It doesn’t take long for germs to make themselves at home in a busy office. Between shared workspaces, close quarters, and constant foot traffic, an office can be a hot spot for bacteria and viruses, especially during cold and flu season. Keeping things clean is key to safeguarding everyone’s health and ensuring fewer sick days (and less downtime for the team).
For a truly spotless and hygienic environment, many businesses rely on professional office cleaning Melbourne services to tackle the tough jobs that everyday tidying can miss. But there’s plenty you and your coworkers can do each day to help keep germs at bay.
Here are ten easy and effective ways to reduce germs in the office, so everyone can breathe a little easier—literally and figuratively.
Wipe Down High-Touch Surfaces Daily
The surfaces we touch most often—like door handles, desk surfaces, light switches, and shared equipment—are prime real estate for germs. Keeping a stash of disinfectant wipes handy in each area encourages everyone to give these spots a quick wipe-down at least once a day. This simple habit can make a huge difference in reducing the spread of bugs, especially in open-plan offices or spaces with lots of shared items.
Wash Hands Regularly
It might seem basic, but regular handwashing is one of the most powerful ways to stop germs in their tracks. Encourage everyone to wash their hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after eating, using the restroom, or sneezing. Placing hand sanitiser stations around the office—near entrances, kitchenettes, and meeting rooms—makes it even easier for everyone to keep their hands clean throughout the day.
Keep Shared Spaces Tidy
Kitchens, meeting rooms, and break areas can become germ havens if left untidy. Remind staff to wipe up spills, clean up after themselves, and empty rubbish bins regularly. It’s also helpful to run a dishcloth or disinfectant wipe over shared tables and benchtops at the end of each day. When everyone pitches in, these communal spaces stay fresher and healthier for all.
Encourage Sick Employees to Stay Home
It’s tempting to soldier on at work even when feeling under the weather, but this can do more harm than good. Creating a supportive culture where staff are encouraged (or required) to stay home when sick is vital for preventing the spread of illness. If possible, offer flexible work-from-home options or paid sick leave so that no one feels pressured to come in when they shouldn’t.
Disinfect Electronics
Phones, keyboards, and shared devices are touched constantly and can harbour more germs than you might think. Make it a habit to disinfect electronics at least once a week—or more often during flu season. Use wipes or sprays specifically designed for electronics to avoid damaging screens and keys. For shared meeting room tablets or printers, a quick wipe after each use is a great idea.
Provide Cleaning Supplies
An office stocked with disinfectant wipes, sprays, and paper towels is an office that stays cleaner, simply because it’s easier for everyone to tidy as they go. Keep supplies in visible, easy-to-reach locations so staff are more likely to use them. A little convenience goes a long way in encouraging regular cleaning.
Implement a Clean Desk Policy
A cluttered desk doesn’t just look messy—it can also collect dust and germs. Encourage staff to clear off unnecessary papers, food wrappers, and personal items at the end of each day. Not only does this make cleaning more effective, but it also helps everyone start the next day feeling organised and refreshed.
Schedule Regular Deep Cleans
Even with diligent day-to-day cleaning, every office needs a thorough, top-to-bottom clean now and then. Regular deep cleaning—whether weekly, fortnightly, or monthly—can address hidden germs in carpets, behind furniture, and in overlooked nooks and crannies. This is where professional office cleaning Melbourne services truly shine, bringing in specialised tools and expertise to keep your workspace in peak condition.
Improve Air Quality
Good air quality is often overlooked, but it’s crucial for reducing the spread of airborne germs. If your office allows, open windows regularly to bring in fresh air and reduce stuffiness. Consider adding an air purifier, especially in enclosed spaces or during allergy season. Don’t forget about regular maintenance for HVAC systems, as clean filters help trap dust, bacteria, and allergens before they circulate.
Educate Staff About Germ Prevention
Keeping everyone in the loop about the best ways to stop germs from spreading makes a world of difference. Hang friendly reminder posters in shared areas, send out occasional email tips, or include hygiene information in staff meetings. The more aware everyone is, the more likely good habits will stick—and that’s half the battle won.
At the end of the day, a healthy office is a happy, more productive place to work. By making these small, easy changes part of your daily routine—and calling in the professionals for the big jobs—you’re not just reducing germs, but also showing your team you care about their wellbeing. And that’s something every workplace can be proud of.