Holiday parties, extra visitors, and even office closures can leave workspaces in need of a little TLC before the new year begins. Studies show that employees who work in a clean and organized office can be up to 15 per cent more productive, so focusing on starting 2026 off on the right foot can benefit your business.
Reorganize your space
Often holiday décor stays up over the holidays, and leftover party food remains in the fridge as parties end and employees spend days away from the office. Start by taking down any remaining holiday décor, cleaning out the fridge, and rearranging any office furniture that has been moved. Check the entrance matting to ensure it is fresh and clean, replacing any wet or dirty mats. Once everything is in its rightful place, you can focus on cleaning and sanitizing the space.
Kitchens and restrooms
These two areas tend to receive the most traffic during the holiday season and are likely to require some extra attention. Look for any staining or damage, and once addressed, tackle the sanitization. Disinfect all surfaces, paying special attention to high-touch surfaces like door handles, appliances, and counter areas. Empty all garbage and recycling, disinfect the bins, and ensure that they are located in the best areas for use next year.
Purge and remove clutter
This is a great time to get rid of anything you no longer need and start 2026 uncluttered. Test and remove old or inoperative technology and dispose of it properly. If there are desks that are no longer being used regularly, clean and dust the areas so they stay clean when there’s little to no traffic. Go through your cleaning carts, equipment and supplies, too, reorganizing your storage area for maximum efficiency. Replace any tools where needed, throw away any expired products, and replenish inventory to ensure that everything is functional and up to date for the new year.
Deep cleaning
If you did not do an end-of-the-year deep clean, take the opportunity to clean the windows, upholstery, furniture, scrub the grout, move kitchen appliances, dust fixtures, and shampoo carpeted floors. These tasks can stir up dust, so try and complete these tasks at night or before employees return to the office.
Starting 2026 off on a successful note means keeping employees safe and healthy, while offering a space that promotes productivity in the new year and beyond.
