A full clean isn’t just a quick once-over with a mop and spray bottle — it’s a deep reset for your workspace, designed to eliminate dirt, bacteria, and clutter from every corner. In most Australian offices, a full clean means going beyond daily tidying to restore that “first-day freshness” across floors, surfaces, and shared areas.

What does a full clean actually include?

A full clean is a comprehensive process that typically covers three layers of cleaning: surface, deep, and detail.

Surface cleaning
This is your visible touch-up — wiping benches, desks, and tables; emptying bins; and vacuuming floors. It’s what keeps the space looking respectable day to day.

Deep cleaning
This involves disinfecting high-touch areas like doorknobs, keyboards, and light switches, plus scrubbing bathrooms, kitchenettes, and carpets. It’s about hygiene and reducing illness-causing bacteria — a must in shared workplaces.

Detail cleaning
Here’s where things get meticulous: cleaning vents, window sills, skirting boards, blinds, and even the tops of cabinets. Detail cleaning often includes behind-furniture dusting, deep floor polishing, and upholstery spot treatment — the stuff that’s easy to miss but makes a big visual difference.

How often should an office get a full clean?

For most offices, professional cleaners recommend scheduling a full clean every 4–6 weeks, depending on staff numbers, foot traffic, and whether food is consumed onsite.
High-traffic areas like reception or kitchen zones might need it more often. Skipping these deep cleans can lead to grime build-up, odours, and even pest problems over time — not exactly the first impression you want.

Why does a full clean matter for productivity?

Clean spaces improve focus and morale. Research from the Australian Government’s Safe Work initiative highlights that tidy, hygienic environments lower sick days and raise employee satisfaction.
It’s the behavioural science principle of priming in action — when people see a clean, well-kept space, they subconsciously match that order in their work habits.

What areas are usually included in an office full clean?

Here’s a typical checklist used by professional cleaning services:

• Workstations: wipe desks, sanitise phones and keyboards

• Floors: vacuum, mop, polish, or shampoo depending on surface type

• Bathrooms: disinfect toilets, sinks, mirrors, and refill supplies

• Kitchen areas: clean appliances, benches, and fridges

• Windows and glass: streak-free cleaning inside and out

• Air vents and ceilings: remove cobwebs and dust buildup

• Rubbish disposal: remove all waste and sanitise bins

Some teams also include scent neutralising or eco-friendly cleaning products — a small touch that boosts perceived air quality and overall ambience.

Is a “spring clean” the same thing?

Not exactly. A spring clean is typically an annual deep clean, while a full clean can happen multiple times a year. Think of it like a regular service versus a full mechanical overhaul. The former keeps things running smoothly; the latter resets the system entirely.

The psychology behind a full clean

Behavioural experts like Adam Ferrier and Bri Williams would call this a form of environmental design — shaping surroundings to drive better behaviours.
A spotless office subtly signals competence, care, and consistency — three trust cues that influence how clients and staff perceive your brand. It’s Cialdini’s principle of Authority at play: cleanliness projects professionalism before you even say a word.

Common mistakes people make when booking a full clean

• Assuming all cleaners include the same services — some exclude high windows or upholstery.

• Skipping a walkthrough — the best cleaners inspect first, so they can price fairly and avoid surprises.

• Not scheduling after-hours access — deep cleans need uninterrupted time to dry and settle.

• Neglecting follow-up maintenance — without weekly upkeep, that “just cleaned” feeling fades fast.

FAQ

How long does a full office clean take?
Anywhere from 3 to 8 hours, depending on size and level of build-up.

Do you need to clear desks first?
Ideally yes. Removing clutter ensures cleaners can sanitise every surface properly.

Are eco-friendly cleaning options available?
Absolutely. Many Australian cleaners now use low-tox, biodegradable products — better for staff health and the planet.

A full clean isn’t just about appearances — it’s a behavioural cue that says, “We care.”
And if you’re maintaining a workplace that deserves that fresh-start feeling, you’ll want expert-level office cleaning to keep it that way.