Debunking Common Myths About Cleaning and Disinfecting

Keeping your common areas cleaned and disinfected is more important than ever, thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic spreading while states start to reopen. However, there tends to be some confusion about the difference between cleaning and disinfecting, and how to complete these steps properly. Whether you’re cleaning your business yourself, or you’re hoping to invest in commercial cleaning and janitorial services in Livonia, MI, it’s important to understand the truth about cleaning and disinfecting practices. Here are some myths to watch out for:

  • You can use bleach or vinegar to clean everything: Never trust anyone who tells you one cleaning product is suitable for everything. For example, bleach is good for whitening laundry and disinfecting surfaces, but it’s not a cleaning agent that can remove dirt from floors or countertops. Similarly, vinegar is a good cleaning agent for some surfaces, like countertops, but is too acidic to work on softer, more porous materials like marble or hardwood. Make sure you research which cleaners and disinfectants are suitable for your surfaces.
  • Cleaning and disinfecting are the same thing: Cleaning and disinfecting are quite different, although the end result might look the same. Cleaning involves using an agent (usually soap and water) to remove dirt, debris and some germs from surfaces. Disinfecting, on the other hand, is usually done after or in conjunction with cleaning. It involves using chemicals to aggressively kill germs. For example, you might clean a counter with soap and water to remove dirt and crumbs, but if you want to kill germs, you’d need to go back over it with a disinfectant.
  • Feather dusters remove dust: Leave the feather dusters for cartoons. This type of duster actually shakes dirt into the air, so the surface is only temporarily dust free. Once the dust settles, you’ll be back at square one. Use a soft cloth and dusting spray to remove dust without launching it into the air.
  • Vacuums damage your carpet: Vacuums do a lot to remove dust, dirt and other particles from your carpet. If left unattended, these particles will eventually cause your carpet to look, feel and smell less than fresh—vacuuming is actually good for your carpet, and will help it last for years to come.
  • You can clean glass with newspaper: While this was once true, today’s newspaper bleeds too easily and is no longer good for getting a streak-free shine. Stick to paper towels or microfiber cloths.
  • Hairspray is good for cleaning ballpoint ink: Once upon a time, hairspray had a much higher alcohol content than it does today, which made it suitable for removing ink stains. Today, hairspray has lower amounts of alcohol (it tends to dry hair out, and it’s flammable), so you’ll need to find another method to clean your ink stains.

Knowing the difference between cleaning and disinfecting and which products to use will make a big difference in the health and safety of your common spaces. For reliable janitorial services and commercial cleaning in Livonia, MI, contact Stay Clean Solutions today.