Commercial Deep Cleaning: When and Why Your Business Needs It
Regular cleaning maintains your facility, but commercial deep cleaning restores it. This intensive service reaches areas that routine cleaning misses, removes built-up grime, and refreshes your entire workspace. Here’s everything Canadian businesses need to know about when, why, and how to schedule deep cleaning services.
Table of Contents
What Is Commercial Deep Cleaning?
Commercial deep cleaning is an intensive, comprehensive cleaning service that goes beyond routine maintenance to address accumulated dirt, grime, and contamination throughout your facility.
Key Characteristics
- Thorough coverage: Every surface, corner, and hidden area addressed
- Intensive methods: Scrubbing, extraction, and restoration techniques
- Extended time: Takes 3-5x longer than regular cleaning
- Specialised equipment: Industrial machines for deep extraction
- Restorative focus: Returns surfaces to like-new condition
Goals of Deep Cleaning
- Remove built-up dirt, grease, and grime
- Eliminate bacteria, allergens, and pathogens
- Restore appearance of floors, carpets, and surfaces
- Address neglected or hard-to-reach areas
- Reset the facility for ongoing maintenance
When Your Business Needs Deep Cleaning
Scheduled Deep Cleaning
- Seasonal transitions: Spring cleaning after winter, fall preparation
- Quarterly maintenance: Regular deep cleaning on schedule
- Annual reset: Comprehensive year-end or year-start cleaning
- Before audits: Inspections, certifications, or evaluations
Event-Triggered Deep Cleaning
- Post-renovation: Construction dust and debris removal
- After illness outbreak: Enhanced sanitisation response
- Tenant turnover: Between occupants in leased spaces
- New cleaning contract: Baseline clean before regular service
- After major events: Conferences, parties, or high-traffic periods
Signs You Need Deep Cleaning
| Sign | What It Indicates |
|---|---|
| Visible grime buildup | Regular cleaning not addressing all areas |
| Persistent odours | Contamination in carpets, drains, or hidden areas |
| Dull floors | Wax buildup or finish degradation |
| Discoloured grout | Embedded dirt in tile grout |
| Stained carpets | Ground-in dirt beyond vacuuming |
| Allergy complaints | Dust, allergens, or air quality issues |
What’s Included in Commercial Deep Cleaning
Floor Care
- Carpet deep extraction: Hot water extraction removes embedded dirt
- Hard floor stripping: Remove old wax and finish buildup
- Floor refinishing: Apply new protective coatings
- Grout cleaning: Deep clean tile grout lines
- Baseboard detailing: Thorough cleaning of all baseboards
Surface Deep Cleaning
- Wall washing: Clean painted and washable wall surfaces
- Ceiling tile cleaning: Remove dust and stains from tiles
- Light fixture cleaning: Inside and outside of fixtures
- Vent cleaning: HVAC vents and returns
- Window deep clean: Interior glass, frames, and sills
Restroom Deep Cleaning
- Fixture descaling: Remove hard water deposits
- Grout restoration: Deep clean or reseal grout
- Partition deep clean: Both sides of all partitions
- Exhaust vent cleaning: Remove dust accumulation
- Behind-fixture cleaning: Areas behind toilets and sinks
Kitchen/Break Room Deep Cleaning
- Appliance interior: Refrigerator, microwave, oven cleaning
- Cabinet interior: Empty and clean inside cabinets
- Exhaust hood cleaning: Degrease and clean hood systems
- Behind appliances: Move and clean behind equipment
- Drain cleaning: Clear and sanitise drains
Office Area Deep Cleaning
- Furniture deep clean: Upholstery extraction, desk detailing
- High dusting: Above normal reach—shelves, ductwork, fixtures
- Behind furniture: Move and clean behind desks, cabinets
- Electronics cleaning: Screens, keyboards (if authorised)
- Storage areas: Closets, storage rooms, utility spaces
Regular Cleaning vs Deep Cleaning
| Aspect | Regular Cleaning | Deep Cleaning |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Maintain cleanliness | Restore cleanliness |
| Frequency | Daily to weekly | Quarterly to annually |
| Time required | 1-4 hours | 8-40+ hours |
| Equipment | Standard tools | Industrial machines |
| Areas covered | Visible, accessible | All areas including hidden |
| Cost | $0.05-0.15/sq ft | $0.15-0.50/sq ft |
Why Both Are Necessary
- Regular cleaning: Prevents rapid contamination, maintains appearance
- Deep cleaning: Addresses what regular cleaning can’t reach
- Together: Complete maintenance programme for optimal results
Recommended Deep Cleaning Frequency
By Facility Type
| Facility Type | Recommended Frequency | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Medical/dental | Quarterly | Infection control, compliance |
| Restaurant/food | Monthly-quarterly | Health regulations, grease buildup |
| Retail (high traffic) | Quarterly | Customer experience, floor wear |
| Standard office | Semi-annually | General maintenance |
| Industrial/warehouse | Annually | Safety, equipment maintenance |
| Schools | Summer + winter break | Low-disruption timing |
Factors That Increase Frequency
- High foot traffic
- Food service areas
- Healthcare or infection risk
- Manufacturing or industrial processes
- Pet-friendly environments
- Older buildings with more maintenance needs
How to Prepare Your Facility
Before Deep Cleaning Day
- Schedule strategically: Weekends or low-activity periods
- Communicate to staff: Notify all employees of timing and scope
- Clear surfaces: Remove items from desks, counters, shelves
- Secure valuables: Lock up sensitive items and documents
- Empty refrigerator: Remove all personal food items
- Identify priorities: Note specific problem areas to address
Day of Deep Cleaning
- Ensure access to all areas (unlock doors, disable alarms)
- Move vehicles from parking areas if exterior work included
- Have someone available for questions or access issues
- Plan for extended drying times (carpets, floors)
After Deep Cleaning
- Allow adequate drying time before heavy traffic
- Inspect work and report any concerns promptly
- Schedule follow-up regular cleaning
- Note when next deep cleaning should occur
Commercial Deep Cleaning Costs
Per Square Foot Pricing
| Service Level | Cost per Sq Ft | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Basic deep clean | $0.15–$0.25 | Thorough cleaning, no specialty services |
| Standard deep clean | $0.25–$0.40 | Plus carpet cleaning, floor care |
| Comprehensive | $0.40–$0.60 | Full restoration including all surfaces |
Add-On Service Costs
| Service | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Carpet extraction | $0.15–$0.35/sq ft |
| Floor strip and wax | $0.35–$0.65/sq ft |
| Tile and grout | $0.50–$2.00/sq ft |
| Window cleaning | $3–$8/window |
| Upholstery cleaning | $50–$150/piece |
Sample Project Costs
| Facility | Size | Deep Clean Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Small office | 2,000 sq ft | $400–$800 |
| Medium office | 5,000 sq ft | $1,000–$2,000 |
| Large office | 10,000 sq ft | $2,000–$4,500 |
| Retail store | 3,000 sq ft | $600–$1,500 |
| Medical office | 4,000 sq ft | $1,200–$2,400 |
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does commercial deep cleaning take?
Deep cleaning typically takes 3-5 times longer than regular cleaning. A 5,000 sq ft office that takes 2-3 hours for regular cleaning may require 8-15 hours for deep cleaning, depending on scope and condition. Factor in drying time for carpets and floors.
Can we work during deep cleaning?
It’s best to schedule deep cleaning during off-hours. The process involves moving furniture, using industrial equipment, and applying products that need drying time. Weekend or holiday scheduling minimises disruption and allows thorough work.
How often should offices be deep cleaned?
Most standard offices benefit from deep cleaning every 6-12 months. Higher-traffic facilities, healthcare settings, and food service areas should schedule quarterly deep cleaning. Annual deep cleaning is minimum for any commercial space.
What’s the difference between deep cleaning and sanitising?
Deep cleaning focuses on removing dirt, grime, and buildup through intensive cleaning methods. Sanitising specifically targets pathogens through disinfection. A complete deep cleaning typically includes enhanced sanitisation, but they address different concerns.
Should I deep clean before or after renovation?
Both, ideally. Pre-renovation cleaning protects workers and equipment. Post-construction cleaning removes construction dust, debris, adhesive residue, and prepares the space for occupancy. Post-construction deep cleaning is essential.
Conclusion
Commercial deep cleaning is essential for maintaining healthy, attractive commercial spaces. While regular cleaning maintains day-to-day cleanliness, periodic deep cleaning addresses accumulated contamination, restores surfaces, and resets your facility to optimal condition.
Schedule deep cleaning based on your facility type, traffic levels, and specific needs. Proper preparation maximises results and minimises disruption. The investment pays dividends through extended surface life, improved air quality, and enhanced workplace appeal.
Ready to schedule commercial deep cleaning? GoodCleaner’s deep cleaning services restore your facility to like-new condition. Contact us today for a detailed quote!