Even though a surface might appear clean, it can still be contaminated with bacteria and numerous other pathogens. While this may not be something that most homeowners would address, people who run hospitals, food service businesses, schools, etc., where the cleanliness needs to be at the highest level, need to consider investing in high-quality, commercial grade cleaning materials and supplies.
There are several factors that can decrease infection rates, and the main one is improved cleaning and disinfection practices. Proper disinfection with a quality disinfectant can not only reduce infection outbreaks, but curb unnecessary costs and enhance satisfaction among the people in your facility. What distinguishes great cleaning materials and supplies from bad ones are the following things.
The Disinfectant Should Have a Realistic Contact Time
The disinfectant should stay wet and in contact with the pathogens for as long as it’s recommended on its label, and if possibly – a bit longer. However, the problem with most disinfectants is that they dry up before the contact time is up, especially the ones that contain high levels of alcohol, or have long contact times. Many members of the cleaning and maintenance staff in facilities does not reapply the disinfectant, which means that not all surfaces are adequately disinfected. That being said, your best bet is to look for disinfectants with shorter contact times.
The Disinfectant Shouldn’t Harm Assets
Facility equipment and furnishings can be expensive to replace or even repair. Some disinfectants can be harmful to some types of surfaces, or shorten their useful lifespan. For that reason, it’s important to thoroughly read the contents of the disinfectant you’re buying to see whether it’s compatible with the surfaces you intend on cleaning with it in order to reduce unnecessary costs and damage.
Is It Compatible With Other Cleaning Tools?
Some cleaning tools can impair the effectiveness of disinfectants. Some microfiber and cotton cleaning tools can absorb quaternary ammonium compound-based disinfectants, which basically prevents their release onto the surface. So when using a disinfectant, make sure it’s compatible with your existing cleaning tools, or you’ll have to buy new tools that don’t reduce the disinfectant’s efficiency.
It Should Be Safe and Pleasant
Some disinfectants can be irritating to the skin, eyes or respiratory tracts, have a strong odor, and may require the use of PPE (personal protective equipment). This may result in the cleaning and maintenance staff minimizing the use of the product, thus compromising its results. For that reason, you should look for a disinfectant that’s pleasant and safe for people to use, so that its use is encouraged and worker injuries are reduced.
