The Principles Of Disinfecting
We are certain cleaning is not a foreign concept to most individuals as it’s a part of life. So, we created a checklist of the fundamentals required before disinfecting a space. Usually, if you have to disinfect a space, it’s due to contamination or trying to prevent the build-up of unwanted germs, bacteria, and viruses. In commercial settings, the processes involved with disinfecting are very intense and time-consuming; hence, professionals are called in to handle the issue. The principles outlined in this article will focus primarily on disinfecting residential spaces.
Safety First
Safety must be taken seriously even during a regular household cleaning event; most concentrated cleaning chemicals could be harmful. Disinfecting a space is a form of “deep cleaning” and requires proper protection to guard from contaminants or toxic elements you could encounter. Below is a list of essential protection elements you must incorporate in your attire before starting.
Mask – Depending on the size or configuration of the space to be disinfected, a mask will be required to protect you from inhaling dust, toxins, bacteria, etc. We always recommend wearing a mask during a deep or specialized clean.
Gloves – Always required for any cleaning job. Disposable commercial-grade latex gloves are preferred for specialized cleaning, but multi-use washable latex gloves can be used if unavailable. Ensure you wash the multi-use gloves after every space you clean.
Clothes – Please don’t clean in your most expensive attire! Wear something that is comfortable and can be washed immediately after the cleaning process. Wearing an apron will help dramatically with the contamination and mess on your clothes.
The Shoes – As we mentioned before, wear something comfy! But make sure you wear disposable shoe covers. The intent is not to spread the contamination.
Time to Clean
First, you must thoroughly clean the space and surfaces within. Take the necessary steps to remove excessive dust, dirt, grease, or debris with the necessary eco-friendly cleaning agent. For dirt or grease buildup, ensure the area is adequately cleaned before disinfecting the target areas. Ensure you use designated anti-microbial cleaning cloth and equipment for each location. (color coded mop and rags will help)
Now Disinfect!
You will need the appropriate eco-friendly cleaning chemicals to disinfect the targeted areas you are cleaning. An excellent tip for disinfecting a space is not to cross-contaminate your cleaning tools. Hence, we recommend color-coded cloths, mops, or dusters for each space. Have one designated anti-microbial cleaning cloth different from the fabric you used previously to perform the basic cleaning; make sure the disinfecting equipment is also easily identified, as the disinfecting equipment will be used throughout the spaces to be cleaned.
Target Areas
High-touch surfaces, bathroom surfaces, kitchen appliances & surfaces, upholstery, porous surfaces, Mats, carpets, rugs, and furniture.
