Floor Cleaning During COVID

There are so many cleaning practices to consider in preventing the spread of COVID-19.  In homes and offices, regular floor cleaning and disinfecting helps to maintain a safer environment.  So, what do you need to know about floor cleaning during COVID?

Cleaning, Sanitizing, and Disinfecting

Many people aren’t aware, but cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting are actually very different processes.  In a nutshell, cleaning is a process that removes germs and dirt from floor surfaces and involves using soap or detergent to physically remove these impurities.  On the other hand, sanitizing reduces the number of germs on floors to a safe level as determined by public health agencies – sanitizing may be achieved through both cleaning and disinfecting procedures.  Disinfecting is a process that involves using chemical cleaning agents to kill germs on floors but may not actually remove dirt or other impurities.

Ultimately, this means that to keep your business or home safest during the coronavirus pandemic, you should incorporate practices that both clean and disinfect your floors.  More regular cleaning combined with scheduled disinfection helps to keep households and business healthy.  Also, for the best results, always clean floors before disinfecting them.  Choose a cleaner that is also recommended by the Centre for Disease Control for killing COVID-19.  Some disinfectants are specifically rated for killing viruses including COVID-19.  When handling disinfectants, you will also need to follow manufacturer’s instructions – wear gloves, protective goggles, and allow adequate ventilation.  Never mix disinfectants with each other or other cleaners such as bleach or ammonia.

So then, what are some tips for cleaning and disinfecting different flooring surfaces?  Let’s take a closer look.

• Hardwood, Laminate, and Vinyl Floors
  A microfiber mop is highly effective for cleaning smooth flooring surfaces.  First vacuum or sweep flooring to remove larger dirt, dust, and debris and then mop the floor with the type of mop recommended for your flooring.  Cleaning with store-bought floor-cleaners or a mixture of apple cider vinegar and warm water will effectively clean these floor surfaces.When you’re ready to disinfect your hardwood, laminate, or vinyl floors, you want to use a disinfectant product that is recommended for your type of flooring.  Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions – many will have specific instructions for how long the disinfectant must remain in contact with the surface or drying recommendations.  For the most part, disinfectants on these smooth floor surfaces will be applied with a mop to prevent damage from moisture.

• Carpets and Rugs
  Regular vacuuming is the most important step in cleaning carpets and rugs.  High traffic areas should be vacuumed at least twice a week, and daily vacuuming would be ideal.  Move your vacuum slowly to allow for better removal of dirt and debris.  Regularly dusting surfaces in carpeted rooms can also help to keep carpets clean.Routine carpet vacuuming is likely sufficient for preventing the spread of germs in your home or business – even COVID-19.  Steam cleaning carpets with soap and water is recommended for disinfecting.