The Optimization of Commercial Cleaning: The Seven Step Cleaning Method

At Full Circle Professional Cleaning Services, efficiency isn’t a buzzword — it’s a blueprint. In our continuing series, The Optimization of Commercial Cleaning, we’re spotlighting the systems that keep our work consistent, efficient, and results-driven.

In our first post, we explored the 3 Towel Method, a color-coded approach to preventing cross-contamination and improving surface quality. Now, we’ll expand that foundation with the Seven Step Cleaning Method — our structured order of operations for completing every job site with precision.

What Is the Seven Step Cleaning Method?

The Seven Step Cleaning Method is the standardized sequence we follow to maximize efficiency, minimize backtracking, and ensure total coverage of every space we service.

We adapt our approach based on whether staff are present or no staff are present at the time of cleaning — but the principle remains the same: work smart, stay consistent, and clean with purpose.

When No Staff Are Present

When a facility is empty, our team has full access to all areas, allowing for deep cleaning and full rotation of all tasks. We use three cloths from the 3 Towel Method — Red (Restrooms), Green (General Surfaces), and Blue (Glass & Mirrors) — throughout each phase.

Step 1: Trash

Replace liners as needed, especially when food or drink are present. Check for wall splatter behind cans and wipe with the Green towel and all-purpose cleaner if needed. Always place large trash bags on hard surfaces only (never carpet) to prevent leaks.

Step 2: Dust/Wipe

Use a feather duster to remove larger particles or crumbs. Follow by wiping all surfaces with a light mist of all-purpose cleaner and the Green towel. (Detailed dusting of furnishings is completed at least once per week.)

Step 3: Bathroom

Clean the inside of toilets with bowl cleaner, then use the Red towel and all-purpose cleaner for exterior surfaces. Wipe sinks, faucets, fixtures, rails, and walls as needed with the Green towel, then use the Blue towel for mirrors and glass. Finish by dust mopping, sweeping, or vacuuming floors.

Step 4: Kitchen/Break Room

Using the Green towel, clean counters, sinks, microwaves, refrigerators, cabinet faces, trash cans, and tables. Sweep or vacuum floors to remove debris.

Step 5: Glass/Mirrors

Spot-clean all glass and mirrors facility-wide with glass cleaner and the Blue towel — including entry doors, desktops, mirrors, and coffee tables.

Step 6: Hard Surface Floors

Dust mop or sweep, then damp mop with floor cleaner, paying attention to edges and corners.

Step 7: Vacuum

Spot vacuum as needed, focusing on high-traffic areas and floor mats. Roll back chairs and check under desks and behind doors to ensure nothing is missed.

When Staff Are Present

When cleaning during business hours, the Seven Step Method shifts to minimize disruption while maintaining cleanliness and safety.

Step 1: Restock

Check and replenish consumables — hand soap, paper towels, toilet paper, hand sanitizer, etc. — to keep facilities functional throughout the day.

Step 2: Floors (Part 1)

Dust mop or sweep all available areas to remove loose debris before deeper cleaning begins.

Step 3: Glass/Mirrors

Spot-clean glass and mirrors with glass cleaner and the Blue towel, focusing on entry glass, mirrors, and desk surfaces.

Step 4: Kitchen/Break Room

Using the Green towel, clean surfaces, tables, and appliances while avoiding disruption to occupied areas.

Step 5: Bathroom

Scrub and sanitize toilets with the Red towel, wipe down sinks and fixtures with the Green towel, and polish mirrors with the Blue towel. Sweep or vacuum the floor to finish.

Step 6: Dust/Wipe

Feather dust and wipe general surfaces with the Green towel and all-purpose cleaner, taking care to avoid occupied desks or personal items.

Step 7: Floors (Part 2)

Spot vacuum or damp mop high-traffic areas, always checking under desks and behind doors. Focus on maintaining a clean appearance throughout the day.

Periodic Deep Cleaning Tasks

In addition to the daily Seven Step process, our teams rotate in Periodic Cleaning Tasks to maintain long-term facility health and presentation:

• High dusting of walls, ceilings, vents, and corners (removing cobwebs)

• Dusting blinds, baseboards, and furniture legs

• Disinfecting high-touch points with all-purpose cleaner or SaniWipes

• Polishing furniture with quality furniture polish

These tasks are essential to ensuring our clients’ spaces don’t just look clean — they stay clean.

Why It Works

The Seven Step Cleaning Method eliminates redundancy, reduces wasted motion, and keeps teams in sync — all while delivering consistent, professional results. Combined with the 3 Towel Method, it ensures the right tool, right order, and right result every time.

At Full Circle, we believe that optimization isn’t just about cleaning — it’s about crafting a process that delivers excellence at every level.

Full Circle Professional Cleaning Services

Veteran-Owned | Women-Owned | Minority-Owned

Providing service for those in need with integrity, precision, and care.