Commercial and industrial cleaning cater to different workplaces and client needs. Commercial cleaning is for business establishments and offices, whereas industrial cleaning is for factories and warehouses.
These services aim to keep areas clean using different chemicals and methods. They also vary in cleaning cost and frequency.
In this article, we compare the two so you can determine which cleaning service best suits your work environment.
What are Commercial and Industrial Cleaning Services?
Before comparing commercial and industrial cleaning, let’s define them first.
Commercial cleaning ensures the cleanliness of companies or business areas, like gyms, schools, restaurants, hotels, public bathrooms, retail stores, and hospitals.
Tasks may include dusting, vacuuming, mopping, and disinfecting. Commercial cleaning services aim to remove germs and contaminants that can harm your employees and customers or shorten equipment and furniture lifespan.
On the other hand, industrial cleaning is for factories, manufacturing plants, warehouses, and other production areas.
The primary objective is to eliminate dirt, oil, toxic waste, and other contaminants that might lead to sickness or outbreaks in the workplace. Aside from standard methods, industrial cleaners may perform pest control, mould removal, waste management, and allergy cleaning.
They use specialised techniques and agents to remove hazardous wastes and clean heavy machinery.
How is Commercial Cleaning Different from Industrial Cleaning?
Unlike residential cleaning, commercial and industrial cleaning services are more complex and intensive, each with distinct qualities. Here’s a table summarising their differences.
| Comparison Point | Commercial Cleaning | Industrial Cleaning |
| Cleaning Materials and Methods | Standard and straightforward | Complex and more specialised |
| Safety Requirements | Standard safety protocols | Industry-based safety protocols |
| Cleaning frequency | Daily or weekly | Weekly or several times a week |
| Cleaning cost | Depends on several factors | Generally more expensive |
Cleaning Materials and Methods
Commercial and industrial cleaning services use different cleaning techniques and agents. The preparation and skills of the cleaners differ as well.
Generally, commercial cleaning is more straightforward. Commercial cleaners perform standard vacuuming, mopping, and dusting with commercial-grade equipment. Here’s a list describing the commercial cleaning technique:
- Commercial cleaners may or may not wear PPE while cleaning.
- Equipment used for commercial cleaning usually includes vacuums, hand wipes, soap-based detergents, hard-surface polishes, and eco-friendly chemicals.
- Commercial cleaning methods are more careful and controlled to avoid disrupting or damaging delicate office equipment.
In contrast, industrial cleaning is more complex. Aside from standard cleaning methods, industrial cleaners may perform stain or heavy machinery cleaning that requires specialised training and chemicals. Here’s a list describing the industrial cleaning technique:
- Industrial cleaners often wear PPE or biohazard suits and other protective gear.
- Equipment used for industrial cleaning usually includes industrial-strength degreasers, solvents, and alkaline or acid cleaners. These tackle heavy dirt, oil, residues, and contaminants.
- Industrial cleaning methods are more intense as cleaners work on extensive walls and floors, heavy machinery, ventilation systems, and hazardous wastes.
Safety Requirements
Both services practice safe cleaning protocols.
However, commercial cleaning only requires standard knowledge and training. Commercial cleaners can wear masks and gloves when handling cleaning chemicals, but there are no major restrictions for them to follow.
On the other hand, the industrial cleaning team must understand the specific safety guidelines of the industry they are working with. For instance, if the industry requires pressure washers or floor buffers, the cleaners must be trained to safely and properly use them.
Similarly, industrial cleaners must follow Safe Work Australia and OSHA guidelines if they deal with hazardous materials while cleaning.
Cleaning Frequency
Daily or weekly cleaning schedules are usual for commercial and industrial workplaces.
However, the specific cleaning frequency depends on the nature of the business, work site size, foot traffic, and industry-related regulations.
For example, cleaning commercial areas like offices and retail stores may be less frequent than traffic-heavy places like restaurants and hotels.
On the other hand, hospitals and medical facilities need multiple cleaning times during the day to ensure hygienic conditions.
Similarly, some manufacturing plants and laboratories may need constant industrial cleaning to prevent cross-contamination. Other industrial sites may only require routine clean-up or occasional deep cleaning during planned shutdowns.
It’s best to consult with a professional cleaning company to determine the ideal cleaning schedule for your specific needs.
Cleaning Cost
Commercial cleaning services are generally more affordable than industrial cleaning jobs, as these do not require specialised cleaning tools or skills. Also, commercial cleaning usually does not take too long.
However, the cost can still vary based on workplace location, size, industry protocols, frequency, or the need for specialised equipment.
Professional cleaning companies may also offer service packages for a better price.
Call the Experts for Your Commercial or Industrial Cleaning Needs
Commercial and industrial cleaning jobs involve different methods, equipment, safety requirements, frequency, and cost.
Despite their differences, business owners should see both as essential in keeping workplaces hygienic and safe for employees and customers. They should also consider employing professional cleaners for satisfactory service that meets standards.
Performance Cleaning is an experienced cleaner for commercial and industrial establishments. Contact us on 1300 867 872 to discuss your cleaning needs with our team.