Ever walked into a public restroom and instantly thought, “Ew! Gross!”?
Filthy and unhygienic public facilities are exactly why we need a proper commercial restroom cleaning checklist. The checklist includes detailed instructions for cleaning faucets, knobs, floors, and high-touch points, so nothing gets overlooked. When cleaners follow the list diligently, there’s no way the facility doesn’t stay clean, hygienic, and complaint-free.
Preparation for Restroom Cleaning
Instead of rolling up your sleeves and getting to scrubbing and mopping, the first thing we need to do is prepare for the bathroom cleaning. It’s about arming yourself with the right equipment and supplies to take on the battle.
So let’s take a look at the basic cleaning supplies you need to have ready, so you’re not rushing between tasks to buy or look for stuff.
Tools and Supplies
Here’s a list of the basic tools and supplies you’ll need for cleaning the restroom.
- Cleaning supplies like detergent and disinfectants.
- Surface cleaners, toilet bowl cleaners, and floor disinfectant.
- Toilet paper, paper towels, and hand towels
- Clean sponges, mops, and brushes
- Buckets and wringers for floor cleaning
- Aprons, gloves, and goggles for yourself to keep safe from chemical splashes
Create a Cleaning Schedule
The cleaners cannot just get onto a task without a proper janitorial cleaning schedule. So we need to set up a certain frequency for the cleaning checks.
Like you can keep hourly checks for emptying the trash, refilling the soap, and wiping the counters and other spaces.
Other tasks, such as cleaning and disinfecting the toilet sinks and floors, must be done once a day.
Then schedule cleaning the vents and the area behind the toilet, and polishing, to be done once a week.
You can use a visible schedule stuck in the janitor’s closet or keep a digital system to track these tasks. Also, assign clear responsibilities and functions to the entire staff so there’s no overlap or missed timelines.
Ultimate Commercial Restroom Cleaning Checklist
Now we come to the ultimate commercial restroom cleaning checklist.
Trash and Waste Management
So the first thing we need to do is manage the trash and waste. If it’s left lying around, it can lead to unpleasant odor and also attract pests.
So empty out all the trash cans and sanitary bins. Replace the liners every time you take out the old trash. If there are any overflowing bins inside stalls or high-traffic places, check for them too.
Next, wipe down the exterior side of the bins with a disinfectant. This will help with the odor and germs.
Restroom Sanitation
Next, the top-smelling place in a restroom is the toilet and the urinals. This is where you need to get scrubbing.
Rub the insides well with a cloth or sponge and toilet cleaner. Finish off by wiping and disinfecting the flush handles, seats, and exterior surface.
Here are a few helpful tips:
- Make sure to use the right brush and cleaner for the toilet bowl and urinal.
- Don’t forget scrubbing under the rim and inside the urinal
- Always make sure you use PPE gloves and aprons
- Disinfect and change the brushes and sponges regularly to minimize the spread of germs and infection.
Sinks and Counters Spaces
Take a clean cloth and apply a bit of disinfectant on it. Use it to wipe the sinks, counters, and faucet handles.
You may have to scrub to remove the dry soap scum, water spots, and toothpaste splatters on the counter and mirror. Also, look for buildup around the faucet base and backsplash edges.
Pro Tip: Make sure you use different pieces of cloth for sinks, counters, and mirrors.
Dispensers
Refill the soap dispensers and hand sanitizer stations. Since it is a commercial restroom, make sure the dispensers are in working order. Else, make a remark to report them in your checklist. Also, restock the paper towels and toilet paper.
Keep in mind that the stock levels should last at least a few days.
Floors
Lastly, we get to the floors. First, sweep the floors thoroughly to remove any debris, dust, or grime. Use a disinfectant solution and clean the floors properly with a clean mop. Make sure to clean the corners and underneath the fixtures.
Here, you must pay special attention to the entrances and stall thresholds where there is high footfall.
Before you leave, make sure that the floor is completely dry. Use caution signs so nobody slips or uses the restroom when they’re being cleaned.
High-Touch Surfaces Cleaning
If the facility has baby changing stations, make sure to clean them too. Also, wipe and disinfect all the door handles, light switches, and stall locks.
The handrails are where most of the germs tend to accumulate. So clean and sanitize them too.
Final Inspection
Now that you’re all done, take a proud walk around the restroom. While you praise yourself for the hard work, make sure to check for missed spots, odors, and overall cleanliness.
All supplies must be restocked, and facilities must be in working condition. Now we proceed to mark off all the tasks done on the printed or digital inspection list.
If there are any leaks or broken fixtures, mention them in the same checklist.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While washroom cleaning seems easy, there are certain mistakes many cleaning companies make. Make sure to watch out for these common cleaning mistakes:
- Use the right cleaning chemicals for each space. Toilet cleaner for the toilet, floor cleaner for the floors, etc. Dilute them only as much as necessary.
- Do not forget to clean and sanitize the door handles, switches, and stall locks.
- Never rush the tasks. Follow the consistent bathroom cleaning schedule and take the time needed to clean thoroughly.
- Replace the mops and cloths regularly. Use a different cloth for each surface.
Conclusion
A clean restroom isn’t just about its looks. It must be hygienic, safe, and give you peace of mind. Follow our commercial restroom cleaning checklist thoroughly and let it be your guide to a clean, sparkling, and germ-free facility.
If you want a pain-free, comprehensive cleaning done by professionals, contact us at Sunlight Cleaning NY and let us make your restroom ever clean and ready for inspections anytime.
Iryna Balaban
Iryna Balaban – Blog Author and Cofounder of Sunlight Cleaning NY. She is very experienced in the cleaning company business. Iryna was the supervisor of one of New York City’s leading cleaning companies and decided to found Sunlight Cleaning Inc. She has 10+ years of experience in the cleaning branch as owner and communication specialist in the company, and no decision can be made without her input.
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