Author: Liz Rouech

At GSF USA, we believe that a cleaner facility shouldn’t come at the cost of a healthier planet. Green cleaning isn’t just a buzzword. It’s a commitment to using safer methods and products for people and the planet. Making the shift to eco-friendly cleaning doesn’t have to be complicated or costly. In fact, it can lead to long-term savings, improved indoor air quality and a healthier workplace environment.

Traditional cleaning products often contain harsh chemicals that contribute to indoor air pollution, water contamination and unnecessary waste. Green cleaning, like our Ecologique Cleaning Program, on the other hand, focuses on:

• Infection Prevention and Control
• Improved Indoor Air Quality (IAQ)
• Waste Reduction
• Highest Standard of Clean

GSF USA is proud to incorporate sustainable cleaning practices, like PathoSans, across all operations. Here’s why it’s important as you consider a cleaning partner:

Why Green Cleaning Practices Should Matter When Choosing a Cleaning Partner

Selecting a cleaning partner is not just about keeping your facility looking spotless; it’s about aligning with a provider that supports your broader goals for sustainability, health and safety. Here’s why green cleaning should be a key factor in your decision-making process:

1. Supports Your Sustainability Goals
   A cleaning partner that uses eco-friendly products and methods helps reduce your facility’s environmental impact. From conserving water to minimizing chemical runoff, their practices can contribute to your organization’s ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) benchmarks or Green Building certification goals.
2. Protects Health and Well-Being
   Green cleaning isn’t just better for the planet—it’s better for people. Partners who prioritize nontoxic, low-VOC products and advanced filtration systems help improve indoor air quality and reduce the risk of allergic reactions, respiratory issues and chemical exposure among occupants and staff.
3. Reduces Operational Risks
   Sustainable cleaning providers often use standardized dilution systems and alternatives to harsh chemicals, like safe and eco-friendly electrochemically activated solutions. This minimizes the likelihood of chemical spills, overuse and misuse, protecting both employees and your facility infrastructure.
4. Enhances Your Brand Image
   Choosing a green cleaning partner sends a strong message to employees, customers, and visitors: Your organization is committed to responsible, forward-thinking practices. It reflects your values and is a point of pride for stakeholders.
5. Ensures Long-Term Cost Efficiency
   Sustainability doesn’t mean higher costs. Many green practices like using durable microfiber materials, efficient equipment, and less wasteful processes can lower your overall cleaning and maintenance expenses over time.

A cleaning partner with a clear commitment to green practices doesn’t just clean your space; they help you build a healthier, more sustainable facility. At GSF USA, we work hand-in-hand with facility managers to design cleaning programs that protect people, preserve resources, and align with your organizational values.

Make a Difference Every Day

The choices we make today affect tomorrow’s world. By embracing green cleaning practices, businesses can reduce their environmental footprint and contribute to a healthier, more sustainable future.

At GSF USA, we’re proud to lead by example—delivering high-performance cleaning solutions that protect people, preserve resources, and promote a greener planet. Contact us to learn how our eco-friendly cleaning programs can support your business goals while honoring our shared responsibility to the environment.

Indoor air quality (IAQ) is a critical yet often overlooked factor in workplace wellness. With most employees spending a significant portion of their day inside office buildings, the cleanliness of their environment directly impacts their health, comfort and productivity. In fact, people spend about 90 percent of their time indoors, and the air within homes and other buildings can be more polluted than the outside air, even in the largest and most industrialized cities, according to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH).

While HVAC systems play a significant role in air circulation and filtration, routine cleaning is just as essential in maintaining healthy indoor air. Prioritize the following cleaning strategies to establish cleaner, safer air in the workplace:

1. Dust and Allergen Control Through Surface Cleaning

Dust mites, pollen and other allergens often settle on office furniture, carpeting and electronics. Without regular cleaning, these particles become airborne again through foot traffic, HVAC airflow, or simply moving around the office. Routine dusting, vacuuming with HEPA filters, and wiping down surfaces significantly reduce the presence of these irritants, helping to prevent allergy-related discomfort among staff and visitors.

2. Carpet and Upholstery Care

Office carpets and fabric-covered furniture can act like sponges, trapping dust and bacteria. Over time, these contaminants affect not only air quality but also the overall atmosphere of your office. Professional carpet and upholstery cleaning removes embedded pollutants while improving airflow across these surfaces and contributing to fresher, cleaner air in shared workspaces.

3. HVAC System Cleaning and Filter Replacement

Even the most thorough cleaning efforts won’t have lasting results if your building’s HVAC system is circulating dirty air. Filters clogged with dust and debris reduce ventilation efficiency and can even reintroduce contaminants back into the office. Regular HVAC maintenance, including duct cleaning and timely filter changes, ensures that your system supports your indoor air quality goals.

4. Mold and Moisture Prevention

Damp areas, especially around kitchens or restrooms, can quickly become breeding grounds for mold and mildew, both major contributors to poor IAQ and potential health hazards. Routine deep cleaning, proper ventilation and quick responses to leaks or condensation help prevent mold from forming. Non-toxic, mold-inhibiting cleaning solutions are an added layer of protection for these problem-prone areas.

5. Green Cleaning Products That Support Air Quality

Not all cleaning products are created equal. Traditional cleaning chemicals can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which degrade air quality and may cause headaches, dizziness or respiratory irritation. Switching to low-VOC or eco-certified cleaning products helps reduce airborne toxins, making your office healthier for everyone.

6. Cleaning Schedules That Match Occupancy Patterns

A smart cleaning routine is one that aligns with how your office is used. High-traffic areas like lobbies, meeting rooms and shared kitchens accumulate pollutants faster and should be cleaned more frequently. By tailoring cleaning schedules to usage patterns, you reduce buildup that would otherwise degrade indoor air quality between standard cleanings.

A Healthier Office Starts with Cleaner Air

Improving indoor air quality is a team effort, and cleaning plays a foundational role. By combining routine surface cleaning, air system maintenance and the use of environmentally conscious products, businesses can create safer, healthier work environments for their employees.

If you’re looking to improve the air quality in your office through effective cleaning practices, our team can help design a strategy tailored to your space and needs. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your workplace wellness goals!

At GSF USA, we believe that the best way to deliver exceptional service is by building a team of people who care about quality, each other, and doing the job right every time. Each quarter, we take a moment to recognize the incredible individuals whose commitment has helped shape our success over the years.

This quarter, we’re proud to celebrate the anniversaries of team members across the country who continue to make a difference every day. From those who are just beginning their journey with GSF to those who’ve been with us for decades, we are grateful for the heart, reliability, and work ethic they bring to our organization.

Thank you for making clean mean something more.
Thank you for helping GSF USA grow stronger with every passing year.

Here’s to your journey—and to many more milestones ahead!

Interested in a workplace where your hard work matters? Learn more about careers at GSF USA here.

25^th Anniversaries

Feliciano A., GSF Illinois

20^th Anniversaries

Tracey B., GSF Indiana

Maria Del Rocio L., GSF Indiana

15th Anniversaries

Jairo C. M., GSF Indiana

Jose R., GSF Indiana

Ana Maria T., GSF Indiana

10th Anniversaries

Leticia C., GSF Indiana

Maria J.C., GSF Indiana

Antonio J., GSF Indiana

5th Anniversaries

Noe A., GSF Illinois

Jhonatan A., GSF Illinois

Rubicela A., GSF Illinois

Maria C., GSF Illinois

Javier D., GSF Illinois

Roberto G., GSF Indiana

Ezequiel G., GSF Indiana

Cheryle I., GSF Rockford

Juan L., GSF Indiana

Maria De La Luz M.L., GSF Rockford

Liliana R., GSF Illinois

Justin S., GSF Indiana

Maria V., GSF Indiana

In a busy workplace, high-traffic areas experience constant use. Lobbies welcome guests, restrooms see continuous traffic and break rooms serve as daily gathering spots. With many people passing through, these spaces can quickly become messy, unsanitary and uninviting. To maintain a professional and healthy environment, it’s crucial to have a cleaning strategy in place. Here are tips on how to keep high-traffic areas spotless and welcoming day after day.

1. Lobby Maintenance

The lobby is the first space visitors see, impacting their first impression of a business. Since it takes only seven seconds to form a first impression – a consistently clean, well-maintained lobby is crucial for conveying professionalism. Here are some key strategies:

• Frequent Floor Care: High foot traffic means floors accumulate dirt quickly. Implement a daily vacuuming and mopping routine and use entryway mats to trap debris before it spreads.
• Dust and Disinfect Surfaces: To help reduce germ transmission, regularly wipe down tables, counters and high-touch points like door handles and elevator buttons.
• Trash Management: Empty trash bins frequently prevent overflow and unpleasant odors.

2. Restroom Hygiene

Restrooms are among the most critical to keep clean, as they can harbor bacteria and odors if improperly maintained. Studies show an average of 500,000 bacterial cells exist per square inch on restroom surfaces. Best cleaning practices include:

• Scheduled Deep Cleaning: In addition to regular wipe-downs, schedule deep cleaning for floors, fixtures and toilets.
• Stocking Essentials: Ensure there is an adequate supply of toilet paper, soap and hand towels to promote proper hygiene.
• High-Touch Point Disinfection: Pay extra attention to door handles, flush levers and sink faucets, disinfecting them multiple times a day.

3. Break Room Cleanliness

Break rooms are shared spaces where employees eat and relax, making cleanliness crucial for both hygiene and morale. A cluttered, untidy workspace has been shown to increase stress and contribute to emotional exhaustion. Keep these areas pristine with the following solutions:

• Daily Surface Cleaning: Wipe down tables, countertops and appliance handles to help reduce the spread of germs.
• Trash and Recycling Management: Empty bins daily to prevent overflow and maintain a consistently clean, organized space.

Implement a Proactive Cleaning Schedule

A well-planned cleaning schedule helps ensure a consistently clean facility while proactively addressing dirt, grime and germs. Consider the following:

• Daily Cleaning: Clean floors, restrooms and break rooms multiple times a day to maintain high hygiene standards.
• Weekly Deep Cleaning: Focus on detailed tasks such as grout scrubbing, carpet shampooing and dusting hard-to-reach areas.
• Seasonal Maintenance: Address larger tasks like deep carpet cleaning, upholstery maintenance and floor refinishing to keep the facility in top condition.

Partner with Professional Cleaning Services

Maintaining clean, high-traffic areas demands a strategic, consistent approach. By partnering with a professional cleaning service like GSF USA, you gain access to trained experts who use advanced cleaning techniques and technology. This helps ensure your facility is a consistently clean, safe and welcoming environment for all.

Ready to elevate your cleaning strategy? Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

A clean and well-maintained office is more than just a visual asset; it plays a crucial role in your employee’s and visitors’ health, safety and productivity. However, many businesses fall into the trap of outdated or ineffective cleaning routines, leading to missed opportunities for improvement.

Here are five clear signs that it’s time to upgrade your office cleaning routine and how GSF USA can make all the difference.

1. Persistent Odors in the Office

Bad smells in the office can be a telltale sign of neglected cleaning practices, or harmful chemicals being used. Whether it’s lingering odors in breakrooms, restrooms or carpets, unpleasant smells create an uncomfortable environment and may indicate hidden issues like mold, bacteria or poor waste management. Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) emissions could be hiding in the currently used cleaning chemicals, creating hazardous health concerns for employees.

A professional cleaning company uses specialized tools and products to address odor sources, such as deep-cleaning carpets, sanitizing hard-to-reach areas and implementing proper waste disposal methods.

2. Increasing Complaints About Cleanliness

If employees or clients frequently complain about dirty restrooms, dusty desks or stained carpets, it’s a clear signal that your current cleaning routine isn’t meeting expectations. If cleanliness is overlooked, employee morale and client perceptions can suffer.

Professional cleaners work with you to create a customized cleaning plan tailored to your office’s unique needs, ensuring high traffic and problem areas receive extra attention.

3. Increased Employee Absenteeism

An increase in employee sick days could be linked to insufficient cleaning. Germs on high-touch surfaces like doorknobs and shared equipment can quickly spread illnesses throughout the office if not regularly disinfected.

Professional cleaning services prioritize disinfection of high-touch areas using proper, Center for Disease Control (CDC) approved techniques to reduce the spread of germs and create a healthier work environment.

4. Outdated Cleaning Methods and Tools

Using the same cleaning tools and products year after year can result in diminishing results. Outdated methods may not effectively address modern challenges, such as removing allergens, improving air quality or meeting sustainability goals.

Modern cleaning companies stay up-to-date with the latest industry trends, such as using eco-friendly products and practices, advanced cleaning technologies and efficient methods to deliver better results while minimizing environmental impact.

5. Inconsistent Cleaning Results

If your office appears clean some days but messy on others, or if certain areas like breakrooms or conference rooms are regularly overlooked, it’s time to rethink your cleaning approach. Consistency is key to maintaining a professional and healthy workspace.

Professional cleaners follow detailed checklists and schedules to ensure no area is neglected. Your office will always be presentable and welcoming with consistent, thorough cleaning.

Why an Upgrade Matters

Ignoring these signs can lead to more significant problems, from dissatisfied employees and clients to potential health and safety issues. Upgrading your cleaning routine with a professional cleaning service from GSF USA can transform your office into a healthier and more productive environment.

If you recognize any of these signs in your office, it’s time to consider upgrading your cleaning routine. Contact us today to learn more about our customizable cleaning solutions and how we can help your business shine!

When it comes to cutting energy costs in commercial buildings and schools, regular cleaning and maintenance might not be the first solution that comes to mind. However, keeping windows, HVAC systems and lighting clean and functional can significantly enhance energy efficiency and reduce utility bills. Here’s how these often-overlooked practices can make a big difference:

1. Clean Windows: Maximizing Natural Light and Reducing Heating Costs

Dirty windows not only look unappealing but also block natural light, making spaces more reliant on artificial lighting. Regularly cleaned windows:

• Increase Natural Light: Allow more sunlight to enter, reducing the need for electric lighting during the day.
• Improve Insulation Efficiency: Dirt and grime can degrade window seals over time, leading to air leaks and higher heating or cooling costs.
• Reduce Heating Costs in Winter: Sunlight streaming through clean windows can help naturally warm indoor spaces, easing the load on heating systems.

Tip: Schedule window cleaning at least twice a year to optimize energy savings and maintain a welcoming environment.

2. HVAC Systems: Clean Systems Work Smarter, Not Harder

Heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems account for a significant portion of energy consumption in commercial properties. Dirty HVAC components such as filters, coils and ducts reduce system efficiency, which leads to higher energy usage. Regular maintenance allows for:

• Improved Airflow: Clean filters and ducts allow air to circulate freely, preventing the system from overworking.
• Lower Cooling and Heating Costs: Clean coils transfer heat more effectively, reducing the energy required to cool or heat a building.
• Extended Equipment Lifespan: A well-maintained HVAC system experiences less wear and tear, saving money on replacements and repairs.

Tip: Replace air filters every 1-3 months and schedule professional HVAC cleaning and inspections annually.

3. Lighting: Clean Fixtures and Bulbs for Brighter Spaces

Dust and grime buildup on light fixtures and bulbs can dim their output, prompting occupants to use more lights than necessary. Regular cleaning of lighting systems offers several benefits:

• Enhanced Brightness: Clean bulbs emit more light, reducing the number of fixtures needed in use at any given time.
• Lower Energy Consumption: Brighter lighting with fewer active fixtures directly translates to energy savings.
• Improved Safety: Clean lighting in schools and commercial buildings ensures that stairwells, hallways and common areas are well-lit and safe for occupants.

Tip: Incorporate lighting maintenance into routine cleaning schedules to maintain brightness and reduce energy use.

The Bigger Picture: Sustainability and Cost Savings

Maintaining clean windows, HVAC systems and lighting reduces energy costs and contributes to a more sustainable future. Schools and commercial buildings that prioritize energy efficiency through cleaning can:

• Reduce their carbon footprint by minimizing energy waste.
• Save on utility costs, allowing budgets to be reallocated to other priorities.
• Create healthier, more comfortable environments for occupants.

Cleaning as an Investment in Energy Efficiency

Cleaning isn’t just about aesthetics, it’s a powerful tool for energy savings. By implementing a regular cleaning and maintenance schedule for windows, HVAC systems and lighting, commercial buildings and schools can significantly reduce costs while contributing to a greener planet.

If you’re looking to enhance your building’s energy efficiency, contact us today to learn how our professional cleaning services can make a difference. Together, we’ll create a cleaner, brighter and more cost-effective space for everyone.

At GSF USA, our strength lies in our incredible team members, whose dedication and enthusiasm drive us forward each day. For our next Heart of GSF USA, we want to spotlight Veronica Perez Olague, Service Operator at our Chicago office. Her positivity, hard work and commitment to excellence make her a cherished team member.

Nominated by Area Manager Noemi Ostiguin, Veronica is described as a joy to work with. “Veronica’s positive attitude and friendly personality make her a joy to work with. She always greets everyone with a smile and is willing to assist with any special requests or urgent needs. Her presence contributes to a positive and professional atmosphere, and it is clear that she takes great pride in her work,” says Noemi.

A Commitment to Clean

Veronica’s journey with GSF USA began through a recommendation, and she hasn’t looked back since. “I was recommended by someone, and I am delighted with my job,” she shares. Her favorite part of the day? “When I arrive at work, and people greet me. This motivates me to love my job more.”

Veronica speaks fondly of the camaraderie she experiences daily. “The day-to-day culture with my team is excellent,” she notes. Over her time with GSF USA, she’s also developed new skills, including mastering cleaning machines—something she’s grown to enjoy.

For Veronica, cleanliness is about more than just appearances. “We make sure that we do our job well so that the clients are happy with our performance and how the building looks,” she explains.

A Culture of Appreciation

At GSF USA, we believe in recognizing the hard work of our team members, and Veronica has felt that appreciation firsthand. “They show me appreciation by being good people to me. They thank me every day for the work I do,” she shares.

Veronica’s dedication and enthusiasm set a shining example for us all. We’re grateful to have her as part of the GSF USA family and look forward to her continued success.

Thank you, Veronica, for everything you do to make GSF USA a better place for both our clients and our team!

The heart of GSF USA is our team members who are committed to creating a safe and clean environment for our customers. Every day, they bring GSF’s mission to life through their hard work and unwavering commitment to the people they serve.

Each quarter, we proudly celebrate employees who reach new milestones and significant anniversaries with GSF. Their dedication and excellence inspire us all, and we are grateful for their contributions. Congratulations to our incredible team members on their milestones in Q4 of 2024!

35^th Anniversaries

Jeffrey A., GSF Indiana

Kip G., GSF Indiana

25^th Anniversaries

Maria G., GSF Indiana

10^th Anniversaries 

Adela C., GSF Indiana

Rosalba M., GSF Indiana

Otilia M., GSF Indiana

Paola M., GSF Indiana

Cristina N., GSF Indiana

Fermin R., GSF Indiana

5^th Anniversaries

Odalis A., GSF Indiana

Ana A., GSF Illinois

Tina A., GSF Indiana

Ma C., GSF Illinois

Rogelio C., GSF Illinois

Maria C., GSF Illinois

Gloria D., GSF Illinois

Celia H., GSF Rockford

Estela M., GSF Indiana

Erika P., GSF Illinois

Benito R., GSF Indiana

Andres S., GSF Illinois

Juan S., GSF Illinois

Leticia T., GSF Illinois

Marcelina T., GSF Illinois

Anel V., GSF Illinois

Winter brings shorter days, colder temperatures, and a host of challenges for keeping commercial spaces clean and safe. With increased foot traffic, wet and muddy conditions, and a higher likelihood of indoor gatherings, businesses need a robust deep-cleaning strategy to maintain a welcoming environment for employees and clients alike.

At GSF USA, we specialize in helping businesses prepare for seasonal transitions with comprehensive cleaning solutions. Here are some expert deep-cleaning tips for preparing your facility for winter.

1. Focus on High-Traffic Areas

Winter conditions mean more dirt, water and salt are tracked into your building. Concentrate on these areas:

• Entryways and Lobbies: Regularly clean mats, floors, and door handles to prevent buildup. Consider investing in heavy-duty entrance mats to trap debris.
• Hallways and Stairwells: Vacuum and mop frequently to minimize grime accumulation and reduce slip hazards.
• Break Rooms and Kitchens: As indoor gatherings increase, these areas become hotspots for spills and stains. Deep-clean countertops, appliances and floors regularly.

2. Revamp Floor Maintenance

Floors take the brunt of winter weather. Protect your investment with these steps:

• Strip and wax hard floors for added durability against water and salt damage.
• Use high-quality sealants on tiles to repel moisture and prevent staining.
• Clean carpets thoroughly to remove hidden dirt and allergens that accumulate during fall.

3. Improve Indoor Air Quality

With windows closed and heating systems running, air circulation can become stagnant. Combat this with:

• HVAC Cleaning: Ensure air ducts, vents and filters are cleaned and replaced as needed to reduce dust and allergens.
• Dust Control: Schedule regular dusting of all surfaces, especially blinds, shelves and hard-to-reach areas.
• Green Cleaning Products: Use eco-friendly, non-toxic products to promote a healthier indoor environment for your team.

4. Sanitize Common Touchpoints

Cold and flu season coincides with winter, making sanitization a top priority. Pay extra attention to:

• Door handles, elevator buttons and light switches.
• Shared equipment such as printers, phones and keyboards.
• Restrooms, ensuring all fixtures are disinfected and fully stocked with supplies.

5. Schedule Professional Deep Cleaning

Some tasks are best left to the experts. At GSF USA, our services include:

• High-grade equipment for deep carpet and upholstery cleaning.
• Specialized solutions for sanitizing and disinfecting offices of all sizes.
• Customized cleaning plans to meet your unique winter needs.

6. Don’t Overlook Exterior Maintenance

First impressions start outside. Keep your building’s exterior clean and inviting by:

• Pressure washing sidewalks and entryways to remove stains and salt residue.
• Ensuring exterior lighting fixtures are clean and working properly.
• Clearing gutters and drains to prevent ice buildup.

The GSF USA Difference

Winter cleaning requires preparation, expertise, and a dedicated team. At GSF USA, we deliver tailored cleaning services that keep your workplace sparkling clean and safe throughout the season. Ready to elevate your winter cleaning strategy? Contact us today to schedule a consultation!

By staying proactive with these seasonal strategies, you’ll create a healthier, more welcoming environment for your employees and clients this winter.

At GSF USA we care about clean and the people who make it happen. Our team members embody GSF’s mission and values, and we are grateful for their unwavering dedication and passion for delivering outstanding cleaning services for our clients. When a team shares a passion for excellence, it shines through in their work.

One shining example of this commitment is David, a Team Lead who brings a smile and a positive attitude to work each day. Known for his readiness to lend a hand, David takes pride in working alongside his team, especially during the busy summer cleaning season. He enjoys seeing the progress they achieve together, and the rewarding feeling of a job well done.

Reflecting on his experience with GSF, David shared, “Since joining, I’ve learned the importance of organization, especially when managing supplies. I love seeing our clients happy with the high-quality results of our work.”

David joined GSF when we began operations in his district and has enjoyed working with his team. He values GSF’s commitment to understanding their employees’ needs and equipping them with the tools they need to do an excellent job.

“David’s work has garnered glowing reviews from teachers and staff, who appreciate his dedication and kindness,” said Magda Hernandez, Senior Area Manager and David’s nominator.

Employees like David are the heart of GSF. We are proud of our strong company culture and are committed to creating a workplace where people inspire each other to grow and succeed.

Interested in joining a team like Davids? Check out our open positions!