During a cleaning day, custodians encounter many different surfaces that require dusting and polishing, including wood, stainless steel, glass and windows.
But not all of these need cleaning chemicals.
Cleaners can use microfiber cloths instead of paper towels for dusting and polishing and in turn minimize their exposure to chemicals and create less waste as well. Microfiber cloths can be laundered and reused for up to 500 times. These fabric cloths are color coded for specific areas and can be used either wet or dry.
While dusting and polishing, the microfiber cloth can become dirty and it will begin to streak. It is important for cleaners to wash cloths with water or add a light detergent. Microfiber cloths are like dirt magnets, when used with water, they are 99% effective in removing bacteria without the use of harmful chemicals. When more heavy duty cleaning is required, a cleaner can use an all purpose cleaner in conjunction with the microfiber cloth to maximize cleaning effectiveness.
For stainless steel surfaces, cleaners can use a microfiber cloth and all purpose cleaner to remove fingerprints like those found in most elevators. Petroleum based furniture polishes that can be harmful to your health can be avoided by using microfiber cloths instead as well. Where necessary, the use of green wood polishes should be used. Using neutral green cleaning products, windows, mirrors, as well as window ledges, frames and corners should be sponged down and then squeegeed and wiped down. Not all counter tops and surfaces needs to be sanitized and disinfected. Disinfectants contain pesticide agents and are especially harmful when overused. Only high skin contact areas like door knobs, light switches and handles need daily disinfecting. When disinfecting, it is best to use hydrogen peroxide based wipes and cleaners for optimal cleaning.
Following these practices and using green cleaners reduces waste and is healthier for you, your employees, your clients and the environment.