When was the last time your office keyboard got a proper clean? Or the buttons on the printer? If you can’t remember, you’re not alone. Offices are busy environments with employees coming and going, touching surfaces, and sharing spaces all day long. Without regular cleaning, germs and bacteria build up, increasing the risk of illness and making the workplace less pleasant.
That’s why high-traffic areas in office cleaning should be a priority for every business. Keeping frequently used spaces clean not only improves hygiene but also boosts productivity and creates a healthier work environment.
Let’s dive into the top 10 high-traffic areas in offices that need frequent cleaning and why they matter.
1. Door Handles and Light Switches
Think about how many people touch door handles and light switches throughout the day. These surfaces are hotspots for germs and bacteria, especially in high-traffic areas like meeting rooms, break rooms, and restrooms.
Cleaning Tip:
- Wipe down door handles and switches at least once a day with disinfectant wipes.
- Use antimicrobial coatings for added protection.
2. Office Desks and Workstations
Your desk might look tidy, but it’s likely one of the dirtiest places in the office. Studies have found that the average desk has more bacteria than a toilet seat—and that’s before factoring in shared workspaces.
Cleaning Tip:
- Wipe down desks, keyboards, and mice daily with disinfectant wipes.
- Encourage employees to clear their desks at the end of the day for thorough cleaning.
3. Shared Office Equipment (Printers, Copiers, and Phones)
Shared office equipment like printers, copiers, and phones are used by multiple employees throughout the day, making them prime locations for germ transfer.
Cleaning Tip:
- Wipe down buttons and touchscreens several times a week.
- Use alcohol-based wipes to clean phones and headsets.
4. Meeting Rooms and Conference Tables
Meeting rooms are gathering spots for employees and clients, meaning surfaces like tables, chairs, and remote controls accumulate bacteria quickly.
Cleaning Tip:
- Disinfect tables and chairs after every meeting.
- Clean whiteboard markers and remote controls regularly.
5. Kitchen and Break Areas
Office kitchens are a breeding ground for bacteria, with surfaces like microwaves, fridges, and coffee machines frequently touched but rarely cleaned.
Cleaning Tip:
- Clean countertops and communal appliances daily.
- Encourage employees to label and remove expired food from the fridge weekly.
6. Restrooms and Washroom Facilities
It’s no surprise that restrooms are one of the most critical areas to keep clean. Unclean facilities not only spread germs but also create a negative impression of the workplace.
Cleaning Tip:
- Sanitise sinks, taps, and toilets multiple times a day.
- Ensure soap dispensers and hand dryers are stocked and functioning.
7. Reception and Waiting Areas
Reception areas are the first point of contact for visitors, making cleanliness essential for both hygiene and first impressions.
Cleaning Tip:
- Disinfect reception desks, sign-in tablets, and waiting room chairs daily.
- Clean magazines and other shared items regularly or remove them altogether.
8. Office Floors and Carpets
Foot traffic drags in dirt, dust, and bacteria, making floors and carpets a key focus for cleaning.
Cleaning Tip:
- Vacuum carpets daily and deep clean monthly.
- Mop hard floors regularly, especially in entryways.
9. Elevator Buttons and Stair Rails
Elevator buttons and stair railings are touched by countless people every day, making them one of the germiest spots in the office.
Cleaning Tip:
- Wipe down buttons and railings multiple times a day.
- Install hand sanitiser stations near elevators and stairwells.
10. Shared Office Supplies and Stationery
From staplers to pens, shared office supplies are often overlooked in cleaning routines, even though they pass from person to person.
Cleaning Tip:
- Encourage employees to use their own supplies where possible.
- Regularly disinfect shared items and consider using antimicrobial stationery.
FAQs: Office Cleaning Best Practices
Q: How often should high-traffic office areas be cleaned?
A: It depends on the area, but high-touch surfaces like door handles, desks, and shared equipment should be cleaned daily, while floors and carpets should be cleaned at least weekly.
Q: What’s the best way to reduce germs in the office?
A: Regular cleaning, hand sanitiser stations, and encouraging good hygiene practices among employees can significantly reduce the spread of germs.
Q: Should businesses hire professional cleaning services?
A: Yes, professional cleaners have the tools and expertise to ensure thorough and consistent cleaning, especially in large offices or high-risk areas.
Q: What cleaning products are best for office environments?
A: Use disinfectant wipes, alcohol-based sprays, and antibacterial cleaners to effectively eliminate germs without damaging office equipment.
Final Thoughts: Prioritising Office Cleanliness
Regular high-traffic areas in office cleaning isn’t just about maintaining appearances—it’s essential for health, productivity, and workplace morale. A clean office reduces the spread of illness, creates a more professional environment, and makes employees feel safer and more comfortable.
By focusing on these 10 key areas, businesses can ensure a cleaner, healthier workspace for everyone.