Why Facility Leaders Can’t Ignore the Workplace Environment in 2026

Employee turnover isn’t driven by compensation alone. More often, it’s shaped by how people feel in their workplace every single day. Factors like cleanliness, safety, layout, and air quality quietly influence satisfaction, focus, and long-term loyalty. Below are key ways the physical environment impacts retention, supported by recent research.

1. Employees walk away from spaces that feel unsafe or unhealthy

61% say they would consider leaving a job if their workplace is consistently dirty or poorly maintained (Future Workplace, 2023).

Poor indoor air quality has been linked to up to a 15% drop in cognitive performance (Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, 2021).

2. Clean environments boost morale — and morale keeps people longer

89% report that workplace cleanliness directly affects morale (Staples Workplace Survey, 2024).

72% say a clean setting improves overall job satisfaction (ISS Cleaning Study, 2022).

3. Common areas shape stay-or-go decisions

74% feel more appreciated when breakrooms and shared spaces are well maintained (UBS Facilities Insights, 2023).

60% say dirty common areas make them feel undervalued by leadership (Cintas Hygiene Survey, 2022).

4. Clean facilities strengthen employer reputation and lower turnover

Well-kept workplaces are linked to 28% lower employee turnover (LinkedIn Workplace Report, 2023).

52% of job candidates have turned down offers after seeing poor cleanliness during an on-site visit (CareerBuilder Workplace Study, 2022).

5. Everyday frustration often comes from the environment

Employees in cluttered or messy spaces are twice as likely to experience daily stress (Psychology Today, 2021).

Poorly maintained environments can drive frustration levels up by as much as 40% (Journal of Environmental Psychology, 2020).

6. Cleanliness directly affects absenteeism

Improved cleaning programs can reduce sick days by up to 46% (JOEM, 2019).

Workplace illness costs employers an estimated $225.8 billion each year (CDC, 2023).

Why This Matters for Leaders

A clean, organized, and healthy workplace helps employees feel supported, valued, and secure. That leads to stronger morale, fewer absences, and better long-term retention. In many cases, improving the environment is one of the simplest and most effective ways to keep top talent.

Ready to reinforce your retention strategy? A healthier, more inviting workplace starts with a partner who understands how space impacts people. Connect with Element Cleaning Systems to schedule a personalized facility assessment.