Janitors and janitorial staff play one of the most essential but often overlooked roles in maintaining the health, safety, and functionality of our everyday environments. From the buildings where we work and shop, to the schools where children learn, and the medical facilities where we receive care, janitorial professionals ensure each space remains clean, sanitized, and usable. Without their daily efforts, the places we rely on would quickly become unsafe, disorganized, and unsanitary. Their work forms the backbone of healthy communities, preventing the spread of illness and maintaining environments where people can thrive.

Beyond cleaning, janitorial professionals support public health in ways many people don't even realize. Tasks such as disinfecting high-touch surfaces, managing waste properly, using HEPA-filtered equipment, and maintaining restroom sanitation all significantly reduce exposure to harmful bacteria, viruses, and allergens. In workplaces and schools, this leads directly to fewer sick days and greater productivity. In hospitals, clinics, and senior-care facilities, janitorial staff are a frontline defense against dangerous pathogens. Their training in bloodborne pathogens, green cleaning, and proper chemical handling ensures that buildings are not only visually clean but also truly safe for every occupant.

Janitors also contribute to the overall quality of life in meaningful, human-centered ways. They create environments that feel welcoming, well-maintained, and professional. A clean office lobby influences first impressions, just as a spotless classroom supports student focus and morale. Their presence provides comfort, knowing that someone is continuously working behind the scenes to protect the well-being of all who enter. In many ways, janitors are the quiet heroes of people’s daily lives and individuals whose dedication keeps society running smoothly, safely, and with dignity. Recognizing their importance elevates not only the profession but also the respect they deserve for the essential service they provide every single day.

At Consider it Clean!, we are proud to be an IJCSA Green Cleaning Certified company, committed to providing cleaning services that protect both people and the environment. Green cleaning certification means our team is trained to understand the impact cleaning products and practices have on indoor air quality, surface safety, and long-term health. Our mission is to deliver professional, high-quality cleaning while minimizing exposure to harsh chemicals for our clients, our employees, and the communities we serve.

Implementing a green cleaning program at Consider it Clean! begins with daily, intentional choices. We prioritize eco-friendly, non-toxic, and biodegradable cleaning products whenever they are appropriate and effective. Our team is trained on proper product selection, dilution, and application to ensure excellent results without unnecessary chemical use. We rely heavily on microfiber cloths and tools, which physically remove dirt and bacteria while reducing the need for chemical cleaners. Equipment and supplies are carefully maintained and used correctly to prevent cross-contamination and waste.

Green cleaning at Consider it Clean! is also about education, transparency, and balance. We communicate honestly with our clients about what green products can and cannot do, avoiding greenwashing and unrealistic promises. When higher-level disinfection is necessary—such as during illness exposure or safety concerns—we use approved products responsibly and only when required. By following IJCSA green cleaning standards and remaining listed in the IJCSA Green Cleaning Directory, we demonstrate our commitment to sustainability, professionalism, and accountability. For us, green cleaning isn’t a trend—it’s a daily practice rooted in care for people, spaces, and the world we all share.

Hiring a cleaning professional is about more than convenience—it’s about trust, safety, and confidence in the people caring for your home or property. One of the best ways consumers can ensure they are choosing a qualified and reputable provider is by hiring a cleaning person or company that has passed the IJCSA Residential Cleaning Specialist (RCS) Certification. This certification represents a commitment to professionalism, education, and high standards within the residential cleaning industry.

One major advantage of working with an IJCSA RCS–certified cleaner is verified knowledge and training. Certified professionals have demonstrated an understanding of proper cleaning techniques, safety protocols, product usage, and industry best practices. This means they know how to clean homes effectively without causing damage to surfaces, furnishings, or finishes. From kitchens and bathrooms to floors and living spaces, RCS-certified cleaners approach residential cleaning with skill, care, and attention to detail.

Another key benefit is enhanced safety and risk awareness. IJCSA RCS certification includes education on workplace safety, chemical handling, and potential hazards that can arise during home cleaning. Certified cleaners are trained to recognize risks, protect themselves and occupants, and maintain a safe environment while working in residential spaces. This reduces the likelihood of accidents, improper chemical use, or unsafe cleaning practices in your home.

Consumers also benefit from the professional standards and accountability that come with IJCSA certification. RCS-certified individuals and companies are committed to ethical business practices, clear communication, and consistent service quality. Certification signals that a cleaner takes their role seriously, values ongoing improvement, and is invested in maintaining a professional reputation. This leads to better customer service, reliability, and long-term trust between clients and cleaning professionals.

Finally, choosing an IJCSA RCS–certified cleaner provides peace of mind and confidence in your decision. Your home is personal, and inviting someone into it requires assurance that they are qualified, respectful, and prepared. Certification offers an added layer of reassurance that the cleaning person or company you hire meets recognized industry standards for residential cleaning. By selecting an IJCSA RCS–certified provider, consumers can feel confident they are working with professionals who prioritize quality, safety, and excellence in every clean.

Great customer service is the foundation of a successful janitorial or cleaning service, and it is something members of the IJCSA take immense pride in delivering every day. True service goes beyond simply completing a task—it means showing up on time, communicating clearly, listening closely to client needs, and treating every space with care and respect. IJCSA members understand that trust is earned through consistency, professionalism, and attention to detail. From small offices to large facilities, our members approach each job with the same commitment: to create clean, healthy, and welcoming environments that support the people who use them.

What sets IJCSA members apart is a shared dedication to putting clients first. We believe great customer service means being responsive, adaptable, and proactive—anticipating needs before they become problems and standing behind our work. IJCSA members invest in training, systems, and relationships so that clients feel supported, heard, and confident in the service they receive. When you choose an IJCSA member, you’re choosing a company that values integrity, reliability, and long-term partnerships—because for us, exceptional customer service isn’t an add-on, it’s the standard.

Find an IJCSA member today at: https://www.ijcsa.org/Find-A-Cleaning-Service-Janitorial-Service

Is mold affecting your home or business? Don't let mold compromise your health and property value. The International Janitorial Cleaning Services Association (IJCSA) is here to help you connect with certified and reliable mold cleaning professionals.

Why choose a IJCSA member?

When it comes to mold removal and mold remediation, it's crucial to choose a service provider you can trust. IJCSA members are vetted professionals committed to upholding the highest standards in the industry. By choosing an IJCSA member, you benefit from:

• Expertise: IJCSA members possess the knowledge and experience necessary to effectively address mold issues.

• Professionalism: You can expect courteous, respectful, and reliable service from certified mold specialists.

• Commitment to Quality: IJCSA members are dedicated to providing thorough and effective mold cleaning services.

• Flood Damage Directory Resource: Many of our members are also listed in the Flood Damage Directory, a trusted resource for finding professionals specializing in water damage restoration and mold prevention after flooding.

Ignoring mold problems can lead to significant health risks and structural damage. Early mold inspection is key to preventing these issues from escalating. IJCSA members offer comprehensive mold inspection services to identify the source of the problem and develop an effective remediation plan.

IJCSA members offer a wide range of professional cleaning services to address all your mold-related needs. Whether you need a thorough mold inspection to assess the extent of the problem, effective mold removal to eliminate existing mold, or comprehensive mold remediation to prevent future growth, IJCSA members have you covered.

Additionally, many members are experienced in flood damage restoration, providing comprehensive solutions to mitigate mold growth after water damage incidents. They are equipped to handle everything from water extraction to structural drying and mold remediation.

Don't wait until mold becomes a major problem. Protect your home and health by contacting an IJCSA member for professional mold cleaning services.

Visit the IJCSA website to find certified mold specialists in your area at ijcsa.org.

You can also explore the Flood Damage Directory for additional resources and professionals specializing in water damage and mold prevention at ijcsa.org.

Disclaimer: The IJCSA provides a directory of members for informational purposes only. It is the consumer's responsibility to verify the credentials and qualifications of any service provider before hiring them.

Implementing a mold cleaning program to my business would be a strategic move for me looking to expand my service offerings and capture a growing market. Mold growth is a common problem in both residential and commercial properties, often leading to health concerns and structural damage. By integrating mold remediation into my existing services, i can provide a more comprehensive solution to my clients, enhancing my business's value proposition.

The first step in implementing a mold cleaning program is to conduct thorough market research to identify the demand for mold remediation services in my area. Following this, i would invest in proper training for my staff. This training should cover mold identification, containment, removal, and prevention techniques. Simultaneously, acquire the necessary equipment, including personal protective equipment (PPE), air scrubbers, HEPA vacuums, and mold-killing solutions. Develop strict safety protocols to protect both my employees and clients during the remediation process. Once these foundational elements are in place, I would begin marketing my new service offering through my existing channels and explore partnerships with real estate agents, property managers, and insurance companies. Always ensure that your business adheres to all local, state, and federal regulations regarding mold remediation.

The benefits of a mold cleaning program are numerous. It can lead to a significant increase in revenue by tapping into a specialized market. Offering mold remediation can also give my business a competitive advantage over others that provide only basic cleaning services. Successfully resolving mold issues for clients can enhance my business's reputation and build client loyalty. Ultimately, adding mold cleaning to my service portfolio can contribute to the overall growth and sustainability of my cleaning business.

Janitors and janitorial staff play a crucial role in our everyday lives, even though their work sometimes goes unnoticed. Every time we step into a school, an office, or any public building, it is the custodial/janitorial staff who make sure these spaces are clean, safe, and welcoming. Their efforts do much more than just keep things looking nice—this essential personnel helps protect the health of all who enter these spaces, boost productivity, which helps to facilitate respect in shared spaces.

The main part of a janitor’s job is making sure places stay clean and free from germs. They frequently clean restrooms, empty trash cans, wipe down surfaces, and pay special attention to areas that get touched a lot. This helps stop the spread of sickness and keeps everyone healthier. In places like hospitals and schools, janitors must consistently follow any special rules and use safe, acceptable cleaning products to protect people who might get sick easily. When there’s a public health emergency, janitors become the first line of defense for making sure buildings can stay open and safe for everyone.

Beyond health protection, janitorial professionals support the long-term care and value of buildings through facility maintenance, floor care, carpet cleaning, and above-the-floor surface cleaning. Proper floor care extends the life of floor systems, reduces slip-and-fall risks, and preserves the professional image of organizations. Clean, well-maintained facilities also improve employee morale, student focus, customer confidence, and overall satisfaction. Simply put, people perform better in environments expanded to include green cleaning practices, sustainable products, and industry-recognized training standards. Janitors do not just clean buildings—they protect people, support systems, and quietly keep our world running every day.

Today’s custodial staff are trained professionals  and several IJ SA members like https://serenecleaningsllc.wixsite.com/serenecleaning and
www.atlasenviroservices.com   don’t just clean buildings—they protect people, support systems, and quietly keep our world running every day.

Properly cleaning healthcare facilities is important for maintaining a safe and sanitary environment for patients, staff, and visitors. Hospitals, clinics, and medical offices are high-traffic areas where bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens can easily spread. Effective healthcare cleaning practices, including disinfection and sterilization, help prevent healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) that can lead to serious illness or even death. By implementing strict cleaning protocols and using medical-grade disinfectants, healthcare facilities can significantly reduce the risk of cross-contamination and ensure a healthier environment for everyone.

Proper medical facility cleaning also stays in compliance with health and safety regulations. Organizations such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) set strict standards for cleanliness in healthcare environments. Regular cleaning and sanitization of patient rooms, surgical areas, and waiting rooms not only meet these standards but also enhance the reputation of the facility. A clean and well-maintained healthcare environment builds trust among patients and demonstrates a commitment to their well-being.

Professional janitorial services play an important role in maintaining these high standards of cleanliness. Partnering with experienced cleaning professionals ensures that every surface, from operating rooms to administrative offices, is properly disinfected and maintained. For healthcare administrators seeking reliable cleaning partners, the IJCSA Janitorial Service Directory offers a comprehensive list of vetted cleaning companies specializing in healthcare environments. Utilizing this resource helps facilities find qualified experts who understand the unique challenges of hospital cleaning, clinical sanitation, and infection control cleaning. Properly cleaning healthcare facilities is not just about appearance—it’s about protecting lives and promoting a culture of safety and care.

In today’s world, maintaining a clean environment goes beyond simple dusting and sweeping—germs, bacteria, and viruses are everywhere we live and work, and they can pose significant health risks if not properly controlled. Medical cleaning practices developed for hospitals and clinics are designed to reduce cross‑contamination, control healthcare‑associated infections (HAIs), and protect vulnerable populations. These same methods, such as using EPA‑registered disinfectants, following strict infection control protocols, and focusing on high‑touch surfaces, can be adapted to residential and commercial cleaning to dramatically improve sanitation outcomes and safeguard occupants’ health. Source: IJCSA training materials emphasize the importance of proper disinfection and pathogen control in all cleaning environments.

Implementing medical cleaning standards into other settings starts with training and certification for staff. Just as healthcare cleaning professionals follow specific procedures and personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements to minimize exposure to bloodborne pathogens and infectious materials, residential and commercial cleaning teams should also learn these techniques. Training helps cleaning personnel understand how to handle biohazard risks, properly dilute and apply disinfectants, and identify areas that require extra attention, such as restrooms, break rooms, lobbies, and shared equipment. These best practices not only reduce the spread of viruses like influenza or norovirus but also contribute to a healthier work and home environment.

Another key component of medical‑grade cleaning is the use of checklists and standardized procedures. In hospitals, cleaning staff follow detailed protocols for cleaning exam rooms, patient rooms, waiting areas, and medical equipment to ensure consistency and thoroughness. Residential and commercial cleaners can adopt similar checklists tailored to their specific spaces, ensuring that high‑touch points—like door handles, light switches, faucets, and elevator buttons—are disinfected regularly. This systematic approach reduces human error, ensures that no area is overlooked, and strengthens overall sanitation performance. For businesses seeking qualified cleaners with this level of expertise, the IJCSA Janitorial Services Directory provides access to certified professionals trained in advanced cleaning techniques suitable for both healthcare and general environments.

Beyond individual buildings, adopting medical cleaning practices contributes to public health protection at a larger scale. By reducing the transmission of harmful bacteria, germs, and viruses in homes, offices, schools, and retail spaces, communities experience fewer illnesses, lower absenteeism, and greater confidence in shared environments. Whether you are a homeowner looking to protect your family, a facility manager responsible for employee safety, or an organization aiming to create a healthier public space, integrating healthcare‑level sanitation practices into everyday cleaning routines elevates the standard of care. Certified cleaning professionals listed in industry directories—like the IJCSA Janitorial Services Directory—offer the training, tools, and processes necessary to make this shift successfully.

Cleaning employees and staff play a critical role in maintaining a safe and healthy environment, especially when it comes to preventing the spread of bloodborne pathogens. Bloodborne pathogens are microorganisms present in human blood that can cause serious diseases such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV. Employees who clean restrooms, handle trash, sanitize surfaces, or respond to spills may be exposed to blood or other potentially infectious materials. Knowing how these pathogens are transmitted helps staff recognize risks and take appropriate precautions, reducing the chance of accidental exposure and protecting both themselves and others in the facility.

Proper knowledge of bloodborne pathogens also empowers cleaning staff to follow correct safety procedures. This includes using personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, masks, and eye protection, as well as understanding proper hand hygiene and safe disposal of sharps and contaminated materials. Training ensures employees know what to do in the event of a spill involving blood or bodily fluids, including using approved disinfectants and following established cleanup protocols. When staff are well-informed, they are more confident in their roles and less likely to make mistakes that could lead to infection or injury.

Additionally, educating cleaning employees about bloodborne pathogens supports compliance with workplace safety regulations, such as OSHA standards, and promotes a culture of health and accountability. Employers who invest in training demonstrate concern for employee well-being and public safety, which can improve morale and reduce workplace incidents. Ultimately, knowledgeable cleaning staff help create a safer environment for everyone—employees, visitors, and the community—by minimizing health risks and ensuring cleanliness is handled responsibly and professionally.