Have you ever wondered how some businesses maintain such impeccable cleanliness standards

consistently? The secret lies in well-defined cleaning standard operating procedures (SOPs). They are the
backbone of any successful cleaning operation, ensuring that every task, from sanitizing high-touch
surfaces to deep-cleaning carpets, is executed perfectly. More than just a list of instructions, cleaning
SOPs outline the specific materials and methods for each cleaning task.

Let’s find out how cleaning SOPs help maintain high cleanliness and hygiene standards, useful examples,
and free checklists.

What are Cleaning Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)?

Cleaning Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are comprehensive, written instructions designed to
standardize cleaning tasks and ensure they are performed consistently and effectively. These procedures
provide step-by-step guidelines that outline the necessary tools, materials, safety protocols, and
specific steps required to complete cleaning tasks. SOPs are essential for maintaining cleanliness,
hygiene, and safety across various environments, from healthcare facilities to food establishments, office
buildings, and manufacturing plants.

What should cleaning SOPs contain?

When developing cleaning SOPs, it’s essential to include several key sections to ensure comprehensive,
clear, and effective guidelines. Begin by detailing what is to be cleaned, and providing a clear description
of the areas or equipment that require cleaning. This helps in maintaining consistency and ensuring that
no area is overlooked.

Specify how the cleaning should be performed, outlining the methods and tools to be used, which
ensures that the cleaning process is efficient and meets the required standards. This includes specifying
the cleaning materials and chemicals, as well as any equipment necessary for the task.

Additionally, define how often cleaning tasks should be performed. This could range from daily to
weekly, or even less frequently, depending on the environment and the usage of the space or
equipment. Establishing a routine helps in maintaining a consistent level of cleanliness and hygiene.

The primary role of cleaning SOPs is to provide a structured and consistent approach to cleaning,
ensuring all personnel follow the same protocols to achieve high standards of cleanliness. These
procedures help minimize errors, improve efficiency, and ensure compliance with industry regulations.
The purpose of SOPs is to enhance the quality and consistency of cleaning services, thereby protecting
the health and safety of individuals within the facility.

How to Develop Cleaning Standard Operating Procedures?

Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating cleaning SOPs that are clear, practical, and efficient.

1. Understand the Purpose and Scope

Start by defining the purpose and scope of your cleaning SOPs. This step ensures that everyone
understands what areas and tasks the SOPs cover. Clearly outlining the scope helps set expectations and
ensures that all cleaning activities align with your organization’s standards and goals.
2. Identify Key Cleaning Processes

List all the cleaning tasks that need to be documented. Break down each process into specific actions,
such as dusting, mopping, and sanitizing. This detailed breakdown helps ensure no aspect of cleaning is
overlooked and that every task is thoroughly addressed.

3. Create a Blueprint

Develop a detailed outline of each cleaning process, including the order of tasks, frequency, and time
required. A well-structured blueprint serves as a foundation for creating detailed instructions and helps
in organizing the workflow efficiently.

4. Involve Stakeholders

Engage your cleaning staff and supervisors in the development process. Their input is valuable as they
can provide practical insights and suggest improvements. Involving stakeholders promotes buy-in and
adherence to the SOPs, ensuring they are followed correctly.

GoAudits allows you to set up workflows and rules for report distribution, approvals, tasks, and
reminders. This ensures that the right people are involved at the right time. With automatic notifications,
you can send emails to approvers and task owners, providing immediate access to audit reports. It
enables you to define your organizational hierarchy, ensuring correct escalations and reporting, making
the entire process efficient and well-organized.

5. Choose an Appropriate Format and Structure

Select a format that is easy to follow, such as digital cleaning checklists. Use clear headings, bullet points,
and numbered lists to organize the information. Consistency in formatting makes the SOPs user-friendly
and ensures that the procedures are easily accessible and understandable.

6. Detail the Equipment and Supplies Needed

Specify all the equipment and supplies required for each cleaning task. Include details such as types of
cleaning agents, tools, and protective gear. Providing a comprehensive list ensures that staff have
everything they need to perform their duties effectively.

7. Implement Visual Aids

Incorporate visual aids like diagrams, flowcharts, and photos to enhance understanding. Visual aids can
illustrate proper techniques and highlight critical steps, making the SOPs more engaging and easier to
follow.

8. Safety and Compliance

Ensure your cleaning SOPs address safety and compliance. Outline procedures for handling hazardous
materials, using personal protective equipment (PPE), and adhering to health and safety regulations. It
helps prevent accidents and ensures compliance with legal requirements.

9. Training and Implementation

Develop a training program to educate staff on the new SOPs. Provide hands-on training sessions and
resources to ensure everyone understands and can execute the procedures correctly. Continuous
training reinforces the importance of following the SOPs and ensures consistent application.

10. Test and Refine

Test the SOPs in real-world scenarios to identify any gaps or areas for improvement. Gather feedback
from staff and make necessary adjustments. Refining the SOPs based on practical experience ensures
they are effective and realistic.

11. Documentation and Accessibility

Ensure that the cleaning SOPs are well-documented and easily accessible to all staff. Store them in a
central location, both digitally and physically, so employees can refer to them as needed. Clear
documentation and accessibility support consistent adherence to the procedures.

Streamline your cleaning processes with GoAudits

– The GoAudits janitorial inspection app enables you to conduct thorough audits and inspections using
customizable checklists and instantly generate comprehensive reports.
– Identify issues and areas for improvement.
– Review and update cleaning and sanitation SOPs with GoAudits’ smart dashboards. It can help you
track compliance and performance trends over time.

12. Review and Update Regularly

Regularly review and update the cleaning SOPs to keep them relevant. Changes in cleaning techniques,
new equipment, or updated regulations may necessitate revisions. Periodic reviews ensure that the SOPs
remain current and effective.

If you’re overwhelmed with the steps involved, you can use SOP software to simplify the process of
creating and implementing cleaning SOPs. Let’s find out how.