Keeping bathrooms germ-free
Daniel Took, Head of Professional Product Marketing at Kärcher UK highlights the importance of using efficient solutions to eliminate the build-up of germs in commercial bathrooms.
When guests and visitors make use of bathroom facilities, it can greatly shape their impression of the establishment they are visiting and its overall cleanliness. Regular maintenance is key to prevent the build-up of unwanted pathogens, bacteria, and any spillages that may occur. With few cleaning hours in the day, and high customer expectations, understanding the correct methods to apply to tackle dirt is a must. From adjusting traditional cleaning methods to boost efficiency, to utilising the latest developments in battery powered technologies, tackling unwanted germs and diseases needn’t be an onerous, time-consuming job.
Adjusting Traditional Cleaning Methods
Traditional cleaning by hand is often required in bathroom spaces due to the nature of the surfaces and it is important to avoid cross-contamination of germs from different areas of the bathroom. To avoid this, using a system of different coloured cloths can prevent germs being passed between surfaces, ensuring a clean and hygienic bathroom for all users.
Colour-coordinating sponges and cloths enables cleaners to swiftly move from one surface to another without the risk of transferring unwanted particles. For instance, using a red sponge when cleaning toilets helps prevent the risk of faecal matter being transferred to other areas of the washroom, if for instance a blue sponge is always used to clean benches. Kärcher recommends using red for sanitary areas, yellow for washbasins and hand cleaning areas, blue for general surfaces, and green for food safe areas.
Using Cleaning Agents
Using the correct cleaning agent is essential when cleaning bathrooms as different surface materials will react in contrasting ways depending on the agent that is used. For example, using acid-based cleaning agents on benches and coat racks could damage the surfaces which could result in injuries to the user.
When using a cleaning agent to reduce time required to clean, always check the label and ensure it is being used on the right surface in the correct procedure and always rinse the surface with cold water after cleaning. For general guidance, all-purpose or alcohol-based cleaners are best used on toilet lids and seats, whilst alkaline agents should be used for benches and coat racks, and limescale-dissolving agents containing citric acid and/or amidosulphuric acid for taps, showerheads, and mixing valves.
With different agents for different areas of the bathroom, using different coloured sponges will help prevent any unwanted chemical reactions caused by the mixing of different cleaning agents. Additionally, it will help prevent the transfer of cleaning agents from one area to another which could result in damage to the surface material.
Battery powered floor cleaning
Bathroom flooring can often be subject to spills and urine which needs to be cleaned in an efficient manner to maintain cleanliness. Traditional mop and bucket cleaning uses vast amounts of water and can be time consuming as the water needs to be refreshed regularly. Using new battery powered products, such as the BR 30/1 C Bp Pack scrubber drier from Kärcher, is ideal for the swift cleaning of bathroom flooring. Its microfibre roller works to whisk away dirt and unwanted residue with up to 60% quicker drying times, helping to reduce the risk of slips and trips for users within the bathroom. As the BR 30/1 C Bp is battery powered, it produces low levels of noise and it does not require a power source, enabling spills to be swiftly cleaned up without having to close off the facilities.
To help prevent the build-up of fungal spores and unwanted pathogens, the use of cleaning agents alongside the BR 30/1 C Bp is key to ensure user safety. The Disinfectant Cleaner RM 732 is ideal for bathroom facilities as it eliminates bacteria without leaving any lasting odours.
Efficient disinfection
Once bathrooms have been cleaned using sponges and cleaning agents, it is important to apply disinfectant to ensure surfaces are safe for users. Handheld battery powered machines help to make this process more efficient as they can reach small nooks and crannies that cannot be reached by hand. Ideal for bathroom use is the Kärcher’s ES 1/7 Bp spray mister. The ES 1/7 Bp works to ensure an even application of disinfectant throughout the facility to ensure an efficient and effective clean. When used alongside the specially designed RM 735, unwanted bacteria can be eliminated in a swift manner.
Working to boost efficiency when cleaning bathroom facilities is a must to protect the overall impression of the facility and ensure guests and visitors have an optimal experience. Specialist cleaning and the removal of unwanted pathogens and bacteria is crucial to safeguarding user safety in an effective manner.
Important notes: sanitary cleaners must be used as directed and in accordance with accident prevention guidelines. This means wearing protective gloves and eye protection if necessary. Never mix cleaning agents, pay attention to the prescribed dosage, do not use warm or very hot water and rinse well with clear water. Detergent should be added to water rather than the other way around.