Even when cleaning isn’t terrible, it can still fall short.
Many office and facility managers stick with the same vendor for years out of habit, not satisfaction. The issues show up slowly: inconsistent results, missed details, vague excuses, or too many follow-ups from your end Don’t ignore the signs it’s time to switch cleaning services.
You know the feeling. The trash is empty, but the restroom smells off. The work is fine, until someone quits or a sub shows up who doesn’t know the building. The cleaner responds when asked, but only after you’ve said something twice.
The problem is, none of this is bad enough to sound the alarm. So you keep managing it. And over time, it becomes your normal.
In this post, we’ll break down the five clearest signs it’s time to switch cleaning services. If your vendor checks even two of these boxes, it might be time to make a change.
Sign 1: You’re Still Managing the Cleaners
One of the clearest signs it’s time to switch cleaning services is when you or your staff are still managing the cleaners directly. If you find yourself pointing out missed tasks, reminding them what needs to be done, or double-checking their work regularly, the service is not delivering as it should.
A professional cleaning company takes full responsibility for the cleanliness of your facility. They notice when something is missed and fix it proactively. They do not wait for you to report a problem before acting. When the cleaner needs constant direction or follow-up, it creates extra work for you or your team.
Managing a cleaning vendor should not be part of your daily routine. If you are spending more time supervising the cleaners than focusing on your core responsibilities, that is a strong indication it is time to switch cleaning services. Your vendor should be an extension of your team, handling cleaning efficiently without the need for oversight.
Sign 2: Inconsistency Is the Only Consistent Thing
If the quality of cleaning changes from visit to visit, you are dealing with a major problem. One day the floors are spotless and shiny, but the next they are dirty or sticky. One restroom may be cleaned thoroughly while another is neglected. Sometimes the cleaning crew is on time and professional, and other times they arrive late or seem rushed.
This inconsistency is frustrating because it means you cannot rely on your cleaning vendor to maintain a standard level of cleanliness. A trustworthy cleaning company has systems in place to deliver consistent results every time. They train their team well, assign the same people regularly when possible, and have quality checks to catch problems early.
When inconsistency becomes the norm, it is a clear sign it is time to switch cleaning services. You deserve a cleaner who shows up every visit ready to deliver reliable, high-quality results that keep your facility looking its best.
Sign 3: Requests Get Ignored or Forgotten
Another important sign it’s time to switch cleaning services is when your requests or concerns go unanswered or forgotten. You might ask the vendor to pay extra attention to certain areas or add a task to the routine, but the change never happens. You bring up problems multiple times only to hear excuses or no response.
Good communication is critical to a successful cleaning partnership. Your vendor should have a system to track your requests and ensure they are completed. They should be transparent and quick to respond to any issues you raise.
If you feel like you are speaking into a void and nothing improves, that’s one of many signs it’s time to switch cleaning services. You need a vendor who listens, follows through, and treats your feedback as a priority.
Sign 4: Complaints Are Growing Even If They Are Subtle
When you start hearing more complaints about cleanliness from staff or visitors, it’s one of the strongest signs it’s time to switch cleaning services. These complaints might not be loud or frequent at first. Instead, they come as quiet comments in the hallway, casual mentions during meetings, or subtle frustrations from your team.
Maybe the break room smells off, or the entryway has dust that never seems to go away. Perhaps guests notice smudges on glass or sticky spots on floors. Over time, these small issues add up and affect how people perceive your facility.
Ignoring these subtle complaints can damage your reputation and employee morale. If your current cleaning company is not addressing these concerns quickly and effectively, it shows they are not committed to meeting your standards. When you notice growing dissatisfaction, it is a clear sign it’s time to switch cleaning services.
Sign 5: You Are Paying Premium But Getting Average Results
Paying a high price does not always guarantee excellent cleaning. If you feel like your cleaning service costs more than it should but the quality does not reflect that investment, it is time to question your vendor.
Some cleaning companies add extra fees or charge for “optional” tasks that should be standard. Others might expand the scope without clear communication, leading to unexpected charges on your bill. You might find yourself unsure about what services are included and what is extra.
True value means getting reliable, thorough cleaning that protects your facility and creates a healthy environment. If you are paying premium rates but only getting average results, this is one of the signs it’s time to switch cleaning services.
Conclusion: If These Signs Sound Familiar, It’s Time to Switch Cleaning Services
Recognizing these signs is the first step toward improving your facility’s cleanliness and overall environment. If you see yourself nodding along to even two or three of these points, it means your current cleaning service is falling short.
Staying with a vendor that does not meet your expectations costs you more than just money. It affects staff morale, the experience of your visitors, and the long-term condition of your building.
Remember, the goal is to find a cleaning company that is reliable, responsive, and consistently delivers quality results. If you notice these signs it’s time to switch cleaning services, you are not alone. Many businesses face the same challenges and find a better solution by making a change.
If you want help evaluating your current vendor or are ready to see what better looks like, schedule a walkthrough with The Dutch Cleaners today. Let us show you how a professional cleaning service should perform.
Additional Resources to Help You Choose the Right Cleaning Service
- Get a Free Cleaning Quote
Take the first step toward a better cleaning experience by requesting a no-obligation quote tailored to your facility’s needs. Because knowing your options empowers you to make the best choice. - Your Next Cleaning Vendor: A Pre-Hire Checklist
Download this free checklist to spot red flags and ask the right questions before hiring a new cleaning company. Use it because hiring the wrong vendor again wastes time and money. - Walkthrough Prep Sheet
Prepare for your vendor walkthrough with this handy tool that helps you track observations and questions. It’s useful because it ensures you get the most from every inspection.
