The Future of Cleaning: How AI, Robotics, and Digitalization Are Transforming the Industry

The cleaning industry has, in recent years, experienced a wide range of technological changes. The development of digital tools, some of which are directly based on applications powered by artificial intelligence (AI), have had a major impact on the entire profession and are leading to a fundamental rethink in industry circles.

The integration of automation, robotics, and artificial intelligence are each pieces of the puzzle that have the potential to solve the industry’s major challenges. A crucial factor behind the increasing use of intelligent technologies is the dramatic increase in personnel shortages. Professional cleaners are hard to find, which increases the need for automated solutions. Technological progress is revealing completely new opportunities that will take the industry to a whole new level in terms of efficiency and quality.

There is another reason why we should rely on digital cleaning solutions in the future: sustainability. Since the introduction of the EU Taxonomy Regulation as part of the European Green Deal, the cleaning industry has also developed its dynamic in implementing environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards. What was a “nice to have” trend a few years ago has now developed into a “must have”. Given the global climate targets, the “E” in ESG is of particular importance. However, social aspects in the “S” category are now also receiving increasing attention.

Digital cleaning solutions can contribute to progress in both areas. The basis for reducing the environmental impact can, for instance, be the simple realisation that not every surface needs to be cleaned regularly – especially those that have not been used and dirtied. The possibility of such effective “cleaning on demand”, or in other words cleaning based on collected data and concrete need, ensures lower energy consumption, and saves valuable resources.

Autonomous and AI-based solutions also make an important contribution in social terms, as they not only relieve cleaning personnel of physically strenuous tasks, but overall require fewer people to carry out cleaning work at unusual hours – for instance, very early in the mornings or late at night. Personnel who share the work with an intelligent machine can therefore observe a normal day and night rhythm of life – as can their social environment.

Why is technology a trend?

The rise of robotics in the cleaning industry is not a random development, but the result of specific market dynamics and technological advances. The most important driver for the use of robotic technologies is the increasing demand for efficiency and cost savings.

The introduction of technologies such as robot cleaners, AI and IoT (Internet of Things) enables cleaning companies to optimise their operations through autonomous robot vacuum cleaners that precisely analyse their environment and perform their tasks with a high degree of reliability. These robots can use intelligent learning and control to optimise their routes, avoid obstacles, and treat different surfaces with the appropriate cleaning techniques. With the availability of fast mobile communications, which include 5G systems, data can be collected and analysed in real-time, enabling precise control and adaptation of cleaning processes.

In addition, robotics can help automate the cleaning process by assuming routine tasks, allowing workers to focus on more complex and demanding activities. The “cobots” are especially valuable in this regard. These are “collaborative robots” that are specifically designed to provide direct support for cleaning staff. Digitalisation also makes it easier to manage and maintain the equipment used, which leads to greater operational efficiency.

A particularly exciting development is the cross-sector use of technology-driven cleaning solutions. The benefits of this trend are making themselves felt in all branches. In addition to the cleaning performance of these systems, effectively available 24/7, these features themselves add significant value that results in overall improved cleaning performance across the board.

Increasing efficiency and reducing costs: By using automated cleaning systems, companies can reduce operating costs and increase the efficiency of their cleaning processes. These systems work continuously and without fatigue, which increases productivity and keeps cleaning quality consistently high.

Overcoming staff shortages: The cleaning industry has been experiencing a shortage of qualified staff for years. Automated solutions can fill this gap by taking over tasks. This enables companies to plan and use their resources more efficiently. Another positive factor is that the pressure on human staff is significantly reduced.

Improving cleaning quality: Advanced cleaning systems can clean reliably at any time of day or night. This results in consistently high cleaning quality and makes it possible to meet even unusual customer requirements, such as particularly high air quality and hygiene standards.

Data-based decisions: One of the greatest added values is the capacity to collect and evaluate cleaning data. Digital systems with sensor technology enable continuous data collection and AI-driven optimisation of cleaning processes. As a result of the most recent developments in AI technologies, cleaning concepts can now be established dynamically and optimised based on figures, data, and facts. Companies and cleaning service providers can thus make well-founded decisions and continuously improve their cleaning processes and resource planning.

Prediction and preventive maintenance: In addition to optimal resource planning, AI technologies also make it possible, within certain limits, to predict cleaning requirements based on weather, building, or personnel planning data. Devices can be serviced preventively by analysing data and projecting its insights into the future.

Why is a digital infrastructure important in the cleaning industry?

Customers are demanding cleaning solutions that result in faster, more efficient, and overall better processes while manufacturers are having to respond and meet these requirements of the industry. In this context, technology is the crucial differentiating factor that will contribute to the development of necessary solutions and at the same time reduce the commercial pressure on both sides. The Internet of Things has revolutionised the way devices communicate and interact.

In the field of robotics modern cleaning solutions in commercial cleaning are equipped with mobile connectivity, which enables users to control them remotely from anywhere without the need for complex integration into digital local infrastructure (WLAN), which is often prohibited for reasons of IT security. This connectivity also enables integration with smart building systems, allowing users to schedule cleaning times, monitor quality in real time and receive notifications.

A well-functioning digital infrastructure offers several benefits:

• Overcoming personnel shortages: The acute shortage of qualified personnel is one of the biggest challenges facing the industry. Digital solutions offer an opportunity to compensate for this shortage to a significant extent, with the largest potential being realised through the automation of routine tasks, which in turn relieves the workload of human staff.

• Commercial pressure: With a labour cost share of around 85% according to the German Federal Association of Building Cleaners, the cleaning industry is faced with the highest share of such costs in the entire services sector. The continuously rising costs of labour and materials are, in addition, pushing companies to make their operations as efficient as possible and maximise margins. AI can help with this by precisely analysing and optimising operational processes and the use of resources.

• Changing customer expectations: In addition to cost-efficient solutions, customers today expect one thing above all else, and that is consistently high cleaning quality paired with speedy service. Digital cleaning solutions can meet these expectations because they are precise, efficient, and transparent, the latter feature owing to data-based reporting.

Where are we now?

The implementation of new technologies and digital solutions in the cleaning industry continues to gather pace. As a result, many companies currently face technical and organisational challenges that make comprehensive implementation difficult. The most common obstacles include the need to adapt processes and general concerns regarding the use of technical devices. These concerns can be alleviated through targeted training programmes and the close involvement of personnel in the implementation process.

At the same time, efforts are being made to make the tools as user-friendly as possible so that technical expertise is not an essential requirement for operating the devices. Modern systems are therefore increasingly being designed to be more intuitive, to ensure ease of use and thus create a basic level of acceptance – among staff and the companies themselves.

Despite all these challenges, the will to change is being felt. Many companies recognise the benefits of digitalisation and are willing to invest in the necessary technologies and adapt their processes. This growing acceptance is reflected in the increasing number of pilot projects, innovation awards, and best practices entering the market.

New technologies and digitalisation are not only an answer to the current challenges facing the cleaning industry but also offer an enormous opportunity to fundamentally change the future of professional cleaning. The many added values, from increased efficiency and cost reduction to a comprehensive solution for dealing with personnel shortages and improving overall cleaning quality, are the key issues that will transform the industry in the long term.

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.