What’s the Difference Between Residential and Commercial Cleaners

There are two distinct cleaning services available; commercial cleaning and residential cleaning. The difference between them involves the actual cleaning process, the training needed and the techniques/technology used. Should you choose a commercial cleaning service or is a residential cleaning service more suited to your needs? The following are the key differences between commercial and residential cleaning to help you decide which is right for you.

Commercial Cleaning is done by a company that employs trained cleaners who use specialized technology and advanced knowledge to sanitize buildings for the safety of the staff and visitors. They’re contracted to uplift and maintain the visual beauty and hygienic quotient of a building.

• They generally clean offices, schools, retail stores, warehouses, restaurants, hotels, movie theatres, clubs, entertainment centres, commercial kitchens and malls.

• Includes all internal, general and routine cleaning (floors, tiles, partition walls, internal walls, suspended ceilings, lighting, furniture, window cleaning, sanitary conveniences, washing facilities, kitchens, dining areas, cleaning of telephones & IT, carpet cleaning, vacuuming, litter picking, washing blinds and removal of graffiti).  

• They use a wide variety of cleaning methods, chemicals, and equipment.

• Cleaning equipment and products are provided by the company.

• Equipment used is large, powerful and efficient (advanced carpet cleaners, commercial-grade tile/grout cleaners, commercial-grade vacuum cleaners, high-speed scrubbers and buffers, large-scale safety and maintenance equipment).

• May apply disinfectants, mould preventatives and sanitizers. 

• Green cleaning methods and products are often an option.

• Companies are required to meet specific safety and health standards to keep their operating license.

• Cleaning usually takes place at night when most/all customers and employees are gone.

• Usually requires a team of cleaners.

• Often clean quickly, with less focus on detail and more focus on completing the required cleaning specifications of the facility.

• The company is insured and bonded.

• Typically offer package deals. 

Residential cleaners specialize in cleaning homes and other domestic dwellings.

• Cleaning is done in the client's personal space.

• Services vary. You’ll need to talk to the technician to find out what services they offer.

• Usually dust, vacuum, wash, mop, polish and sometimes do interior window washing. 

• Generally clean floors, bedrooms, kitchens and bathrooms. 

• No specific training required. 

• Training and technology used are dependent upon the provider and vary greatly. 

• Each business/cleaner has its own cleaning processes and procedures.

• May be self-employed or part of a larger residential cleaning company. 

• The quality of cleaning differs from cleaner to cleaner.

• Homeowners need to set cleaning standards. 

• Not usually insured and bonded. 

• Cleaning typically occurs during the day or on weekends.

• One cleaner is often all that is necessary.

• Are usually detail-oriented and thorough (replace pillows exactly, hang or fold towels your preferred way, carefully replace items moved for dusting, etc.). 

• The work can usually be finished within a few short hours.

• Price varies based on services provided.

Whether you require a commercial or residential cleaner depends upon the structure you wish cleaned, the standard and type of cleaning you require, and your budget. Before hiring a cleaner, it’s wise to talk to several companies to determine who best meets your needs. 

Looking for a commercial cleaner for your building? Interested in green cleaning products? Call Strathcona Cleaners Ltd at 403-237-8355 or email us at info@strathconacleaners.com. Our Calgary-based business provides janitorial services to an array of industries. We custom tailor our cleaning and maintenance plans to suit your specific needs. You can even choose non-toxic products and eco-friendly equipment. Depend on us for quality janitorial and office cleaning services. Contact us today!