While many office workers wouldn’t think of their jobs as being dirty, most offices actually contain far more germs than you would think. With a lot of people working in these spaces all day, both common rooms and individual spaces are home to microbes that can spread viruses and infections if left unattended to. No employee wants to be tasked with cleaning the office, but you can easily clean some particularly dirty places before calling for professional cleaning services.

5 Notoriously Dirty Areas Inside an Office

1. Copiers

Any shared technology is bound to harbor some bacteria, but because virtually everyone in the office uses copiers, they’re likely to have the most. The start button on your photocopier, in particular, is believed to harbor billions of bacteria. Keep sanitation wipes nearby with a friendly reminder to wipe the machine down frequently.

2. Office Kitchens

From the microwave and refrigerator doors to the shared coffee maker, the kitchen has some of the largest stores of germs in the entire office. To minimize the spread of illness, set up a hand-washing station with antibacterial soap at the kitchen sink, and remind employees to wash their hands before preparing food. Also, make sure food prep areas are sanitized regularly by a professional cleaning service.

3. Elevator Buttons

The elevator is another location where many people touch the same item—the elevator buttons—throughout the day. In doing so, these employees also deposit the germs they’ve carried with them all day onto those buttons. Since it’s impractical to wipe elevator buttons down after every use, consider setting up wall-mounted hand sanitizer dispensers near elevator entrances and exits. This is also a useful feature for stairwells, as railings are likely spots for germs as well.

4. Vending Machines

Like elevators, the buttons on vending machines likely harbor more than their fair share of bacteria. This location is another excellent spot for sanitizing wipes, as it may encourage users to wipe the face of the machine down after use. Have your professional cleaning service replenish these wipes regularly, so your office never runs out. 

5. Desks

While shared spaces are where germs are most likely to pass from person to person, it’s also possible for bacteria to be on each employee’s desk. Keyboards, mice, and phones are some of the most common hot spots for microbes, so make once-weekly desk cleaning a regular activity for the entire office. 

Maintaining a sanitary, healthy work environment can be daunting, but Dependable Cleaning Service can help. For businesses in the New Haven, CT area, this experienced office cleaning team is the best source for thorough and timely sanitation work. Their team will help make sure your office’s surfaces look and feel spotless, helping you maintain a professional appearance for customers and visitors. Explore their full list of professional cleaning services online, or call (203) 574-2046 to request a free estimate.