Nobody enjoys a messy breakroom. Whether it’s sticky counters, a funky smell coming from the fridge, or crumbs all over the floor, a dirty communal space can put a damper on even the best workday. The good news? Keeping your breakroom clean doesn’t have to be complicated. A simple checklist and a bit of daily attention can go a long way in keeping things fresh, functional, and most importantly, hygienic.
Below is a breakroom cleaning checklist that’s easy to follow and designed to make your workplace cleaner and more pleasant for everyone.
Wipe Down High-Touch Surfaces Daily
Think about how many hands touch the coffee pot handle, microwave buttons, fridge door, and light switches in a single day. These high-touch areas can collect bacteria fast. Make it a habit to wipe down these surfaces daily using disinfectant wipes or a good cleaning spray. Don’t just give the tables a quick swipe—pay attention to corners, the undersides of counters, and that weird spot behind the toaster. The goal is to eliminate germs and those sneaky crumbs that always find their way into tight spaces.
Don’t Neglect the Sinks and Faucets
The breakroom sink gets more action than you might realize. Between rinsing mugs, dumping leftover soup, and scrubbing utensils, it’s a hub of activity—and unfortunately, a magnet for grime. Make sure the basin gets a good scrub every day. Wipe around the drain, polish the faucet, and clean those handles that everyone touches after lunch. If it’s starting to smell funky, a little baking soda and vinegar can help clear out any hidden gunk in the drain.
Stay on Top of Trash and Recycling
Overflowing trash bins are not only gross—they can attract pests and stink up the whole area. Check trash and recycling bins regularly and empty them before they’re spilling over. Use liners to make cleanup easier, and don’t forget to wipe down the inside and outside of the bins at least once a week. If you’ve got a compost container, give that some love too. A little effort here makes a big difference in keeping things feeling clean.
Clean the Microwave and Fridge
If your breakroom microwave looks like a crime scene, it’s time for a deep clean. Make it part of the daily routine to wipe out the inside. A bowl of water and lemon juice microwaved for a minute will loosen dried-on food and make it easier to clean. As for the fridge, try a weekly reset if you can. Toss anything expired, wipe down the shelves, and remind folks to label their leftovers. A quick sticky note system can help keep things organized and reduce food waste.
Tidy Up Tables and Chairs After Each Use
Encouraging employees to wipe down tables and chairs after using them helps keep the space clean for everyone. Provide easy-to-reach cleaning supplies so it doesn’t feel like a chore. At the end of the day, do a more thorough wipe-down—clean chair seats, table legs, and the little areas where food crumbs like to hide.
Keep Floors Debris-Free and Mop Often
Crumbs, spills, and coffee drips are inevitable, especially in a busy breakroom. Sweep the floor daily to prevent buildup, and mop at least a few times a week. Focus on areas near the sink, trash bins, and under tables where debris tends to collect. A degreasing cleaner works well if the floor gets sticky.
Restock Cleaning Supplies Regularly
A clean breakroom is only possible if the supplies are there to make it happen. Keep paper towels, dish soap, disinfectant wipes, and trash bags well stocked and within reach. Having a visible checklist nearby can help everyone know what’s expected—and where to find what they need to pitch in.
Want to Make Your Breakroom Sparkle Without the Stress?
Keeping your workplace breakroom clean doesn’t have to be a hassle. With a solid breakroom cleaning checklist and a little team effort, it’s easy to maintain a space that’s clean, welcoming, and ready for that mid-morning coffee break. But if you’d rather focus on work while someone else handles the dirty dishes, we’ve got your back. Contact Majik Cleaning for professional office cleaning services that take care of every surface—from countertops to sinks to sticky tables—so your team can enjoy a spotless workplace every day.
