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What is Your Flooring Doing to the Office Air Quality?

2 years ago

Maintaining a healthy workplace environment is crucial for the well-being of employees, and air quality is a significant part of that environment. Poor air quality in the workplace can cause a range of health problems, from headaches and fatigue to respiratory issues and allergies, not to mention decrease staff morale. Germs, bacteria, and debris in general settles on any horizontal surface, the largest of which is usually the floor.

Flooring may not be the first area you think of when you think of maintaining office cleanliness, however germs, virus transmission, and microscopic debris are transferred all around the building all day on the shoes of everyone in the building. Let’s look at what your flooring is doing to the office air quality.

Contemporary workplace with desk and chairs — Photo credit: @heyho accessed 03/07/2023 via CC0

Flooring Materials and Air Quality

The flooring materials in an office can have a significant impact on the air quality, with some materials releasing harmful chemicals and others acting as traps for allergens and dust. Various types of flooring can absorb germs and bacteria differently, releasing those contaminants airborne as traffic circulates around the building, affecting office air quality.

Commercial Carpeting

Carpet traps allergens and debris within the fibers and apart from an unsightly appearance, dirty carpets hold germs and bacteria that become airborne easily. Proper vacuuming and sanitation is crucial to creating and sustaining a healthy work environment. Depending on office or building use, regular cleaning is the only way to keep carpets clean.

Read: How Dirty Floors Spread Infection

Non-Porous and Tile Flooring

Many office and professional buildings are equipped with a non-porous materials like marble, ceramic, or vinyl flooring. The cleaning regimen is not the same for all of these material types. Daily or weekly cleaning will keep floors clean, improving air quality and reducing odors from moisture and dirt. Another consideration is scheduled stripping and waxing of non-porous surfaces to remove deep stains and scuffs to the finish surface.

Rugs

Walk-off mats by entryways and regular cleaning of surrounding surfaces is the most effective at preventing dirt from entering the building, according to the EPA. Entrance rugs should cover a recommended 2 to 5 steps into the entry or walkway to effectively trap as much dirt and debris as possible. Rugs should be kept clean, and equally important, kept dry to prevent bacterial or mildew growth and dirt accumulation, all of which adversely impact air quality.

Regular cleaning is necessary to ensure not only the look of your professional environment, but also to maintain a clean and sanitary space. A clean workspace directly impacts air quality throughout the building.

ROC Commercial Cleaning is your trusted Minneapolis commercial cleaning company. We provide janitor services for office buildings, medical and veterinary clinics, industrial buildings, and more. We also provide floor stripping and waxing, construction cleanup, and office disinfection services. ROC Commercial Cleaning is an experienced and reputable Minnesota corporate cleaning service provider – no job is too big or too small!

Get off the cleaning rollercoaster. Contact ROC Commercial Cleaning at 612-581-2776 for your free, no-obligation estimate.

Tips for Fighting Odor In the Workplace

2 years ago

A clean and fresh-smelling workplace can help improve productivity and morale. However, with a large number of employees, it can be challenging to keep the workplace odor-free. Here are a few tips that can help fight unpleasant odors in the workplace.

Encourage good hygiene

Good hygiene practices like hand washing and regular grooming can help reduce the spread of germs and prevent bad smells from spreading. Encourage employees to wash their hands frequently and bring their grooming products from home.

Regular cleaning

Regular cleaning can help keep the workplace smelling fresh and free from unwanted odors. Focus on cleaning high-traffic areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and break rooms, as well as frequently used items like phones and keyboards.

Use air fresheners

Air fresheners can help mask unpleasant odors and keep the workplace smelling fresh. Choose a fresh scent that is not overpowering and place air fresheners in areas that need it the most, like bathrooms and break rooms.

Invest in quality ventilation systems

A well-functioning ventilation system can help reduce unwanted odors and improve air quality. Make sure the ventilation system is regularly serviced and cleaned to ensure it is working optimally.

Limit food odors

Food odors can be overpowering and contribute to unpleasant smells in the workplace. Encourage employees to eat outside or in designated break rooms. Also, limit the consumption of strong-smelling foods like fish, curry, and onions.

Use odor-eliminating products

There are several products available that can help eliminate unpleasant odors. These products work by neutralizing odors rather than masking them. Consider using odor-eliminating sprays or deodorizers in areas that need it the most.

Keeping a workplace smelling fresh and clean requires effort from everyone. Encourage employees to practice good hygiene, maintain a clean and well-ventilated workspace, and use odor-eliminating products where needed. By following these tips, you can create a workplace that is pleasant, comfortable, and conducive to productivity.

Get off the cleaning rollercoaster. Contact ROC Commercial Cleaning at 612-581-2776 for your free, no-obligation estimate.

Keeping Office Floors Dry and Safe This Winter

2 years ago

Slips, trips and falls seem like a standard part of life during a Minnesota winter. However, they can come with serious consequences. According to the National Floor Safety Institute, falls account for more than 20 percent of all emergency room visits – more than 8 million each year! This is why it’s important for office buildings and workplaces to keep floors dry all winter long.

What Causes Slips, Trips and Falls?

There are many causes of slips and falls in the workplace, some less obvious than others. Here are a few examples:

Wet floors due to rain, snow, ice or spills
Floor mats that are unsecured or have raised edges
Changes in elevation and flooring type
Cords, cables and wires that are uncovered or unsecured
Poor lighting or excessive shine on floors
Improperly sized step risers or lack of handrails
Cluttered floors or open bottom drawers

The Easiest Way to Prevent Slips and Falls: Keep Floors Dry

Building managers should be proactive about minimizing the risk of slips, trips and falls. Keeping floors dry, clean and safe is the best and easiest way to do this.

First, make sure your building has proper floor mats. Place mats at entrances and transition areas to absorb water, dirt and debris. This will keep floors dry – and employees safe. Make sure to frequently clean and replace mats.

Second, follow a regular floor care routine using a high-quality cleaning solution with a neutral pH. A reliable Twin Cities commercial cleaning service can help you keep floors dry year-round. Contact ROC Cleaning for a free quote!

Third, evaluate the finish on your building’s flooring. If a floor is badly worn or damaged, there is a greater opportunity for slips and falls. In addition, poorly applied finish can make a floor more slippery. Consider adding slip-resistant strips or finishes.

If you have questions about cleaning your floors to prevent employee accidents, give ROC Cleaning a call!

Get off the cleaning rollercoaster. Contact ROC Commercial Cleaning at 612-581-2776 for your free, no-obligation estimate.

Source: Cleaning & Maintenance Management, “Q&A: Slips, Trips and Falls”

ROC Cleaning Celebrates 25 Years

2 years ago

ROC commercial cleaning was started on January 1st, 1998. Our mission was simple, to be the best cleaning service provider in the Twin Cities. 25 years later, we continue to provide quality cleaning to our valued customers.

ROC Cleaning Celebrates 25 Years

25 years ago, Pete Mogren and Art Harris saw an opportunity to change the cleaning industry for the better. Founded with the goal of being the best cleaning service in the Twin Cities, ROC operates on four core values: Value, Service, Quality, and Trust.
With the four core values in mind, ROC set out to find their first clients which brought them to a car dealership, White Bear Mitsubishi. This dealership was ROC’s first ever client, and they’re still a client 25 years later!

Pete and Art didn’t have a full team when they started, so they handled all of the cleaning services themselves, setting the tone for their business. Now In 2023, Pete is the current CEO and remains highly involved in day-to-day operations for ROC.

Fast-forward to today, ROC commercial cleaning has full-service cleaning teams with more than 400 buildings on our resume – cleaning more than 25 million square feet of commercial space every night.

Related Content: Why Should My Office Hire Professional Cleaners?

The ROC Difference

Throughout the years of close-working relationships with our clients, we’ve heard many common complaints about our competitors. That’s why ROC set a standard with our two main strategies:

1. We Put the Cleaning Team First

Without our cleaning teams, we wouldn’t be where we are today. That’s why we hold our cleaning teams in high regard. We make sure that our cleaning teams feel valued and respected, and that they’ll be given enough time to deliver on a contract.

The average ROC contract lasts for more than 10 years, which is why we put the focus on what the client’s needs are and how we can achieve them the best we can. That’s where our saying comes from, because we’re the last cleaning company you’ll ever need.

2. We Answer the Phone

A common issue that we find with our clients is that our competitors didn’t bother to pick up the phone, which is why we made it our priority to ALWAYS answer our phones – no matter what.

All of ROC’s account managers will answer the phone, return calls, texts, or emails within a few minutes. If you’re looking for the boss, you’ll always be able to reach him. (Yes, he actually answers his phone.)

25 years ago, we would have never thought that we would be where we are today. The whole team at ROC wants to thank you for allowing us to be your trusted cleaning service. We will continue to provide our customers with our core values, ensuring your business stays clean so that you can focus on your goals.

Get off the cleaning rollercoaster. Contact ROC Commercial Cleaning at 612-581-2776 for your free, no-obligation estimate.

How Dirty Floors Can Spread Infection

2 years ago

When disinfecting an office space, most people focus on high-touch surfaces, such as doorknobs, light switches, elevator buttons, and the like. But don’t forget about the floors! Dirty floors can be a major source of bacteria and virus transmission, causing infection to spread among staff, customers, and visitors.

This is especially true in healthcare facilities, but it is also the case in office buildings, retail stores, childcare centers, warehouses, and any other high-traffic space where different people regularly come and go. Therefore, it’s important for building owners, facility managers, and janitorial decisionmakers to recognize the importance of keeping flooring clean.

dirty floors in a clinic — photo credit: @fr3nks accessed 11/30/22 via CC0

How Dirty Floors Raise Risk of Infection

Germs spread on floors the same way they spread on any other surface: by people. When bacteria lands on flooring, it is easily picked up by the shoes of people coming in and out of that room. Then, germs are transferred to other parts of the building, and so on.

Four Tips to Minimize Infection Risk from Dirty Floors

1. Choose Nonporous Flooring

When installing new flooring in your business, choose a seamless flooring material that is sealed with an impermeable coating. Grouted flooring and unsealed concrete are porous and more difficult to clean effectively, trapping and spreading dirt and bacteria.

Read: Tips for Cleaning Tile and Stone Floors

In addition, healthcare facilities and veterinary clinics should consider installing a chemical-resistant flooring. This will help to protect floors against harsh cleaning chemicals, thereby improving their longevity.

2. Clean Up Spills ASAP

Whether you’re dealing with a biohazard or a simple coffee spill, it’s important to clean up any messes immediately. This will help to contain any infection risk while protecting the flooring from lasting damage.

Read: 5 Tips for Improving Hygiene in Office Buildings

3. Monitor Floor Conditions

Regularly check flooring for cracking, peeling, or other issues. Breaches in protective floor coating can attract bacteria and pose a safety risk.

4. Clean Floors Frequently

Regular floor cleaning is essential to maintaining a healthy, safe work environment, no matter the nature of your business. Contact ROC Commercial Cleaning for a free estimate on any business janitorial needs!

Get off the cleaning rollercoaster. Contact ROC Commercial Cleaning at 612-581-2776 for your free, no-obligation estimate.

Source: Cleaning & Maintenance Management, “5 Steps for Boosting Infection Control Through Floor Maintenance”

The Most Common Germ Hotspots in Office Buildings

2 years ago

As cold and flu season begins, facility managers should be aware of the most common germ hotspots in their buildings. Ensure those touchpoints are properly and regularly cleaned to avoid employee illnesses and absences.

Here are a few of the germiest places in a typical office, according to WebMD.

office germ hotspots — photo credit: @@cottonbro accessed 10/21/22 via CC0

Common Germ Hotspots in Workplaces and Office Buildings

Elevator Buttons

In busy condo and apartment buildings and high-rise office buildings, elevator buttons are touched frequently. Keep hand sanitizer close by to minimize germs.

Door Handles

Like elevator buttons, door handles are touched frequently. They have a larger surface area, however, and are touched for a longer period. In addition to encouraging hand hygiene, make sure door handles are wiped down and sanitized frequently.

How to Use Disinfectants Safely

Coffee Maker and Coffee Pot

Bacteria thrives inside the dark, damp interior of a coffee maker, especially when it isn’t cleaned regularly (which is the case in many offices). Further, the handle of the coffee pot is touched by many different employees, but often overlooked during cleaning.

Break Room Sink

Office sinks are a hotspot for bacteria and germs – especially the handle. Ensure both are cleaned and disinfected regularly.

Desktops

Ready for an uncomfortable fact? Desktops have about 400 times more germs than a toilet seat. This is because toilet seats are cleaned regularly – but when was the last time you deep cleaned your desktop? Keyboards and telephones are also common germ hotspots. Ensure that employees have the knowledge and supplies they need to clean their workspaces regularly.

5 Tips for Improving Hygiene in Office Spaces

ROC Cleaning can help you avoid the flu! We provide daily cleaning services for office buildings, retail stores, fitness centers, places of worship, and apartment buildings. Don’t wait until your employees or customers get sick – contact us today!

ROC Commercial Cleaning is your trusted Minneapolis commercial cleaning company. We provide janitorial services for office buildings, medical and veterinary clinics, industrial buildings, and more. We also provide floor stripping and waxing, construction cleanup, and office disinfection services. ROC Commercial Cleaning is a trusted Minnesota corporate cleaning service provider – no job is too big or too small!

Get off the cleaning rollercoaster. Contact ROC Commercial Cleaning at 612-581-2776 for your free, no-obligation estimate.

How to Make Carpeting Look Better and Last Longer

2 years ago

No matter the size of your office or workplace, flooring is a big investment, and it’s important to care for it diligently. Proper methods of flooring care vary based on type, placement, traffic level, pre-treatment, durability and more. Here are a few tips on extending the life of carpeting through regular cleaning and proactive maintenance.

How to Extend the Life of Carpeting

office carpeting — photo credit: @uneebo_office_design accessed 10/9/22 via CC0

Vacuum Regularly

When people walk into a building, everything they stepped on outside – dirt, salt, sand, and more – comes inside on their shoes. If these materials are left on carpet, they sink down into carpet fibers, making them more difficult to remove and creating long-term damage to the carpeting. It’s important to vacuum regularly – every day, if possible – to remove dirt and keep carpet in good shape.

Let ROC Handle the Vacuuming! Contact Us for a Free Quote.

Use High-Quality Mats

Place mats at entrances and in high-traffic areas to absorb dirt and mud, trap soils, and reduce the risk of staining.

Read: Stop Dirt at The Door With Entrance Mats

Conduct Low-Moisture Cleaning

It seems logical to clean carpets with water. But excessive moisture can lead to mold and mildew, significantly shortening the lifespan of carpeting. Look for low-moisture carpet cleaning services.

Professional Carpet Cleaning vs. DIY: Which is Right for You?

Perform Regular Deep Cleans

Although daily vacuuming will help keep carpets clean, it’s a good idea to perform a deep clean once or twice per year. This is a job best left to the professionals – like the experienced steam carpet cleaning teams at ROC Cleaning!

ROC Commercial Cleaning is your trusted Minneapolis commercial cleaning company. We provide janitorial commercial cleaning for office buildings, medical and veterinary clinics, salons, retail stores, industrial buildings, office disinfection services, onetime services, and more. We also provide car dealership cleaning services, and construction cleanup during and after construction projects of all sizes. ROC Commercial Cleaning is a trusted Minnesota office cleaning service provider – no job is too big or too small!

Get off the cleaning rollercoaster. Contact ROC Commercial Cleaning at 612-581-2776 for your free, no-obligation estimate.

Source: CMM Online, “6 Strategies to Extend the Lifespan of Carpet”

The Impact of COVID-19 on Commercial Cleaning Practices

2 years ago

The pandemic made us all more aware of sanitation and raised our expectations of cleanliness in public settings. So, as more workers return to offices and workplaces, it’s important for building owners and managers to prioritize hygiene, for the health and satisfaction of employees. This is just one way that COVID-19 impacted commercial cleaning practices. Here, we’ll discuss a few others.

How COVID-19 Changed Commercial Cleaning Practices

COVID-19 impact on commercial cleaning practices — photo credit: @matilda-wormwood accessed 9/13/22 via CC0

The Link Between Cleanliness, Health and Safety

People no longer view an unclean space as just an oversight or omission. Now, when visitors, customers or even employees encounter a dirty space, their view of the business changes, and they’re less likely to return. With these higher stakes, it’s a good idea to hire a skilled and reliable commercial cleaning company to keep your business clean and sanitary.

Read: How to Maintain a Clean Restroom

Protocols, Equipment and Signage

Employees now expect visual indications of cleanliness. This includes signage that details cleaning processes, express communication about protocols and requirements, and more advanced cleaning technology. For example, in a recent survey, more than half of respondents stated that they preferred touchless paper towel dispensers.

Get a Free Quote

Greater Focus on Sanitation

In the same survey, 56 percent of respondents said they clean and sanitize their workspaces more frequently than they did before the pandemic. Employees don’t just want a clean workplace: they want it to be regularly sanitized and disinfected.

Read: What Do Employees Want? A Clean Work Environment.

How has the pandemic changed your company’s commercial cleaning practices and needs? If you need help keeping up with new and additional demands, contact ROC Commercial Cleaning today. We’re here to help!

ROC Commercial Cleaning is your trusted Minneapolis commercial cleaning company. We provide janitorial commercial cleaning for office buildings, medical and veterinary clinics, car dealerships, salons, retail stores, industrial buildings, office disinfection services, onetime services, and more. We also provide construction cleanup during and after construction projects of all sizes. No office cleaning job is too big or too small!

Get off the cleaning rollercoaster. Contact ROC Commercial Cleaning at 612-249-7576 for your free, no-obligation estimate.

Source: CleanLink, “Targeting Hygiene in Cleaning Practices”

Tips for Cleaning Tile and Stone Floors

2 years ago

The best way to extend the life of flooring is to care for it properly. This applies whether your office or business flooring is carpet, wood, linoleum, vinyl, tile, stone, or a different material. It’s important to use the right cleaners, tools, and techniques for each type of flooring. Today, we’re sharing tips on cleaning and caring for tile and stone floors.

Avoid These Common Carpet Cleaning Mistakes

How to Clean Tile and Stone Floors

Ceramic tile is a manufactured flooring product made from natural materials. Stone is, of course, also a natural material. Because they are similar products, they have similar cleaning needs and techniques.

Grout Cleaning Tips

Keeping grout clean is the biggest challenge with tile and stone floors. Sweep the group before applying any water or liquid cleaner to a stone or tile floor. If you don’t, dirt that has been wiped into the grout will turn into mud, and will be more difficult to remove.

There are three types of grout: cement-based, furan resin, and epoxy. Cement-based grout is the most commonly used type, and is found in a variety of commercial buildings. Cement is porous, which means that stains can more easily penetrate the surface and cause staining. So when dirt turns into mud and penetrates into grout, it may permanently alter the color.

What Kind of Floor Cleaner to Use for Tile and Stone Floors

You can use a standard floor cleaner for stone and tile. However, because household cleaners don’t have a neutral pH, they need to be rinsed off. If not rinsed, a residue can build up, further staining grout and shortening the life of the flooring.

The Most Important Floor Cleaning Tip

Here’s the most important tile and stone cleaning tip: don’t go too long between cleanings. If dirt and grime don’t have a chance to build up and set in, it’ll be easier to prevent staining and lasting damage. If you don’t have the time or resources to clean your floors regularly, give ROC a call! We can clean daily, weekly, or on whatever schedule works best for you.

ROC Commercial Cleaning is your trusted Twin Cities janitorial service. We provide contract cleaning for office buildings, medical and veterinary clinics, auto dealerships, salons, retail stores, industrial buildings, office disinfection services, and more. We also provide construction cleanup during and after construction projects of all sizes. No cleaning job is too big or too small for our experienced cleaning teams!

Get off the cleaning rollercoaster. Contact ROC Commercial Cleaning at 612-249-7576 for your free, no-obligation estimate.

Source: CMM Online, “Q&A: Tile and Stone Floor Maintenance”

How to Maintain a Clean Restroom

2 years ago

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed our expectations of cleanliness in both public and private settings. If customers encounter a dirty restroom in a store, salon, or small business, they won’t just be dissatisfied with their experience. They may be unlikely to return at all, out of a fear for their health. It’s more important than ever for your organization to maintain a clean restroom.

If you’re struggling to keep a clean restroom, give ROC Cleaning a call. We provide commercial restroom cleaning daily, weekly, or on any schedule that works for you. Let ROC help your business maintain its reputation, keep employees happy, and protect the bottom line.

Read: What do Employees Want? A Clean Work Environment.

In addition to regular bathroom cleaning services, here are a few ways to keep your restrooms clean every day, for every customer.

How To Keep a Commercial Restroom Clean

Switch to Touchless Fixtures

By changing toilets, faucets, soap dispensers, and towel dispensers to touchless models, you will reduce points of contact and the spread of germs. Many businesses are also moving away from air dryers in favor of paper towels.

If you decide to add touchless fixtures and dispensers, choose options that allow staff to easily see when items need to be refilled, and to refill them easily. You could even invest in smart technology that sends an alert when something needs attention.

Perform More Frequent Checks

Even if employees aren’t tasked with cleaning the restroom, you’ll want to assign staff to perform restroom checks frequently throughout the day. Make sure the bathrooms stay free of clutter, that dispensers are full, and that there are no major issues.

Read: Tips for Safe Disinfectant Use Between Cleanings

Empty Garbage Cans Often

Bacteria, such as E. coli and Listeria, thrive in garbage cans. Empty them frequently to keep bacteria – along with odors and visual messiness – at bay.

Don’t spend your valuable time cleaning the restroom! Call Pete to schedule your free consultation today.

Get off the cleaning rollercoaster. Contact ROC Commercial Cleaning at 612-249-7576 for your free, no-obligation estimate.

Source: CMM Online, “Restoring Restroom Confidence”

8 Common Carpet Cleaning Mistakes to Avoid

2 years ago

When it comes to workplace carpeting, spills and stains are a pain. However, there are ways to help you prevent and treat these mishaps at the source. Avoiding these common carpet cleaning mistakes will save you time and money, and extend the life of your carpeting.

8 Common Carpet Cleaning Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common cleaning mistakes when cleaning your carpeting:

1. Vigorously Rubbing a Spill

It’s never a good idea to try to rub or scrub a spill. Vigorously rubbing a spill into the carpet can damage the fibers, and often results in the stain getting pushed deeper into the base of the carpet. Scrubbing also causes unnecessary twisting and fraying of the carpet fibers, leaving long-term damage. Whenever possible, always use the blotting method to safely pull the stain out of the surface.

2. Not Acting Fast Enough

When a spill happens, take action as soon as possible. Waiting too long to clean up a spill may result in the liquid soaking into carpet fibers and absorbing into the padding. Cleaning spills quickly can also prevent further damage like unwanted odors or mold growth.

3. Using the Wrong Product

Use the right solution to use for certain spills to prevent damage to your carpet down the line. If you use the wrong solution, it can cause unnecessary damage and discoloration. Read labels and follow manufacturer guidelines on all cleaning products.

4. Not Testing New Solutions

Test products on a small patch of carpet before using them widely. This will avoid widespread damage, and help you understand how to use the product correctly.

5. Using a Deodorizing Powder

Deodorizing powders can be tricky to use since they are often harmful to carpet. A common misconception is that these powders can be used to clean carpets, but they can’t. If you do decide to use a deodorizing powder, look for a product that isn’t as harsh on carpet fibers.

6. Using Too Many Chemicals

When it comes to chemicals for carpet cleaning, more does not mean better. Oversaturating carpet with different chemicals can cause unwanted residue to build up in the base, and overall damage to carpet fibers.

7. Never Using a Professional Cleaner

Using a professional carpet cleaner can save both time and money in the long run – not to mention the overall health and longevity of your carpet. Regular visits from professional carpet cleaners are like taking care of your teeth at the dentist. It’ll prevent long-term buildup of dirt and grime within the fibers of your carpet.

8. Renting Faulty Cleaning Equipment

Renting DIY carpet cleaners can sometimes do more harm than good. Rental machines are known to cause unnecessary damage to your carpets and can often leave behind excess cleaning solutions, which may cause mold.

Making sure you take all the necessary precautions when dealing with little or big spills will keep your carpet cleaner and healthier in the long run. After all, a healthy carpet creates a positive and clean environment that is beneficial to all.

Get off the cleaning rollercoaster. Contact ROC Commercial Cleaning at 612-249-7576 for your free, no-obligation estimate.

Professional Carpet Cleaners vs. Do it Yourself Carpet Cleaning

3 years ago

Office buildings, apartment complexes, and commercial buildings, all of them have carpet somewhere. For business owners, carpet cleaning is something that makes you wonder if you could just do it yourself, or is it better to just hire a professional?

We’ll go over some pros and cons of using a professional carpet cleaner, so you can decide what’s best for you and your business.

Professional Carpet Cleaners vs DIY Carpet Cleaning

The Professionals Have Better Equipment

In many industries, the professionals always tend to have better, more powerful equipment. Professional carpet cleaners use high-end steam and deep cleaners that get deep down into the pores of the carpet, cleaning the carpet at the core.

You can purchase a smaller, less effective vacuum steam cleaner, but you’ll notice that it doesn’t always do the best job. Renting equipment can also get expensive depending on the amount of carpet space that needs to be cleaned.

professional carpet cleaning vs. diy — photo credit: @pixabay accessed 5/10/22 via CC0

Higher Chance of Damaging Your Carpet When Doing It Yourself

If you choose to clean yourself you might be renting a carpet cleaner, in this case, you may be opening your carpet up to possible damages. The rental machines are harsh on your carpet and can lead to faster wear and tear on the fibers.

For some, DIY carpet cleaning includes using carpet deodorizers to make it smell better and get “a deeper clean”. The abrasive chemicals may help it smell a little bit better, but, it is damaging your carpet even further.

Faster Dry Time When Working with a Professional

Many professional carpet cleaners use the “steam cleaning” method. During this method, hot water is sprayed onto the carpet, then it gets sucked back up into the machine. This effectively gets rid of any dirt or grime that may be embedded within the carpet fibers and backings.

The method does require your carpet to get wet, but with the knowledge and equipment of a professional, it will most certainly dry faster than doing it yourself. The sheer power of the higher-end machines leaves your carpet with slight dampness that dries quickly.

Doing it Yourself with Lower-Grade Cleaning Machines

Self-cleaning carpet machines have lower water pressure and weak vacuums. This means that you won’t be able to rinse the carpet fibers thoroughly. The weaker vacuums also don’t have enough power to get as much water vacuumed as much as doing the process professionally.

Professional Carpet Cleaners Have More Experience

You can’t beat the knowledge and time that professional carpet cleaners have in the industry. They have to ability to get the job done and get it done fast. Doing a quick google search for carpet cleaners in the area or reaching out to ROC Commercial Cleaning is your best bet.

While cleaning carpets isn’t enjoyable for most, it’s still important to make sure they are being taken care of. A properly cleaned carpet will last longer, look better, and keep your space refreshed. So, whether you choose to clean yourself or to use a professional, ensure it is done properly to yield the best results in the long run.

Get off the cleaning rollercoaster. Contact ROC Commercial Cleaning at 612-249-7576 for your free, no-obligation estimate.

5 Tips for Improving Hygiene and Reducing Operating Costs

3 years ago

Improving office cleanliness is always good practice. Even if your office is professionally cleaned on a regular basis, keeping up with good hygiene practices between those cleaning is a must. Not only does it boost morale and productivity, but it can also reduce operating costs.

5 Tips for Improving Hygiene and Reducing Operating Costs

Here are 5 tips for improving hygiene within your office or facility. (Courtesy of CMM)

1. Change consumables

Soap dispensers come in a couple of different forms. The best option in terms of hygiene is a “closed” soap dispenser. This type of dispenser includes a hygienically sealed nozzle and reservoir.

Using a closed system can reduce the number of bacteria that contaminate the soap. It may also help to use foam dispensers as well, as these cause less of a mess.

Paper towels are also another relatively low-cost option to reduce the number of bacteria after handwashing. Either white or brown paper towels are recommended.

2. Install automated, touchless dispensers and fixtures

Manually operated paper towels, soap, and water fixtures can be troublesome when trying to practice good hygiene. Users may wash their hands and touch the faucet after with wet hands, causing unwanted bacteria to grow and spread.

Automated, touchless dispensers can be applied to water faucets, paper towel dispensers, soap dispensers, and even flush valves. Implementing these not only saves you from unnecessary bacteria, but may also decrease operating costs. This is because these devices only produce enough to get the job done, reducing usage and waste.

Read: Tips for Safe Disinfectant Use Between Cleanings

3. Implement smart restroom technology

Smart restroom technologies are no longer systems of the future. They’re becoming the standard for modern restroom maintenance. Smart restroom technology prompts office cleaners to regularly sanitize touch points throughout, such as doorknobs, stalls, and toilet paper dispensers.

Product waste is also reduced with the use of these systems. They regulate the amount that is flushed and let cleaners know when they’re empty so there is no overfilling.

4. Provide proper training

Having updated fixtures and technologies is important, but it doesn’t mean much if proper techniques and practices aren’t being followed. Teaching employees about safe hygiene practices within the office or facility will drastically reduce the misuse of cleaning technology.

Either onboarding training, self-learning videos, or putting small instructional signs around may be good options to help increase the knowledge of safe hygiene practices.

5. Find the right partners

Look for a product distributor that tailors its goods toward your company’s needs. Providing the necessary information to effectively use cleaning systems and technologies is essential. In addition, look for a reliable commercial cleaner who will help you maintain a clean work environment.

Having good hygiene within your office or facility is important. Automated fixtures and technologies can improve hygiene, health, productivity and employee satisfaction.

Get off the cleaning rollercoaster. Contact ROC Commercial Cleaning at 612-581-2776 for your free, no-obligation estimate.

Do Carpet Deodorizers Help or Hurt?

3 years ago

Powdered carpet deodorizers offer many different scents that can brighten a room during the carpet cleaning process. Whether it’s pumpkin spice, fresh cotton, ocean breeze, or any other scents, adding them to your carpet seems harmless. But is it?

Do Carpet Deodorizers Help or Hurt?

Carpet deodorizers may smell good, but they contain some harmful substances. These include abrasive chemicals that can be detrimental to the health of your carpet.

Baking soda, a common household item, is among the substances used in carpet deodorizers. Other abrasive substances include calcium carbonate, sodium silicate, and hydrated silica. These substances have been known to cause carpet deterioration and delamination. So, when you use powdered deodorizers regularly, you’ll find that it causes your carpet to soil faster than normal.

When you use powdered carpet deodorizers, you’re basically spreading abrasive soils that are hard to remove. Even after vacuuming, only 65% of the overall soils get removed. This leaves 35% sitting on your carpet’s surface and roots.

Sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) is a water-soluble substance that’s one of the main ingredients in carpet deodorizers. It sticks to the carpet fibers and causes scratches every time they’re walked on. Over time, this substance sifts into the backing of the carpet, causing the carpet to lose its durability and stability. This not only damages the carpet, but the vacuum you use as well.

Should I Use Carpet Deodorizers?

Of course, it’s up to you, but the use of these products will cause your carpet to deteriorate at a more rapid pace. There are deodorizers that don’t contain these harsh chemicals, so look for one of those safer alternatives.

Do you want to learn more about carpet cleaning? ROC Commercial Cleaning offers carpet cleaning services that will get your carpet looking and smelling fresh – safely.

ROC Commercial Cleaning is your trusted Twin Cities janitorial service. We provide contract cleaning for office buildings, medical and veterinary clinics, auto dealerships, salons, and retail stores, industrial buildings, office disinfection services, and more. We also provide construction cleanup during and after construction projects of all sizes. No cleaning job is too big or too small for our experienced cleaning teams!

Get off the cleaning rollercoaster. Contact ROC Commercial Cleaning at 612-581-2776 for your free, no-obligation estimate.

What Do Employees Want? A Clean Work Environment.

3 years ago

Ensuring that employees have a clean, healthy and safe work environment is crucial to business success. If your workplace lacks cleanliness, it can have a significant impact on employee happiness, productivity and performance.

According to Harvard Business Review, research has found that employees who are satisfied with their work environments are 16% more productive, 18% more likely to stay with the company, and 30% more attracted to their company over competitors.

Here are 3 tips to help you improve the quality of your work environment.

3 Tips to Improve Your Work Environment

clean work environment — photo credit: @startup-stock-photos accessed 2/13/22 via CC0

Focus on Changes That Will Benefit All Employees

Instead of spending money on pointless office perks like gyms or snacks, make changes that will impact every employee. Factors like air quality and light are known to improve wellness among employees, so start by spending more on these.

Read: How to Improve Office Air Quality

Never assume that you know what your employees want. Instead, focus on subtle ways to ask them how you can improve their work environment.

Personalize when Possible

Giving your employees the freedom to have more control over the place that they work in goes a long way. At home, they have the luxury of adjusting the temperature, lighting, and noise control in their space, so why not give them this luxury at work?

In doing so, you’ll see that your employees will enjoy the control they have over the environment they’re in every day.

Take a Holistic Approach to Workplace Wellness

Workplace wellness doesn’t just mean physical health. Workplace wellness includes the physical, emotional, and environmental wellness of all your employees. A few examples:

Emotional Wellness: Access to natural light and quiet rooms.
Physical Wellness: Healthy food options and clean workspaces.
Environmental Wellness: Adequate air quality, light, and temperature.

Read: Why Should My Office Hire Professional Cleaners?

Do you want to grow your business, increase employee productivity and improve employee retention? ROC Commercial Cleaning can help! Our reliable commercial janitorial services will ensure that your employees have a clean, safe and healthy work environment. Contact us and get started today!

ROC Commercial Cleaning is your trusted Twin Cities janitorial service. We provide contract cleaning for office buildings, medical and veterinary clinics, auto dealerships, salons, and retail stores, industrial buildings, office disinfection services, and more. We also provide construction cleanup during and after construction projects of all sizes. No cleaning job is too big or too small for our experienced cleaning teams!

Get off the cleaning rollercoaster. Contact ROC Commercial Cleaning at 612-581-2776 for your free, no-obligation estimate.

The Benefits of Steam Carpet Cleaning for Workplaces

3 years ago

A clean workplace can have a positive effect on your company’s overall productivity. Steam carpet cleaning is just one of the ways you can ensure that your employees remain healthy and satisfied with the environment that they work in.

Steam carpet cleaning is a natural, eco-friendly way of getting dirt and grime out of carpet fabrics. It kills grease and mold, while sanitizing and disinfecting the fabrics well beyond industry standards.

How Can Your Workplace Benefit from Steam Carpet Cleaning?

The smart vacuum guide gave some insight into how your office, clinic, store or workplace can benefit from steam carpet cleaning:

Eco-Friendly Alternative

Many cleaning options use harsh chemicals that are harmful both to your employees and the environment. Steam cleaning eliminates the use of these chemicals to ensure that your workplace is cleaned sufficiently, without any harmful effects on health or safety.

Low-Cost Cleaning Solution

Compared to other cleaning options, steam cleaners are a relatively low-cost choice with a big impact. Steam carpet cleaning uses only electricity and water straight from the tap – no odor eliminating materials or additional solutions that complicate the cleaning process.

Versatility of Steam Cleaning

There are a number of surfaces that can benefit from steam cleaning. If your workplace has couches, chairs, or any other furniture with fabric, consider steam cleaning. Cleaning both carpets and upholstery in the same way will save you time, money and resources, so you can worry about the more important things.

Mold-Free Cleaning

One of the most common misconceptions about steam carpet cleaning is that it will cause mold. But steam cleaners actually leave surfaces with little dampness.

The combination of heat and low water usage ensure that there is no molding, leaving carpets and furniture with a clean, dry finish.

Steam carpet cleaning is one of the best options available for cleaning the carpets in any workplace. Call ROC Commercial Cleaning at 612-581-2776 to schedule your next steam cleaning service!

ROC Commercial Cleaning is your trusted Twin Cities janitorial service. We provide contract cleaning for office buildings, medical and veterinary clinics, auto dealerships, salons and retail stores, industrial buildings, office disinfection services and more. We also provide construction cleanup during and after construction projects of all sizes. No cleaning job is too big or too small for our experienced cleaning teams!

Get off the cleaning rollercoaster. Contact ROC Commercial Cleaning at 612-581-2776 for your free, no-obligation estimate.

How to Improve Office Air Quality

3 years ago

It’s winter in Minnesota, which means we’ll be spending the next few months indoors. As employees come back to the office, it’s important to monitor indoor air quality. Not only will this protect the overall health of workers, but it also makes a workplace more comfortable. Good air quality can also improve productivity and creativity.

Indoor air often feels clean, but there are hidden pollutants that can make it unsafe. These include dust, mold, mildew, chemicals from furniture and paint, cigarette smoke that lingers on clothing and skin, and more. However, there are a few easy ways to improve the air quality of your office or workplace, as discussed by Corporate Wellness Magazine.

Tips to Improve Indoor Air Quality

Keep a Clean Workplace

When your workplace is regularly cleaned, there are fewer dirt, dust and allergen particles on surfaces and in the air. Consider daily or weekly commercial cleaning services to keep your office clean, healthy and safe.

Use Commercial Air Cleaning Devices

Install air purifiers, air scrubbers, dehumidifiers, and other air cleaning devices as needed. These will maintain air quality with little work on your part.

Change HVAC Filters Often

Regularly clean HVAC systems and replace filters. This will prevent pollutants from recirculating.

Test Air Regularly

Set a schedule for regular indoor air quality testing. These tests include: humidity, air flow, mold growth, ventilation, odors, water damage, and more.

Ventilate!

Keep air vents unblocked. If possible, open windows on a regular basis to allow outdoor air to circulate into the building. Consider adding indoor plants for natural air purification (among other positive benefits).

Do you need help keeping your workplace clean and healthy? Call Pete at 612-581-2776 for a free, no obligation quote on Minneapolis commercial cleaning services.

ROC Commercial Cleaning is your trusted Twin Cities janitorial service. We provide contract cleaning for office buildings, medical and veterinary clinics, auto dealerships, salons and retail stores, industrial buildings, office disinfection services and more. We also provide construction cleanup during and after construction projects of all sizes. No cleaning job is too big or too small for our experienced cleaning teams!

Get off the cleaning rollercoaster. Contact ROC Commercial Cleaning at 612-581-2776 for your free, no-obligation estimate.

Tips for Safe Disinfectant Use Between Cleanings

3 years ago

No matter how frequently your office is professionally cleaned, there will come times when your staff has to do some cleaning. Whether there’s an accident, a spill, or things just get too dirty, it’s a good idea to have disinfectant products on hand. And it’s also important that you and your team know how to safely use those disinfectants.

We’re sharing a few tips from the EPA on how to use disinfectants safely and effectively. Do you need professional janitorial services to keep your office clean? Give ROC Cleaning a call!

How to Use Disinfectant Products Safely and Effectively

Make Sure the Product is EPA-Approved: The EPA’s List N includes all disinfectants that are approved to kill viruses, including COVID-19.
Read All Directions: Check the product’s use sites and surface types to see where it can safely be used.
Pre-Clean: If the surface is visibly dirty, wash it with soap and water before using the disinfectant product.
Follow Contact Time Instructions: Disinfectants must usually be left on a surface for a set period of time in order to be fully effective. Make sure to read and follow time instructions accurately.
Wear Gloves: Always protect your hands when using disinfectant products.
Wash Your Hands: Even though you wore gloves, it’s important to wash your hands thoroughly after cleaning.
Keep Products Locked Up: Make sure all disinfectant products are stored safely and securely, especially if children or vulnerable adults frequent the building.

Ready for a cleaner and more sanitary office? Call Pete at 651-581-2776 to get started.

ROC Commercial Cleaning is your trusted Twin Cities janitorial service. We provide contract cleaning for office buildings, medical and veterinary clinics, auto dealerships, salons and retail stores, industrial buildings and more. We also provide construction cleanup during and after construction projects of all sizes. No cleaning job is too big or too small for our experienced cleaning teams!

Get off the cleaning rollercoaster. Contact ROC Commercial Cleaning at 612-581-2776 for your free, no-obligation estimate.

How to Keep Your Office Organized

3 years ago

Whether you work in a cubicle, private office, shared co-working space, or something in between, it can be tough to keep your workspace organized. But there are many benefits of an orderly working environment. As we’ve previously discussed, a clean workspace leads to greater focus, creativity, productivity, and morale. (Our experienced and reliable commercial cleaning services can help!)

If the thought of maintaining an organized office seems daunting, we’re here to help! We have a few tips from Office Depot on how to set up an organization system that will keep your workspace tidy.

4 Steps to an Organized Workspace

Purge: Get a recycling bin and paper shredder, and spend an hour getting rid of unnecessary papers and document on your desk.
Deal with Documents: Create a place for incoming and outgoing documents. Try to deal with documents as soon as they arrive into your space. Either file, recycle, or address them right away, instead of letting them pile up.
Update your Filing System: If you’re not sure where to documents as they come into your workspace, it might be time to update your filing system. Be thoughtful and choose a system that works well for your needs and preferred way of organizing things.
Make Organization a Regular Task: Block out time on your calendar once a month (or more) to deal with clutter that will inevitably pile up.

You’re now on your way to a more organized workspace. Do you need help keeping it clean? Give ROC Commercial Cleaning a call today.

ROC Commercial Cleaning is your trusted Twin Cities janitorial service. We provide contract cleaning for office buildings, medical and veterinary clinics, auto dealerships, salons and retail stores, industrial buildings and more. We also provide construction cleanup during and after construction projects of all sizes. No cleaning job is too big or too small for our experienced cleaning teams!

Get off the cleaning rollercoaster. Contact ROC Commercial Cleaning at 612-581-2776 for your free, no-obligation estimate.

Why Should My Office Hire Professional Cleaners?

3 years ago

Maintaining a clean office isn’t just about health. It’s about safety, productivity, customer impact and employee satisfaction, among other things. If you’re struggling to keep your office clean, professional cleaners could make all the difference for your company and staff.

Here are a few common reasons to hire professional cleaners. If you’re ready to take the leap toward a cleaner, safer and healthier office, give ROC Commercial Cleaning a call today.

4 Reasons to Hire Professional Cleaners for Your Office

Expertise: Professional office cleaners are highly trained and experienced. They understand what and how to clean most effectively, and can personalize the cleaning service for your facility’s unique needs. In addition, professional cleaners have the products and equipment to clean well and efficiently.
Reliability: At ROC Commercial Cleaning, our unique account manager program ensures that cleaning teams will show up, be on time, and complete the work as contracted.
Value: Your employees were not hired to clean your office bathrooms. By outsourcing janitorial services, you’re allowing your employees to do the jobs they were hired and trained for.
Morale: A clean office space provides employees with a calm, clean and healthy environment in which to work. This will not only make them more satisfied and ultimately happier to be at work, but it can significantly boost creativity and productivity. In addition, when customers come into your office, their first impression will be of a clean and inviting space.

ROC Commercial Cleaning is your trusted Twin Cities janitorial service. We provide contract cleaning for office buildings, medical and veterinary clinics, auto dealerships, salons and retail stores, industrial buildings and more. We also provide construction cleanup during and after construction projects of all sizes. No cleaning job is too big or too small for our experienced cleaning teams!

Get off the cleaning rollercoaster. Contact ROC Commercial Cleaning at 612-581-2776 for your free, no-obligation estimate.