The workplace is a breeding ground for illnesses. Bacteria and germs surround every surface we touch, from computers to desks to doorknobs to phones. Up to 10 million bacteria can be found on the average desk. The average chair, keyboard and computer mouse carry approximately 21,000 germs per square inch. Have a multi-story office? Even elevator buttons are home to millions of germs. Believe it or not, the average work desk contains up to 400 times more germs than office toilets.

These germs are making your employees sick. A survey by the National Health Interview Survey showed that the flu is responsible for 75 million days of work absences and 200 million days of diminished productivity per year. Unfortunately, the flu tends to linger. Viruses associated with the flu can stay on surfaces for up to two days. In addition, approximately 33 percent of people go to work when they’re sick.

Fortunately, janitorial and cleaning services can help eliminate germs and keep you and your employees healthy. These companies do all the dirty wok for you so you and your employees can focusing on furthering the business and making money.

Commercial cleaning services are more affordable than you think. Emptying the trash and light cleaning – such as dusting and vacuuming – starts at $20 per visit for small offices. If your office is large and has multiple restrooms, the price goes up from there. You can schedule daily or weekly cleanings, depending on office size and usage.

It may be scary to hire a stranger to clean your office. There is the threat of possible theft, especially if the cleaning crew comes in after hours. Plus, having computers and other electronics equipment out in the open can prove to be tempting.

Rest assured that reputable commercial cleaning services do thorough background checks before hiring staff. They also provide orientations and training to ensure staff understand the company’s rules as well as how to use any equipment.

If you want your office clean and germ-free, then hire janitorial and cleaning services to do the job. Let them focus on what they do best, while you and your staff do what you do best. Everyone stays productive and healthy while the office is clean. It’s a win-win situation!