Colour coding means assigning specific colours to cleaning tools and equipment, such as cloths, mops, buckets, and gloves,to ensure they’re only used in their designated areas. This simple yet vital system helps stop the spread of germs from one area to another.

The British Institute of Cleaning Science (BICSc) sets out the nationally recognised standards for colour coding, which are widely used across the UK.

Here’s the standard colour coding scheme used by professionals:

Colour Area of Use Example Locations:

Blue - General areas Offices, hallways, meeting rooms, reception areas

Green - Food preparation areas Kitchens, canteens, food counters

Red - Washrooms & toilets Toilets, urinals, bathroom floors, sanitary fittings

1. Prevents Cross-Contamination

Using the same cloth or mop in multiple areas risks spreading bacteria. For example, a cloth used in a washroom should never touch a kitchen surface. Colour coding provides a simple barrier against such risks.

2. Promotes Compliance & Safety

Many health and safety standards, including CQC, NHS Cleaning Standards, and BICSc guidelines require colour coding to be implemented and monitored as part of infection control measures.

3. Improves Efficiency

Colour coding makes it easier for staff to grab the right tools quickly, reducing confusion and saving valuable time during busy shifts.

4. Builds Confidence for Clients & Auditors

When auditors, inspectors, or clients visit a site, visible colour coding demonstrates professionalism and a structured cleaning process that aligns with best practice standards.

At Simplifying Cleaning, we ensure:

• Each site has clearly marked colour zones and storage areas.
• All staff complete induction and refresher training on colour coding and hygiene procedures.
• Tools such as mops and buckets follow the correct BICSc colour standards.
• Supervisors perform regular audits to ensure continued compliance.

This consistent approach ensures every area ,from health care to offices is cleaned safely and effectively.

Colour coding might seem like a small detail, but it’s a cornerstone of professional cleaning. It keeps people safe, ensures regulatory compliance, and maintains the high standards that clients expect.

At Simplifying Cleaning, we take pride in doing the small things right, because it’s the details that make all the difference.

📞 Contact Simplifying Cleaning today and see how we make hygiene simple, safe, and sustainable.

Colour coding is the practice of assigning specific colours to cleaning tools (such as cloths, mops, and buckets) to prevent them from being used in multiple areas. This helps avoid cross-contamination and supports high hygiene standards.

It’s vital for maintaining hygiene and safety. Using the same tools in kitchens and washrooms, for example, can spread bacteria and increase infection risks. Colour coding ensures cleaning equipment is used only in its designated area.

The British Institute of Cleaning Science (BICSc) sets the national colour coding standards followed by most UK cleaning professionals, including Simplifying Cleaning. These standards are also recognised by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) and NHS for healthcare environments.

If tools are used in the wrong area, it increases the risk of spreading bacteria or infection, especially in high-risk areas like kitchens or healthcare facilities. Non-compliance can also affect CQC inspection results and overall hygiene audits.

All our staff receive induction training and regular refreshers on colour coding and infection control. Tools are stored in labelled, colour-coded areas, and our supervisors carry out routine audits to ensure standards are maintained.

While not a specific legal requirement, it is part of best practice guidance for infection prevention under health and safety legislation. Organisations like the CQC expect cleaning contractors to have an effective colour coding system in place.

Yes, whether in healthcare, hospitality, offices, or education, colour coding is relevant. It ensures every cleaning environment is handled safely and to a professional standard.

Partnering with a professional company like Simplifying Cleaning ensures full compliance. We provide trained staff, quality checks, and consistent use of colour-coded systems across all sites.