Commercial Cleaning Is Not Housekeeping: Why Scope and Expectations Matter

At AB Clean, we’re proud of the professional, consistent service we deliver to our commercial clients. But now and then, we run into a familiar situation: someone at a facility expects our team to tidy up their desk, pick up personal items, or even wash a mug left in the sink — just like a housekeeper might do in a home.

We get it. Cleaning is cleaning… right?

Not exactly.

There’s a big difference between residential cleaning and commercial cleaning, and it’s important to understand that difference — especially if you’re managing a cleaning contract. Misunderstandings can lead to frustration, unmet expectations, and unnecessary friction.

So, let’s break it down.

Commercial Cleaning vs. Residential Cleaning

The key difference is this: Residential cleaning is personal. Commercial cleaning is professional.

When a housekeeper cleans a home, they’re expected to:

• Tidy up individual belongings

• Make beds

• Do dishes

• Organize counters and surfaces

They often work in intimate spaces where personalization is part of the job.

Commercial cleaning, on the other hand, is task- and safety-oriented. Our team focuses on:

• Sanitizing high-touch surfaces

• Restroom maintenance

• Emptying trash

• Vacuuming and mopping floors

• General workspace cleanliness

We do not:

• Pick up items off desks or personal workspaces

• Handle mugs, dishes, or leftover food

• Organize papers or employee belongings

Why? Because it’s not only outside the scope of our work — it’s a liability. We respect your team’s privacy and property. What looks like clutter to one person may be a carefully organized system to another.

The Importance of Reviewing Your Scope of Work

Every commercial cleaning contract includes a Scope of Work (SOW) — a detailed outline of what is and isn't included in your service.

Sometimes, issues arise simply because people forget what’s in their SOW or assume certain “extras” are part of the deal. That’s why we strongly encourage all clients to periodically review the SOW with their team, especially if there’s been turnover or changes in your office routines.

Here are some examples of common misunderstandings:

• Expecting cleaners to take out employee trash from under desks when the contract specifies only common areas

• Assuming dishes in the breakroom sink will be washed

• Believing personal items will be tidied or arranged

When everyone is clear on the scope, there are fewer surprises — and better relationships.

How AB Clean Keeps Everyone on the Same Page

We believe transparency helps everyone.

That’s why at AB Clean, we post the cleaning specifications in the janitor closet of every facility we service. This does two things:

1. Keeps our cleaners accountable — They know exactly what needs to be done and what’s not in their responsibilities.

2. Keeps clients informed — Anyone at your organization can check the posted specs and see exactly what to expect during cleaning hours.

We’ve found this simple practice dramatically reduces confusion and creates a more collaborative, professional relationship between our team and yours.

A Quick Note for Facility Managers and Staff

If your team is ever unsure about what the cleaners are supposed to be doing — or if you're noticing something isn’t getting done — check the posted specifications or your cleaning contract. It may already be clearly defined.

And if something needs to change, we're happy to talk about adjusting your scope to fit new needs.

Final Thoughts

At AB Clean, we’re not housekeepers — and we don’t try to be. We’re professional commercial cleaners who take pride in doing our job thoroughly, consistently, and respectfully.

We’re here to keep your workplace clean, not to clean up after employees.

Need to update your scope of work? Curious what’s included in your current contract? 

Let’s talk — we’re always happy to help clarify and adjust where needed.

Ready to set clearer expectations and get the results you want? Contact AB Clean today.

Email: ABCleanPearland@ab-clean.org

Phone: (281)-961-5607

Jillian Crumley

Administrative Assistant