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Beat the bugs: Infection Control Spotlight

It’s that time of year when bugs are rampant, and sickness is all around.

While it’s impossible to eradicate all germs from the workplace, a deep cleaning and sanitisation service from professionals can help protect your employees and visitors.

At ServiceMaster Clean, our commercial teams can offer deep cleaning services, including sanitisation and disinfection, which creates a more hygienic environment and significantly reduces health risks.

In this blog post, the team at ServiceMaster Clean in Devon spotlight their expert commercial cleaning that can help you with specialist treatments to control infections in the workplace.

Infection control cleaning

With our specialist infection control resources, we can deal with bacteria and viruses, including COVID-19, MRSA, E-Coli, C-Difficile and Salmonella, and infectious pathogens such as HIV, Hepatitis A, B and C and Tuberculosis.

Protecting our team from infections is vital, so all our technicians are trained and experienced and wear the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).

We also use specialist equipment and certified products to thoroughly clean and disinfect.

During an infection control clean, we carry out the following:

  • Hard floor cleaning: Using specialised, high-grade equipment, we professionally deep clean the floor surface, removing grease and grime and killing bacteria.
  • Carpet and upholstery cleaning: Our hot water extraction system removes deep-set dirt and pathogens from carpets, rugs and upholstery.
  • Fogging: For thorough disinfection, we apply fogging or Ozone treatment, in which very fine droplets of disinfectant are sprayed throughout to kill microorganisms. This process is very effective at treating microbes in hard-to-reach areas.

Following the infection control cleaning, we’ll also provide a Sanitisation Certificate to provide proof and peace of mind that the area has been professionally sanitised.

Need a top-up with one-off specialist commercial cleaning?

If you’re in the Devon and Torbay area and would benefit from a deep clean and sanitisation of your workplace, contact the ServiceMaster Clean Devon team on 01803 200 278 or email office@smcdevon.co.uk.

Or nationwide, find your nearest ServiceMaster Clean business to see how we can help you today.

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Case study: Clay tiled floor restoration at Torre Abbey

How ServiceMaster Clean Devon helped Torre Abbey make their 200-year-old clay-tiled floor shine again.

Torre Abbey is Torbay’s most historic building, an ancient scheduled monument dating back to 1196 set within 18 acres of garden and parkland.

It’s a multi-award-winning visitor attraction housing an impressive art collection boasting over 600 incredible works of art.

The abbey recently approached the team at ServiceMaster Clean Devon for their expert services.

This case study delves into how the team helped the abbey maintain its clay-tiled floor.

Situation

The clay-tiled floor in the Spanish Barn had become dull and difficult for the Abbey to maintain.

While they wanted this area to be a focal point for visitors, despite regular sweeping and mopping, it wasn’t what they hoped it would be.

This clay-tiled floor is laid on earth and is over 200 years old, so a specialist and sensitive approach was required to ensure the floor could shine.

The ServiceMaster Clean Solution

The team at ServiceMaster Clean Devon made several visits over a week to complete the floor cleaning and restoration, staggering the process to allow plenty of drying time between cleaning and sealing as the earth foundation has a high moisture content.

They began by cleaning the floor with a highly alkaline solution to remove all ingrained dirt and mud.

This meant the dirt was then extracted, along with all traces of chemicals, with the team’s high-power steam extraction units.

Our expert technicians then cleaned the floor in sections to ensure they didn’t miss any areas and that the entire floor was machine scrubbed.

 

After leaving the floor to dry for several days, the team returned to apply two coats of stone sealer.

The sealer chosen for the job is designed for floors with no damp-proof membrane.

It allows the floor to breathe so moisture evaporates through the tiles – essential for flooring of this construction and age.

The first coat was heavily applied and allowed to saturate into the tile.

Any excess was then buffed after 20 minutes.

Once the first coat had been allowed to dry for several hours, a second coat was applied and left to dry to a topical film-forming coating (a transparent film).

The final coat dried to a satin sheen, enhancing the floor’s natural colours without any high gloss effect.

Outcome

As a result of the team’s hard work, the natural beauty of the tiled floor has been restored, making it a focal point of the historic building.

Not only that, but the new protective coating will ease maintenance for the abbey’s caretakers and help protect it from daily footfall.

Need expert floor cleaning services?

If you’re in Devon, Torbay and the surrounding areas, and need specialist floor cleaning or disaster restoration services, contact the ServiceMaster Clean Devon team on 01803 200 278 or email office@smcdevon.co.uk.

Or nationwide, find your nearest ServiceMaster Clean business to receive a free, no-obligation quotation on our services or book online today.

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How to protect your floors from winter wear and tear

Keep your floors safe this winter with this expert advice from ServiceMaster Clean.

We’ve already had our first cold snap of the season, so there’s little doubt winter is coming!

During winter, your workspace’s floors take the brunt of increased foot traffic, mud, rain, and salt.

If you don’t take proper care, this wear and tear can lead to stains, scratches, and long-term damage.

Here are some practical tips to keep your floors in top condition and help maintain a clean, safe, and inviting environment.

  1. Invest in high-quality entrance mats

A simple yet effective way to protect your floors is to place durable entrance mats at all entry points.

Mats trap dirt, moisture, and debris before it reaches your floors. To ensure their effectiveness, make sure you clean the mats regularly.

Also, umbrella stands should be placed where people enter the building to minimise water dripping on floors.

  1. Set up a floor cleaning routine

A regular cleaning schedule will help protect your floors.

Sweep or vacuum floors daily to remove debris that may scratch hard floor surfaces or embed into the carpet.

If you have hard floors, mop them regularly to remove dirt and grime.

Schedule a professional deep clean for a thorough refresh.

A good time to do this is during the holidays.

  1. Use floor protectors in high-traffic areas

Using mats or runners in high-traffic zones, such as entranceways, hallways, and break rooms, will provide a barrier and help protect floors from heavy footfall.

  1. Clean spills and stains immediately

Winter weather brings more opportunities for spills, from coffee mugs to melted snow and ice.

Prompt action can prevent permanent damage, so ensure staff are trained and have the equipment to address spills quickly.

  1. Apply seasonal maintenance treatments

Protective coating on hard floors can help protect against moisture and scratches.

Applying a sealant to tiled or vinyl floors will make them more water-resistant.

  1. Schedule professional floor care

The best way to protect your floors is to use a professional cleaning company.

They will perform a deep clean to remove stubborn stains and grime.

They can also apply protective treatments appropriate to your floor type and inspect for potential issues that may worsen if not dealt with.

Following these tips can help prevent winter damage to your flooring and extend its lifespan.

Need a professional floor cleaner?

If you’re in Devon and the surrounding areas, to book a no-obligation quote, contact the ServiceMaster Clean Devon team on 01803 200 278 or email office@smcdevon.co.uk.

Or nationwide, find your nearest ServiceMaster Clean business to see how we can help you today.

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Service Spotlight: Commercial floor cleaning

Commercial floor cleaning from ServiceMaster Clean.

Winter weather plays havoc with your floors.

Increased foot traffic, mud, rain, snow, and salt all take their toll on the floors in your workplace.

However, help is at hand with our professional commercial floor cleaning service.

Here’s a summary of what we deliver.

Carpet Cleaning

We use specialist, high-grade equipment to remove deep-set grit and dirt from your carpet and rugs.

Our cleaning process features hot-rinse extraction.

This system provides a deep clean and ensures no shampoo or residues are left, which can cause carpets to get dirtier faster.

After cleaning, your carpets will be fully dry within a few hours, which means minimal downtime and disruption.

Hard floor cleaning

We clean all hard floor types, including Karndean, natural stone, tiles, vinyl and wood.

Hard floor cleaning begins with vacuuming to remove dry dust and debris. We then apply a chemical polish remover to remove any previous coatings and contamination.

Using a slow-speed rotary floor scrubber, we carry out a deep roto scrub to remove any polish build-up and loosen any dirt, which is then removed with a high-pressure extraction machine.

We finish by sealing the floor to protect it from water damage and scratches.

Pre-clean site visit

Whether you need carpet cleaning, hard floor cleaning or a combination of both, we’ll begin with a pre-clean site visit.

At this appointment, we’ll discuss your requirements and inspect the floor areas that need cleaning.

Following this visit, we’ll provide a quote and available dates for your floor cleaning. We can clean your floors outside your regular operating hours to minimise disruption.

Why use a professional floor cleaning company?

Routine cleaning can fall short when it comes to deep cleaning and maintaining the longevity of your flooring.

However, professional cleaners have the expertise, equipment, and products to remove stubborn dirt, scuff marks, and stains that might be beyond regular cleaning methods.

Professional deep cleaning restores your floors’ appearance and protects them from long-term wear and tear.

Need a commercial floor cleaner?

To book a no-obligation site assessment and quote, contact the ServiceMaster Clean Devon team on 01803 200 278 or email office@smcdevon.co.uk.

Or nationwide, find your nearest ServiceMaster Clean business to see how we can help you today.

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Case study: Student accommodation carpet cleaning in Devon

Do your carpets need cleaning?

Regular cleaning improves a carpet’s appearance, enhances cleanliness and hygiene, and helps it last longer.

This case study from ServiceMaster Clean in Devon shows how our carpet cleaning services helped support a university in maintaining their student accommodation.

The job at hand

A large Southwest university recognises the importance of consistent carpet cleaning schedules and calls upon ServiceMaster Clean Devon every summer to clean the carpets in its student accommodation.

Their first job this year was to clean the carpets in one student accommodation block with over 70 carpeted areas. The team was allocated just one day to get the job done.

The carpets had become extremely dirty over the academic year, requiring much attention. There were a multitude of stains from substances, including alcohol, food, make-up, ink, hair dye and fake tan.

How we helped

The team applied pre-cleaning sprays and specialist chemicals to treat the stains before using a hot-rinse extraction system to remove the deep-set dirt.

After treatment the carpets were stain and dirt-free, looking as clean as they were when they were new.

Over the summer, the ServiceMaster Clean Devon team will clean the carpets throughout the university’s accommodation units. The team works on a tight schedule to ensure all the accommodation is ready for its next intake of students.

Need a professional carpet cleaner?

If you’re overdue for a carpeting cleaning and need help, contact the ServiceMaster Clean Devon team today by calling 01803 200 278 or email office@smcdevon.co.uk.

Nationwide, see what deep cleaning services are offered by your local experts by finding your nearest ServiceMaster Clean business or booking online.

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Service Spotlight: Deep Cleaning

Deep dive into a deep clean

With the academic holidays underway, our teams across the UK have a packed summer schedule of annual deep cleans for schools, colleges and universities.

When students are away for the summer, many educational establishments take the opportunity to refresh their facilities so they’re ready for the autumn term.

However, not just schools and colleges can benefit from a deep clean.

Business premises, nurseries, and property lets require regular deep cleaning to maintain a clean, fresh, hygienic environment.

Managing regular deep cleans can be time and resource-intensive, so outsourcing the task is often beneficial.

If your premises could do with a refresh but you lack the resources, the team at ServiceMaster Clean Devon have provided a summary of our deep clean services.

Hard floor cleaning

To clean hard floors, we use specialised, high-grade equipment to professionally deep clean and polish the floor surface.

The process removes stains, grease and grime, kills bacteria, brings back the shine and protects the floor.

We clean all hard floor types, including Karndean, natural stone, tiles, vinyl and wood.

Carpet and upholstery cleaning

For carpet and upholstery cleaning, we use a hot water extraction system to remove deep-set grit and dirt from carpets, rugs and upholstery.

Hot water extraction leaves no shampoo or residues and little water, so the carpet or material dries quickly.

Kitchen deep cleans

We also carry out deep cleaning of kitchens, and thoroughly clean ovens, fryers, drains, filters, ceilings and walls to ensure all areas meet essential hygiene standards.

Washroom and changing room deep cleans

For washrooms and changing rooms, we meticulously clean and disinfect washroom surfaces to remove bacteria, eliminate mould and eradicate odours.

High-touch point area cleaning

During a deep clean, we also sanitise door handles and other high-touch surfaces to clean the space thoroughly.

External pressure washing

Our pressure wash system removes dirt, moss and weeds from walkways and building exteriors.

This process reduces walkway slip hazards and refreshes the building’s appearance – first impressions count, after all!

Gutter cleaning

For gutter cleaning, our high-level gutter vac clears weeds, leaves, dirt and debris, reducing the problems of overflowing gutters and potential property damage.

Need a professional deep cleaning?

If you’re overdue for a deep clean and need help, contact the ServiceMaster Clean Devon team today by calling 01803 200 278 or email office@smcdevon.co.uk.

Nationwide, see what deep cleaning services are offered by your local experts by finding your nearest ServiceMaster Clean business or booking online.

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Professional annual gutter cleaning schedule

When to clean your gutters throughout the year.

With increased rainfall becoming the norm in the UK, looking after your gutters is more important than ever.

Leaking or overflowing gutters can damage fascia boards, walls, windows, ceilings, insulation, and foundations.

In this blog post, the experts at ServiceMaster Clean Devon have shared their recommended annual cleaning schedule to help you keep your gutters working effectively.

Summer (June – August)

This is your mid-year check.

Your gutters should require little cleaning or maintenance at this time of year when rainfall is lower, and there’s minimal leaf fall.

Simply assess the condition of your gutters to see if any repair or replacement work is necessary.

Then, test your gutters by running water through them to check for any issues that need addressing.

Early autumn (September)

Autumnal leaf fall can quickly clog gutters, so consider having a professional gutter clean to prepare for the season ahead.

Late autumn (October/November)

This time of the year naturally requires frequent cleaning due to the leaf fall.

During these maximum leaf-falling months, your gutters require regular cleaning.

Fallen leaves building up in your gutters will quickly attract other dirt and debris, leading to blockages.

Winter (December – February)

Through the coldest and wettest months of the year, keeping a close eye on your gutters is essential.

Clean them whenever dirt and detritus build up and watch for cracks and frost damage that might allow leakage.

Early spring (March/April)

Part of your spring cleaning.

Give your gutters a thorough clean to remove the debris accumulated during the winter and ensure they’re ready to handle the heavy spring showers.

Late spring (May)

To prepare for summer, a final spring clean in May will remove any build-up from fallen blossom and leave your gutters.

This is also a good time of year to check for any gutter sagging or misalignment after several months of rain.

Need a professional gutter cleaner?

If this all sounds like a lot of work, call in the professionals.

At ServiceMaster Clean businesses like our team in Devon, we use high-level gutter vacs and pressure washers to clear gutters of leaves, weeds, dirt, and other debris, clear blockages, and prevent overflow problems.

If you’re in Devon, Torbay and the surrounding areas, book a gutter clean for your premises, by calling 01803 200 278 or email office@smcdevon.co.uk.

Nationwide, see what gutter cleaning services are offered by your local experts by finding your nearest ServiceMaster Clean business or booking online.

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Meet the team: Matt Jackson from ServiceMaster Clean Devon

Meet Matt Jackon, the new Business Manager at ServiceMaster Clean Devon.

Matt Jackson has recently joined the ServiceMaster Clean Devon team as Business Manager.

We asked him a few questions to help you get to know our new man at the helm.

What motivated you to join ServiceMaster Clean Devon?

“I was attracted to ServiceMaster Clean Devon because the business has a family-run feel yet has the benefits and support of a much bigger organisation. The Business Manager position offers the opportunity to add value to the business, and the variety of the role really appealed. So far, no two days have been the same, which I’m loving!”

What do you like most about your job?

“I love the variety. I particularly enjoy meeting clients and suppliers and working closely with the team to deliver the best possible service.”

Describe a typical workday

“I arrive at work at 7:30 a.m. to greet the team, review the previous day’s work, and confirm plans for the day ahead. A typical workday involves speaking to clients, quoting for work, scheduling activities, and spending time with colleagues. As someone who is brand new to the business, I’ve been made to feel incredibly welcome—the support has been second to none!”

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

“I love sports, music and spending time with friends and family. Having recently moved to Devon, I’m enjoying exploring the area and neighbouring counties – it’s a beautiful part of the world!”

What’s an interesting fact about yourself?

I’m learning to play the guitar. Disclaimer: I have a very long way to go!

Want to meet the team for yourself?

If you need a new cleaner, contact the experts at ServiceMaster Clean Devon on 01803 200 278, or nationwide find your nearest ServiceMaster Clean business today or book online in select locations.

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The ServiceMaster Clean difference

How ServiceMaster Clean enhances your commercial cleaning.

When it comes to commercial cleaning, there are many suppliers to choose from, from sole trader operations to national companies.

A sole trader may be local and give a more competitive price, while a larger company may offer greater services and reliability.

But which provides the best?

If you choose ServiceMaster Clean, you won’t have to decide between your priorities.

Our businesses like ServiceMaster Clean Devon are local companies based in the heart of your community, yet part of a larger organisation, a national and internationally recognised brand.

Being part of a wider network means you get the best of both – the commitment and dedication of a local business with the backing, support and reassurance of a global brand.

The ServiceMaster Clean difference

As your cleaning partner, we guarantee the following:

  • Reachability – if you need to contact us, we’ll answer your call within 30 seconds.
  • Dependable delivery – you can rely on us to be there when we say we will be.
  • Expertise – our cleaning technicians have exceptional technical knowledge so that they can respond to a problem with an appropriate solution.
  • A flexible service – we clean at a time that suits your organisation, including evenings and weekends.
  • Rapid response – our on-call emergency service ensures a quick reaction in a reactive situation.
  • Safety assured – we provide risk assessments, and all our uniformed cleaning technicians are DBS-checked.
  • Peace of mind – we have comprehensive public liability insurance.

Need a new cleaner?

If this sounds like the kind of commercial cleaning company you’d like to look after your cleaning needs, contact the experts at ServiceMaster Clean Devon on 01803 200 278, or nationwide find your nearest ServiceMaster Clean business today or book online today in select locations.

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How to extend the lifespan of commercial flooring

How to make your commercial flooring last longer.

The flooring in commercial spaces is often subject to extensive foot traffic, so it needs looking after to extend its lifespan.

An appropriate cleaning and care routine will help maintain a clean, safe and attractive workspace and delay the expense of a replacement floor.

Here are some tips on how to extend the lifespan of commercial flooring from the experts at ServiceMaster Clean Devon.

Regular cleaning and maintenance

Develop a routine cleaning schedule appropriate to the type of flooring (e.g., carpet, hardwood, softwood, vinyl, tile).

Then ensure you vacuum or sweep regularly to remove dirt, dust and debris that can scratch or wear down the flooring surface.

You must also utilise appropriate cleaning products recommended by the flooring manufacturer to avoid damage.

Immediate spill cleanup

  • Promptly clean up spills to prevent stains and water damage.
  • Use absorbent materials or a dry white cloth for liquid spills and avoid using harsh chemicals that can degrade the flooring material.

Use door mats

Place high-quality door mats at all entrances to trap dirt, moisture and debris before they reach the flooring and regularly clean and replace them to ensure their effectiveness.

Implement preventative measures

  • Use furniture pads or casters to prevent scratches and indentations caused by heavy furniture.
  • Install protective mats under rolling chairs or high-traffic areas to reduce wear and tear.

Control humidity and temperature

Maintain proper humidity levels to prevent warping or damage to wood flooring and avoid exposing flooring to extreme temperature fluctuations.

These can cause expansion or contraction.

Regular inspection and repair

Regularly inspect the flooring for signs of damage, wear or loose tiles and planks.

Immediately repair or replace damaged sections to prevent further deterioration.

Proper floor care for different materials

Understand the specific care requirements for different flooring materials (e.g., polishing for hardwood and sealing for natural stone).

Follow the manufacturer guidelines for cleaning and maintenance to ensure longevity.

Use floor protectors during events or maintenance

Use temporary floor protection products (e.g., mats or protection boards) during events, renovations or maintenance activities to prevent damage from foot traffic or equipment.

Educate staff on proper maintenance

Train cleaning staff and employees on proper floor care techniques and the importance of adhering to maintenance guidelines.

Professional cleaning and maintenance

Schedule periodic deep cleaning and maintenance services by professional commercial cleaners to remove embedded dirt and grime.

Need a professional floor cleaner?

By implementing these practices, you can significantly extend the lifespan of your commercial flooring, reduce maintenance costs and preserve the aesthetic appeal of your workspace.

For help with all your commercial floor cleaning needs, contact the experts at ServiceMaster Clean Devon on 01803 200 278 or nationwide find your nearest ServiceMaster Clean business today to see how we can help you.

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Case study: Deep cleaning of a Vacant Property in Devon

How ServiceMaster Clean Devon deep-cleaned a vacant property that was in a less-than-satisfactory state from the previous tenants. 

Preparing a vacant property for the next occupant can sometimes require more than a straightforward cleaning.

If a previous resident has left unwanted contents and potential health hazards, a specialist approach is needed, and that’s where ServiceMaster Clean can help.

Take a look at this recent case study from ServiceMaster Clean Devon to find out more.

What was the issue?

ServiceMaster Clean Devon was appointed by a housing association to conduct a deep cleaning of a house in multiple occupations (HMO) in the Torbay area.

The previous residents had left the home unfit for habitation with dangerous drug paraphernalia throughout the property.

What we did

Over two days, a team of two completed the following:

  • A needle sweep to remove all old used needles and sharps. This included extracting sharps from the pipe work in the sinks, which had been placed down the plug holes.
  • Deep cleaning all surfaces, including internal windows, woodwork, doors, walls and radiators, to remove dust, grime and bodily fluids.
  • Deep cleaning of all kitchen and bathroom areas to leave hygienic and ready for decoration works.
  • Hard floor cleaning to the bathroom areas using alkaline floor cleaning solution and a rotary scrubber to lift all ingrained dirt and staining. The dirt was then extracted with steam extraction equipment to leave the floor clean and hygienic.
  • Carpet cleaning with a heavy-duty carpet shampoo to clean the carpets in all the bedrooms, hallways, stairs and lounges. The carpets were left fresh, hygienic, and with all foul smells removed, ready for the carpet fitters to remove them without the risk of contamination to themselves.

The result

Following the deep clean, we received the following feedback from the client:

“My first impression of the clean was ‘Wow!’. We can’t believe the transformation. As always, your technicians have done an amazing job here, and I am more than pleased with the results.”

“The other cleaning company was cheaper, but I knew I would get the right results with you.”

 

Need professional cleaning?

If you require assistance with deep cleaning or preparing a void property to relet, contact the ServiceMaster Clean Devon team on 01803 200 278 or email office@smcdevon.co.uk.

Or, nationwide, find your nearest ServiceMaster Clean business today.

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ServiceMaster Clean Service Spotlight: External cleaning

How ServiceMaster Clean cleans the exterior of commercial properties. 

Finally, the winter is over, and we’re heading into spring!

Now that brighter and hopefully drier days are ahead, it’s the perfect time to refresh your property’s exterior.

A build-up of dirt, moss and weeds over the winter can affect the visual appearance of your property and also create slip hazards on walkways.

However, this can be fixed with an external spring clean, and ServiceMaster Clean can take care of this for you.

Our professional exterior cleaning services will help maintain your premises, improve their appearance, and reduce walkway slip hazards.

We’ve put together a blog post on how our experts can help.

Pressure washing

Our high-grade pressure washing equipment uses a combination of appropriate pressure and heat to clean external surfaces.

Pressure washing can remove dirt, unsightly marks, moss, algae, and chewing gum without scratching or scarring the surface.

It can be used to clean and rejuvenate the following:

  • Masonry
  • Soffits
  • Facias
  • Walkways
  • Paving
  • Fire escapes
  • Decking and patios

After cleaning, with all surface dirt removed, the building will be left looking fresh and have had its slippery surfaces eradicated.

Gutter cleaning

During the winter, dirt, leaves, and moss build up in gutters and cause blockages that can lead to overflow and water damage.

Our high-level gutter vac combined with pressure washing will clear all detritus from your gutters, allowing drainage water to flow freely and preventing potential property damage.

Window cleaning

Our reach-and-wash window cleaning system with purified water gives us access to windows from the ground.

This system ensures sparkling windows with minimal disturbance to your staff and visitors.

Need professional exterior cleaning? 

If your building is ready for a spring clean, please find your nearest ServiceMaster Clean business today.

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Cleaning tips for high-traffic areas

How to keep high-traffic areas in your commercial spaces clean. 

Maintaining cleanliness and hygiene in high-traffic areas such as entrances, hallways, and common areas can be challenging.

These areas are prone to dirty quickly due to the volume of people occupying or passing through the space.

Thankfully, the experts at ServiceMaster Clean have compiled some tips to help you keep these busy areas clean.

Use door mats

Entranceways are usually the busiest place in a building, and dirt can easily track in from outside.

Therefore, place durable entrance mats inside and outside of entrances to trap dirt and moisture before they enter the building.

Then, regularly clean and maintain these mats to ensure their effectiveness.

Frequent cleaning schedule

Establish what your high-traffic areas are, and create a regular cleaning schedule for them.

These areas should be cleaned more frequently than others to maintain cleanliness throughout the day.

Spot cleaning

To keep on top of these areas, implement spot cleaning throughout the day to address spills, stains and messes as soon as they occur.

Prompt attention to these issues can prevent them from becoming more challenging to clean later.

Choose the right cleaning products

Select cleaning products specifically formulated for high-traffic areas and capable of effectively removing dirt, grease and germs.

Consider using disinfectants to sanitise frequently touched surfaces.

Floor care

High-traffic areas often experience heavy wear and tear on floors.

Use appropriate cleaning techniques, such as vacuuming, sweeping and mopping, to keep floors clean and safe.

Consider applying floor sealants or finishes to protect against scratches and stains.

Air quality control

High-traffic areas can also impact indoor air quality.

Consider using air purifiers and ventilation systems to remove airborne pollutants and improve air circulation.

Regularly replace HVAC filters to prevent the build-up of dust and allergens.

Focus on touchpoints

Pay close attention to frequently touched surfaces such as light switches, elevator buttons and door handles.

These areas can harbour a high concentration of germs, so they should be cleaned and disinfected regularly.

Train staff

Ensure your cleaning staff receive proper training on cleaning techniques, product usage and safety protocols for high-traffic areas.

Encourage them to communicate any cleaning challenges or maintenance issues they encounter.

Monitor and adjust

Regularly assess the cleanliness of high-traffic areas and adjust your cleaning practice as necessary.

Look for areas that may require additional attention or modifications to your cleaning routine.

Need a professional cleaner?

By implementing these cleaning tips, you can effectively maintain cleanliness and hygiene in high-traffic areas, creating a safer and more pleasant environment for your employees, customers and visitors.

If all of this seems like a lot to keep on top of, call in the professionals.

Find your nearest ServiceMaster Clean business or book online for professional commercial cleaning services today.

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What to look for when hiring a commercial floor cleaning company

The questions to ask yourself when hiring a commercial floor cleaning service. 

Hiring a commercial cleaning company will give you peace of mind that you provide a safe, clean environment for your employees and customers.

But with so many commercial cleaning companies available, choosing the right one can be challenging.

Here is a checklist of questions to help you know what to look for when hiring a commercial cleaning company for your business, from the experts at ServiceMaster Clean.

  1. What services do they offer?

Before hiring a commercial floor cleaning company, you need to ensure that they can meet your requirements.

Cleaning needs vary between floor types and businesses.

For example, hard floors will require an entirely different cleaning regime to carpet, and the requirements for a care home will differ from that of an office.

Therefore, you’ll need a cleaning company with the experience, skill and tools to handle your specific business environment.

  1. Do they provide trained staff?

If you’re inviting an external company to take care of your flooring, you’ll need assurance that they’ll take appropriate care and use the right equipment in the right places.

Find out what training the cleaning company provides to its crew and what background checks they use to vet their staff.

  1. What equipment and supplies do they use?

A professional floor cleaning company should provide all the equipment and products necessary to carry out their duties.

However, if your business has specific requirements that need special cleaning equipment or supplies, perhaps to meet disinfection or sanitisation procedures, check that they can provide those.

  1. Can they offer a flexible schedule?

Limit the potential disruption to your business or organisation with evening or weekend cleaning.

Or perhaps you would like to be able to call on your cleaning company for emergency or ad hoc cleaning in addition to your regular schedule.

The company you choose should be able to offer a schedule that fits your business needs.

  1. What is their reputation like?

One way to assess the quality of a commercial floor cleaning company is to look at its customer feedback.

Read their customer testimonials and online reviews and ask if they have case studies demonstrating their expertise and reliability.

Also, find out if they hold any relevant industry accreditations, as these can provide credible endorsement of their services.

  1. Do they have insurance?

Appropriate insurance is essential should an accident or mishap occur when they’re cleaning your workplace flooring. Only consider a commercial floor cleaning company that has public liability insurance.

Contact us

If you’re looking for a professional commercial floor cleaning company, please get in touch to see how we can help.

We’ve provided commercial floor cleaning for over 60 years, combining the latest cleaning techniques and equipment with highly-trained teams.

Find your nearest ServiceMaster Clean business to learn more.

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ServiceMaster Clean Devon Service Spotlight

Whether you’re an existing client or new to ServiceMaster Clean Devon, you might know about our full range of commercial cleaning services.

So, we thought we’d provide a quick summary in this blog post.

Here’s how we can help.

Carpet and hard floor cleaning

Floors in commercial spaces generally get a lot of footfall, making them dirty and worn quickly.

We use a hot water extraction system to remove deep-set grit and dirt from carpets and rugs.

For hard floors, we use specialist, high-grade equipment to professionally strip, deep clean, seal and polish the surface.

Regular floor cleaning will help improve the hygiene and cleanliness of your environment, improve the appearance of your floors and give them longevity.

Communal area cleaning

Communal spaces such as entrance hallways are usually heavy-traffic areas, so maintaining a high level of cleanliness can be challenging.

We provide a cleaning service to ensure that the shared spaces in your building are presentable and clean, undertaking whatever cleaning tasks are necessary to achieve that.

Deep cleaning and environmental cleaning

Deep cleaning goes above and beyond a standard cleaning routine to remove the dirt, dust, grease, and grime built up over time.

Using advanced products, procedures, and equipment, we thoroughly clean those high, difficult-to-reach, technical, complicated, or risky areas, ensuring a clean, fresh and hygienic environment for your customers and employees.

Infection control cleaning

A deep clean, including sanitisation and disinfection, over and above routine daily cleaning, creates a more hygienic environment and significantly reduces health risks.

We use high-grade professional products to kill pathogens.

And for microbes in hard-to-reach areas, we can deploy ozone and fogging treatments to eliminate bacteria and sanitise the environment.

Emergency cleaning

Whether your premises have suffered damage from flooding, fire, malicious activity or a weather event, our specialist reactive cleaning and disaster restoration team are equipped to deal with every eventuality.

Our quick response will mitigate potential damage, remove any health risks and restore the building to working order as soon as possible.

External property cleaning

From clearing gutters to cleaning windows, walls and paving, we have the equipment and expertise to undertake all external cleaning jobs.

Professional exterior cleaning will help maintain your premises, improve its appearance and reduce walkway slip hazards.

Builder’s cleans

Our builder’s clean service will take care of the necessary clean-up to make your new property habitable and ready for sale or let after construction or renovation.

We clean after the builders have left and return later for a final ‘sparkle clean’.

We achieve the highest cleaning standards using the latest equipment and industrial cleaning products.

Vacant property cleaning

Preparing a vacant property for the next occupant may require more than straightforward cleaning.

If a previous resident has left unwanted contents and potential health hazards, it’ll need a specialist approach.

We have the expertise to safely clear and clean your premises, ready for the specialist trades to undertake repairs and redecoration or for your new tenant to move in.

Need a new cleaner?

If you’d like a no-obligation quote for any of the services above, please contact our ServiceMaster Clean Devon team on 01803 200 278 or email office@smcdevon.co.uk.

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Case study: Flood Remediation

How the ServiceMaster Clean Devon team restores flooding damage in a flash.

At this time of year, winter storms bring sudden heavy rainfall that can flood homes and properties.

Floodwater can cause extensive property damage and create a possible health hazard from contaminated water, so clearing up after a flood requires expert and prompt remedial care.

With 60 years of expertise behind them, ServiceMaster Restore is one of the longest-established disaster restoration companies in the UK and a founding member of the BDMA, which sets the industry standards for fire and flood restoration.

They use experienced technicians and specialist equipment to restore properties to their pre-loss condition with minimal disruption and delay.

This recent case study from ServiceMaster Clean Devon‘s Restore Team provides insight into the process and the benefits of using their services.

What was the problem?

The team were called to assist after a 1902 mid-terraced property was flooded during a heavy downpour.

Black water had entered the house via the front entrance and, due to its volume, passed throughout the ground floor, affecting the kitchen to the rear, the front living room (including a timber-clad understairs cupboard that houses a washing machine and an upright fridge freezer), and the lower section of the carpeted staircase.

The water levels reached approximately 0.6 metres.

Upon our arrival, the homeowner was removing contents from the affected areas.

There was extensive saturation and deposited sediment, particularly beneath the kitchen units.

Solution

First, the team undertook a moisture assessment, which showed high levels as expected.

However, the readings were lower than anticipated in the living room, at skirting levels and to the decorated lower walls, meaning remediation needn’t require major strip-out works to this room.

They then completed a visual inspection of the property:

  • The original historic tiled floor showed no obvious structural defects and has reportedly withstood several similar occurrences. Therefore, we left this structure intact and monitored it throughout the cleanup.
  • They found signs of damage to the understairs cupboard, which had timber tongue and grooved cladding and would need removal.
  • Within the kitchen, the base kitchen units were damaged and would need removal to allow a complete sanitising treatment and facilitate the operation of our drying system.

With the assessment complete, the team began the remedial works, which included:

  • Removal of the kitchen base units and range oven.
  • Removal of all the understairs timber cladding.
  • Thorough rinse, extraction and sanitisation of all affected materials.
  • Injection and tented drying to the affected walls and floors to dry all the trapped moisture.

Outcome

Our input prevented further damage to the property, made it safe and ensured it dried out swiftly.

The homeowner was able to begin reinstating their home in the quickest possible time.

Upon completion, the team issued a dry certificate and a final report with all the essential information for the homeowner and insurer records.

In a pinch?

For expert disaster restoration services, find your nearest ServiceMaster Restore business or contact the ServiceMaster Clean Devon team on 01803 200 278 or email office@smcdevon.co.uk.

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A guide to commercial cleaning products

How well do you know your cleaning products?

Maintaining a clean, safe, and hygienic workspace is essential to keeping your employees safe, happy, and productive.

However, effective cleaning requires using the right cleaning products which are appropriate for the task.

With so many different types available, it can be confusing to know which to use, so here’s a guide to commercial cleaning products from the experts at ServiceMaster Clean.

Understanding cleaning product categories

In general, most cleaning products can be grouped into the following categories.

Depending on your type of workplace, you’ll probably require several different types.

  • Surface cleaners:
    • Purpose – for general cleaning of surfaces like desks, countertops and appliances.
    • Products – multi-surface cleaners, antibacterial sprays.
  • Floor cleaners:
    • Purpose – designed for different floor types, including hardwood, tile and carpet.
    • Products – floor cleaners, carpet shampoos, floor polishes.
  • Bathroom cleaners:
    • Purpose – for cleaning bathroom surfaces like tiles, sinks and toilets.
    • Products – toilet bowl cleaners, bleach, tile and grout cleaners.
  • Kitchen cleaners:
    • Purpose – formulated for grease and food residue removal in kitchen areas.
    • Products – degreasers, oven cleaners.
  • Disinfectants:
    • Purpose – kill bacteria, viruses and germs to maintain a hygienic environment.
    • Products – disinfectant sprays, bleach, wipes.
  • Specialised cleaners:
    • Purpose – target specific surfaces or materials like glass, stainless steel or electronics.
    • Products – glass cleaners, stainless steel cleaners.
  • Green cleaning products:
    • Purpose – environmentally friendly alternatives with minimal ecological impact.
    • Products – eco-friendly cleaners, biodegradable solutions.

Choosing the right cleaning products

When deciding which cleaners to use, consider the following:

  • Assess the surface – different surfaces require specific cleaning agents. Ensure compatibility.
  • Safety precautions – follow guidelines on the product labels for proper usage and safety measures. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves and masks.
  • Product reviews – research and read reviews to identify effective and reliable products.

Things to think about

Other considerations when it comes to cleaning products include the following:

  • Check that the right product is being used for the task.
  • Ensure your cleaning staff receive appropriate training before using cleaning chemicals and products.
  • Store all cleaning products according to the product specification’s guidelines.
  • Provide washing facilities and spillage clean-up kits near where any cleaning substances may be used in case of accidents.
  • Keep storage areas well-ventilated.

If you’re unsure which product to use for a particular cleaning task, consult a professional.

For the right cleaner for every task, trust ServiceMaster Clean SpotHero to remove any manner of stains and spills from carpet and upholstery.

Need professional cleaning? 

Some stains are too stubborn and seem impossible to remove yourself.

If you have any concerns regarding your carpets and upholstery, call the professionals.

For help from your local experts, find your local ServiceMaster Clean today.

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Meet the team: Arran Cooper from ServiceMaster Clean Devon

Meet Arran Cooper, External Works Team Leader from ServiceMaster Clean Devon.

 At ServiceMaster Clean, our teams are integral to our expert carpet and upholstery cleaning services for residential and commercial properties.

Arran Cooper is the External Team Leader at ServiceMaster Clean Devon. We sat down with him to see what’s involved in his work.

How long have you been with ServiceMaster Clean Devon?

“I joined ServiceMaster Clean Devon 11 years ago.”

What do you like most about your job?

“I like the mixture of work and the varied places we get to go to each week.”

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

“I love walking my dog and spending time with my children in my free time. I also enjoy Motocross.”

What’s an interesting fact about yourself?

“I can do the splits!”

Describe a recent workday:

“I arrive at work at 7.30 am to load the van with the equipment needed for the day and fill our water bowsers.”

“Today’s job is external cleaning for a local housing authority, so we need plenty of water onboard!”

“With the van loaded, we set off for the day’s work – preparing external walls of residential buildings ready for repainting by the decorating team.”

“On-site, we do a quick walk around to check for hazards and then begin cleaning. With our specialist equipment, we high-pressure jet wash the walls, cleaning off the dirt and algae.”

“When all the walls are cleaned, we clear any debris to ensure we leave the site clean and tidy. Our final job is to take photos of the finished work, and then it’s time to pack up the van and head back to the warehouse. Back at the warehouse, I unload the van [and] check the job sheet for tomorrow.”

Want support from a team of cleaning professionals?

For the more specialist and ad hoc cleaning responsibilities, utilising an external provider can be beneficial.

At ServiceMaster Clean, we can help keep your workplace clean and safe with regular or one-off carpet, hard floor and upholstery, infection control cleaning, emergency cleaning, periodic deep cleaning and external cleaning.

For a free, no-obligation quotation from ServiceMaster Clean Devon, call 01803 200278.

Or nationwide, find your nearest ServiceMaster Clean business or shop online today.

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What are your cleaning responsibilities as an employer?

Nine essential cleaning responsibilities for all employers.

As an employer, maintaining a clean, safe, and hygienic workspace is essential to keeping your employees safe, happy, and productive.

But what does this entail?

As experts in commercial cleaning, the team at ServiceMaster Clean Devon have put their heads together to compile a list of essential cleaning responsibilities for all employers.

Your specific cleaning responsibilities will depend on the type of business or organisation you run, but typical cleaning responsibilities include…

  1. Maintaining a clean workplace:

  • Ensure that the workplace is clean and free of hazards.
  • Regularly clean and sanitising common areas such as break rooms, restrooms and kitchen areas.

  1. Providing necessary cleaning supplies:

  • Distribute the necessary cleaning products and tools for employees to maintain cleanliness in their workspaces.
  • Ensure an adequate supply of soap, hand sanitisers and paper towels in restrooms and other common areas.

  1. Managing waste disposal:

  • Provide proper waste disposal systems and ensure that rubbish is regularly collected and disposed of.
  • Communicate and enforce any recycling programs.

  1. Ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations:

  • Adhere to local health and safety regulations regarding cleanliness and sanitation in the workplace.
  • Keep up with any changes in regulations and adjust cleaning practices accordingly.

  1. Handling specialised cleaning needs:

Address any specialised cleaning needs, such as spills, accidents, or specific cleaning requirements for certain industries (e.g. healthcare facilities).

  1. Educating employees:

Encourage a culture of cleanliness and personal responsibility for keeping workspaces tidy.

  1. Monitoring and inspecting cleaning standards:

  • Regularly inspect the workplace to ensure that cleaning standards are being met.
  • Address any issues or concerns related to cleanliness promptly.

  1. Responding to health or other emergencies:

  • Implement specialised cleaning measures during health emergencies like the COVID-19 pandemic or an infectious disease outbreak like norovirus.
  • Deal with hazardous events, like flooding, and ensure the area is safe.
  • Follow guidelines from health authorities to protect your employees and customers.

  1. Maintaining a safe external environment:

Keep external walkways clean to prevent trip and slip hazards.

Want help with your cleaning responsibilities?

For the more specialist and ad hoc cleaning responsibilities, utilising an external provider can be beneficial.

At ServiceMaster Clean, we can help keep your workplace clean and safe with regular or one-off carpet, hard floor and upholstery, infection control cleaning, emergency cleaning, periodic deep cleaning and external cleaning.

For a free, no-obligation quotation from ServiceMaster Clean Devon, call 01803 200278.

Or nationwide, find your nearest ServiceMaster Clean business or shop online today.

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ServiceMaster Clean Service Spotlight: Commercial carpet cleaning

Need your carpets cleaning?

Carpets in commercial spaces generally get a lot of footfall so they can get dirty quickly.

A regular carpet cleaning schedule will aid in improving the cleanliness and hygiene of your environment, improve the appearance of your carpet, and help it to last longer.

With a team of trained and professional carpet cleaners and our specialist equipment, we can help keep your carpets in tip-top condition.

In this blog post, the team at ServiceMaster Clean Devon shares how they ensure quality commercial carpet cleaning services.

Benefits of regular carpet cleaning

  • Regular carpet cleaning can prevent the flattening of carpet piles, saving time and money on replacement.
  • Frequent cleaning removes dust, dirt, germs and bacteria, which get deep into the carpet and often cause staining and traffic marks.
  • Plus, you’ll have peace of mind that you’re maintaining the highest hygiene standards on your premises.

ServiceMaster Clean’s carpet cleaning services

Pre-clean site visit

We’ll visit your premises to provide a quotation for the carpet cleaning.

This visit involves thoroughly inspecting all carpeted areas to assess the scope of work.

We’ll discuss timings and schedule a date and time that’s least disruptive to your business operations.

We can do the cleaning outside your regular business hours if convenient.

Carpet clean

We use specialist, high-grade equipment for commercial carpet cleaning.

The process features a hot-rinse extraction to remove deep-set grit and dirt from your carpet and rugs so they stay clean for longer.

Using a hot water extraction system provides the best cleaning and, unlike other cleaning systems, ensures no shampoo or residues are left, which can cause carpets to get dirtier quickly.

It also means the carpet will dry within a few hours of cleaning, ensuring minimal downtime.

Ongoing care

To maintain the health of your carpets, they’ll require a regular cleaning programme.

We’ll recommend a schedule tailored to your carpet’s usage, whether monthly, quarterly, bi-annually or annually.

Need your carpets cleaning?

Our teams at ServiceMaster Clean Devon and beyond are fully insured, accredited and certified to carry out commercial carpet cleaning, and our hot water extraction system results in the best, residue-free clean.

If you’re in Devon and the surrounding areas and want to book a no-obligation site assessment and quote, call 01803 200278.

Or nationwide, find your nearest ServiceMaster Clean business or shop online today.