As a fairly new business owner, I recognize that exceptional customer service drives ongoing client loyalty. It is important to our clients and the growth of our business that we continue our education and certification. It is our job to notice the little things. To be detail-oriented, we must provide quality services.

Custodial services are essential to our clients’ health and well-being. We ensure a clean, healthy work environment and use environmentally friendly products so residential clients can enjoy a fresh home while caring for the planet. Our commercial clients can rest easy knowing we use products that disinfect. Our clinical clients understand we will use the most up-to-date EPA-registered disinfectants.

It is important to provide quality customer service. That is exactly what you will receive with the International Janitorial Cleaning Services Association. Each member is dedicated to providing their clients with quality results through continuous education and certification. These members are independently owned businesses working together towards a common goal, providing each of their clients with quality jobs done right. I hope you don’t take my word for it, but experience it for yourself.

Bloodborne pathogen awareness is one of the most important areas of workplace safety, especially for cleaning employees and staff. These workers are often on the front lines of exposure to potentially hazardous materials, including blood and other bodily fluids that may carry infectious diseases such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV. Without the proper knowledge, training, and protective measures, employees could unknowingly put themselves and others at risk. Understanding the dangers associated with bloodborne pathogens creates a culture of safety and ensures that every staff member takes the proper steps to protect themselves in the event of exposure.

In addition to protecting personal health, training in bloodborne pathogen safety also safeguards the workplace as a whole. Cleaning staff often handle sharp objects, trash, restrooms, and medical or accident-related cleanup areas, all of which can present contamination hazards. By following OSHA standards and adopting universal precautions—treating all bodily fluids as potentially infectious—employees reduce the risk of spreading harmful pathogens to coworkers, clients, or the public. Proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), safe disposal of contaminated materials, and thorough disinfection protocols keep the environment safe and compliant with health regulations.

Beyond compliance and risk prevention, bloodborne pathogen training also instills confidence and professionalism in cleaning staff. When employees know how to respond calmly and correctly to potential exposure incidents, they demonstrate competence and responsibility to both management and clients. This preparedness builds trust in the company’s services while giving employees the peace of mind that their safety and well-being are valued. Ultimately, awareness and education about bloodborne pathogens are not only legal and ethical obligations—they are essential investments in employee safety, workplace integrity, and public health.

Bloodborne pathogens—such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV—are microorganisms carried in human blood and certain bodily fluids that can cause serious and lifelong illness. Even small amounts of contaminated material can pose a risk, and these pathogens often survive on surfaces longer than most people realize. Because they are invisible to the eye, it’s easy to underestimate the danger during cleanup.

Cleaning areas contaminated with blood or bodily fluids requires more than everyday household products. Professional cleaners are trained in proper disinfection procedures, safe handling of biohazards, and correct disposal methods that meet health and safety regulations. They use hospital-grade disinfectants, protective equipment, and protocols designed to eliminate pathogens at the source.

Hiring trained professionals ensures that a space is fully sanitized and safe for anyone who may enter afterward. It protects homeowners, employees, and the public from accidental exposure and prevents cross-contamination that could cause illness. Proper biohazard cleaning isn’t just about tidiness—it’s about protecting health, meeting legal standards, and giving peace of mind.

Germs and viruses are far more common in the workplace than many people realize, especially in high-traffic and shared environments like offices, hospitals, clinics, and medical facilities. Surfaces such as doorknobs, keyboards, telephones, elevator buttons, break room appliances, and bathroom fixtures can harbor bacteria and viruses for hours—or even days—if not properly cleaned and disinfected. In healthcare environments, the risk is even more pronounced. Bloodborne pathogens, respiratory droplets, and contaminated surfaces contribute to the spread of illnesses like influenza, COVID-19, MRSA, and norovirus. Without strict healthcare cleaning protocols, these pathogens can compromise the health and safety of both patients and staff.

Proper medical facility cleaning, performed by trained and IJCSA-certified professionals, is critical to minimizing the spread of these infectious agents. Regular disinfecting of high-touch surfaces, proper handling of biohazard materials, and thorough sanitation of patient rooms and common areas are key components of healthcare cleaning. Professional cleaners must understand chemical hazards and use EPA-approved disinfectants that are proven to kill dangerous microorganisms. Training in bloodborne pathogen safety and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is essential to ensure that cleaning staff are protected while creating a safer environment for everyone in the facility.

Employers and healthcare administrators looking to safeguard their environments should consider hiring certified professionals listed in the IJCSA Janitorial Services Directory. These service providers specialize in healthcare cleaning, ensuring compliance with OSHA, CDC, and other regulatory bodies. By implementing a structured and effective cleaning routine with trained staff, the workplace becomes not only more sanitary, but also more productive and safer for all occupants. Germs and viruses may be invisible, but with the right cleaning program, their impact can be drastically reduced.

Great customer service in the janitorial and cleaning industry goes far beyond spotless floors and freshly sanitized workspaces—it’s about trust, reliability, communication, and professionalism. Clients rely on cleaning teams not only to maintain the health and appearance of their facilities, but also to be responsive, consistent, and attentive to their unique needs. Members of the International Janitorial Cleaning Services Association (IJCSA) embody this standard every day, combining industry-leading training with a genuine commitment to customer satisfaction. From prompt responses to service requests, to careful quality control, to courteous staff who take pride in their work, IJCSA members demonstrate what world-class customer service truly looks like.

If you’re searching for a cleaning partner who treats your business like their own, look no further than the IJCSA Business Directory, available at https://www.ijcsa.org. Here you’ll find a nationwide network of certified professionals who excel in eco-friendly cleaning, medical-grade sanitation, residential care, commercial facility maintenance, and more. Each member listed in the directory adheres to the highest industry standards, ensuring that every client receives dependable service backed by ethical practices and ongoing education. When you choose an IJCSA member, you’re choosing excellence, accountability, and a team dedicated to helping your facility shine—inside and out.

Clean Freaks is excited to announce that we are now officially IJCSA Master Green Cleaning Certified, proving our commitment to providing safe, sustainable, and environmentally responsible cleaning services. Through the IJCSA Master Green Cleaning Certification Program, we gained in-depth knowledge about the harmful effects of toxic cleaning chemicals and how they impact human health, indoor air quality, and the planet. The course taught us about proper green cleaning techniques, the benefits of using eco-friendly products, and how to reduce our carbon footprint while maintaining the highest standards of cleanliness. We also learned how small changes—such as switching to microfiber cloths, biodegradable cleaners, and energy-efficient equipment—can make a big difference for both our clients and the environment.

One of the most interesting aspects of the course was learning how green cleaning not only protects the environment but also improves health and productivity. Many traditional cleaning chemicals release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that contribute to respiratory problems, allergies, and long-term health risks. By using certified green products and sustainable cleaning methods, Clean Freaks can now ensure safer air quality and healthier indoor spaces for our customers. The IJCSA also provided valuable resources on waste reduction, recycling, and the importance of using concentrated cleaning solutions to minimize plastic waste—helping us do our part to fight global issues like the Great Pacific Garbage Patch.

By implementing everything we learned from the IJCSA Master Green Cleaning course, Clean Freaks is not only protecting our planet but also saving money and operating more efficiently. Green cleaning methods reduce the need for harsh chemicals, lower equipment maintenance costs, and minimize waste disposal fees. Energy-efficient practices and water conservation techniques have further reduced our operating expenses while boosting sustainability. When you hire Clean Freaks, you’re supporting a company that genuinely cares about the environment, your health, and the future of our planet. Visit the IJCSA Green Cleaning Directory to learn more about certified green cleaning professionals like us—because together, we can make a cleaner, greener world!

Imagine opening your front door and breathing in air that smells like lemon, not chemicals. Floors that shine without harsh fumes, glass that sparkles without streaks of ammonia, and a home that feels clean and safe for kids, pets, and sensitive lungs. That’s the promise of green cleaning—using environmentally friendly, non-toxic, low-VOC methods that protect both your family and the planet.

But not every “eco” label means what it claims. Some companies practice greenwashing—using words like “natural” while still relying on harsh petrochemicals, artificial fragrances, and unnecessary disinfectants. That’s where IJCSA Green Cleaning Members stand apart. IJCSA professionals focus on using natural cleaning products like baking soda, white vinegar, lemon juice, washing soda, borax, hydrogen peroxide, and plant-based soaps, paired with tools like microfiber cloths that clean effectively with less chemical use. They understand the difference between biodegradable and recyclable, and choose products that are safer for waterways, indoor air quality, and long-term health.

When you hire an IJCSA Green Cleaning Member, you’re choosing a service that actively works to reduce exposure to unnecessary toxins in your home—avoiding ingredients linked to irritation or worse, such as strong synthetic solvents, harsh chlorine bleach, or unnecessary fragrances. A thoughtful green cleaning program can mean fewer irritants in the air, less residue on surfaces, and a healthier environment overall. That’s especially important for families with allergies, asthma, kids, or immune-sensitive individuals.

If you’re ready for your home to feel fresh, bright, and truly eco-friendly—not just “scented like a lemon”—you can find a verified green cleaning professional in your area through the IJCSA Green Cleaning Service Directory. Visit
https://www.ijcsa.org/Green-Cleaning-Services
to connect with a cleaning company that understands green brands, toxic ingredients, VOCs, natural alternatives, and the real meaning of environmentally friendly cleaning.

Let the magic return to your world—one green clean at a time.

Choosing the right cleaning service shouldn’t feel overwhelming especially when the health of your family, employees, and environment is at stake. That’s why we turned to an IJCSA (International Janitorial Cleaning Services Association) Member is one of the smartest decisions you can make. IJCSA Members are trained, certified, and committed to providing dependable cleaning solutions that prioritize both cleanliness and sustainability. With professionals who understand the importance of indoor air quality, safe products, and responsible cleaning practices, you can feel confident knowing your business is in the hands of experts who put your well-being first.

When you’re searching for a green cleaning service, IJCSA Members stand out for their dedication to eco-friendly methods and industry-approved green certifications. These companies use environmentally preferred products, energy-efficient equipment, and proven processes designed to reduce chemical exposure and support a healthier environment. Whether you need residential cleaning, commercial janitorial work, post-construction cleanup, or specialized services, IJCSA Members offer tailored green solutions that deliver exceptional results without compromising safety. Their commitment to ongoing education means they stay updated on the latest innovations in green cleaning, ensuring your space is not only spotless, but also responsibly maintained.

By choosing an IJCSA Member, you’re choosing more than just a cleaning service you're choosing reliability, professionalism, and peace of mind. You’re supporting businesses that care about sustainable practices, consistent quality, and long-term environmental responsibility. Visit the IJCSA Member Directory to find a trusted green cleaning provider near you, and experience the difference that true industry-leading service can make. 

International Janitorial Cleaning Services Association - Green Cleaning Services

Hiring a cleaning professional isn't just about having a tidy home; it's about bringing in someone who understands health, hygiene, and safety and the science behind proper cleaning. The IJCSA Residential Cleaning Specialist RCS Certification separates the trained knowledgeable cleaners from "anyone with a mop." IJCSA-certified professionals are taught how chemicals actually work, how surfaces react, and how cleaning methods protect the home and the people inside. When you hire someone with RCS training, you're hiring a cleaner who treats your home like a specialized environment, not a guessing game.

One major advantage of this is the science-based way of disinfecting and sanitizing, especially during cold and flu season. RCS-trained cleaners study how long viruses survive on different surfaces, the correct "dwell time" disinfectants need to actually kill bacteria, and why certain cleaners work better on porous versus non-porous materials. They also learn the chemistry behind dangerous reactions-like why bleach must never be mixed with acids or ammonia, and how improper bleach use can damage lungs, eyes, and even fabrics and surfaces. This kind of knowledge directly translates into a safer, healthier home, especially for families with kids, the elderly, or anyone with asthma or allergies.

Another benefit is that IJCSA-certified cleaners are trained to handle chemical safety, PPE, and Safety Data Sheets-all things most untrained cleaners have never even looked at. They know how to read SDS sheets, what PPE to use with different chemicals, and how to handle eye or skin exposure in an emergency. That means when they're cleaning your bathroom, disinfecting your kitchen, or dealing with mold or urine odor with enzyme cleaners, they're doing it with the correct gloves, techniques, ventilation, and safety precautions. They also understand how to use products like enzymes, steam, surfactants, and degreasers properly-based on temperature, pH, and material compatibility-which results in a better clean and extends the life of surfaces in your home.

This certification also places a strong focus on professional ethics, customer privacy, and responsible conduct within the private residences of the client. These certified cleaners learn to never discuss the valuables in a customer's home; never give out your address or schedule to outsiders; and to consider everything found in the home-even loose change-to be the legal property of the homeowner. They learn respectful habits, such as the making of beds with hospital corners, properly handling linens, straightening the décor after dusting, and using techniques such as the three-cloth system to prevent cross-contamination between bathrooms, kitchens, and living quarters. These standards ensure the home is not only cleaned well but treated with integrity.

Finally, hiring an IJCSA RCS-certified professional means hiring someone who brings skill, structure, and consistency to every cleaning task-from cleaning a refrigerator properly to understanding how to groom carpets for a "clean for show" finish, to using the right microfiber textures for the job. They know how to reduce water in toilet bowls using a plunger before cleaning, how to use enzyme cleaners to break down urine crystals at the molecular level, and how to avoid chemical residue in areas like refrigerators or children’s rooms. RCS-certified cleaners use cleaning science and professional technique to deliver predictable, high-quality results that protect your home, your belongings, and your family’s health. When you hire an IJCSA RCS-Certified Cleaner, you're not just getting somebody who knows how to clean-you're getting someone who understands why things must be cleaned a certain way, and how to do it safely, scientifically, and professionally. This certification turns cleaning into a true skilled trade, giving homeowners peace of mind that the job is being done correctly, ethically, and with a level of care that only trained professionals can provide.

  Understanding bloodborne pathogens (BBPs) is essential for employees, especially those working in healthcare, emergency services, and various other industries where there is a risk of exposure to blood and other potentially infectious materials. Bloodborne pathogens, such as HIV, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C, can cause serious health issues if transmitted. Therefore, employees must be educated about these risks, enabling them to recognize potential hazards and take appropriate precautions. Knowledge about BBPs not only protects the health of individual employees but also contributes to a safer work environment overall.

  Training and education on bloodborne pathogens empower employees to implement proper safety protocols, such as the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and safe handling procedures. Understanding the modes of transmission and the importance of hygiene practices, such as handwashing and proper disposal of sharps, can significantly reduce the risk of infection. Additionally, awareness of these pathogens fosters a culture of safety within the workplace, where employees feel responsible for both their health and the health of their colleagues. Regular training and updates are crucial to ensure that knowledge remains current and that staff are prepared to respond effectively to potential exposure incidents.

  Furthermore, organizations have a legal and ethical obligation to protect their employees from known hazards, which includes providing training on bloodborne pathogens. Compliance with regulations, such as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Bloodborne Pathogens Standard, is essential for maintaining workplace safety and avoiding legal repercussions. By ensuring that staff are well-informed about BBPs, organizations not only safeguard employees' health but also enhance overall productivity and morale. A well-trained workforce can respond more effectively to emergencies, leading to quicker resolution of incidents and reduced downtime, ultimately benefiting the entire organization. In summary, awareness and understanding of bloodborne pathogens are vital for ensuring a safe and healthy work environment.