Choosing the Right Cleaning Service: What to Expect and What to Ask

If you’re responsible for managing an office, laboratory, or commercial facility, you already know how important cleanliness is to daily operations. A reliable cleaning service helps maintain hygiene, protects your staff, and keeps your space looking professional — but how do you know you’re choosing the right cleaning company?

At Octaclean, we’ve worked with clients across Cambridge, Essex, Hertfordshire, and Suffolk, providing professional and ISO 9001-accredited cleaning services. Over the years, we’ve seen what works, what doesn’t, and what every business should look for when hiring a cleaning provider.

Here’s some practical advice to help you make the best choice.

1. Look for ISO 9001 Accreditation

Always check whether a cleaning company operates under a recognised quality management system, such as ISO 9001. This certification means the company follows proven procedures for quality, safety, and consistency — not just promises.

At Octaclean, our ISO 9001 certification underpins everything we do, from laboratory cleaning to daily office cleans. It gives clients confidence that work is carried out to a documented, auditable standard.

2. Ask About Training and Competency

A professional cleaning service should be proud of its training programme. Ask how their staff are trained and whether their skills are regularly assessed.

For example, Octaclean invests in structured training and competency sign-off systems, ensuring every operative is capable and confident — whether working in a research lab or a busy office environment.

When cleaners understand your environment, they’re not just cleaning — they’re protecting your people, your equipment, and your reputation.

3. Expect Clear Communication and Flexibility

Good communication is key to a successful partnership. A quality cleaning company should respond quickly, adapt to your schedule, and check in regularly to make sure everything is meeting expectations.

At Octaclean, we tailor our cleaning schedules to suit your working hours and keep a clear line of communication with site managers. Whether you’re running a high-security lab or a shared office space in Cambridge, flexibility matters.

4. Check for Health, Safety, and Compliance Standards

Ask how the company manages COSHH regulations and other safety procedures. You should feel confident that chemicals, equipment, and waste are handled correctly.

With Octaclean’s ISO 9001 management system, every process — from material selection to site audits — is designed to meet industry best practice and protect both our teams and yours.

5. Look for Measurable Quality Control

Reputable cleaning providers measure their performance. Ask how they track quality, handle feedback, and maintain consistency.

Octaclean conducts regular inspections and client reviews to ensure standards remain high across all cleaning services in Cambridge and the East of England.

6. Consider Values and Ethics

Beyond cleaning itself, a company’s values matter. Look for one that treats its staff fairly, communicates transparently, and honours commitments.

Octaclean is proud to uphold the Fair Payment Code and promote inclusivity within our workforce — because ethical business practices lead to better service and longer-lasting partnerships.

Final Advice: Choose a Partner, Not Just a Provider

When choosing cleaning services in Cambridge, think long-term. You’re not just hiring someone to clean; you’re trusting a team to maintain your environment, support your staff, and uphold your brand image.

By focusing on quality, training, communication, and certification, you’ll find a cleaning partner who adds real value to your business.

If you’re ready to raise your standards, Octaclean offers ISO 9001-certified cleaning services across Cambridge, Essex, Hertfordshire, and Suffolk, including office, commercial, and specialist laboratory cleaning.

Get in touch with Octaclean today to discuss your cleaning requirements and discover how we can support your workplace.

Trusted cleaning services in Cambridge.

admin@octaclean.co.uk

Bishop Stortford – 01376 800710

Cambridge – 01223 398710