Whether you’re welcoming staff back after remote work or simply want to maintain a healthy workplace, deep cleaning your office is one task that should never be overlooked. While routine cleaning takes care of the obvious — empty bins, clean desks, and tidy kitchens — a deep clean goes far beyond the surface.
It targets the hidden germs, the forgotten corners, and the high-touch areas that are often missed. More importantly, it sets the tone for a safe, productive, and professional environment. In this guide, we’ll explore the full process of deep cleaning an office, what’s included, and how to get it done right.
Why Office Deep Cleaning Is Essential for Health & Productivity
In shared environments, cleanliness isn’t just about appearances. It’s about health. Offices can be breeding grounds for bacteria, especially in busy, enclosed spaces where people share desks, phones, meeting rooms, and communal kitchens.
A clean office reduces the spread of viruses, minimises sick days, and improves overall morale. Employees are more productive in hygienic, well-maintained spaces. Clients and visitors also notice — and judge — how clean your space is. A dirty reception or smudged glass doors can send the wrong message instantly.
Deep cleaning ensures that your office isn’t just “clean enough” — it’s truly sanitised and safe.
What Should Be Included in an Office Deep Clean?
A proper deep clean involves more than giving things a wipe. It’s a top-to-bottom treatment that covers every surface — visible or not. This includes desks, chairs, floors, carpets, windows, blinds, skirting boards, and under furniture.
You’ll also need to clean and disinfect items that are often touched but rarely cleaned. These include light switches, keyboards, telephones, door handles, and printer buttons. Bathroom fixtures, taps, and kitchen appliances also require extra attention.
Air vents, ceiling fans, and HVAC units should be dusted and sanitised where possible, especially if the office has been closed for a while.
It’s about creating a clean environment in every sense — from air quality to shared surfaces.
Germ Hotspots and High-Touch Areas to Never Miss
In every office, there are a few key places where germs love to hide. These are the high-touch areas that get used dozens of times a day, often by different people, but rarely get cleaned properly.
These include:
- Door handles and push plates
- Lift buttons
- Light switches
- Computer mice and keyboards
- Desk phones and mobile chargers
- Shared kitchen equipment like kettles, coffee machines, and fridge handles
- Washroom taps and hand dryers
- Stair rails and banisters
Even if your office looks spotless, these areas can still harbour bacteria unless disinfected thoroughly. During a deep clean, each of these surfaces should be treated with antibacterial or antiviral cleaning products.
The Ultimate Office Deep Cleaning Checklist
Planning is key to an effective deep clean. Whether you’re hiring professionals or doing it in-house, use a checklist to ensure nothing is missed.
Start with public-facing areas — reception desks, waiting rooms, meeting spaces. Move onto communal zones like kitchens, toilets, and hallways. Then focus on personal workstations, tech equipment, storage rooms, and under-desk areas.
Don’t forget:
- Steam cleaning or shampooing carpets
- Wiping walls and skirting boards
- Dusting shelves and storage units
- Cleaning air vents or replacing filters
- Emptying and disinfecting bins thoroughly
Every item and surface should be touched. If you’re using external contractors, request a copy of their deep cleaning checklist in advance so you know what’s included.
How Often Should You Deep Clean a Workplace?
There’s no universal rule, but the frequency of deep cleans should depend on the size of the office, foot traffic, and type of work being done.
A busy call centre with hotdesking may require monthly deep cleans, whereas a small private office might only need it quarterly. During flu season or post-outbreak, more frequent deep cleaning is essential.
At the very least, plan a thorough deep clean every three to six months — and supplement this with daily and weekly cleaning routines to stay on top of hygiene.
Should You Hire a Professional Cleaning Company or DIY?
If your office is small and well maintained, you may be able to manage a light deep clean internally. However, larger spaces, shared buildings, or companies with high staff numbers will benefit from hiring professional cleaners.
Professionals bring experience, specialised equipment, and commercial-grade cleaning products. They can also clean after hours, minimising disruption to your team.
Look for a provider that understands office environments, offers customised checklists, and follows UK workplace hygiene regulations. Ask for references, insurance, and service guarantees before making a decision.
The cost is usually offset by improved productivity, fewer sick days, and peace of mind.
Final Thoughts: A Cleaner Office Is a Safer Office
Deep cleaning is no longer just a nice-to-have — it’s a non-negotiable part of running a safe, successful workplace.
It protects your team, impresses your visitors, and shows that you care about the small details. And when done properly, it transforms your office into a space that feels fresh, welcoming, and safe.
Whether you’re preparing for a big client meeting, returning after a long break, or simply maintaining high standards — don’t wait. Schedule that deep clean, create a checklist, and give your workspace the attention it deserves.
Because a cleaner office isn’t just better looking. It’s better for everyone.