Green Cleaning in Commercial Spaces: Is It Worth the Switch?

If you manage a commercial building, office, or facility, you’ve probably heard the buzz about green cleaning. Maybe a tenant asked about it. Maybe your team’s concerned about harsh chemicals. Or maybe you just want to do your part for the environment—but you’re wondering, is it really worth it?

And if you're like many of the facility managers and business owners I've spoken with over the years in commercial cleaning, you're likely weighing the pros and cons of different cleaning approaches. We've had the privilege of assisting many in transitioning to eco-conscious methods, and one thing has become clear: this isn't just a fleeting trend. It's a move towards smarter, healthier operations.

Let's explore the driving forces behind this shift, what truly defines 'green cleaning,' and help you determine if it aligns with your needs.

What Is Green Cleaning?

At its core, green cleaning refers to the use of environmentally friendly products and sustainable cleaning practices that minimize harm to people, pets, and the planet. It goes beyond just swapping out a few cleaning agents—it’s about adopting a more holistic, health-conscious approach to facility maintenance.

Key elements include:

• Using non-toxic, biodegradable, and low-VOC (volatile organic compound) cleaning products

• Reducing water and energy consumption during cleaning processes

• Using reusable or recyclable materials (like microfiber cloths instead of paper towels)

• Implementing efficient waste reduction strategies

  
  

Green cleaning programs often align with standards from organizations like Green Seal, EPA Safer Choice, and LEED for Buildings.

Why Businesses Are Making the Switch

1. Healthier Indoor Environments

According to the EPA, indoor air is often 2–5 times more polluted than outdoor air—largely due to harsh cleaning chemicals. Green cleaning reduces chemical exposure for your staff, tenants, and cleaning teams, which can help prevent respiratory issues, headaches, skin irritation, and allergic reactions.

2. Environmental Responsibility

Green cleaning reduces the release of toxic substances into the air and water supply. Many products are formulated to break down quickly without leaving harmful residues. If your business has a corporate sustainability policy—or hopes to qualify for LEED or WELL Building certification—green cleaning is a no-brainer.

3. Improved Brand Image & Tenant Satisfaction

Today’s employees and customers care about sustainability. A recent Nielsen survey found that 73% of millennials are willing to pay more for sustainable services, and businesses are taking notice. Green cleaning is a simple, effective way to demonstrate your company’s values.

4. Long-Term Cost Efficiency

While eco-friendly products may have slightly higher upfront costs, they’re often more concentrated and longer-lasting. Combined with reusable supplies, green cleaning methods can lead to savings in the long run.

Comparing Green Cleaning vs. Traditional Cleaning

Feature	Green Cleaning	Traditional Cleaning
Product Ingredients	Plant-based, non-toxic	Synthetic, may contain harsh chemicals
Air Quality Impact	Improves indoor air quality	May worsen indoor air due to VOCs
Waste Generation	Reduced (reusable tools)	Higher (disposable materials)
Cost Over Time	Stable/Lower with efficiency gains	May fluctuate with product use
Environmental Impact	Low (biodegradable, non-toxic runoff)	Higher (chemical runoff, energy use)

How Green Cleaning Supports LEED and WELL Certification

For buildings pursuing certifications like LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) or the WELL Building Standard, green cleaning isn’t just a bonus—it’s a requirement.

LEED Certification

LEED encourages sustainable operations across all aspects of a building’s maintenance, and green cleaning contributes directly to points in several categories, including:

• LEED O+M (Operations and Maintenance): Facilities can earn credits for using environmentally friendly cleaning products and sustainable practices.

• Purchasing Policy: LEED awards points when a certain percentage of annual purchases (by cost) meet environmental criteria.

• Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ): Green cleaning helps improve air quality, reduce VOCs, and protect occupant health, contributing to this critical credit category.

  
  

In fact, using certified green products from organizations like Green Seal or EcoLogo is one of the easiest ways to meet LEED requirements.

WELL Building Standard

The WELL Building Standard places a strong emphasis on how indoor environments impact human health. Green cleaning practices directly support several WELL features under:

• Air Concept: Reducing VOCs and chemical exposure helps improve air quality.

• Materials Concept: Encourages the use of low-hazard cleaning materials.

• Mind & Comfort Concepts: Cleaner, healthier environments contribute to employee well-being, focus, and overall satisfaction.

  
  

Quick Stat: According to the U.S. Green Building Council, buildings that achieve LEED certification see a 25% improvement in occupant satisfaction and a 20% reduction in maintenance costs.

If your organization is aiming for certification—or already certified—green cleaning is a critical, often overlooked part of maintaining compliance and demonstrating long-term commitment to sustainability.

How to Transition to Green Cleaning

Thinking about switching? Here’s how to do it without disrupting your operations or overwhelming your staff:

1. Audit your current cleaning program

Start by taking inventory of what you’re currently using—cleaning chemicals, tools, consumables, and waste management processes. Identify products with high VOCs, single-use plastics, or harsh chemical formulations. This gives you a clear picture of where to begin and what needs to change.

2. Start small

You don’t have to go green overnight. Begin by introducing green alternatives in low-risk, high-traffic areas like front lobbies, shared breakrooms, or restrooms. This allows your team to get comfortable with the new products and procedures while gradually expanding adoption.

3. Train your cleaning staff

Training is key. Even the best green products won’t deliver results if they’re used incorrectly. Provide proper instruction on dilution, labeling, application methods, and the use of reusable tools like microfiber cloths. A well-trained team is safer, more efficient, and more confident in the transition.

4. Work with a certified vendor

Partnering with a commercial cleaning company experienced in green cleaning—like Jan-Ex—can make all the difference. We bring vetted product knowledge, staff training, and compliance expertise to help you hit the ground running. Plus, we can guide you in aligning with LEED, WELL, or other sustainability standards.

Schedule a Free Walkthrough with Jan-Ex

At Jan-Ex, we’ve been helping New England businesses implement green cleaning solutions that don’t sacrifice performance. Whether you’re ready to go 100% eco or want to ease into it gradually, we’ll build a custom plan that works for your space.

Schedule a Free Walkthrough or email cstanza@jan-ex.com for immediate assistance.

Works Cited

1. Environmental Protection Agency. (2023). Indoor Air Quality and Cleaning Products.

2. Green Seal. (2024). Certified Cleaning Standards.

3. Nielsen. (2023). Global Sustainability Study.

4. U.S. Green Building Council. (2024). LEED Building Operations and Maintenance.