If the past year has taught us anything, it’s the importance of cleaning and disinfecting. But there is a lot of information out there and not all of it is factual, and that can lead to the surfaces in your business, school or home not being as clean as you think they are. So we’re here to bust some cleaning myths.
1 | Myth: Sanitizing is the Same as Disinfecting
Many people use the term clean, sanitize and disinfect synonymously. However, there are some key differences to the terms. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), cleaning is a process that removes visible dirt, dust and debris. Sanitizing mitigates the risk of illness by reducing some of the bacteria identified on a product’s label. And disinfecting kills most bacteria and viruses identified on a product’s label. Disinfecting surfaces is the most thorough solution to keeping your space healthy and truly clean.
2 | Myth: All Cleaning Products Disinfect
Not all cleaning products are equal. Only products labeled as approved disinfectants can disinfect, so be sure to read the fine print on labels closely. Another good tip is to check for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) registration number on the label. Type that number into the agency’s database for specifics.
3 | Myth: Plant-Based Cleaners Don’t Work
Many people like plant-based cleaners because they don’t leave behind a strong chemical smell and are more eco-friendly. When used properly, plant-based products can be just as effective as chemical-based cleaners. Again, not all products are created equally, so be sure to do your homework and look for plant-based cleaners that are approved by the EPA and follow package instructions closely.
4 | Myth: Disinfectants Work Instantly
Time is key when it comes to properly disinfecting. No matter the product you choose, be sure to always check the label for how long hard, non-porous surfaces must stay wet for them to be the most effective at killing germs. You may need to saturate a surface for several minutes to actually kill germs.
5 | Myth: It’s Not Worth It to Hire a Commercial Cleaning Company
Professional commercial cleaning companies know their stuff. Their experts are trained in the proper use of cleaning and disinfecting techniques to ensure that your space is healthy for everyone. Often, the specialized equipment used to clean all the surfaces in a building can be expensive to both purchase and maintain. However, commercial cleaning services already have this equipment and keep it maintained. One such specialized piece of equipment is the electrostatic sprayer, which can effectively disinfect even the most sensitive surfaces like electronic equipment and labs as well as soft surfaces. Professional cleaning companies are also there when you need them, with the ability to help you clean up in emergencies, such as after accidents or storms.
If you are ready to hire an experienced and trusted commercial cleaning provider, AK Building Services has a comprehensive portfolio of janitorial and maintenance services for office buildings, medical facilities, condominiums, schools and more. We offer the ability to customize your cleaning services as well as be there for you in an emergency. We also offer certified green cleaning to ensure that your space is safe and healthy for everyone, including those with allergies or sensitivities. Contact us today to get a free quote!
