In the post-pandemic world, cleaning has evolved from a background service to a key player in shaping safe, healthy, and sustainable spaces. It has become more than just a process—it’s now a perception that directly influences health, safety, and sustainability. Property managers are expected not only to ensure that cleanliness meets hygiene standards but also to support sustainability initiatives, creating environments that are safe, comfortable, and eco-friendly.

Merging Cleaning Standards with Sustainable Practices

A standardized cleaning process is no longer sufficient. Property managers must adapt their cleaning strategies to the unique needs of their buildings, aligning them with sustainability goals. This involves selecting eco-friendly materials, reducing water and chemical usage, and integrating sustainable practices into daily operations. By incorporating IoT technologies, managers can monitor real-time data on air quality, energy consumption, and even cleaning efficiency, optimizing resources and reducing environmental impact.

Cleaning services now intersect with sustainability initiatives, contributing to the well-being of occupants and supporting environmental objectives. Sensors can track the frequency of cleaning activities and optimize schedules based on actual usage patterns, ensuring resources are used efficiently. The key is in developing a 5C service framework—Concept, Clean, Comply, Control, and Check—which aligns with the Deming Cycle, driving continuous improvement:

• Concept: Develop a clear cleaning strategy that is aligned with sustainability goals and tailored to the specific needs of the property.
• Clean: Implement eco-friendly and effective cleaning processes using sustainable materials and techniques.
• Comply: Ensure adherence to all relevant health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Control: Monitor and manage cleaning operations, using IoT data to optimize efficiency and reduce resource consumption.
• Check: Regularly assess cleaning performance and adjust processes based on data and feedback to drive continuous improvement.

Technology-Driven Solutions for Effective Cleaning

Technology plays an increasingly important role in ensuring high standards of cleanliness. IoT systems, smart sensors, and automated solutions not only improve cleaning efficiency but also allow for real-time monitoring of air quality, temperature, and humidity—vital indicators of a healthy indoor environment. These advancements ensure that property managers can proactively address issues before they escalate while maintaining a sustainable approach to operations.

The MoSCoW method—prioritizing Must-haves, Should-haves, Could-haves, and Won’t-haves—helps property managers identify and integrate the most essential components of cleaning services. Focusing on sustainability, occupant comfort, and long-term asset value, this method ensures that cleaning strategies are aligned with both current needs and future goals.

Consistency of High-Level Cleaning Services: The Formula for Success

The real challenge in cleaning services is not just achieving high standards but maintaining them consistently. This requires a strategic approach embodied in the "Formula for Success"—Inspect, Evaluate, Train, Improve.

1. Inspect: Conduct regular inspections to identify areas for improvement in the cleaning process.
2. Evaluate: Use performance data to evaluate the effectiveness of cleaning activities and resource usage.
3. Train: Continuously train cleaning staff to ensure they are updated with the latest technologies, standards, and sustainability practices.
4. Improve: Implement changes based on inspection results, evaluations, and feedback, ensuring that cleaning practices evolve with changing needs and emerging technologies.

This ongoing cycle of improvement keeps cleaning standards high and adaptable to occupant needs, ultimately reinforcing both the property’s value and its commitment to sustainability.

The Future of Smart Cleaning is Now

Incorporating technology and sustainability into cleaning practices is no longer optional—it’s essential for future-proofing property management. Clean spaces signal a commitment to occupant well-being while supporting environmental sustainability. By aligning cleaning strategies with both emerging technologies and sustainability goals, and by focusing on consistency through the Formula for Success, property managers can enhance the value of their properties, reduce environmental impact, and deliver a higher standard of living for all occupants.

About the author:

Anas Gahshan is the Head of Facility Management & Sustainability at Kaizen.