Some might argue that there’s zero difference between the two. And that’s not entirely wrong, considering that most individuals use the two terms interchangeably. However, differences do exist between janitorial cleaning services and commercial cleaning services. Let’s get into the specifics.
What Do Janitorial Cleaning Services Include?
Janitorial cleaning services usually include a daily or weekly routine of cleanup and prep work. In some cases, the routine and schedule fall into the evening hours as personnel are leaving the work areas. In other situations, janitors come in during the early morning hours before the business opens.
Or some establishments require the janitor to be on-site during the same hours as the rest of the staff, especially if he or she performs minor repairs or maintenance. Either way, the duties and schedule hardly ever deviate from the average workday.
Employment vs. Contract in Janitorial and Commercial Cleaning
Another key difference lies in the type of agreement between the client and the cleaning provider. In many cases, janitors are directly employed by the business that requires cleaning and maintenance.
However, some companies choose to outsource and contract with a janitorial or office cleaning service. In this case, the cleaning staff is employed by the service provider—not the business itself.
Commercial cleaning services, on the other hand, are almost always structured through a formal contract rather than direct employment, making them ideal for businesses needing specialized or large-scale cleaning solutions.
What Do Commercial Cleaning Services Cover?
Commercial Cleaning Services is usually synonymous with deep cleaning services. So you’re looking at more extensive work compared to a daily janitorial routine. As an example, this would include using a steamer on the tile floor instead of just mopping. Afterward, the team would wax and buff the floor. These professional deep cleaning services go beyond daily upkeep to ensure your facility maintains the highest standards of cleanliness and hygiene
How Often Should You Schedule Janitorial vs. Commercial Cleaning Services?
Another difference involves the frequency of the two services. As noted, janitors often work on a daily basis, making sure the areas are well prepared for the next day.
Commercial cleaning, on the other hand, tends to happen once or twice a month, depending on the purpose and usage of the facility. This makes sense because many aspects of deep cleaning aren’t needed on a daily or even a weekly basis. As an example, you always need to sweep or vacuum the floor, but you don’t have to wax tile or shampoo a rug every day.
Purpose of Janitorial vs. Commercial Cleaning Services
Going along with frequency, you’ll see a difference in the purpose of commercial deep cleaning compared with a janitorial service.
The goal of any janitorial service is to keep the office or facility consistently clean and organized. This might include restocking restroom supplies, for instance, and dusting the furniture.
In contrast, the commercial service focuses on a deep, thorough cleaning that includes disinfecting surfaces and/or specialized tasks.
Services Offered: Janitorial vs. Commercial Cleaning
You can also anticipate differences in their service offerings. Here are just a few examples:
Janitorial
- Emptying trash and recycling receptacles
- Dusting furniture and monitors
- Vacuuming/sweeping
- Restocking restrooms and breakrooms
- Reporting major maintenance issues
- Performing minor repairs
Commercial
- Sanitizing areas with bleach or other disinfectants
- Extensive floor care
- Professional window washing
- Grounds cleanup
- Specialized cleaning of industrial equipment
- Post-renovation cleanup
Office cleaning services often overlap with janitorial duties, but can also include detailed commercial office cleaning for larger facilities.
Training & Expertise in Janitorial vs. Commercial Cleaning
Although the training that’s required by janitors and a commercial team may be similar, there are a few distinctions, such as the following:
Janitorial
- On-the-job training specific to their workplace
- Safety procedures according to local and/or state standards (ie, for public educational institutions and medical facilities)
- OSHA certification
Commercial
- Certification programs (ie, OSHA, GBAC-STAR, IICRC)
- Specialized training for specific industries, such as health care facilities and food service
- Training for operating mechanical equipment
What do Janitorial Companies and Commercial Companies Have in Common?
After discussing the differences, it might be worth looking at the similarities between these two entities before making a decision about which one to opt for. Here are some points to ponder:
- Both focus on maintaining clean and safe environments.
- They are both employed by a variety of industries.
- Both abide by regulations relating to health, hygiene, and workplace safety.
So basically, the primary differences mostly pertain to frequency and depth, and the scope of the service.
How to Choose between Commercial and Janitorial Companies
The number one practice to ask about is background checks. Does the janitorial service or commercial cleaning service conduct background checks on its personnel? Even if the team or individual is working alone after hours, this matter should not be avoided. It’s an important safety factor.
Otherwise, here are more key points to consider:
- Your business’s or building’s specific needs
- The size of the area(s) that require cleaning
- Your local regulations for maintaining a clean, safe, and healthy environment for clients and employees
- The level of cleaning versus sanitization that’s needed
- Client reviews
- Any relevant licensing and bonding
- Contract terms
- Cost
So the next step involves determining exactly which type of service you need and then contacting two or three reputable cleaning businesses to answer your questions and provide a quote.
Also read this: How Often Should My Pocatello Business Receive Commercial Cleaning Services?
Reasons Why Businesses Need Both Janitorial and Commercial Services
Situations often arise where businesses need both daily janitorial cleaning and periodic commercial deep cleaning. For example, a company may employ a janitor for everyday upkeep while also scheduling monthly or quarterly commercial cleaning for more extensive tasks.
Flu season—and especially the recent pandemic—has shown us the importance of proper disinfecting. While janitors typically use antibacterial and antiviral solutions for routine cleaning, periodic deep cleaning provides an extra layer of protection that enhances workplace health and safety.
The smartest solution is to partner with a cleaning provider that offers both janitorial and commercial cleaning services. This approach saves time, reduces costs, and ensures your workplace remains consistently spotless, safe, and professional.
At Moonshine Commercial Cleaning, we specialize in delivering both janitorial services and commercial cleaning services tailored to your business needs. Whether it’s daily upkeep or deep cleaning, our experienced team provides reliable, customized solutions that keep your facility shining year-round.
Contact Moonshine Commercial Cleaning today for a free consultation and discover how we can create a healthier, cleaner, and more welcoming environment for your employees and clients.