COVID-19 made everyone far more aware of germs and hygiene, and whilst masks and sanitisers are no longer in high demand, people have generally remained more conscious of cleanliness. Two sectors that are particularly aware of hygiene and sanitisation are retail and hospitality, as a single hygiene oversight can potentially damage their reputation permanently.
That, in addition to growing consumer demand for visible hygiene measures, has ushered in a new trend—functional cleaning. This strategic, efficiency-driven method ensures hygiene is maintained where and when it matters most. Jeffrey Madkins, Marketing Manager at Unilever Professional, explains what functional cleaning means: “Unlike traditional cleaning routines, which often follow a fixed schedule regardless of actual usage, functional cleaning prioritises high-touch, high-traffic areas and adapts to real-time hygiene needs.”
He adds that this method enhances efficiency, reduces unnecessary resource consumption, and ensures that critical touchpoints remain sanitised throughout the day.
Traditional Cleaning vs. Functional Cleaning
| Aspect | Functional Cleaning | Traditional Cleaning |
| Approach | Need-based, efficient | Routine, time-based |
| Focus | High-touch, high-use areas | The entire space, regardless of use |
| Flexibility | Adaptive, as needed | Fixed schedule |
| Efficiency | Maximises resources | Can be wasteful |
| Examples | Cleaning counters after every transaction, sanitising restaurant tables between customers | Mopping floors twice a day, even if not dirty or only cleaning bathrooms twice daily |
For industries such as hospitality and retail, where customer experience and hygiene go hand in hand, this new trend is a game-changer. Prioritising customer-facing areas, restrooms, food preparation zones, and high-touch surfaces ensures a safer, more hygienic environment, reducing the risk of harmful pathogens and contaminants and improving customer confidence.
Pumla Mwepu, Unilever Professional Manager, shares how important functional cleaning has become to many of their customers who have noted improved cleaning effectiveness since adopting this practice. By focusing on key areas that truly matter – rather than sticking to outdated routines – this approach allows them to maintain high sanitary standards for employees and guests while avoiding unnecessary labour costs and resource waste. For Mwepu and her team, who are passionate about their customers, positive feedback such as this reinforces their commitment to keeping operators’ needs at the forefront of innovative cleaning solutions.
Functional cleaning isn’t just about the method, however – it’s also about using the right products to ensure maximum effectiveness. Madkins explains that Unilever Professional’s cleaning solutions, such as Handy Andy Multipurpose Crème, are designed to tackle high-traffic, high-touch areas efficiently, and perfectly complement functional cleaning. From multi-surface disinfectants to professional-grade degreasers, these solutions help businesses maintain cleanliness and create safer environments, particularly in spaces frequented by higher numbers of people.
He believes businesses that adopt this modern approach to cleanliness and uphold sanitary standards that align with both regulations and customer expectations, set themselves apart in a more health and hygiene-conscious world. “Functional cleaning is not just a trend – it’s the future of hygiene management. It enhances operational efficiency, strengthens an establishment’s reputation and fosters customer loyalty, all of which prove that effective hygiene practices are integral to long-term business success,” Madkins concludes.
For more information on how Unilever Professional can support your functional cleaning needs, visit https://www.unileverprofessional.co.za/