In today's world, environmental consciousness is more than just a trend; it's a responsibility that extends to every aspect of our lives, including property management and maintenance. With the growing concern for the planet, businesses and property owners are seeking ways to clean and maintain their premises while minimising their environmental impact.
From reducing chemical usage to embracing sustainable practices, there are numerous strategies to ensure that commercial properties are kept clean and green. There are benefits too, for property owners and occupants so it is worth being eco-savvy if it can add value to your property and attract interest.
This article explores ways to clean, declutter and maintain properties while being mindful about the environment, from eco-friendly methods for tackling the wear and tear in properties to tips for helping to avoid harsh chemicals and cause extra harm to the planet while looking after your properties.
Why eco-friendly cleaning?
Cleaning commercial premises and managed properties involves more than just tidying up; it's about creating a healthy and safe environment for occupants while minimising harm to the planet. Traditional cleaning products often contain harsh chemicals that can not only be harmful to human health but also contribute to air and water pollution.
By opting for eco-friendly cleaning products and practices, cleaning managers can significantly reduce their carbon footprint and promote a healthier indoor environment with eco-friendly cleaning services with products that are gentler for people to use.
Add value and boost sustainable credentials
Property landlords, agents and facility managers who are responsible for, or carry out routine cleaning and ongoing management checks, are increasingly realising the value in making their properties more sustainable. Today, landlords, letting agents and managers alike have become more aware of living in sustainable buildings and understand the benefits that come from sustainable living. These include everything from saving money on energy bills to having access to smart tech, better insulation and having lower EPC ratings. In addition, there is the personal sense of feeling altruistic and doing your bit for the environment.
With this in mind, using eco-friendly cleaning methods in properties will elevate your climate-friendly credentials and afford you various benefits, some of which are tangible and intangible. By using environmentally-friendly products, they demonstrate their commitment to sustainability, which can enhance their reputation and attract environmentally-responsible tenants. Additionally, eco-friendly cleaning products are often gentler on surfaces, reducing wear and tear and extending the lifespan of property assets. This translates to long-term cost savings on maintenance and repairs.
Attract eco-conscious tenants
According to reports, being considered a ‘greener’ landlord or agent can attract more interest from renters. In today's rental market, tenants - especially the younger demographic or prospective tenants - are increasingly seeking properties that align with their values, including environmental sustainability.
Eco-conscious tenants or business owners prioritise spaces that are clean, healthy and eco-friendly. As such, by adopting eco-friendly cleaning practices and addressing maintenance jobs with sustainable solutions, property agents, building managers and landlords can cater to this growing demand. They might also attract occupant who are willing to pay a premium for a sustainable environment. Moreover, by promoting eco-friendly credentials, property owners can differentiate their properties in a competitive market and maintain high occupancy rates.
Safeguard the health of all occupants
Beyond environmental considerations, eco-friendly cleaning products also offer better health benefits for occupants. Some conventional cleaning products, however, contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and allergens that can trigger respiratory issues, allergies, and other health problems. Although cleaning products are well regulated in the UK, it is important to read the labels of any cleaning products so you are aware of the hazards. If cleaning products have hazards then they must be labelled by law with standard symbols and warning phrases. There are Clean Smart resources online with balanced information on cleaning and hygiene in the workplace.
By switching to eco-friendly alternatives, property managers can create indoor environments that are safer and healthier for occupants, particularly those with sensitivities or allergies. This is especially crucial in commercial premises where occupants may spend long hours indoors or in the quick turn-around serviced apartments industry that require fast and reliable processes and a misplaced key can cause serious disruption.
For any vulnerable people or animals, exposure to harsh chemicals found in conventional cleaning products can pose significant risks. Eco-friendly cleaning products offer a safer alternative, free from toxic chemicals and harmful residues. By prioritising eco-friendly cleaning practices, building and property managers can create spaces that are conducive to the wellbeing of all occupants, including those with specific health considerations.
Be eco-friendly with routine maintenance jobs
Implementing eco-friendly cleaning practices doesn't have to be complicated. Here are some practical tips for property managers to incorporate sustainability into their cleaning routines with some easy-to-implement practical tips, including:
- Choose Green Cleaning Products: Opt for cleaning products that are certified as environmentally-friendly, free from harsh chemicals, and biodegradable.
- Reduce Water Usage: Minimise water wastage by using efficient cleaning methods such as microfiber cloths and mops, and adopting practices like spot cleaning instead of full washdowns.
- Embrace Natural Remedies: Utilise natural cleaning ingredients such as vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice, which are effective for tackling various cleaning tasks without harming the environment.
- Invest in Sustainable Equipment: Choose energy-efficient cleaning equipment and tools, such as high-efficiency vacuum cleaners and eco-friendly cleaning machines, to minimise energy consumption and environmental impact.
- Implement Green Cleaning Policies: Develop and enforce green cleaning policies within your team to ensure consistency and accountability in sustainability efforts.
By adopting these eco-friendly practices, property managers can play a vital role in protecting the environment while creating healthier and more sustainable commercial spaces. From reducing chemical exposure to minimising your carbon footprint, every small step towards eco-friendly property maintenance contributes to a greener future.
Cleaning commercial premises in an eco-friendly way is not just about environmental responsibility; it's also about promoting health, safety, and sustainability for both occupants and the planet. Integrating eco-conscious cleaning into your facility management operations are sensible if you’re a letting agent, oversee a serviced apartment, a building manager or part of a concierge team. By prioritising eco-friendly cleaning products and practices, you can enhance a building’s appeal and attract environmentally-conscious tenants as well as highlight your sustainability credentials to boost your service offerings, brand and market reputation.