in the air, and there is no better time to clear out some dust, clutter, and tidy up your living spaces. The workplace is equally important when it comes to spring cleaning; after all, employees spend a significant amount of time in the office, warehouse, clinic, businesses, and more. Wondering what are some of the best spring cleaning tasks to tackle to make the biggest impact in achieving and maintaining a clean and healthier workplace? We’ve got 6 spring cleaning tips to get you started.

Cleaning Tips for the Workplace

1) Declutter and Organize

Clear out unused items from desks, cabinets, and common areas to create a more efficient and organized workspace. It’s a great time to remind employees of the benefits of regularly tidying up their workstations.

2) Deep Clean Surfaces

Disinfect and wipe down high-touch surfaces such as desks, keyboards, phones, door knobs, and lightswitches. Not only does cleaning these frequently utilized spaces improve overall mood and productivity, but it can also help reduce the spread of germs and viruses.

3) Clean Floors

Spring is also an ideal time to deep clean flooring. Having professionally deep-cleaned floors, such as steam cleaning carpets or stripping and waxing tile or vinyl flooring, leaves your space fresh and revitalized.

5 Tips For Keeping Office Floors Clean

4) Refresh the Breakroom

Give break areas, kitchens, and bathrooms a thorough cleaning. Disinfect countertops, tables, and appliances, and ensure that supplies such as soap, paper towels, and hand sanitizer are well-stocked and readily available.

5) Clean Air Vents and Filters

When spring arrives, so do seasonal allergies. Help employees feel their best and improve indoor air quality by cleaning or replacing air vents and filters. This helps remove dust, allergens, and other pollutants from the air, promoting a healthier work environment.

Tips To Keep Your Office Allergen-free

6) Upholstery Cleaning

Schedule professional upholstery cleaning to remove dirt, dust, and allergens trapped in fabrics. This will leave your workspace looking more inviting to employees and customers and help to improve indoor air quality.

Take Time to Clean the ‘Forgotten Areas’

Bonus Tip: Now is a great time to focus on cleaning areas that are not typically part of your normal cleaning rotation.

This can include:

✓ Wiping down light fixtures

✓ Cleansing and deodorizing the inside and outside of garbage receptacles

✓ Dusting and cleaning ceiling fans

✓ Cleaning window blinds or curtains

✓ Safely sanitizing office equipment such as printers, copiers, and fax machines

✓ Dusting decorative items such as frames, awards, knickknacks, and fake plants

Whether it’s routine office cleaning, specialized floor care, or deep cleaning tasks, outsourcing these responsibilities to experienced professionals allows companies to focus on their core operations while creating a safe and inviting environment for everyone. Spring cleaning is the ideal time to get cleaning practices back on track and pay attention to the overlooked areas. By investing in professional cleaning services, businesses can ensure that every corner of their workspace is thoroughly cleaned, and promote a healthier and more productive environment for employees.

Remember, when it comes to janitorial services and professional commercial cleaning, quality and reliability are essential.

How To Choose The Right Commercial Cleaning Company

Recruit the Best Cleaning Service

If you’re in the Minneapolis – St. Paul Twin Cities area and seeking professional cleaning services for your workplace, look no further. Our team at ROC Commercial Cleaning exceeds all expectations and more. Ready to experience the difference? Contact our team today to get started with our professional cleaning services.

CALL US FOR A NO-OBLIGATION ESTIMATE – (612) 581-2776

Get off the cleaning rollercoaster. Contact ROC Commercial Cleaning at 612-581-2776 for your free, no-obligation estimate.

When is the Best Time to Have Carpets Professionally Cleaned?

2 years ago

Wondering when is the right time to have your carpets and rugs professionally cleaned? Believe it or not, there are ideal times of the year to have it done.

Regularly cleaning carpeting is exceptionally important to maintaining a presentable and healthy office and workspace. Professional carpet steam cleaning has significant benefits, including improved air quality and an enhanced appearance. Find out more about the many benefits of steam carpet cleaning for workspaces.

When Should You Have Your Carpets Professionally Cleaned?

Of course, carpet cleaning can take place anytime throughout the year. However, we find two seasons to be the most common and impactful. This is during the spring and the autumn months of the year.

Carpet Cleaning in the Spring

Professional carpet cleaning in the spring just makes sense because spring cleaning! It can be an excellent way to start fresh by removing winter dirt, salt and debris buildup. Carpet cleaning in the spring can also help maintain an allergy-free workplace.

What Is Your Flooring Doing To The Office Air Quality?

Carpet Cleaning in the Fall

The second time of year that professional carpet cleaning is most beneficial is during the fall. Having carpeted flooring cleaned during this transitional period can promote a healthy environment by removing summer allergens, dirt and stains. Cleaning carpets and rugs after the increased foot traffic that naturally occurs in the warmer months is an ideal way to keep floors from getting excessively dirty. This is also a great way to prepare for the upcoming winter months.

There are times when having carpets professionally cleaned outside of spring and fall makes sense, such as preparing for a special event or holiday party. However, most individuals and businesses will experience the most benefit and value when following this seasonal schedule for their carpet cleaning.

Do you have questions about having your carpets cleaned or regularly scheduled cleaning for your office or business? Reach out today for more information on our janitorial services or to schedule your next cleaning.

Get off the cleaning rollercoaster. Contact ROC Commercial Cleaning at 612-581-2776 for your free, no-obligation estimate.

How to Remove Stubborn Salt Stains from Carpeting and Flooring

2 years ago

The lingering winter months are finally behind us, but they may have left a distinct reminder on your flooring. Salt used to melt snow and prevent ice buildup can leave stubborn stains that can be difficult to remove. Here we will take a look at simple ways to remove salt stains from your carpeting and flooring.

Open workspace with clean floors — Photo credit: Marc Mueller accessed 04/05/2023 via Pexels

How to Remove Salt from Flooring

Supplies:

Warm water
Distilled white vinegar
Towels
Soft mop

Step 1:

Mix your cleaning solution by combining one cup of vinegar to 3 gallons of warm water.

Pro Tip: You can also add a couple tablespoons of dish soap for extra cleaning power!

Step 2:

Apply the mixture to a soft mop, towel, or cloth and wipe down the floor. You do not want to pour the cleaning mixture directly on the floor. Once you have wiped down the floor, dry the cleaned area immediately.

Related Read: Tips for Cleaning Tile and Stone Floors

How to Remove Salt from Carpeting

Step 1:

Prior to cleaning, vacuum the area to remove dirt and dry salt residue.

Step 2:

Using a towel, pat your vinegar and water cleaning mixture onto the carpet to remove the salt stains. You want to be sure you do not scrub roughly but gently pat the affected area. This will ensure the carpeting is not damaged during the cleaning process.

When self-treating your carpeting and flooring, it is advised you read the manufacturer’s maintenance instructions to prevent voiding your warranty.

Read: How to Make Carpeting Look Better and Last Longer

Removing salt stains can be a chore, but with these easy solutions your floors will be clean in no time! Looking for an even easier way to remove stubborn salt stains from your floors? ROC Commercial Cleaning can take care of the hard work for you. If you have questions about cleaning your floors, give ROC Cleaning a call!

Get off the cleaning rollercoaster. Contact ROC Commercial Cleaning at 612-581-2776 for your free, no-obligation estimate.

What is Your Flooring Doing to the Office Air Quality?

2 years ago

Maintaining a healthy workplace environment is crucial for the well-being of employees, and air quality is a significant part of that environment. Poor air quality in the workplace can cause a range of health problems, from headaches and fatigue to respiratory issues and allergies, not to mention decrease staff morale. Germs, bacteria, and debris in general settles on any horizontal surface, the largest of which is usually the floor.

Flooring may not be the first area you think of when you think of maintaining office cleanliness, however germs, virus transmission, and microscopic debris are transferred all around the building all day on the shoes of everyone in the building. Let’s look at what your flooring is doing to the office air quality.

Contemporary workplace with desk and chairs — Photo credit: @heyho accessed 03/07/2023 via CC0

Flooring Materials and Air Quality

The flooring materials in an office can have a significant impact on the air quality, with some materials releasing harmful chemicals and others acting as traps for allergens and dust. Various types of flooring can absorb germs and bacteria differently, releasing those contaminants airborne as traffic circulates around the building, affecting office air quality.

Commercial Carpeting

Carpet traps allergens and debris within the fibers and apart from an unsightly appearance, dirty carpets hold germs and bacteria that become airborne easily. Proper vacuuming and sanitation is crucial to creating and sustaining a healthy work environment. Depending on office or building use, regular cleaning is the only way to keep carpets clean.

Read: How Dirty Floors Spread Infection

Non-Porous and Tile Flooring

Many office and professional buildings are equipped with a non-porous materials like marble, ceramic, or vinyl flooring. The cleaning regimen is not the same for all of these material types. Daily or weekly cleaning will keep floors clean, improving air quality and reducing odors from moisture and dirt. Another consideration is scheduled stripping and waxing of non-porous surfaces to remove deep stains and scuffs to the finish surface.

Rugs

Walk-off mats by entryways and regular cleaning of surrounding surfaces is the most effective at preventing dirt from entering the building, according to the EPA. Entrance rugs should cover a recommended 2 to 5 steps into the entry or walkway to effectively trap as much dirt and debris as possible. Rugs should be kept clean, and equally important, kept dry to prevent bacterial or mildew growth and dirt accumulation, all of which adversely impact air quality.

Regular cleaning is necessary to ensure not only the look of your professional environment, but also to maintain a clean and sanitary space. A clean workspace directly impacts air quality throughout the building.

Get off the cleaning rollercoaster. Contact ROC Commercial Cleaning at 612-581-2776 for your free, no-obligation estimate.

How Dirty Floors Can Spread Infection

3 years ago

When disinfecting an office space, most people focus on high-touch surfaces, such as doorknobs, light switches, elevator buttons, and the like. But don’t forget about the floors! Dirty floors can be a major source of bacteria and virus transmission, causing infection to spread among staff, customers, and visitors.

This is especially true in healthcare facilities, but it is also the case in office buildings, retail stores, childcare centers, warehouses, and any other high-traffic space where different people regularly come and go. Therefore, it’s important for building owners, facility managers, and janitorial decisionmakers to recognize the importance of keeping flooring clean.

dirty floors in a clinic — photo credit: @fr3nks accessed 11/30/22 via CC0

How Dirty Floors Raise Risk of Infection

Germs spread on floors the same way they spread on any other surface: by people. When bacteria lands on flooring, it is easily picked up by the shoes of people coming in and out of that room. Then, germs are transferred to other parts of the building, and so on.

Four Tips to Minimize Infection Risk from Dirty Floors

1. Choose Nonporous Flooring

When installing new flooring in your business, choose a seamless flooring material that is sealed with an impermeable coating. Grouted flooring and unsealed concrete are porous and more difficult to clean effectively, trapping and spreading dirt and bacteria.

Read: Tips for Cleaning Tile and Stone Floors

In addition, healthcare facilities and veterinary clinics should consider installing a chemical-resistant flooring. This will help to protect floors against harsh cleaning chemicals, thereby improving their longevity.

2. Clean Up Spills ASAP

Whether you’re dealing with a biohazard or a simple coffee spill, it’s important to clean up any messes immediately. This will help to contain any infection risk while protecting the flooring from lasting damage.

Read: 5 Tips for Improving Hygiene in Office Buildings

3. Monitor Floor Conditions

Regularly check flooring for cracking, peeling, or other issues. Breaches in protective floor coating can attract bacteria and pose a safety risk.

4. Clean Floors Frequently

Regular floor cleaning is essential to maintaining a healthy, safe work environment, no matter the nature of your business. Contact ROC Commercial Cleaning for a free estimate on any business janitorial needs!

Get off the cleaning rollercoaster. Contact ROC Commercial Cleaning at 612-581-2776 for your free, no-obligation estimate.

Source: Cleaning & Maintenance Management, “5 Steps for Boosting Infection Control Through Floor Maintenance”

How to Make Carpeting Look Better and Last Longer

3 years ago

No matter the size of your office or workplace, flooring is a big investment, and it’s important to care for it diligently. Proper methods of flooring care vary based on type, placement, traffic level, pre-treatment, durability and more. Here are a few tips on extending the life of carpeting through regular cleaning and proactive maintenance.

How to Extend the Life of Carpeting

office carpeting — photo credit: @uneebo_office_design accessed 10/9/22 via CC0

Vacuum Regularly

When people walk into a building, everything they stepped on outside – dirt, salt, sand, and more – comes inside on their shoes. If these materials are left on carpet, they sink down into carpet fibers, making them more difficult to remove and creating long-term damage to the carpeting. It’s important to vacuum regularly – every day, if possible – to remove dirt and keep carpet in good shape.

Let ROC Handle the Vacuuming! Contact Us for a Free Quote.

Use High-Quality Mats

Place mats at entrances and in high-traffic areas to absorb dirt and mud, trap soils, and reduce the risk of staining.

Read: Stop Dirt at The Door With Entrance Mats

Conduct Low-Moisture Cleaning

It seems logical to clean carpets with water. But excessive moisture can lead to mold and mildew, significantly shortening the lifespan of carpeting. Look for low-moisture carpet cleaning services.

Professional Carpet Cleaning vs. DIY: Which is Right for You?

Perform Regular Deep Cleans

Although daily vacuuming will help keep carpets clean, it’s a good idea to perform a deep clean once or twice per year. This is a job best left to the professionals – like the experienced steam carpet cleaning teams at ROC Cleaning!

ROC Commercial Cleaning is your trusted Minneapolis commercial cleaning company. We provide janitorial commercial cleaning for office buildings, medical and veterinary clinics, salons, retail stores, industrial buildings, office disinfection services, onetime services, and more. We also provide car dealership cleaning services, and construction cleanup during and after construction projects of all sizes. ROC Commercial Cleaning is a trusted Minnesota office cleaning service provider – no job is too big or too small!

Get off the cleaning rollercoaster. Contact ROC Commercial Cleaning at 612-581-2776 for your free, no-obligation estimate.

Source: CMM Online, “6 Strategies to Extend the Lifespan of Carpet”

Tips for Cleaning Tile and Stone Floors

3 years ago

The best way to extend the life of flooring is to care for it properly. This applies whether your office or business flooring is carpet, wood, linoleum, vinyl, tile, stone, or a different material. It’s important to use the right cleaners, tools, and techniques for each type of flooring. Today, we’re sharing tips on cleaning and caring for tile and stone floors.

Avoid These Common Carpet Cleaning Mistakes

How to Clean Tile and Stone Floors

Ceramic tile is a manufactured flooring product made from natural materials. Stone is, of course, also a natural material. Because they are similar products, they have similar cleaning needs and techniques.

Grout Cleaning Tips

Keeping grout clean is the biggest challenge with tile and stone floors. Sweep the group before applying any water or liquid cleaner to a stone or tile floor. If you don’t, dirt that has been wiped into the grout will turn into mud, and will be more difficult to remove.

There are three types of grout: cement-based, furan resin, and epoxy. Cement-based grout is the most commonly used type, and is found in a variety of commercial buildings. Cement is porous, which means that stains can more easily penetrate the surface and cause staining. So when dirt turns into mud and penetrates into grout, it may permanently alter the color.

What Kind of Floor Cleaner to Use for Tile and Stone Floors

You can use a standard floor cleaner for stone and tile. However, because household cleaners don’t have a neutral pH, they need to be rinsed off. If not rinsed, a residue can build up, further staining grout and shortening the life of the flooring.

The Most Important Floor Cleaning Tip

Here’s the most important tile and stone cleaning tip: don’t go too long between cleanings. If dirt and grime don’t have a chance to build up and set in, it’ll be easier to prevent staining and lasting damage. If you don’t have the time or resources to clean your floors regularly, give ROC a call! We can clean daily, weekly, or on whatever schedule works best for you.

ROC Commercial Cleaning is your trusted Twin Cities janitorial service. We provide contract cleaning for office buildings, medical and veterinary clinics, auto dealerships, salons, retail stores, industrial buildings, office disinfection services, and more. We also provide construction cleanup during and after construction projects of all sizes. No cleaning job is too big or too small for our experienced cleaning teams!

Get off the cleaning rollercoaster. Contact ROC Commercial Cleaning at 612-249-7576 for your free, no-obligation estimate.

Source: CMM Online, “Q&A: Tile and Stone Floor Maintenance”

8 Common Carpet Cleaning Mistakes to Avoid

3 years ago

When it comes to workplace carpeting, spills and stains are a pain. However, there are ways to help you prevent and treat these mishaps at the source. Avoiding these common carpet cleaning mistakes will save you time and money, and extend the life of your carpeting.

8 Common Carpet Cleaning Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common cleaning mistakes when cleaning your carpeting:

1. Vigorously Rubbing a Spill

It’s never a good idea to try to rub or scrub a spill. Vigorously rubbing a spill into the carpet can damage the fibers, and often results in the stain getting pushed deeper into the base of the carpet. Scrubbing also causes unnecessary twisting and fraying of the carpet fibers, leaving long-term damage. Whenever possible, always use the blotting method to safely pull the stain out of the surface.

2. Not Acting Fast Enough

When a spill happens, take action as soon as possible. Waiting too long to clean up a spill may result in the liquid soaking into carpet fibers and absorbing into the padding. Cleaning spills quickly can also prevent further damage like unwanted odors or mold growth.

3. Using the Wrong Product

Use the right solution to use for certain spills to prevent damage to your carpet down the line. If you use the wrong solution, it can cause unnecessary damage and discoloration. Read labels and follow manufacturer guidelines on all cleaning products.

4. Not Testing New Solutions

Test products on a small patch of carpet before using them widely. This will avoid widespread damage, and help you understand how to use the product correctly.

5. Using a Deodorizing Powder

Deodorizing powders can be tricky to use since they are often harmful to carpet. A common misconception is that these powders can be used to clean carpets, but they can’t. If you do decide to use a deodorizing powder, look for a product that isn’t as harsh on carpet fibers.

6. Using Too Many Chemicals

When it comes to chemicals for carpet cleaning, more does not mean better. Oversaturating carpet with different chemicals can cause unwanted residue to build up in the base, and overall damage to carpet fibers.

7. Never Using a Professional Cleaner

Using a professional carpet cleaner can save both time and money in the long run – not to mention the overall health and longevity of your carpet. Regular visits from professional carpet cleaners are like taking care of your teeth at the dentist. It’ll prevent long-term buildup of dirt and grime within the fibers of your carpet.

8. Renting Faulty Cleaning Equipment

Renting DIY carpet cleaners can sometimes do more harm than good. Rental machines are known to cause unnecessary damage to your carpets and can often leave behind excess cleaning solutions, which may cause mold.

Making sure you take all the necessary precautions when dealing with little or big spills will keep your carpet cleaner and healthier in the long run. After all, a healthy carpet creates a positive and clean environment that is beneficial to all.

ROC Commercial Cleaning is your trusted Twin Cities janitorial service. We provide contract cleaning for office buildings, medical and veterinary clinics, auto dealerships, salons, retail stores, industrial buildings, office disinfection services, and more. We also provide construction cleanup during and after construction projects of all sizes. No cleaning job is too big or too small for our experienced cleaning teams!

Get off the cleaning rollercoaster. Contact ROC Commercial Cleaning at 612-249-7576 for your free, no-obligation estimate.

Professional Carpet Cleaners vs. Do it Yourself Carpet Cleaning

3 years ago

Office buildings, apartment complexes, and commercial buildings, all of them have carpet somewhere. For business owners, carpet cleaning is something that makes you wonder if you could just do it yourself, or is it better to just hire a professional?

We’ll go over some pros and cons of using a professional carpet cleaner, so you can decide what’s best for you and your business.

Professional Carpet Cleaners vs DIY Carpet Cleaning

The Professionals Have Better Equipment

In many industries, the professionals always tend to have better, more powerful equipment. Professional carpet cleaners use high-end steam and deep cleaners that get deep down into the pores of the carpet, cleaning the carpet at the core.

You can purchase a smaller, less effective vacuum steam cleaner, but you’ll notice that it doesn’t always do the best job. Renting equipment can also get expensive depending on the amount of carpet space that needs to be cleaned.

professional carpet cleaning vs. diy — photo credit: @pixabay accessed 5/10/22 via CC0

Higher Chance of Damaging Your Carpet When Doing It Yourself

If you choose to clean yourself you might be renting a carpet cleaner, in this case, you may be opening your carpet up to possible damages. The rental machines are harsh on your carpet and can lead to faster wear and tear on the fibers.

For some, DIY carpet cleaning includes using carpet deodorizers to make it smell better and get “a deeper clean”. The abrasive chemicals may help it smell a little bit better, but, it is damaging your carpet even further.

Faster Dry Time When Working with a Professional

Many professional carpet cleaners use the “steam cleaning” method. During this method, hot water is sprayed onto the carpet, then it gets sucked back up into the machine. This effectively gets rid of any dirt or grime that may be embedded within the carpet fibers and backings.

The method does require your carpet to get wet, but with the knowledge and equipment of a professional, it will most certainly dry faster than doing it yourself. The sheer power of the higher-end machines leaves your carpet with slight dampness that dries quickly.

Doing it Yourself with Lower-Grade Cleaning Machines

Self-cleaning carpet machines have lower water pressure and weak vacuums. This means that you won’t be able to rinse the carpet fibers thoroughly. The weaker vacuums also don’t have enough power to get as much water vacuumed as much as doing the process professionally.

Professional Carpet Cleaners Have More Experience

You can’t beat the knowledge and time that professional carpet cleaners have in the industry. They have to ability to get the job done and get it done fast. Doing a quick google search for carpet cleaners in the area or reaching out to ROC Commercial Cleaning is your best bet.

While cleaning carpets isn’t enjoyable for most, it’s still important to make sure they are being taken care of. A properly cleaned carpet will last longer, look better, and keep your space refreshed. So, whether you choose to clean yourself or to use a professional, ensure it is done properly to yield the best results in the long run.

ROC Commercial Cleaning is your trusted Twin Cities janitorial service. We provide contract cleaning for office buildings, medical and veterinary clinics, auto dealerships, salons, retail stores, industrial buildings, office disinfection services, and more. We also provide construction cleanup during and after construction projects of all sizes. No cleaning job is too big or too small for our experienced cleaning teams!

Get off the cleaning rollercoaster. Contact ROC Commercial Cleaning at 612-249-7576 for your free, no-obligation estimate.

5 Tips for Improving Hygiene and Reducing Operating Costs

3 years ago

Improving office cleanliness is always good practice. Even if your office is professionally cleaned on a regular basis, keeping up with good hygiene practices between those cleaning is a must. Not only does it boost morale and productivity, but it can also reduce operating costs.

5 Tips for Improving Hygiene and Reducing Operating Costs

Here are 5 tips for improving hygiene within your office or facility. (Courtesy of CMM)

1. Change consumables

Soap dispensers come in a couple of different forms. The best option in terms of hygiene is a “closed” soap dispenser. This type of dispenser includes a hygienically sealed nozzle and reservoir.

Using a closed system can reduce the number of bacteria that contaminate the soap. It may also help to use foam dispensers as well, as these cause less of a mess.

Paper towels are also another relatively low-cost option to reduce the number of bacteria after handwashing. Either white or brown paper towels are recommended.

2. Install automated, touchless dispensers and fixtures

Manually operated paper towels, soap, and water fixtures can be troublesome when trying to practice good hygiene. Users may wash their hands and touch the faucet after with wet hands, causing unwanted bacteria to grow and spread.

Automated, touchless dispensers can be applied to water faucets, paper towel dispensers, soap dispensers, and even flush valves. Implementing these not only saves you from unnecessary bacteria, but may also decrease operating costs. This is because these devices only produce enough to get the job done, reducing usage and waste.

Read: Tips for Safe Disinfectant Use Between Cleanings

3. Implement smart restroom technology

Smart restroom technologies are no longer systems of the future. They’re becoming the standard for modern restroom maintenance. Smart restroom technology prompts office cleaners to regularly sanitize touch points throughout, such as doorknobs, stalls, and toilet paper dispensers.

Product waste is also reduced with the use of these systems. They regulate the amount that is flushed and let cleaners know when they’re empty so there is no overfilling.

4. Provide proper training

Having updated fixtures and technologies is important, but it doesn’t mean much if proper techniques and practices aren’t being followed. Teaching employees about safe hygiene practices within the office or facility will drastically reduce the misuse of cleaning technology.

Either onboarding training, self-learning videos, or putting small instructional signs around may be good options to help increase the knowledge of safe hygiene practices.

5. Find the right partners

Look for a product distributor that tailors its goods toward your company’s needs. Providing the necessary information to effectively use cleaning systems and technologies is essential. In addition, look for a reliable commercial cleaner who will help you maintain a clean work environment.

Having good hygiene within your office or facility is important. Automated fixtures and technologies can improve hygiene, health, productivity and employee satisfaction.

ROC Commercial Cleaning is your trusted Twin Cities janitorial service. We provide contract cleaning for office buildings, medical and veterinary clinics, auto dealerships, salons, retail stores, industrial buildings, office disinfection services, and more. We also provide construction cleanup during and after construction projects of all sizes. No cleaning job is too big or too small for our experienced cleaning teams!

Get off the cleaning rollercoaster. Contact ROC Commercial Cleaning at 612-581-2776 for your free, no-obligation estimate.

Stop Dirt at the Door with Entrance Mats

4 years ago

Did you know that 85 percent of the dirt in a building is tracked in on the soles of shoes? And that one square yard of commercial carpet can accumulate up to a pound of dirt in a single week – and double that in winter? Not only does tracked-in dirt make a building messier and more unsanitary, but it also causes additional wear on flooring. The best way to keep floors clean is to stop dirt at the doors, and entrance mats can help do that.

The Benefits of Entrance Mats

Keep Floors Clean

Entrance mats provide friction to remove dirt from shoes, and their materials absorb dirt and debris before they can be tracked into a building.

Extend the Life of Flooring

According to Cleanfax, it only takes 1,500 people walking over tile to remove 42 percent of tile finish. Dirt, grit and debris can scratch and dent floors, making them look and perform poorly. Because building entrances are high-traffic areas, entrance mats can significantly reduce wear, and extend the life of flooring and finishes.

Lower Maintenance Costs

Because flooring and finishes will last longer, floors will need less regular maintenance, saving both time and money.

More Sustainable Cleaning

Entrance mats can decrease your building’s environmental impact by reducing the frequency of cleanings and keeping floors clean without harsh chemicals.

Keep Employees Safe

Mats keep floors from becoming wet and slippery, reducing the risk of employee slip and fall accidents.

Remember to Change Your Mats Often!

When entrance mats become waterlogged and dirty, or accumulate significant wear, they’re no longer effective at keeping floors clean and employees safe. It’s important to change out mats regularly, especially during the messier winter months.

Do you need help keeping floors in your office, clinic, warehouse or retail store clean? Let ROC handle your cleaning, so you can focus on your business.

ROC Commercial Cleaning is your trusted Twin Cities janitorial service. We provide contract cleaning for office buildings, medical and veterinary clinics, auto dealerships, salons and retail stores, industrial buildings and more. We also provide construction cleanup during and after construction projects of all sizes. No cleaning job is too big or too small for our experienced cleaning teams!

Get off the cleaning rollercoaster. Contact ROC Commercial Cleaning at 612-581-2776 for your free, no-obligation estimate.