Building cleaning

In the context of buildings, cleaning refers to the regular removal of dust, dirt, waste, and contaminants from a building's interior and exterior spaces, fixtures, and systems, ensuring they remain safe, hygienic, functional, and presentable. It is a core part of facilities management and building operations and applies to all types of buildings—commercial offices, schools, hospitals, housing, industrial premises, and public buildings.

Reason for cleaning include:

• Health and hygiene. Reduces the spread of bacteria, viruses, mould, and allergens, supporting occupant health.
• Safety. Removes trip hazards, spills, and dust build-up that could cause slips, falls, or fires.
• Aesthetic appeal. Maintains a clean, professional, and welcoming environment for occupants and visitors.
• Preservation of Assets. Protects surfaces, furnishings, and building fabric from deterioration caused by dirt or grime.
• Productivity and wellbeing. Clean environments improve occupant morale, wellbeing, and work efficiency.
• Compliance. Ensures compliance with workplace health and safety laws (e.g., COSHH, Health and Safety at Work Act).
• Reputation management. A visibly clean building enhances the reputation of businesses or landlords.
• Pest control. Prevents infestations of rodents or insects by removing food waste and hiding places.
• Operational efficiency. Regular cleaning reduces the need for more intensive maintenance or repairs.
• Sustainability. Sustainable cleaning practices reduce water, energy use, and chemical consumption.

Articles about cleaning on Designing Buildings include:

• Chemical cleaning
• Cleaning brickwork, faience and terracotta
• Cleaning concrete
• Cleaning masonry
• Cleaning up air quality and the Environment Act 2021
• Concrete Patio Cleaning: Tips and Techniques
• Don’t Look Down! – Skyscraper window cleaning through the ages
• Facade cleaning
• How to clean the concrete pump
• Keeping chimneys and flues clean
• Membrane separation cleaning chemicals
• Professional home based window cleaning services
• Self-cleaning glass
• Training for pre-commissioning cleaning of pipework systems
• Window cleaning services using pure water

NB The term 'clean' can also be used to refer to sustainable technologies, such as clean energy.