The Dirtiest Office Items You Never Think to Clean

Most offices look tidy on the surface — desks wiped, bins emptied, floors vacuumed. But when it comes to hygiene, appearances can be deceiving. Some of the dirtiest items in any workplace are the ones people forget about entirely.

At Denma Cleaning Services, we know that hidden germs are often the biggest problem. Here are some of the worst offenders you probably never think to clean.

1. Keyboards and Mice

Your hands touch them all day long, and yet they rarely get cleaned properly. Studies have found that keyboards can harbour more bacteria than a toilet seat. Crumbs, dust, and constant contact make them a breeding ground for germs.

2. Office Phones

Whether it’s a desk handset or a mobile passed around the team, phones are another hotspot for bacteria. They sit against your face, travel from hand to hand, and are almost never sanitised.

3. Door Handles and Light Switches

High-touch surfaces like handles, switches, and buttons are some of the most used — but least cleaned — spots in any building. They’re prime areas for spreading germs between staff and visitors.

4. Printer and Copier Buttons

Shared office equipment often goes unnoticed when it comes to cleaning. Printers, copiers, and even the humble kettle switch see dozens of hands every day, but almost no cleaning attention.

5. Chair Armrests

Fabric or plastic, it doesn’t matter — chair arms pick up dirt, sweat, and bacteria over time. Because people don’t see them as “dirty surfaces,” they’re usually left out of cleaning routines.

6. Desk Accessories

Staplers, pens, calculators, and even that trusty office stapler — these small items are often handled constantly but almost never disinfected.

Why It Matters

It’s not just about germs being “gross” — poor hygiene in overlooked areas contributes to higher rates of illness, reduced productivity, and an unprofessional impression for visitors. A workspace that only looks clean isn’t the same as one that’s truly hygienic.

A Fresh Way to Think About Office Hygiene

The dirtiest items in the office aren’t always the most obvious ones. By paying attention to hidden hotspots, businesses can protect staff wellbeing, cut down on sick days, and create a healthier, more professional environment.

Final Thoughts

A clean office goes beyond floors and surfaces — it’s about tackling the hidden areas that make the biggest difference to hygiene. With the right cleaning plan, even the most overlooked items stay fresh and safe.

Want to make sure your workplace is clean from top to bottom (and everywhere in between)? Contact Denma Cleaning Services today.

📞 Call us on: 0330 111 56 56

🌐 Visit us at: www.denmacleaning.co.uk