The Future of Green Cleaning Post-COVID
The COVID-19 pandemic changed how many of us looked at what cleaning meant for health and safety. Many businesses had to change their cleaning practices overnight and there was concern by many over the ability of green cleaning products to kill the coronavirus.
That isn’t to say that green cleaning went out the window during the height of the pandemic, however, there was definitely a bigger focus on using stronger products and disinfectants to help make everyone safer in public spaces.
Now that we are further into this life-changing health event, what is the current state of green cleaning and what is the future of it?
Cleaning vs. Disinfecting
Before we go further, it’s important to first understand that there is a difference between cleaning and disinfecting. Cleaning removes germs and dirt from surfaces, but does not kill pathogens. However, disinfecting does kill germs on surfaces if done properly.
Understanding the Past to Understand the Present
We also need to understand the past, in this case early on in the pandemic, to understand the present day and where cleaning standards are. Early on, the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) had a list of disinfectants that had been proven to kill the coronavirus. Many of these products included bleach, isopropyl alcohol, and other common disinfectants. There were a few green cleaners on the EPA’s list, but that didn’t mean that natural cleaning products wouldn’t work, just that they hadn’t been tested.
Focusing in On Green Cleaning Once Again
Pre-vaccine, there was a focus on using disinfectants to kill the COVID-19 virus from surfaces. In general, the pandemic also brought heightened attention to the importance of cleaning to health and wellness. Now that more and more people are getting vaccinated against COVID-19, many businesses and schools are beginning to focus on green cleaning once again.
Not only is green cleaning better for the environment because they don’t have the same toxic or harsh chemicals that traditional cleaning products have, but they are less likely to cause skin, eye and respiratory irritation. Green cleaning is a way to ensure that a building is safe for everyone–even those with sensitivities, allergies or asthma!
Effective Cleaning is Essential
While we are seeing more focus on green cleaning once again, one thing that still hasn’t changed even as we begin to move beyond COVID is the need for effective cleaning for the health of everyone, whether it’s for cold and flu season or to be prepared for the next pandemic. People understand now more than ever that cleaning and disinfecting has to be done right if it is to be effective, which is why they also understand that in order for cleaning to be effective, the pros need to do it. Commercial cleaning services are trained to use the right techniques and products for the job and can also help their clients keep buildings clean while the client focuses on other important business aspects.
Ready to keep your buildings clean and healthy for everyone? AK Building Services is Florida’s dependable commercial cleaning provider. We have a comprehensive portfolio of janitorial and maintenance services for a wide range of businesses and organizations, including medical facilities. We are also LEED certified and are committed to using certified green cleaning products. Contact us today to learn more about our customizable cleaning services.
