What Are the Latest Trends in the Cleaning Industry? 

The cleaning industry is not just about brooms and disinfectants anymore—it’s evolving fast with the help of innovation, regulation, and public health awareness. If you’ve been asking, “What are the top trends in the cleaning industry?”, you’re not alone. Facility managers, building service contractors, and in-house service providers are all looking to stay ahead in a rapidly changing field. 

A great starting point to understand this shift is exploring how cleaning adds value, not only through health and safety, but also in workforce productivity and sustainability. 

Let’s break down the key trends in the cleaning industry you need to watch in 2025 and beyond. 

1. Smart Cleaning Technology

Technology is revolutionizing the way facilities are cleaned and managed. From autonomous scrubbers to cloud-connected sensors, smart cleaning equipment helps streamline operations while enhancing performance. 

Key Innovations: 

• IoT Sensors: Track restroom supply levels and foot traffic to optimize cleaning frequency. 

• Robotic Cleaners: Handle repetitive floor cleaning tasks, freeing up staff for more detailed work. 

• Cleaning Analytics Dashboards: Offer real-time performance insights and quality assurance data. 

Learn how CMI Certifications  prepare staff to adopt these technologies. 

2. Demand for Sustainability and Green Cleaning

As businesses pursue ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) goals, sustainability has become a non-negotiable in cleaning services. 

What’s Trending: 

• Green Seal-certified products and EPA Safer Choice chemicals are increasingly required in bids. 

• Water-saving floor machines and chemical-free steam systems reduce environmental impact. 

• Clients now ask vendors for sustainability reports and waste reduction plans. 

By adopting greener practices, cleaning professionals not only protect the environment—they position themselves as high-value partners. 

3. Focus on Health and Wellness

The pandemic shifted cleaning from behind-the-scenes to front-and-center. Now, it’s not just about appearances—it’s about protecting public health. 

Top Developments: 

• Enhanced disinfection protocols are now standard in schools, offices, and healthcare. 

• Indoor air quality (IAQ) management is being integrated into cleaning strategies. 

• Cleaning crews are viewed as essential workers and infection prevention partners. 

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics  confirms strong demand for janitorial staff in health-focused roles. 

4. Workforce Training and Upskilling

As expectations rise, so does the need for qualified, confident cleaning professionals. Training and career development are critical to retaining staff and delivering consistent results. 

Trending Approaches: 

• Train-the-Trainer programs help scale consistent training across large teams. 

• Supervisors are being trained in soft skills like communication and leadership. 

• Certification programs build staff credibility and confidence. 

Explore CMI Certifications to learn how training improves job satisfaction and results. 

5. DEI and Workforce Diversity

More organizations are embedding diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) into their operations—and the cleaning industry is no exception. 

Notable Trends: 

• Employers are creating more inclusive hiring and advancement pathways. 

• Women and minority-led firms are growing their market share. 

• Industry leaders are prioritizing equitable leadership development. 

Internal Link: Learn how the Hygieia Network empowers women across the cleaning and facility care space. 

6. Outsourcing and Specialization

With growing complexity in buildings and compliance, many companies are outsourcing specific cleaning functions to specialists. 

Popular Outsourcing Trends: 

• Medical cleaning contractors for healthcare facilities. 

• Event sanitation teams for stadiums and convention centers. 

• Sustainability consultants focused on green cleaning compliance. 

This trend is driving new entrepreneurial opportunities—and more competitive service contracts. 

7. Industry Collaboration and Standardization

To maintain trust and credibility, companies are increasingly turning to industry certifications and standards. 

• Cleaning firms are aligning with ISO, GBAC, and CIMS standards. 

• Clients want third-party validation of safety and performance. 

• Industry events are bringing professionals together to align on best practices. 

Attend the ISSA Show North America  to connect with thought leaders, access workshops, and preview the latest innovations in cleaning. 

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for the Cleaning Industry? 

These trends signal a shift in how the world views cleaning—from a background task to a critical function that protects people, assets, and brands. As facilities become more complex and customer expectations rise, the industry must continue to evolve. 

Future-Facing Trends to Watch: 

• AI-powered predictive cleaning based on real-time data 

• Digital twins to simulate cleaning routes and resource use 

• Greater integration with facilities management software 

• Growing emphasis on mental health support for cleaning staff.  

Learn about long-term industry projections from the Occupational Outlook Handbook: Facilities Managers.  

Conclusion: Adapting to Stay Ahead 

If you’re part of the cleaning and facility management industry—or looking to join—staying informed is key. These trends in the cleaning industry are more than buzzwords; they reflect real shifts in how services are delivered, measured, and valued. 

Whether you’re a facility director, vendor, or frontline team member, tapping into training, embracing new tech, and demonstrating measurable value can help you stay competitive in this exciting new era. 

Learn more about how cleaning delivers measurable value at issa.com/value