Do you know the difference between janitorial cleaning services and commercial cleaning services? Don’t worry—you are not the only one who cannot distinguish between them. The main difference between the two is that janitorial services refer to regular or daily cleaning services, whereas commercial cleaning services refer to specialty or one-time cleaning.
The cleaning industry is a rapidly growing sector, making it more important than ever to understand the key differences between janitorial and commercial cleaning services.
According to an article from Tech Report, the commercial cleaning industry is expected to grow at an annual compound rate of 6.6%. Furthermore, around 2.5 million commercial cleaners are working in the industry, indicating the huge demand for them.
What are Janitorial Services?
Janitorial services typically refer to the regular, ongoing maintenance of offices, buildings, educational institutions, or other environments through various cleaning tasks to maintain a clean and orderly environment.
Commercial janitorial service providers are responsible for day-to-day cleaning activities to keep workplaces and public facilities neat and tidy.
A typical janitorial service involves performing tasks on a daily or weekly basis, such as
- Sweeping and mopping floors
- Vacuuming carpets and rugs
- Dusting furniture and surfaces
- Emptying trash and recycling bins
- Cleaning and sanitizing bathrooms
- Restocking bathroom supplies
- Sanitizing high-touch surfaces like doorknobs and light switches
These services are crucial in maintaining a consistent level of cleanliness in environments like:
- Elementary Schools
- Middle schools and High Schools
- Day Care Center
- Shopping Malls
- Office Buildings
- Religious Institutions
- Retail stores
- Healthcare facilities
- Manufacturing and industrial plants
- And Other Commercial Buildings
What are Commercial Cleaning Services?
Commercial cleaning services are usually more intensive and include deep or specialized cleaning tasks that are not needed on a daily basis but are essential periodically. These services are often assigned to particular situations or projects.
Additionally, they involve the use of professional-grade equipment and techniques to ensure that the space remains pristine and up-to-date.
A typical commercial cleaning service involves tasks on particular situations or projects, such as:
- Deep carpet cleaning and shampooing
- Window washing (both interior and exterior)
- Pressure washing building exteriors
- Floor stripping and waxing
- Upholstery Cleaning
- Post-construction cleaning
- Hazardous waste disposal
- the task involves specialized equipment and expertise.
The above services are crucial in maintaining a consistent level in situations like:
- Annual or semi-annual deep cleaning
- Pre-inspection or certification preparation
- Post-renovation
- post-construction cleaning
- Post-event cleanup
- Restoration after disasters
- Specialized sanitation requirements
Difference Between Janitorial and Cleaning Services?

Janitorial and cleaning services are similar in many ways, but they possess some distinct differences in their scope and frequency, specializations, and customizations.
- Scope and Frequency:
Janitorial services are usually performed on a fixed schedule as routine tasks, with cleaning conducted on a daily basis. Commercial cleaning services are one-time jobs where deep cleaning and specialized tasks are performed.
- Specialization:
In commercial janitorial services, only basic tasks are performed, which involve daily cleaning and conducting minor specialized tasks using simple tools and machines. In contrast, commercial cleaning services involve advanced equipment and techniques to perform specific, specialized tasks
- Customization:
Janitorial services are tailored to meet the daily needs and maintenance of the facilities, while commercial cleaning services perform customized solutions to develop unique and large-scale cleaning projects
- Time and Schedule:
Janitorial services are usually performed during regular business hours, afterward, or during weekends, while commercial cleaning services are performed on a need basis. Usually, commercial cleaning services don’t have a fixed schedule and are performed after office hours; they are usually performed when you need to perform special tasks.
- Specialty services:
Janitorial services typically focus on routine tasks such as mopping, vacuuming, cleaning bathrooms, and emptying trash bins. In contrast, commercial cleaning companies carry out specialized services, including carpet cleaning, window washing, and deep cleaning in specific areas of kitchens and bathrooms.
- Staffing and equipment:
Janitorial services utilize a broader workforce and rely on basic cleaning tools, while commercial cleaning services typically employ advanced equipment and skilled experts to deliver their services.
Choosing the Right Service for Your Needs
The choice between janitorial and commercial cleaning services depends on your facility’s specific needs. If you require consistent maintenance and professional appearances, janitorial services are your best option.
Commercial cleaning services are more suitable for more specialized cleaning projects, occasional deep cleaning, or less frequent and more intensive cleaning jobs.
Many businesses can benefit from the combination of both to ensure their premises are clean, safe, and inviting workspaces.
Conclusion
Choosing the right service for your business needs can be challenging. Many people may not grasp the key differences between janitorial services and commercial cleaning services.
In this article, we have outlined the key distinctions between the two, enabling you to select the appropriate service for your commercial business’s requirements.
At All City Cleaners, we recognize the importance of a clean, well-maintained environment. With over 10 years of experience, we provide top-quality janitorial and commercial cleaning services customized to meet your needs.
Our team of professionals is equipped to handle everything from routine maintenance to specialized projects, ensuring your facility remains immaculate. Contact us today to discover how our services can make your business shine!