As offices across the UK prepare to close for the Christmas and New Year holiday, NJC, a professional cleaning firm, has outlined key steps businesses can take to return to a fresh and organised workspace in January.
Irina Feher, NJC Account Manager, said, “With the festive season upon us, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement. However, leaving an untidy workspace when you close down for Christmas can lead to a not-so-merry mess when staff return,” Feher said. “Coming back to an office that’s tidy, clean, and smells fresh can make a big difference in starting the year on the right foot.”
The benefits of a clean office extend beyond aesthetics. Studies indicate that 94% of employees feel more productive in a clean environment, and 77% believe it positively affects the quality of their work.
Cleaning Tips for a Fresh Start
NJC highlighted several measures businesses can adopt to ensure a pleasant return to work. Cleaning out the office fridge is a priority, as leftover food can cause unpleasant odours or even become a health hazard. “Nobody wants to kick off the New Year battling mouldy mince pies or a whiff of forgotten brie,” Feher noted. Wiping down surfaces with antibacterial cleaner and leaving the fridge door slightly ajar can prevent odours from building up during the break.
Emptying all office bins, particularly those containing food waste, is equally important to avoid bad smells or pests. Feher recommended lining bins with fresh liners to make the first day back more manageable. To maintain a pleasant scent in the office while it is unoccupied, non-plug-in air fresheners or reed diffusers can be left out. These options eliminate the risk of electrical hazards while keeping the workspace smelling fresh.
Organising Christmas decorations in advance also helps reduce stress in January. Feher suggested using clearly labelled storage boxes and reusable ties for items like fairy lights to streamline the takedown process. Finally, a thorough deep clean of the office – dusting, vacuuming, and disinfecting high-touch areas like door handles, desks, and communal equipment – ensures a spotless environment for employees returning to work.
The Impact of Workplace Cleanliness on Wellbeing
Maintaining a clean office environment is more than just good housekeeping; it significantly impacts employee wellbeing and productivity. The NJC recommendations provide a practical roadmap for businesses to enhance the workspace experience after the festive break. By implementing these measures, organisations can foster a more welcoming and productive atmosphere for the new year.
“Investing in a thorough clean before the Christmas break isn’t just about appearances. A clean, organised workspace helps employees feel valued and motivated, and it eliminates distractions that can derail productivity when they return. By following these tips companies can help set the course for a positive 2025.”
Irina Feher