Keeping an office truly clean isn’t just about a quick wipe-down at the end of the day. Anyone who’s had to tackle a chaotic workspace knows — there’s an actual method to doing it right. And yes, there are five basic cleaning steps that professionals swear by.
Quick Answer: The five basic cleaning steps are:
- Sort and Declutter
- Dust and Dry Clean
- Wet Clean and Wipe Surfaces
- Disinfect High-Touch Areas
- Final Touches and Inspection
Now, let’s dive deeper — because real-life office cleaning is often messier (and funnier) than theory suggests.
Why is a Proper Office Cleaning Order Important?
You might think cleaning is just about scrubbing and vacuuming, but following the right order makes a huge difference. Here’s why:
- Efficiency: No backtracking or redoing work.
- Hygiene: Stops cross-contamination dead in its tracks.
- Longevity: Maintains office furniture, carpets, and equipment better.
Think about it — if you mop before you dust, you’re setting yourself up for frustration. Dust settles back on your freshly cleaned floors. (And trust me, it will.)
1. How Do You Start? Step 1: Sort and Declutter
Before a single wipe happens, the first move is clearing the battlefield.
- Remove rubbish, stray papers, food containers, forgotten coffee mugs — the usual suspects.
- Organise loose items and put them where they belong (or at least create neat piles).
Pro tip: A messy desk isn’t just bad for appearances. It actively attracts dust and germs. (Plus, there’s nothing quite as soul-sapping as losing a document five minutes before a meeting.)
2. What Comes After Decluttering? Step 2: Dust and Dry Clean
Here’s where you grab the duster and microfibre cloths.
- Always dust top-to-bottom: ceiling vents, light fixtures, shelves, computer monitors, desks, and skirting boards.
- Use a dry cloth or static duster to trap, not spread, particles.
Dry cleaning before wet wiping might seem odd, but it’s a game-changer. Anyone who’s accidentally smeared dust across a glass surface with a wet cloth knows this pain. (Ugly streaks that never quite buff out — sound familiar?)
3. When Do You Break Out the Mop? Step 3: Wet Clean and Wipe Surfaces
Now it’s time for actual cleaning — not just moving dirt around.
- Wipe down desks, tables, counters, windowsills, and kitchen areas with a damp cloth and mild detergent.
- Pay special attention to sticky patches, coffee stains, and anything that makes you cringe a little.
Wet cleaning lifts grime that dry dusting can’t touch. And it leaves that subtle, fresh smell — like a clean start to a busy day.
4. What About Germ Hotspots? Step 4: Disinfect High-Touch Areas
This step often gets overlooked, but it’s absolutely crucial.
- Focus on door handles, light switches, keyboards, phones, elevator buttons — all the things people touch without thinking.
- Use an appropriate disinfectant spray or wipes and let it air-dry (don’t just wipe and immediately dry it off).
A study from the University of Arizona found that an office desk can have 400 times more germs than a toilet seat. Let that sink in for a moment. If you don’t disinfect properly, you’re just giving those germs a free ride.
5. Is There a Final Step? Step 5: Final Touches and Inspection
Before you call it a day:
- Empty all bins (yes, even that one sneaky bin under the receptionist’s desk).
- Replace bin liners, straighten chairs, fluff the couch cushions if needed.
- Walk through the office as if you were a client seeing it for the first time.
It’s the small finishing touches that separate a good cleaning job from a professional-level one. Kind of like how a garnish elevates an ordinary meal into something you’d post on Instagram.
Common Questions About Office Cleaning
How often should an office be cleaned?
At a minimum, high-traffic offices need a full clean daily. Less busy offices can sometimes manage with a detailed clean 3–4 times a week, plus spot cleaning as needed.
What’s the best cleaning product for office desks?
A mild, non-abrasive cleaner works best. Look for something labelled safe for wood, laminate, or glass surfaces depending on your desks. Avoid anything overly harsh — you don’t want to strip finishes or leave chemical residues.
Is vacuuming before or after mopping better?
Always vacuum first. It picks up dirt and debris that could turn into muddy messes if you mop over them.
Final Thoughts: Why Office Cleaning Needs a Clear System
Office cleaning isn’t just about “making it look good” — it’s about creating a healthier, more productive environment. Following the five steps in the correct order saves time, boosts hygiene, and gives your office that crisp, professional feel.
Anyone who’s worked through a chaotic office knows: clean spaces = clear minds. It’s no coincidence.
For businesses serious about maintaining a cleaner workplace, professional office cleaning can make all the difference. If you’re curious about options, you might find commercial cleaning services worth a look — especially if keeping up with daily tasks feels like a battle some days.
For further tips, you can also check out this helpful guide on workplace hygiene best practices by Safe Work Australia.