How Does Commercial Cleaning Differ from Industrial Cleaning?

November 3, 2021

As a business owner, it is important to understand the distinction between commercial cleaning and industrial cleaning in order to make an informed decision on the type of service you want for your establishment. 


While both of these involve professional cleaners, the services offered by each type are quite different, so knowing the difference may help you make a more informed decision about which cleaning service your business requires.


Before understanding the differences between each of these services, let us first understand what each of these services is:

Commercial Cleaning

What it is

Commercial cleaning is the process of removing dirt, dust, and other stains from any type of commercial space. A professional cleaner may use various methods to clean a space including chemicals or physical tools such as vacuums.

The goal is to create an environment that meets safety standards for all types of people who visit the space on a regular basis.


Commercial cleaners are typically contracted by building managers or property owners in order to maintain their facilities so they can be safe for visitors at all times. A lot goes into keeping a building clean to ensure it is safe for people to live in or work in.


Commercial cleaning is the practice of maintaining a clean and sanitary environment, and commercial cleaners are responsible for removing dirt or other substances that can be damaging to the property's fixtures and furnishings.


Where it is done


Commercial cleaning typically refers to the routine cleaning of offices, stores, restaurants, gyms, hospitals, etc. 


Commercial cleaners work in many different environments including office buildings where they take care of rubbish removal and vacuum carpets; food service facilities such as restaurants or sporting arenas where they clean tables after guests finish their meals; retail outlets like grocery stores or clothing shops where they sweep floors or mop entryways; schools where they wipe down desks between classes; daycares where they keep rooms tidy all day long, and so on.


Materials used


The most common types of commercial cleaners are soap-based detergents, disinfectants, degreasers, polishes/waxes/buffers for hard surfaces. Commercial cleaning constitutes the usage of non-toxic materials for cleaning purposes.

Industrial cleaning

What it is

Industrial cleaning deals with the cleaning of more hazardous waste and hence needs to be done by professionals only.


Industrial cleaning is done to protect surfaces from damage or contamination by substances such as oil, fats, dust, waterborne compounds, and chemicals. Industrial cleaning uses chemicals and other substances to remove dirt, grime, oil, or other unwanted substances from an item.


Through industrial cleaning, you can reduce your company's risk of food poisoning or other illness outbreaks by following proper procedures when handling food items, kitchenware, and more.


Industrial cleaners often use chemicals when disinfecting or deodorizing an area, so it is important for them to know what they are handling before working on any given project.


There are also other related services such as pest control, allergen cleans, high level cleaning,  waste management, removing of mold and grounds maintenance in industrial cleaning. All these tasks can be handled by a professional industrial cleaner who has the right equipment and skillset to get your property back in shape quickly and efficiently.


Where it is done


Industrial cleaning covers large-scale areas like factories, manufacturing facilities, warehouses, power plants, and other places where the environment could be hazardous if not properly cleaned.

Industrial cleaning is also done in pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities where medical supplies are made, and hence need to be maintained to the highest standards.


Materials used


Industrial cleaning requires heavy-duty solvents such as acetone, ester, and alcohol. And to break down even tougher stains sulphuric and hydrochloric acid is needed. Since the chemicals used in industrial cleaning are strong and toxic, the cleaners are required to wear biohazard suits when dealing with hazardous waste.


The key difference between commercial and industrial cleaning is that commercial cleaners will focus on areas where people spend most of their time while industrial cleaners will focus on more difficult tasks like heavy-duty scrubbing, foaming and pressure washing.


Commercial cleaners are often tasked with removing dirt and grime inside public spaces such as restaurants, retail stores, hotels, schools, etc. Industrial cleaners are typically hired for more intense cleaning jobs like deep-cleaning machinery, high levels or flooring that has been heavily soiled by chemicals.

Based on your needs, and the kind of company you have, you can now know which cleaner will help keep your facility clean and comply with the safety standard required for your business.


Whichever type of cleaning you may require, there is a one-stop destination for all your cleaning needs. Hygiene Group is a commercial and industrial cleaning company that has been in business for over 35 years, providing professional cleaning services to our customers.


We are committed to meeting your needs by understanding what you need to be cleaned and when it should be done based on your schedule. If you are looking for an experienced cleaner who will provide quality care while respecting your property, get in touch with us today!


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