A few smudges on the glass. A missed trash can. Dust was creeping along the baseboards. On their own, these seem minor. But over time? That’s how clients form opinions, employees lose pride in their space, and health issues start piling up.
I’ve worked with enough offices across Chicago to know one thing: most companies underestimate how much commercial janitorial services impact their bottom line.
This isn’t about emptying bins. It’s about trust, hygiene, and whether your building feels like a place people want to walk into every day.
The hidden costs of poor janitorial service
When cleaning is handled poorly—or worse, ignored—it shows up in ways that aren’t always obvious at first.
Here’s what I’ve seen happen firsthand:
- Sick days start to spike. Dust buildup, dirty vents, and unclean restrooms can quietly spread germs.
- Morale drops. No one wants to work in a space that feels neglected.
- Clients notice. They might not say anything, but they’re noticing the fingerprints on that conference table.
- Maintenance bills grow. Floors wear down faster. Surfaces get stained. Pest problems emerge.
And then there’s reputation. People talk. Staff, guests, vendors—if your facility looks like it’s been phoned in, word spreads. In a city like Chicago, where options are endless, you can’t afford to look sloppy.
What “good” janitorial work actually looks like
It’s not just about scrubbing floors. A truly professional janitorial service operates like an invisible support team, keeping your business running smoothly in the background.
The difference is in the details:
- High-touch areas (like door handles and elevator buttons) are cleaned daily
- Restrooms stay spotless, stocked, and smell fresh
- Trash is removed without a trace—no lingering odors or spills
- Entryways, lobbies, and shared spaces reflect your company’s values
- Supply closets are tidy, organized, and fully stocked
- Cleaning schedules are consistent and tailored to the space
Good janitors don’t just clean. They protect your investment. They reduce liability. They create a working environment that promotes health, safety, and pride.
Chicago’s unique janitorial challenges
Let’s be real—this isn’t Phoenix or Miami. Chicago’s got its own rhythm and set of problems when it comes to building care.
- Salt and slush in winter. Destroy floors if not managed daily.
- Humidity in summer. Mold, mildew, and sticky residue build up fast.
- Old buildings. Beautiful, yes—but they collect dust like magnets and often have outdated ventilation.
- 24/7 facilities. From law firms to hospitals, cleaning can’t interrupt business hours.
I once helped a law office in the Loop that had multiple cleaning crews cycle through in less than a year. The reason? Every team treated it like a one-size-fits-all job. No flexibility. No site-specific care. They needed a service that could work with them, not just clean for them.
That’s what commercial janitorial services are supposed to provide: tailored, flexible, dependable solutions.
Safety isn’t optional—it’s regulated
If your cleaning provider isn’t up to speed on OSHA requirements, that’s a problem. Janitorial work isn’t just about appearance—it’s about compliance and risk management.
According to OSHA cleaning standards, employers are responsible for maintaining clean and sanitary workplaces. That includes:
- Proper storage of cleaning chemicals
- Clear walkways free of debris
- Regular sanitation of restrooms and food areas
- Immediate cleanup of spills or hazards
Any vendor you hire should understand those rules like the back of their hand—and follow them every shift. If they don’t, your liability increases.
Should you go in-house or outsource?
It’s a fair question. I’ve had clients ask if hiring an internal cleaning team is better. It depends on your building size, schedule, and needs.
But for most businesses, outsourcing wins out—especially if you want specialized tools, after-hours cleaning, or scalable service.
Here’s why:
- Less admin: No payroll, training, or HR headaches
- Expertise: Pros use hospital-grade products, floor-specific methods, and follow safety protocols
- Consistency: With service-level agreements, you’re guaranteed coverage, even if someone calls off
- Accountability: Reputable services offer audits, reports, and a direct point of contact
Still unsure? You might want to read this internal guide on how to choose a janitorial provider before making a decision.
What makes a janitorial team great?
After seeing dozens of crews in action across all kinds of industries—from commercial kitchens to medical offices—here’s what stands out:
- They listen. Not every office wants the same thing. Great teams take notes and follow through.
- They show up. On time. With supplies. With backup if needed.
- They go beyond checklists. If something’s out of place, they fix it.
- They communicate. You always know who’s on-site and what’s happening.
- They don’t cut corners even when no one’s watching.
Most importantly, great teams don’t make you chase them down when something’s missed. They catch it first.
Don’t overlook eco-friendly cleaning
More companies are paying attention to what’s in their air, water, and cleaning products—and for good reason.
“Green cleaning” isn’t just about sustainability. It’s about indoor air quality, employee well-being, and minimizing chemical exposure, especially in enclosed, shared environments.
I once worked with a tech startup that switched to low-tox, biodegradable cleaners. Within two weeks, several staff members reported fewer headaches. True story.
If you’re not sure where to begin, this guide on the benefits of green cleaning in offices breaks it down clearly.
What you should expect from a cleaning partner
You’re not hiring a mop and bucket. You’re hiring trust.
Here’s what a real janitorial partner should bring to the table:
- A dedicated account manager (not a generic hotline)
- Custom cleaning plans based on your needs
- Transparent pricing—no surprise fees
- Scalable options as your office grows
- Emergency support (for leaks, spills, or biohazards)
- Flexibility around events, holidays, and after-hours work
The best teams feel like an extension of you own. You don’t think about them—because they’ve already handled it.
Final thoughts: Don’t settle for “good enough”
The truth? A lot of Chicago businesses stick with mediocre janitorial services because it feels easier than switching. But the longer you settle, the more it costs—financially, physically, and reputationally.
If your cleaning crew isn’t making your life easier, it’s time to move on.
Start with a walk-through. Ask questions. Get a feel for whether they see your space or just want to tick boxes.
When I meet with new clients, I’m not selling a checklist. I’m solving a visibility problem. A comfort problem. A hygiene problem. Because janitorial work, when done right, helps people feel proud of where they are.
