Cleaning for the Hybrid Office

A new approach to commercial cleaning for today’s dynamic workspace

Today, the daily grind looks very different for many. Gone are the days of the uniform 9-to-5, Monday-to-Friday work calendar. More businesses now embrace the hybrid model, splitting operations between the office and work-from-home arrangements. This new dynamic reshapes every aspect of facility management, especially cleaning and maintenance. Cleaning approaches must adapt as the office’s role rapidly transforms.

At SparkleTeam, we believe in customizing cleaning services to fit modern needs, while maintaining the highest health and sustainability standards. With this in mind, we break down the crucial factors to consider when planning the right approach for your own facility.

Prioritize communal areas

Rather than individual offices, hybrid workspaces need more room for in-person meetings. This means conference rooms get more traffic. Cleaning and sanitizing these spaces become a greater priority, especially to preserve professional appearances for clients. Providing a safe environment for collaboration also assures employees their comfort and health are valued.

Pay attention to hot desks

The rise of hybrid work only accelerated the phenomenon of “hot desking, “ where instead of being assigned individual workstations, employees schedule access to shared desk space as needed. This flexible approach works best for fluctuating in-office occupancy. But it also means the same desk is shared by multiple people — all with varying levels of attention to hygiene. Cleaning and sanitizing between users are vital for maintaining peace of mind.

Invest more in restrooms

It’s tempting to cut back on restroom cleaning when fewer people are in the office. In reality, however, this approach can lead to a rapid decline in quality. Low supplies and equipment failures aren’t flagged early enough when not regularly maintained, increasing the likelihood of a clogged toilet or lack of paper towels. Nothing sours the workplace more than an unpleasant restroom, so cleaning these spaces regardless of occupancy remains vital.

Adapt cleaning schedules around new work patterns

Cleaning schedules should match the flexibility of the hybrid office model. Some offices benefit from cleaning before in-office work days or transitions between shifts. Other schedules may work best with early-morning versus late-night cleanings. Day porter services are also valuable for maintaining standards as occupancy fluctuates, while also visually demonstrating to employees a consistent dedication to cleanliness. It’s best to think outside the box to find whatever works best for your facility.