5 Must-Have Cleaning Products for Every Facility Manager

Managing a facility isn’t just about keeping the lights on and the equipment running — it’s about creating a safe, clean, and welcoming environment every single day. Whether you’re overseeing a corporate office, a school, a healthcare center, or a retail space, cleanliness plays a huge role in first impressions and overall health.

The right cleaning products can make all the difference. As a facility manager, you don’t just need products that “get the job done” — you need solutions that are reliable, efficient, and safe. After all, a clean environment isn’t just about looks; it’s about safety, productivity, and maintaining a professional standard.

Here are five must-have cleaning products that should be in every facility manager’s toolkit (plus a few pro tips for getting the most out of them!).

1. All-Purpose Cleaner: Your Everyday Workhorse

Every facility manager needs an all-purpose cleaner that tackles dirt, grime, and spills across multiple surfaces. Instead of juggling a dozen specialty cleaners, a quality all-purpose cleaner saves time, space, and money. It’s one of the most versatile tools in your cleaning arsenal.

Recommended Pick: All Purpose Neutral Cleaner — A balanced and effective solution ideal for daily maintenance on a variety of surfaces without leaving residue or dulling finishes. Perfect for daily use on floors, walls, countertops, and more.

Pro Tip:

• Always dilute according to label instructions for maximum effectiveness.

• Use microfiber cloths instead of paper towels — they trap dirt better and reduce waste.

• Perform a daily walkthrough to identify areas needing a quick clean with an all-purpose solution.

2. Disinfectant Cleaner: Health First

Post-pandemic, disinfection isn’t just a “nice to have” — it’s mandatory in high-traffic facilities. Germ hotspots like doorknobs, elevator buttons, desks, and bathrooms must be disinfected daily (or even multiple times a day).

Look for disinfectants that are EPA-registered and kill a broad spectrum of bacteria and viruses. Not all cleaners are disinfectants, so it’s important to select products specifically designed for sanitization.

Pro Tip:

• Focus on “dwell time” — how long the surface needs to stay wet with the product to be fully disinfected. Rushing this step can mean incomplete sanitation.

• Create a rotating checklist to ensure every high-touch area gets covered consistently.

• Educate your team on proper application techniques to maximize effectiveness.

3. Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner: First Impressions Matter

Carpets and upholstered furniture are magnets for dirt, allergens, and odors. Dirty carpets can quickly turn a beautiful lobby or office into a health hazard.

An effective carpet and upholstery cleaner refreshes spaces without leaving behind sticky residues that attract more dirt. High-quality cleaners help maintain air quality and improve the overall aesthetic of your facility.

Recommended Pick: Extracto 77 Carpet Extraction Cleaner — A concentrated formula specially designed for deep-cleaning carpets and upholstery with exceptional soil removal and quick drying times.

Pro Tip:

• Invest in regular deep cleaning (quarterly at minimum) along with daily spot treatments.

• Use walk-off mats at all entrances to reduce the amount of dirt tracked indoors.

• Schedule carpet cleaning during off-peak hours to minimize disruption.

4. Specialty Degreasers: Tackle the Tough Stuff

In facility management, you occasionally face messes that regular cleaners can’t touch: kitchen grease, heavy industrial grime, or oil spills. Neglecting these tough areas can result in safety hazards and costly maintenance issues.

That’s where a heavy-duty degreaser comes in handy. It’s a must-have for kitchens, maintenance rooms, and industrial settings. Degreasers break down built-up grime efficiently, restoring surfaces to a safe and clean state.

Recommended Pick: Degreaser Concentrate — A powerful industrial-strength formula that easily removes stubborn grease, oils, and heavy soil from a variety of surfaces.

Pro Tip:

• Always spot-test degreasers on a small area first, especially if using on delicate surfaces.

• Equip staff with proper PPE (gloves, goggles) when working with concentrated degreasers.

• Regularly maintain kitchen exhaust systems to prevent grease buildup and fire hazards.

5. Second All-Purpose Cleaner for Sensitive Areas

Certain areas like daycare centers, medical facilities, or food preparation zones require extra-safe, non-toxic cleaning agents. These sensitive environments call for solutions that are powerful yet free from harsh chemicals.

Recommended Pick: All Purpose Neutral Cleaner — Gentle yet effective, it’s the perfect choice for maintaining cleanliness without introducing strong chemicals where vulnerable populations may be present.

Pro Tip:

• Use color-coded cleaning supplies (like red buckets for bathrooms, blue for general areas) to prevent cross-contamination.

• Train your team on which product to use where. Safety and effectiveness go hand in hand.

• Maintain an easy-to-access inventory list to ensure sensitive area cleaners are always stocked.

Final Thoughts: Build Your Cleaning Arsenal Wisely

Being a facility manager means making smart choices every day — and selecting the right cleaning products is no exception.

To recap:

• Everyday dirt and spills? A trusted all-purpose cleaner like All Purpose Neutral Cleaner has you covered.

• Fighting germs? A proper disinfectant is your best friend.

• Freshening carpets and furniture? Don’t skimp on a quality carpet cleaner like Extracto 77.

• Grease nightmares? Keep Degreaser Concentrate on standby.

• Sensitive environments? Opt again for a gentler solution like All Purpose Neutral Cleaner.

With the right tools, maintaining a spotless, healthy facility becomes easier, more efficient, and a lot less stressful. Plus, a clean environment boosts employee morale, protects your facility’s assets, and leaves a lasting positive impression on visitors and clients alike.

P.S. If you’re looking to upgrade your cleaning supplies, be sure to check out Soli Cleaning’s full range of professional-grade products. Because a cleaner facility isn’t just better for business — it’s better for everyone who walks through your doors!