The Importance of Green Cleaning in Janitorial Services

Green cleaning isn't just safer—it's smarter, delivering measurable health, safety, and sustainability benefits across every square foot of your facility.

Overview of Green Cleaning in Janitorial Services

Green cleaning refers to the use of cleaning methods and products that minimize adverse effects on human health and the environment. It prioritizes non-toxic, biodegradable, and low-VOC (volatile organic compound) chemicals, sustainable equipment, and resource-efficient practices. Unlike conventional cleaning, which often relies on harsh chemicals and single-use materials, green cleaning aims to reduce environmental load while improving workplace safety and indoor air quality.

The adoption of green cleaning in janitorial services is driven by several factors: increased awareness of environmental sustainability, growing evidence of health risks from traditional cleaning agents, and the need to comply with emerging regulations and certifications. In commercial, educational, healthcare, and government facilities, green cleaning is increasingly seen as a strategic component of operational excellence, not just a compliance initiative.

By implementing green cleaning protocols, janitorial operations contribute to long-term environmental goals, improve conditions for occupants and workers, and support organizational values around safety, stewardship, and corporate responsibility.

 

Indoor Air Quality and Health Benefits

Green cleaning directly supports healthier indoor environments by limiting exposure to harmful airborne substances often released by traditional cleaning agents.

Health Risks from Conventional Cleaning Products

Common health issues linked to traditional janitorial products include:

• Respiratory irritation (asthma, wheezing, chronic cough)
• Skin sensitization (dermatitis, allergic reactions)
• Headaches and dizziness from VOC exposure
• Long-term risk of occupational illness among custodial staff

Key contributors to poor indoor air quality include:

• Ammonia-based glass cleaners
• Bleach and chlorine disinfectants
• Scented aerosol sprays
• Synthetic floor strippers and polishers

Green Cleaning Reduces These Risks

Green alternatives reduce or eliminate high-risk ingredients and improve air quality through:

• Low-VOC or VOC-free formulas
• Fragrance-free and non-aerosol products
• Microfiber cleaning systems to trap and remove allergens
• Hydrogen peroxide or citric acid disinfectants as substitutes for bleach

Documented Health Improvements in Green Facilities

Research from peer-reviewed studies has shown:

• Lower asthma incidence in schools using certified green products
• Reduced chemical sensitivity symptoms among building occupants
• Improved staff retention and job satisfaction due to safer working conditions
• Fewer absentee days linked to cleaner air and healthier environments

Practical Implementation Tips

To optimize indoor air quality through green cleaning:

• Select third-party certified products (e.g., Green Seal®, EcoLogo™)
• Replace cotton string mops with microfiber systems
• Eliminate use of aerosolized products and synthetic fragrances
• Use color-coded tools to reduce cross-contamination
• Ensure proper ventilation during and after cleaning procedures

Green cleaning is not just a compliance measure—it is a strategic upgrade to building health and occupant wellbeing.

 

Occupational Safety and Ergonomic Gains

Green cleaning enhances workplace safety by reducing janitors’ exposure to toxic substances and by improving the ergonomics of routine tasks. Traditional cleaning methods often rely on corrosive chemicals, poorly designed tools, and repetitive motion, which together increase the risk of both chemical and musculoskeletal injuries.

Common Hazards in Traditional Janitorial Work

Chemical Risks

• Inhalation of fumes from ammonia, bleach, and solvent-based products
• Skin burns or rashes from high-pH degreasers and disinfectants
• Chronic exposure to endocrine-disrupting compounds (EDCs)

Ergonomic Risks

• Repetitive strain from mopping, vacuuming, and scrubbing
• Poor posture and forceful exertion due to heavy, outdated tools
• Slips, trips, and falls linked to excessive liquid use or greasy residues

Green Cleaning Improves Safety Through:

Safer Chemicals

• Use of neutral pH, biodegradable cleaning agents
• Non-reactive disinfectants like hydrogen peroxide or botanical compounds
• Elimination of products requiring gloves, goggles, or respirators

Ergonomic Tools and Practices

• Lightweight microfiber mops and flat mop systems
• Telescoping handles to minimize bending and overreaching
• Pre-portioned, color-coded chemical systems to reduce mixing errors

Documented Outcomes from Green Cleaning Transitions

• Up to 55% reduction in operator fatigue and labor hours reported in industrial settings
• Fewer injury claims filed by custodial teams post-transition to ergonomic equipment
• Improved compliance with OSHA guidelines and reduced need for personal protective equipment (PPE)

Recommendations for Facility Managers

• Audit current equipment for ergonomic deficiencies
• Replace bucket-based mopping with flat mop systems and microfiber heads
• Train custodial staff in neutral body mechanics and safe chemical handling
• Select products with clear labeling, usage instructions, and minimal PPE requirements

Integrating green cleaning isn't just an environmental decision—it’s a direct investment in janitorial workforce health, safety, and productivity.

 

Organizational Sustainability and Performance Improvements

Green cleaning contributes to more than just health and safety—it drives measurable gains in operational efficiency, cost control, and organizational sustainability. By reducing chemical consumption, conserving resources, and optimizing cleaning workflows, facilities can align janitorial operations with broader ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) goals.

Operational Inefficiencies in Conventional Cleaning

• Overuse of water and chemicals due to manual dilution
• High disposal costs for hazardous chemical waste
• Frequent equipment breakdowns from outdated tools
• Excess time spent on low-efficiency tasks (e.g., double-cleaning surfaces)

Performance Gains from Green Cleaning Programs

Resource Efficiency

• Pre-measured chemical dispensing systems eliminate overuse
• Microfiber tools reduce water consumption by up to 95%
• Concentrated formulas decrease packaging waste and shipping volume

Cost and Time Savings

• Streamlined workflows reduce cleaning cycle times
• Fewer sick days among staff due to reduced exposure
• Lower liability from chemical injury claims or environmental violations

Sustainability Alignment

• Compliance with green-building certifications (LEED, WELL, GBI)
• Demonstrated commitment to carbon and waste reduction goals
• Enhanced public image and stakeholder confidence

Performance Metrics to Track

To evaluate the impact of green cleaning on organizational performance, monitor:

• Monthly usage of cleaning agents, water, and disposable supplies
• Worker compensation claims related to chemical exposure or injury
• Time required per cleaning task (pre- and post-transition)
• Waste output and recycling rates for cleaning-related materials
• Customer and occupant satisfaction surveys related to cleanliness

Implementation Insight:
Organizations that treat green cleaning as a strategic investment—not just a compliance effort—see faster ROI, improved operational resilience, and stronger employee engagement.

 

 

Policy Alignment and Industry Standards

Integrating green cleaning into janitorial services supports compliance with industry standards, building certifications, and government regulations. It also enhances transparency and accountability in procurement, training, and operational practices.

Gaps in Conventional Compliance

• Most standard cleaning protocols lack guidance on chemical toxicity, IAQ impact, or sustainability.
• Building operations often treat cleaning as an afterthought in green certification frameworks.
• Vendors are frequently selected without third-party environmental or safety validation.

How Green Cleaning Supports Industry and Regulatory Alignment

Building Certification Programs

• LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) awards points for sustainable purchasing, low-emitting materials, and green cleaning protocols.
• WELL Building Standard emphasizes cleaning's role in air quality, surface sanitation, and occupant wellness.
• Green Building Index (GBI) includes operations and maintenance credits that cover green cleaning strategies.

Government and Institutional Guidelines

• Federal and state procurement policies increasingly require the use of certified, environmentally preferable cleaning products in schools, hospitals, and public buildings.
• Agencies like the U.S. EPA promote safer product choices through the Safer Choice and Design for the Environment (DfE) labeling systems.

Third-Party Certification Systems

• Green Seal®, EcoLogo®, and Safer Choice validate that cleaning products meet strict environmental and health criteria.
• Certification programs cover product formulation, packaging, toxicity, biodegradability, and human exposure risk.

Procurement and Operational Best Practices

• Require third-party certification for all chemicals and disinfectants used
• Maintain documentation of all safety data sheets (SDS) and product certifications
• Include green cleaning criteria in service-level agreements (SLAs) and vendor contracts
• Align janitorial performance evaluations with sustainability metrics

Strategic Outcome:
Adopting green cleaning within a policy-aligned framework ensures legal compliance, supports building certification, and reflects a commitment to evidence-based environmental stewardship.

 

Implementation Best Practices

Successful adoption of green cleaning in janitorial operations requires more than product substitution. It demands structured planning, workforce training, procurement controls, and ongoing evaluation. These best practices ensure consistent performance, reduce resistance to change, and maximize long-term benefits.

Staff Engagement and Training

• Onboarding and Orientation
  • Educate staff on the purpose, health benefits, and environmental impact of green cleaning.
  • Emphasize changes in tools, chemicals, and procedures.
• Hands-on Training
  • Demonstrate the correct use of microfiber systems, dilution equipment, and chemical-free alternatives.
  • Use checklists and SOPs (standard operating procedures) to reinforce protocols.
• Feedback and Participation
  • Encourage staff to report challenges, suggest improvements, and participate in product evaluations.
  • Incorporate regular refresher training into quarterly schedules.

Leadership and Operational Oversight

• Designate a Green Cleaning Coordinator
  • Responsible for compliance, training, and communication across teams.
• Establish Clear Roles and Accountability
  • Define responsibilities for procurement, implementation, and monitoring.
  • Align KPIs with health, safety, and sustainability goals.
• Integrate with Facility Management Systems
  • Use software or tracking tools to log chemical usage, training completions, and IAQ indicators.

Procurement and Equipment Optimization

• Use Third-Party Certified Products Only
  • Ensure all chemicals and paper products meet recognized environmental standards (e.g., Green Seal, EcoLogo, Safer Choice).
  • Avoid bulk purchasing of uncertified legacy products to prevent reintroduction.
• Upgrade to Ergonomic and Efficient Equipment
  • Replace string mops with flat microfiber systems.
  • Invest in low-noise, HEPA-filter vacuums and mobile laundering systems.
• Standardize Color-Coding Systems
  • Prevent cross-contamination by assigning specific tools to defined zones (restrooms, kitchens, general areas).

Monitoring and Continuous Improvement

• Audit Cleaning Protocols
  • Conduct monthly inspections for compliance with green cleaning procedures.
  • Validate usage rates against procurement data to detect overuse or misuse.
• Gather Occupant Feedback
  • Track occupant satisfaction related to cleanliness, odor, and perceived air quality.
  • Use insights to guide adjustments in scheduling or product selection.
• Update Procedures as Standards Evolve
  • Stay informed on new green cleaning certifications, chemical bans, or IAQ thresholds.
  • Revise procurement lists and SOPs annually to reflect updated guidance.

Execution Insight:
Green cleaning succeeds when approached as a system—people, process, and product—working together under clear direction and continual improvement.

 

Real-World Case Examples

Numerous organizations across education, government, healthcare, and industry have successfully implemented green cleaning programs. These real-world examples highlight the practical challenges, measurable benefits, and key enablers of sustainable cleaning transitions.

Public School District: Alameda Unified School District (California, USA)

Context

• Transitioned to green cleaning with support from public health agencies and sustainability programs.

Key Actions

• Replaced bleach and ammonia-based products with Green Seal®-certified alternatives.
• Introduced microfiber mop systems and mobile laundering units.
• Trained custodial staff through hands-on instruction and pilot site evaluations.

Outcomes

• Reduced janitor resistance through engagement and feedback.
• Improved indoor air quality and staff safety.
• Established replicable models for other districts.

Government Agency: King County Hazardous Waste Program (Washington, USA)

Context

• Partnered with the EPA to evaluate chemical hazards in janitorial supplies.

Key Actions

• Implemented third-party product review and labeling systems.
• Replaced high-risk surfactants with safer, validated alternatives.
• Trained procurement teams and facility managers on product safety.

Outcomes

• Reduced janitorial chemical exposure risk.
• Streamlined procurement with pre-approved product lists.
• Enhanced regulatory compliance and worker protection.

Pharmaceutical Industry: Janssen Pharmaceuticals (Johnson & Johnson)

Context

• Revamped facility cleaning operations using lean, clean, and green principles.

Key Actions

• Eliminated solvent-based degreasers and replaced with low-toxicity agents.
• Introduced ergonomic tools and redesigned workflows for cleaning personnel.
• Engaged EHS (environment, health, safety) teams in process development.

Outcomes

• Reduced solvent usage by 73%.
• Cut labor time by 55% and eliminated need for hearing protection.
• Increased cleaning precision and employee satisfaction.

Local Government: Yarra City Council (Melbourne, Australia)

Context

• Implemented a council-wide green cleaning initiative in public buildings.

Key Actions

• Developed long-term sustainability plans with contractor partnerships.
• Transitioned all cleaning contracts to include environmental performance clauses.
• Conducted regular reviews and progress reports to stakeholders.

Outcomes

• Lowered chemical usage across multiple departments.
• Improved transparency and accountability in vendor performance.
• Faced early-stage resistance, managed through training and engagement.

Healthcare Sector: Sri Lankan Public Hospitals

Context

• Assessed barriers and enablers to green cleaning adoption in resource-constrained environments.

Key Actions

• Conducted interviews with facility managers and frontline cleaning staff.
• Identified gaps in awareness, training, and government support.
• Developed initial frameworks for training and procurement reforms.

Outcomes

• Highlighted need for top-down policy support and capacity-building.
• Established baseline understanding for national green cleaning initiatives.
• Improved staff readiness to adopt safer, more sustainable products.

Insight for Implementation
These case studies underscore the importance of staff involvement, leadership alignment, product vetting, and clear metrics in building effective and sustainable green cleaning programs. Each setting presents unique challenges—but also transferable lessons.

 

Practical Recommendations for Janitorial Programs

Adopting green cleaning practices requires a structured approach that aligns with both day-to-day operations and long-term sustainability goals. These recommendations offer a roadmap for implementation, performance monitoring, and continuous improvement in janitorial environments.

Start with a Baseline Assessment

• Inventory existing products and equipment
  • Identify chemicals with high toxicity or VOC content
  • Audit cleaning tools for ergonomic risks and inefficiency
• Review current practices
  • Evaluate dilution methods, waste generation, and storage procedures
  • Note areas with frequent complaints or health-related concerns

Develop a Green Cleaning Plan

• Define goals and success criteria
  • Indoor air quality improvement
  • Chemical use reduction
  • Worker safety enhancements
• Select certified products and equipment
  • Choose third-party verified cleaning agents (Green Seal®, Safer Choice)
  • Opt for microfiber systems, HEPA vacuums, and non-aerosol dispensers
• Establish standard operating procedures (SOPs)
  • Include dilution instructions, color-coding protocols, and disposal guidelines
  • Ensure consistent procedures across all shifts and teams

Train and Empower Cleaning Staff

• Conduct onboarding sessions for new tools and chemicals
  • Emphasize safety, technique, and the environmental rationale for each change
• Provide ongoing education
  • Schedule quarterly refresher trainings
  • Share feedback and performance metrics to reinforce progress

Integrate Monitoring and Reporting

• Use tracking tools to monitor:
  • Chemical usage and inventory turnover
  • Water consumption and energy use related to cleaning
  • Safety incidents and absenteeism trends
• Collect feedback from building occupants
  • Use surveys or comment forms to assess perceived cleanliness, odors, and health impacts
• Adjust protocols as needed
  • Revise SOPs based on data and frontline input
  • Stay updated on new product certifications and regulatory changes

Align with Broader Sustainability Initiatives

• Coordinate with facility managers and sustainability officers
  • Integrate green cleaning into LEED, WELL, or GBI building operations strategies
• Report performance in ESG or corporate responsibility metrics
  • Highlight chemical reductions, labor savings, and health outcomes
• Communicate success to stakeholders
  • Use case data to build support from executives, clients, and the public

Execution Insight:
Green cleaning is most effective when treated as a measurable, adaptable system. Programs that start with clear goals, educate their workforce, and continuously evaluate results create safer, healthier, and more sustainable environments.

 

FAQ: Green Cleaning in Janitorial Services – What Facility Managers Need to Know

Expert-verified answers for informed decision-making in sustainable cleaning operations

What qualifies a cleaning product as "green"?
Green cleaning products are formulated to minimize harm to human health and the environment. They typically contain low or no volatile organic compounds (VOCs), are biodegradable, non-toxic, and are certified by third-party programs such as Green Seal®, EcoLogo®, or Safer Choice. These certifications verify product safety, efficacy, and environmental impact based on scientific criteria.

How does green cleaning improve indoor air quality?
Conventional cleaning products often emit VOCs and other irritants that contribute to poor indoor air quality. Green alternatives use low-emission compounds, reducing exposure to airborne pollutants that can cause headaches, asthma, or fatigue. This is especially critical in high-occupancy environments like offices, schools, and healthcare facilities.

Is green cleaning more expensive than traditional cleaning?
While some green-certified products may have higher upfront costs, overall expenses are often lower due to concentrated formulations, reduced chemical usage, and improved labor efficiency. Facilities also benefit from fewer health-related absences, lower liability risks, and reduced regulatory exposure.

What certifications should facility managers look for?
Third-party certifications provide evidence of product credibility. Look for labels such as:

• Green Seal® – comprehensive performance and environmental criteria
• EcoLogo® (UL Environment) – multi-attribute sustainability standards
• EPA Safer Choice – verified ingredient safety and transparency

These certifications reflect rigorous testing and offer assurance of environmental and health safety.

How can green cleaning reduce worker injuries?
Green cleaning emphasizes non-toxic products and ergonomic tools, which reduces chemical burns, respiratory issues, and repetitive strain injuries. Microfiber systems, lightweight equipment, and neutral pH solutions support safer daily operations and help facilities comply with OSHA safety requirements.

Can green cleaning help a building earn LEED or WELL certification?
Yes. Both LEED and WELL building certifications award credits for using green cleaning products, sustainable purchasing practices, and maintaining healthy indoor environments. Implementing a green cleaning policy can contribute to certification under their operations and maintenance categories.

What are the most important steps to begin a green cleaning program?
Start with a baseline audit of current products and equipment. Replace high-risk chemicals with third-party certified alternatives. Train staff on new procedures, standardize best practices, and monitor performance metrics like chemical usage and occupant feedback. Engage stakeholders early to ensure support and accountability.

Why is green cleaning considered an essential component of ESG and sustainability efforts?
Green cleaning supports multiple ESG priorities by improving workplace health (social), reducing environmental impact (environmental), and demonstrating responsible procurement and risk management (governance). It signals organizational commitment to safe, ethical, and transparent operations.

Who verifies that a green cleaning program meets industry standards?
Verification can come from internal audits, third-party assessments, or certification bodies associated with building standards (e.g., LEED, WELL). Facilities may also partner with sustainability consultants or use compliance checklists from recognized organizations like the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) or ISSA.

Is there evidence that green cleaning improves employee satisfaction?
Yes. Studies report that occupants in green-cleaned facilities experience fewer complaints about air quality and cleaning odors, while janitorial staff report improved job satisfaction due to safer work environments and better tools. Cleanliness perception is directly linked to employee comfort, productivity, and retention.

 

References

1. Lehman, D. (2003). Clean and green. Implementing environmentally friendly cleaning practices.. Health facilities management, 16 3, 48-51. https://v2020eresource.org/content/files/Resources.pdf
2. Zainol, N., Mohammad, I., Baba, M., Woon, N., & Nazri, A. (2015). Green cleaning: an essential aspect of Malaysian green buildings. , 75, 65-70. https://doi.org/10.11113/JT.V75.5274
3. Hanson, M., & Vangeel, M. (2014). Chemical cleaning re-invented: clean, lean and green.. Work, 49 3, 411-6 . https://doi.org/10.3233/WOR-141871
4. Zainol, N., Ramli, N., Mohammad, I., Sukereman, A., & Sulaiman, M. (2023). Assessing measurement model of green cleaning components for green buildings. Journal of Facilities Management. https://doi.org/10.1108/jfm-11-2021-0147
5. Osagie, A. (2018). Critical success factors for sustainable green cleaning services and organisational performance. https://eprints.utm.my/83985/1/AtamamenFidelisOsagiePFAB2018.pdf
6. Xu, N. (2012). Lean, Mean, Green Cleaning Machine: One School District's Quest for Sustainability. https://nature.berkeley.edu/classes/es196/projects/2012final/XuN_2012.pdf
7. Okumura, K. (2009). The use of third-party review to reduce health and environmental hazards from surfactants and cleaning products in the janitorial industry.. Journal of environmental health, 71 9, 20-3. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19452830/
8. Muscato, L., & Kennon, T. (2009). School Nurses Champion Cleaning for Health. , 24, 148 - 149. https://doi.org/10.1177/1942602X09339200
9. Ramli, N., Zawawi, E., Ariff, N., Kadir, S., & Zainol, N. (2019). Green Cleaning: A Study on Benefits for Malaysian School Building. MATEC Web of Conferences. https://doi.org/10.1051/MATECCONF/201926601008
10. Rathnasiri, A., & Shridharran, P. (2019). Green Cleaning for the Sri Lankan Healthcare Sector: Critical Support Factors and Barriers. Cities People Places : An International Journal on Urban Environments. https://doi.org/10.4038/cpp.v4i1.41
11. Hanson, M., & Vangeel, M. (2014). Chemical cleaning re-invented: clean, lean and green.. Work, 49 3, 411-6 . https://doi.org/10.3233/WOR-141871
12. Xu, N. (2012). Lean, Mean, Green Cleaning Machine: One School District's Quest for Sustainability.
13. Okumura, K. (2009). The use of third-party review to reduce health and environmental hazards from surfactants and cleaning products in the janitorial industry.. Journal of environmental health, 71 9, 20-3
14. Gardner, B. (2012). Positive outcomes from a council's green cleaning project.

 

Conclusion

Green cleaning is no longer a niche initiative—it is a critical standard for modern janitorial operations committed to health, safety, and sustainability. Peer-reviewed studies and real-world implementations consistently show that replacing toxic chemicals with certified alternatives, upgrading equipment, and training staff in safer methods produces measurable benefits across multiple domains.

These benefits include:

• Improved indoor air quality for building occupants
• Reduced chemical exposure and ergonomic injuries among cleaning staff
• Enhanced operational efficiency and cost savings
• Stronger alignment with building certifications and environmental policies

Facilities that adopt a structured, evidence-based approach to green cleaning not only comply with emerging regulations but also demonstrate leadership in environmental responsibility and workforce well-being. As expectations for cleaner, healthier spaces continue to rise, green cleaning stands as a proven, practical strategy to meet those demands while protecting people and the planet.

If you would like more information regarding the effectiveness of high-performance infection prevention and control measures, or if you would like to schedule a free, no-obligation on-site assessment of your facility's custodial needs, contact us today for a free quote!

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