Open office workspaces are often found in co-working or collaborative workplaces. Keeping these areas clean when there is less definition of who is responsible for what can be challenging. These spaces generally need more frequent cleaning because they host more traffic than a private office.
Additionally, open spaces function more like public areas than private offices in terms of supply usage, frequently touched surfaces, and diverse user expectations. Some users feel responsible for keeping the area clean, while others may believe a commercial cleaning service or co-working staff handles those tasks. This is why creating expectations for users is the best way to keep open workspaces clean.
What is the Definition of Open Workspaces
An open workspace or open-plan office has become popular due to co-working models and collaborative business methodologies. The concept is that employees can network and collaborate by limiting the physical barriers of walls or cubicles. Studies reveal both benefits and drawbacks of this workplace style. If your office features an open layout, there are important considerations for maintaining cleanliness.
Effective Cleaning of Open Workspaces
If open workspaces encourage collaboration, it shouldn’t end with discussions and whiteboard drawings. Cleaning, organizing, and tidying should also be collaborative in nature. Here are a few tips to support those outcomes:
- Use cleaning stations.
Setting up cleaning stations is a great way to encourage more regular cleaning. At a gym, areas often have disinfectant spray, paper towels, and a trash can. After someone uses a machine, they are expected to wipe it down. The same principle can be used in an open workspace to help users wipe down a desk or table and clean up spills.
In areas where messes are more likely, such as at a coffee bar, breakroom, or even next to a copy machine, put extra supplies in clear view and reach to encourage their use.
- Make it easy.
By making it easy for users to find supplies and know what actions to take, they are more likely to do them.
Cleaning stations make cleaning up easy because all the needed supplies are in one area. No one needs to hunt for a paper towel to clean up a small spill. Think of casual restaurants that provide shelves and bins for dirty dishes, encouraging guests to bus their own tables. Some organizations physically outline supplies and tools to help people know what belongs in the empty space so it can be returned there.
- Give clear direction.
Signage is one way to give instructions and communicate expectations. If you have ever stayed in a rental (like Airbnb), you can take a cue from them. Labels on shelves help guests know where to find and return items like kitchen and bathroom supplies. They can also list procedures such as how to use the coffee machine or connect to WiFi.
Clean, easy, and convenient directions and expectations support the desired outcome of a clean, open workspace.
Using a Cleaning Service for Open-Plan Offices
Because open-plan workspaces invite higher worker traffic in a single area, bacteria and germs can spread more easily. Encouraging employees to keep the areas tidy can help reduce this risk; however, employees should not be responsible for providing a truly professional clean.
Professional office cleaning services are trained in effectively applying cleaning products and techniques to reduce cross-contamination and kill germs. This is important not only in shared spaces but also in bathrooms, as these areas are unlikely to be adequately maintained by employees or office mates.
Commercial cleaning companies identify high-touch areas that require more cleaning (such as switches, handles, and door knobs), but they also handle what most coworkers won’t, namely:
- Trash removal
- Dusting
- Floor care
- Glass care
- Breakroom cleaning
- Bathroom sanitation
True Collaboration for Cleanliness
Cleaning companies maintain a cadence appropriate for the business’s traffic and a consistent schedule. Tasks can also be customized to the space and unique needs of the business. Collaboration between office personnel and a professional cleaning company will ultimately best serve the open workspace.
About A Cleaning Service
Put your trust in A Cleaning Service, an award-winning cleaning company serving the Greater Washington DC, Virginia, and Maryland areas. Contact us today for a quote regarding commercial cleaning solutions and janitorial services or for more information about how it looks to work with a cleaning service.