Why Cleaning From Top to Bottom is a Game-Changer

At AB Clean, we’re not just in the business of making spaces look clean—we’re in the business of keeping them truly clean. And one of the simplest, most effective rules our team follows day in and day out is this: Always clean from top to bottom. It may sound like a small thing, but this approach makes a big difference.

The Logic Behind It

When you clean from top to bottom, you’re working with gravity, not against it. Dust, debris, and particles naturally fall downward. So if you start by dusting high surfaces like shelves, light fixtures, or ceiling fans, any dirt that’s dislodged will fall to the ground or onto surfaces below which you’ll then clean as you move down.

On the flip side, if you clean low surfaces first (like desks, counters, or floors), you’ll likely end up dirtying them again when you clean higher areas. That’s wasted time, wasted effort, and ultimately, a space that’s not as clean as it could be.

Top-to-Bottom in Action

Here’s a quick breakdown of how we apply this principle in commercial spaces:

• Ceilings & High Fixtures: We start with dusting ceiling fans, vents, and light fixtures. These are often overlooked but collect a surprising amount of dust.

• Walls & High Shelves: We wipe down walls, ledges, and the tops of shelving units next.

• Mid-Level Surfaces: Desks, counters, and workstations are cleaned next, including keyboards, phones, and drawer handles.

• Floors: The final step is vacuuming or mopping floors—after all the dust and dirt from above has settled.

This sequence ensures no spot is missed or re-contaminated.

Why It Matters

In commercial environments, especially those that see high traffic like offices, medical facilities, or retail spaces a methodical approach like top-to-bottom cleaning ensures:

• Better hygiene

• More consistent results

• Fewer cleaning do-overs

• Longer-lasting clean spaces

It’s not just about appearance, but it’s about effectiveness and efficiency.

Whether you’re cleaning a small office or managing janitorial services for a large facility, remember: start high, finish low. It’s a simple rule, but when followed consistently, it leads to cleaner, healthier spaces and happier clients.

 Alexandra Staley

 VP of Administration

 Making a difference one clean at a time!