Commercial Cleaning Trends To Watch in 2025

Commercial cleaning is a rapidly developing industry, with new technologies, practices, and goals emerging year upon year. As we approach 2025, the focus is sharper than ever on innovation, sustainability, and efficiency. 

From smart technology and automation to eco-conscious practices and worker well-being, here’s what to watch in the year ahead:

1. Sustainability Takes Center Stage

Sustainability is a critical business requirement, especially as we head into 2025. Customers and stakeholders increasingly demand eco-conscious cleaning practices that reflect broader commitments to environmental stewardship. Leading innovations include:

• Biodegradable Cleaning Agents: These solutions are designed to break down naturally, preventing harmful chemicals from contaminating water systems. Companies are now sourcing ingredients derived from plants or minerals to ensure effective cleaning without ecological harm.
• Water Conservation Methods: Advanced tools, like low-flow power washers and water recycling systems, allow cleaning tasks to be completed with minimal water waste. Some organizations are integrating waterless cleaning systems, which rely on specialized formulations or steam cleaning for sanitation.
• Reusable Materials: Traditional single-use items like paper towels and disposable mop heads are being replaced by durable, washable materials, extending their lifecycle and reducing landfill contributions.

2. The Continuing Rise of Automation and Robotics 

Automation and robotics are reshaping the commercial cleaning landscape by introducing efficiency and precision to routine tasks. We’ve already seen this in the last few years, but are really expecting AI and IoT in cleaning to become mainstream in 2025 and beyond.

The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning has brought sophisticated tools into daily operations. Some noteworthy developments include:

• Autonomous Cleaning Robots: Devices such as robotic vacuums and scrubbers now incorporate AI to navigate spaces, detect obstacles, and adjust cleaning techniques based on surface types. These robots can operate outside traditional working hours, enhancing productivity and minimizing disruptions.
• IoT Connectivity: IoT-enabled cleaning equipment tracks usage and performance in real-time, allowing facility managers to preemptively address issues like depleted supplies or equipment maintenance needs.
• Human-Robot Collaboration (HRC): Instead of fully replacing human workers, robots are being used to supplement labor, handling repetitive or physically demanding tasks. This allows staff to focus on areas that require detailed attention, such as disinfecting high-touch surfaces.

The adoption of automation not only boosts operational efficiency but also addresses labor shortages and rising operational costs.

3. Smart Buildings Drive Data-Driven Cleaning

Smart buildings, equipped with IoT and automation systems, are becoming an important part of modern cleaning operations (although we may be biased…) These buildings use integrated technologies to optimize resource management and enhance cleanliness, such as:

• Occupancy Sensors: By tracking real-time activity in specific zones, these sensors prioritize cleaning in heavily used areas, ensuring resources are not wasted on rarely occupied spaces.
• Energy-Efficient Equipment: Advanced cleaning machines use less power and water, aligning with the overall energy conservation goals of smart infrastructure.
• Customizable Cleaning Schedules: Data analytics tools help adjust cleaning plans dynamically based on building usage patterns, ensuring efficiency and precision in maintaining cleanliness.

4. Emphasis on Employee Well-Being and Fair Practices

In 2025, the commercial cleaning industry is increasingly prioritizing employee well-being, recognizing that happy, motivated workers are key to delivering high-quality service. This shift is driven by a combination of regulatory pressures, customer demands, and industry best practices.

• Living Wages: Many cleaning providers are ensuring their workers are paid wages aligned with organizations like the Living Wage Foundation in the UK, promoting financial security and reducing staff turnover.
• Diverse and Inclusive Hiring: Companies are expanding their hiring practices to embrace diverse talent pools, fostering creativity, collaboration, and equitable opportunities within their workforce.
• Improved Working Conditions: New technologies and ergonomic equipment reduce the physical strain on cleaning staff, enabling them to work more comfortably and efficiently.

5. Waste Reduction Initiatives

The push to reduce waste has gained significant momentum in commercial cleaning, as businesses strive to meet sustainability goals and comply with new regulations. Here’s how:

• Recycling Programs: Cleaning providers are establishing on-site recycling systems that simplify waste segregation, enabling the responsible disposal of plastics, metals, and organic waste.
• Reusable Office Supplies: To combat single-use waste, cleaning teams encourage the use of refillable dispensers for soap, sanitizer, and cleaning agents. Office managers are also adopting policies to phase out disposable cups, plates, and cutlery.
• Food Waste Management: New food waste recycling requirements, such as DEFRA’s Simpler Recycling reforms in the UK, are prompting businesses to adopt composting solutions and work with providers who can manage organic waste responsibly.

6. Key Events and Innovations

The commercial cleaning industry in 2025 is marked by groundbreaking developments as well as opportunities for collaboration. The Cleaning Show 2025, scheduled for March in London, stands out as the year’s main event. With over 132 exhibitors and a larger venue, the show promises to highlight:

• Emerging Technologies: From AI-driven tools to sustainable cleaning solutions, attendees can explore the latest innovations shaping the industry.
• Thought Leadership: Industry leaders will discuss topics ranging from labor challenges to sustainability, offering actionable insights for businesses.
• Networking Opportunities: The expanded conference and exhibitor list create a platform for providers, suppliers, and businesses to collaborate and share best practices.

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About Noda

Noda is a data and analytics company on a mission to make every building smarter, more efficient, and more sustainable. Recently ranked in the top 10 tech companies leading the charge on climate action, its AI-powered suite of products surface unique insights that empower real estate teams to reduce costs, decrease time spent on routine work, and find and act on opportunities to save energy and carbon. Discover how Noda's solutions can unlock the potential of your assets and accelerate the transition to net zero. Visit us at noda.ai to learn more.