Preparing Facilities for Autumn and Winter

As the crisp air of autumn begins to settle in and winter looms just around the corner, commercial facilities must prepare for the unique challenges that these colder seasons bring. From increased foot traffic, rain, and snow to fluctuating indoor temperatures, businesses need to maintain clean, safe, and welcoming environments. A well-executed cleaning plan can prevent costly repairs, improve safety, and enhance the overall experience for employees, customers, and visitors.

If you are a cleaning professional gearing up to reset your clients’ facilities for the changing seasons, you may be looking for tips to ensure your cleaning efforts yield the best results.

In this blog, we’ll explore an array of practical tips and insightful strategies aimed at helping you facilitate a seamless transition into the new season for your commercial contracts. The aim is not only to ensure cleanliness but also to promote eco-friendliness in these spaces – and the tips we are about to share will be instrumental in helping you achieve this goal.

Entryways and Lobbies

Autumn and winter bring wet conditions, leaves, mud, and in some areas, snow and ice. Entryways and lobbies are the first line of defense against outdoor elements being tracked inside.

Floor Mats: Ensure high-quality, absorbent mats such as these Aquamats, are placed at all entrances to capture moisture, dirt, and debris. Mats should be large enough to allow for several steps and cleaned regularly to maintain effectiveness.

Daily Cleaning: Increase the frequency of cleaning schedules for high-traffic areas to prevent dirt buildup and slippery surfaces. Use vacuums and mop floors multiple times a day to combat wet conditions.

Floor Care Treatments: Consider adding a floor care program, such as waxing or sealing, to protect your flooring from water damage and wear caused by increased foot traffic and harsh weather.

Window Cleaning and Maintenance

While windows might not need as frequent cleaning during colder months, preparing them for winter is essential to maintaining a clear, professional appearance.

Pre-Winter Cleaning: Clean all windows thoroughly in early autumn to remove summer dust, pollen, and debris. This helps prevent streaks and grime buildup during the darker, rainier months.

Check for Drafts: Inspect windows for drafts and consider resealing them if necessary. Drafty windows can lead to higher energy costs and make indoor spaces uncomfortable for employees and visitors.

Interior Glass Cleaning: Continue to clean interior windows and glass partitions regularly. Cold weather can create condensation, leading to smudges and spots on interior glass.

Prepare Washrooms for Increased Usage

During autumn and winter, washrooms often see an increase in usage as more people spend time indoors. Additionally, colder temperatures can impact plumbing systems.

Stock Up: Ensure that soap, hand sanitizers, and paper products are always well-stocked to accommodate higher foot traffic.

If you are looking to go the extra mile, consider stocking eco-friendly consumables, such as biodegradable bin liners, or eco-handwash made from natural ingredients. These environmentally conscious swaps will not only enhance your facility’s sustainability but also contribute to a healthier planet by reducing the environmental impact of your operations.

Deep Cleaning: Schedule deep cleaning for washrooms, focusing on grout, tile, and high-touch areas. Winter colds and flu season mean more germs, so disinfecting surfaces is key to keeping everyone healthy.

Plumbing Inspections: Inspect plumbing fixtures for leaks, and consider insulating pipes to avoid freezing in colder climates.

Disinfect High-Touch Surfaces

As colder temperatures arrive, so does the flu and cold season. It’s critical to keep high-touch areas thoroughly disinfected to reduce the spread of germs.

Daily Disinfection: Increase the frequency of disinfecting high-touch areas such as door handles, elevator buttons, handrails, and shared equipment in workspaces.

Antimicrobial Treatments: Consider using antimicrobial coatings on surfaces in high-traffic areas to provide ongoing protection against bacteria and viruses.

Promote Hand Hygiene: Place hand sanitizer stations throughout the facility, especially near entrances and exits, to encourage frequent hand sanitizing.

Carpet and Upholstery Care

With more people indoors during the colder months, carpets and upholstery in communal areas such as lobbies, break rooms, and waiting areas are more likely to gather dirt and grime.

Vacuuming: Increase the frequency of vacuuming to remove dirt and moisture from carpets, which can damage fibres over time.

Spot Cleaning: Immediately address any stains or spills to prevent permanent damage, especially from salt, mud, or snow.

Deep Cleaning: Schedule professional deep cleaning for carpets and upholstered furniture before the winter months. This can help remove allergens and extend the lifespan of your furnishings.

Partner with Castle (EU), and Reap the Benefits

Castle (EU) is dedicated to simplifying your life. Our commitment to sustainability, comprehensive staff training, and efficient product supply facilities all aim to save you time, cut your expenses, and elevate the quality of service you offer to your clients.

Whether you’re just starting out in the cleaning industry or striving to advance your business, we’re your partners in progress, ready to assist, innovate, and motivate. Contact our friendly team today for further details on how we can meet your specific requirements.