Spring cleaning gets a lot of attention but cleaning your warehouse and preparing for winter can save you time and money this season. Warehousing space often gets overlooked when deep cleaning takes place, so schedule a fall top-to-bottom warehouse clean as part of your fall maintenance checklist.

The layout

Before you schedule your cleaning, take the time to assess your warehouse space for possible improvement in layout. Maximizing the use of your space can help keep the warehouse tidy and organized, as well as simplify your regular and deep cleaning processes. This is a great time to look for old and worn signage too, as part of your fall check. Look to identify opportunities to improve cleanliness, aesthetics, and efficiency in managing inventory, storage, and labour.

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The tasks

Once the space is clear and debris has been disposed of, sweep and vacuum to get rid of all remaining dust and dirt. Ensure that staff have the proper PPE to protect themselves from flying dust and dirt particles. Follow this by mopping, sanitizing high-touch areas, wiping down empty shelves, and using dryers if you need to speed along the process. Throw out any garbage and clean out garbage and recycling receptacles.

Take this time to look at your equipment to see whether there are repairs or maintenance items that need taking care of. Check whether vacuums need new filters, mops heads need replacing, or whether there are upgrades that might make the job easier on your team.

The equipment

On top of the regular cleaning equipment you use, consider investing in ergonomic equipment that fits easily between the racks, taking up less time and often doing a better job. While equipment upgrades can be expensive, tools like automated scrubbers can save on labour, decrease the risk of injury, and get the job done in less time.

Plan an annual fall warehouse clean to tidy up, increase efficiency and keep people safe throughout the winter season.