If you're in charge of janitorial services at your workplace, there's a good chance you're also overseeing a variety of other responsibilities. While every company’s setup is different, it’s common for managers like you to be under ongoing pressure to reduce spending. Tight budgets are a reality, and every dollar counts.

That said, cutting costs in janitorial services can be tricky. Reduce too much, and cleanliness might suffer. The real challenge is finding ways to lower expenses without compromising the quality of the service. As the old saying goes in construction: “You can get it cheap, fast, or good—pick any two.” That same idea often applies to commercial cleaning.

Still, there are smart ways to cut back on janitorial spending while keeping standards high. Here are two practical ideas.

1. Rework Your Cleaning Schedule

Labor is by far the largest piece of most janitorial budgets—usually around 60%. If you’re aiming to save, reducing labor hours is the place to start. One of the best ways to do that is by adjusting how often and how thoroughly different areas are cleaned.

In many buildings, cleaning crews follow a set routine that was decided long ago and hasn’t been reviewed in years. For example, low-traffic offices or storage areas might be cleaned daily when a once- or twice-weekly schedule would be perfectly fine.

Take time to review your building’s usage patterns. What spaces are used the most? Which areas need daily upkeep, and which could get by with less frequent attention? A trusted janitorial provider can walk the building with you and recommend changes that make cleaning more efficient—saving time and money without lowering cleanliness.

2. Schedule Extra Services Separately

Another area where businesses often overspend is in "project work"—services like window washing, floor waxing, or carpet deep cleans. These tasks are important, but many cleaning contracts include them on a recurring basis, baked into the monthly rate. The problem? These services may not be needed that often, and sometimes they’re skipped entirely—but you’re still paying for them.

Instead of bundling project work into your regular invoice, consider paying for it as needed. Set clear prices for each service ahead of time, then schedule them only when they’re truly necessary. This approach gives you flexibility and can significantly cut annual costs, especially if usage is lower than expected.

In Summary

By updating your cleaning schedule to match actual needs and switching to as-needed billing for special services, you can make your janitorial program more cost-effective without cutting corners. A good cleaning partner will help you strike the right balance between budget and quality—and that’s a win for everyone involved.