The 3 Types of Janitorial Companies You Should Avoid

Choosing the right janitorial service is critical for maintaining a clean, safe, and professional environment in your facility. But just like any partnership, choosing the wrong provider can lead to headaches and disappointment. So how can you spot a bad match before signing a contract? What warning signs should you look for? And what kinds of companies are better left off your list?

Below are three types of janitorial companies you’ll want to avoid. Steering clear of these can save you from wasted time, money, and frustration.

The "No Experience with Your Facility Type" Company

One of the biggest mistakes is hiring a cleaning company that lacks experience with facilities like yours. Each type of building has unique requirements—medical facilities, manufacturing plants, retail spaces, and office buildings all need different approaches to cleaning. A company unfamiliar with the specific demands of your facility may miss important details, fail to meet industry standards, or struggle with the workload. Choosing an inexperienced contractor could result in subpar service and unnecessary stress.

The "Non-Local" Janitorial Company

In the competitive cleaning industry, some companies expand into new areas to increase their business. While growth is great for reputable providers, problems arise when a company lacks a local team to support its operations. Local management is key to addressing issues, responding quickly to concerns, and tailoring services to your facility’s needs. A cleaning provider that operates remotely without a strong local presence often falls short when it comes to communication, accountability, and consistency.

The "We’ll Clean Anything" Company

Imagine hiring a contractor to build your home. You’re given two choices: a seasoned custom home builder or a jack-of-all-trades handyman who’s built one or two homes but takes on any type of job. Unless you’re willing to sacrifice quality for cost, you’d probably choose the specialist.

The same principle applies when hiring a janitorial service. Some companies focus on specific types of work, such as small businesses, project-based cleaning, or large commercial buildings. Others claim they can do it all but lack the expertise to deliver consistent quality. Choosing a generalist who tries to be everything to everyone may lead to disappointing results for your facility.

The Key to Success: The Right Fit

Selecting the best cleaning company is all about finding the right fit. Do they have proven experience with facilities like yours? Is there local management available to address your needs promptly? Do they specialize in the type of service you’re looking for? When the answers to these questions are "yes," you’ve found a strong candidate to manage your facility.

By being careful during the selection process and avoiding these common pitfalls, you can establish a productive and long-lasting relationship with a cleaning provider who understands your needs and delivers exceptional results.