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Tenants and management share responsibility for maintaining the cleanliness of apartment buildings. Common areas such as hallways, elevators, stairwells, and lobbies should be kept tidy to ensure the safety and comfort of all residents.

This guide will discuss apartment building cleaning tips and products to aid the process.

Common Areas to Focus On

A clean and well-maintained common area is visually appealing and helps prevent the spread of germs and bacteria. Here are some areas that require regular cleaning:

Lobby and Entrance

The lobby and entrance of an apartment building serve as the first impression for visitors and potential tenants. An under-maintained lobby may reflect poorly on the management and tarnish the property's reputation.

Hallways and Corridors

Hallways and corridors are high-traffic areas that accumulate dirt, dust, and debris. Regular sweeping or vacuuming is necessary to keep these areas clean.

Stairwells

Stairs are often neglected when it comes to cleaning, but they should be a top priority as they can quickly accumulate dust, dirt, and other hazards. Picking up litter and regularly sweeping or mopping the stairs can prevent accidents and injuries.

Elevators

Elevators are constantly used, making them prone to dirt and grime buildup. Regularly wiping down elevator buttons, handrails, and walls can help maintain a clean and hygienic space for residents.

Laundry Rooms

The high usage of apartment building laundry rooms can lead to a buildup of bacteria and germs. Regularly disinfecting surfaces, wiping down machines, and emptying lint traps can help prevent the spread of illness.

Recreational Areas

Common areas such as gyms, pools, and lounges should also be regularly cleaned to maintain a safe and healthy environment for residents. Shared equipment should be wiped down after each use, and any spills or messes should be promptly cleaned up.

Restrooms

Of all the common areas, restrooms require the most attention and cleaning. Regularly disinfecting surfaces and frequently restocking essential supplies such as toilet paper, hand soap, and paper towels is crucial for maintaining hygiene in shared spaces.

A Step-by-Step Apartment Complex Cleaning Guide

A structured cleaning plan can ensure all common areas are regularly and thoroughly cleaned. One of the best cleaning practices is dividing your cleaning schedule into three categories: daily, weekly, and monthly.

Daily Cleaning

• Sweep and mop floors in high-traffic areas like lobbies, hallways, and entrances.

• Wipe down and disinfect surfaces such as doorknobs, handrails, elevator buttons, and countertops.

• Empty trash bins and replace liners to maintain cleanliness and prevent odors.

• Clean and sanitize restrooms thoroughly, ensuring all fixtures are spotless and stocked.

• Vacuum carpets and rugs in common areas, paying special attention to lobbies and hallways.

Weekly Cleaning

• Deep clean floors, including scrubbing and polishing hard surfaces like tile or hardwood floors.

• Dust and clean light fixtures, vents, and high surfaces to remove accumulated dust and maintain air quality.

• Clean windows and glass doors, removing smudges and fingerprints for a clear view and aesthetic appeal.

• Clean laundry rooms, including machines, sinks, and surrounding areas.

• Refresh common area furniture, such as vacuuming upholstery and wiping down tables and chairs.

Monthly Cleaning

• Shampoo carpets and rugs to remove deep-seated dirt and stains, extend their lifespan, and maintain cleanliness.

• Clean and inspect HVAC systems to ensure proper air quality throughout the building.

• Clean and sanitize recreational areas, including gym equipment and poolside furniture, to maintain hygiene standards.

Recommended Cleaning Products and Equipment for Common Area Sanitation

Using the right cleaning products can make a significant difference in maintaining cleanliness in common areas. Here are some essential products that can aid in common area maintenance:

1. Multi-Purpose Cleaner

A multi-purpose cleaner can be used on various surfaces, from countertops to floors. It's a versatile product that can efficiently clean and disinfect common areas.

2. Disinfectants

Disinfectants like bleach, hydrogen peroxide, or rubbing alcohol can kill germs and bacteria. They should be used on high-touch surfaces such as doorknobs, light switches, and elevator buttons.

3. Mop and Bucket

A mop and bucket are essential for cleaning floors in common areas. Opt for a microfiber mop head that can efficiently pick up debris without spreading it around.

4. Vacuum Cleaner

A vacuum cleaner is a must-have for carpeted areas. Regular vacuuming can prevent dirt and dust buildup, which can cause respiratory problems.

5. Specialty Cleaners

When cleaning shared spaces in apartments, consider using specialty cleaners like glass or restroom sanitizers to effectively clean and disinfect specific surfaces.

6. Apartment Building Cleaning Tips for Common Areas

When it comes to keeping common areas clean, prevention is key. Here are some apartment building cleaning tips for a safe, hygienic common space: 

• Set and Enforce Rules for Cleanliness in Common Areas: Post signs or reminders to encourage residents to clean up and dispose of trash properly.

• Place Mats at Entrances: This will reduce the amount of dirt and debris tracked into common areas.

• Encourage Residents to Report Any Building Maintenance Issues: Addressing these problems can help prevent larger issues from arising.

• Establish Proper Waste Management and Recycling Practices: This will reduce the likelihood of pest infestations or unpleasant odors.

• Set Up Hand Sanitizing Stations: This is best in high-traffic areas to encourage regular use and reduce germ transmission. 

• Consider Hiring A Professional Cleaning Service: This is for deep cleanings on a monthly or quarterly basis, especially for high-traffic areas like lobbies and hallways.

Keep Common Areas Spotless With Neutron Industries

The right cleaning products and a solid maintenance plan can help keep common areas clean, hygienic, and inviting for all residents. Neutron Industries provides a variety of commercial-grade cleaners, disinfectants, and odor eliminators designed to thoroughly clean and disinfect different surfaces.

Shop our products today or call us at 866-529-1559 to find the best options for your facility.