Most of the things that we use for cleaning can be left unnoticed. That’s why we find a lot of dirty mops or poorly maintained vacuum cleaners. But cleaning our equipment is as important as the things they should clean. That’s why we will go through some quick tips on how cleaning equipment should be cleaned and stored.
Cleaning And Storing Common Cleaning Equipment
An effective cleaning job depends on how cleaning equipment should be cleaned and stored. Even items as simple as rags and brushes have to be cleaned thoroughly. Cleaning supplies may have labels that describe how and when cleaning agents are used, but cleaning equipment doesn’t always have cleaning and storage instructions. Here are some quick tips on some common cleaning types of cleaning equipment:
Cloths/Rags
- Keep in labeled bags
- Throw oily rags
- Do not leave lying around
- Wash separately from microfiber cloths
Spray Bottles
- Wipe bottles if there is any leaking residue
- Replace bottle labels if unreadable
- Regularly clean all parts to avoid buildup
Brushes
- If dirty, use a lukewarm cleaning solution and rinse with clear water
- Shake out excess
- Storage: Always hang brushes to avoid damage
Dust Mops
- Do not use on liquids
- Remove any loose soil frequently
- Shake the dust into a large waste bin
- Storage: Hang the mop for air circulation
Upright Vacuum
- Empty bag
- Wipe the outer area of vacuum
- Clean dome and exhaust diffuser filter as needed
Storage tips:
- Store your equipment in a cool and dry area. Your equipment must be in an area that does not have fluctuating temperatures. The space must also be free from debris.
- Store cleaning supplies in their original containers. If you want to make your solution, label other bottles to avoid any mix-up.
- Store cleaning equipment and supplies away from the reach of children or animals.
Infection Control Cleaning: How To Disinfect Equipment
Part of understanding how cleaning equipment should be cleaned and stored means looking into intensive cleaning. Commodes or bedpans are sensitive devices that need to be cleaned well. In learning how to clean a commode, these are some cleaning supplies you need:
- Detergent wipes – used for cleaning before disinfecting
- Chlorine-releasing solution – used in the disinfecting process
- Combined cleaner and disinfectant
NOTE: Infection control requires a five-minute contact time. This means you must leave items for five minutes to allow the disinfectant to take effect. When handling any cleaning supplies, like these, wearing gloves is a MUST.
Here are some of the other methods for disinfecting your equipment or supplies:
- Prepare 1:100 bleach solution for disinfecting reusable gloves or boots.
- Prepare a supply of soapy water for cloths or rags.
- Use 70% Isopropyl alcohol for surfaces that need to be wiped.
- When disposing of waste that may be hazardous, put it in 1:100 solution of bleach and collect them to be burnt.
NOTE: Bleach solutions lose their potency after 24 hours. When you can no longer smell chlorine, it’s time to change it. Discover more about cleaning equipment here!
Conclusion
Our cleaning equipment is responsible for ensuring we have a safe and clean environment. It only makes sense if we make sure it’s fit for the job first. Knowing how cleaning equipment should be cleaned and stored will make all the difference in maintaining a clean space.