Choosing the Right Janitorial Supplies

When you see a play, you are seeing the brightly made-up actors, the wonderful finished sets, and a (hopefully) flawless performance.  What you do not see is the set designer, the director, the stagehands, the people who work the lights.  Without these people, the show would not go on.  It is the same with custodial staffs.  They provide the clean, hygienic appearance you see when you walk into schools, hospitals, restaurants, and businesses.  Many people take this for granted, but a lot of hard work goes into janitorial services, which keep buildings running smoothly and looking their best.  The right janitorial supplies are essential so the job gets done effectively, efficiently, and without a missed cue. 

Demand for janitorial products in the United States continues to rise.  It is a multibillion dollar industry, and there are a host of vendors who can offer the supplies your commercial or private cleaning service needs.  Many businesses first consider price when they are ordering janitorial products, and this is a huge factor in many purchases.  It is not, however, the only consideration.  You should also be looking at quality.  For instance, the inexpensive degreaser you bought becomes far less of a good deal when you have to pay for a better one to do the job right.  Sometimes it is worth it to pay more initially so you get better results and longer-lasting products.

Another major consideration is the health and safety of the janitors.  When janitors are exposed to chemicals, which they are when they use anything from toilet cleaners to furniture polish.  Common complaints include:

• Headache
• Nausea
• Skin rashes and irritation
• Eye irritation
• Asthma or other respiratory difficulties
• Burns

About six percent of janitors are injured each year by hazardous chemicals.  Of these, twenty percent suffer severe chemical burns to the skin or eyes.  This is a serious risk and liability for employers.  They can alleviate this concern by using green cleaning products.  These are increasingly available by vendors for prices that rival those of traditional chemical-based products.  Many custodians are concerned that green cleaners do not work as well as chemicals.  When you buy those backed by Green Seal or endorsed by the EPA, you can be sure that not only are they safe, they are effective. 

When choosing your supplies, it is also vital to think of the safety and health of the people in the buildings you are cleaning.  Studies on air quality in schools found that when there are less toxins, achievement is raised.  Studies on workplaces show that cleaner, nontoxic work environments raise morale, boost productivity and efficiency, and result in fewer sick days.  Eco-friendly products can help with this – and they are good for your business’s wallet as well.  More organizations are hiring only green cleaners.

It can be very helpful to do a little research before purchasing supplies.  This can save time and money in the long run because you are informed and making better decisions based on real information. 

Whether you are looking for vacuums, paper products, trash cans, or all-purpose cleaners, it pays to be selective.  When you find a product that works for you, order in bulk!  This will save you money and ensure that you have the supplies at your fingertips when you need them. 

The right janitorial products can mean the difference between a successful business and one that fades away.  When you need the best, take the time to get it. 

The green movement has caught on to janitorial products as well.  See how janitorial products going green can actually save you money and help the environment.