Introduction: Maintaining cleanliness and hygiene in any environment requires efficient cleaning equipment. However, it is equally important to establish proper cleaning procedures for these tools to ensure their longevity and effectiveness. In this post, we will discuss the recommended procedures for cleaning different cleaning equipment, highlighting key steps and best practices to follow.
Mopping Buckets and Wringers: At the end of each cleaning shift, it is crucial to properly clean and maintain mopping buckets and wringers. Follow these steps:
Empty the buckets and rinse them thoroughly.
Rinse the wringers as well.
Wipe down the buckets with a dry cloth for hygienic reasons.
Note: In hygiene-sensitive environments like hospitals, avoid using wooden mop handles as they cannot be effectively decontaminated by wiping them with a damp cloth.
Sweeping Equipment: Sweeping tools play a vital role in cleanliness. Follow these procedures to keep them in optimal condition:
Wipe down the sweeping tool handles daily with a damp cloth for hygiene purposes.
Periodically clean the sweeping tool frames with a damp cloth if they are visibly soiled.
Clean or launder mop sweeper sleeves according to the specific worksite procedure.
Walk-Behind Push Sweepers: Walk-behind push sweepers require regular maintenance to ensure proper functionality. Perform the following steps:
Empty the dirt hopper.
Check for any threads or strapping wrapped around the main broom, ensuring it rotates freely. Adjust both the main and side brooms if necessary, and store the side broom in the upright position.
Wipe down the exterior of the machine with a damp cloth.
Mechanical Sweepers: For mechanical sweepers, it is crucial to adhere to the manufacturer's recommendations and the worksite maintenance procedure.
Trolleys: Trolleys are essential for organizing cleaning supplies and waste disposal. Follow these guidelines:
Dispose of waste according to the worksite procedure.
Empty, rinse, and wipe the buckets with a dry cloth.
Replenish consumable supplies and chemicals, provided the trolley can be stored securely.
Periodically clean the trolley's exterior surfaces with a damp cloth, including the wheels and castors.
Vacuum Cleaners: Vacuum cleaners require regular maintenance to ensure efficient performance. Follow these steps based on the type of vacuum cleaner:
Tank Type and Backpack Dry Vacuum Cleaners:
Check for any blockages in the vacuum hose, pipe, and floor tool.
Replace the disposable paper bag when it reaches 70% capacity or clean cloth/cartridge filters as per the manufacturer's recommendations.
Wipe down the exterior of the machine with a damp cloth.
Wind up the cable with a damp cloth, starting from the machine and ending at the plug to prevent kinking or breaking.
Upright Vacuum Cleaners:
Check for blockages in the vacuum channel and ensure the cylindrical brush rotates freely without any threads wound around it.
Replace disposable paper bags at 70% capacity or clean cloth/cartridge filters following the manufacturer's recommendations.
Wipe down the exterior of the machine with a damp cloth.
Wet Vacuum Cleaners:
Check for blockages in the vacuum hose, pipe, and floor tool.
Empty the dirty water contents into a drain, rinse the tank, and cut-off float, and electrodes (if applicable) with clean water.
Wipe down the exterior of the machine with a damp cloth.
Wind up the cable with a damp cloth, starting from the machine and ending at the plug.
Single-Disc Machines: Proper maintenance of single-disc machines ensures their longevity and effectiveness. Follow these steps:
Remove brushes, pad driving discs, and pads from the machine. Rinse the brushes and wash the pads following the specific worksite procedure.
Empty and rinse solution tanks, allowing them to air dry without the cover if applicable.
Wipe down the exterior of the machine with a damp cloth.
Wind up the cable with a damp cloth. Note: Never store single disc machines with brushes, pads, or pad drives fitted to avoid damage during storage.
Adhering to proper cleaning procedures for different cleaning equipment will maintain cleanliness, hygiene, and longevity. By following the recommended steps outlined in this blog post, you can ensure that your cleaning tools remain in optimal condition. This will result in more efficient and effective cleaning practices. Remember, a well-maintained and properly cleaned equipment arsenal is the key to a cleaner and healthier environment.
Contact us for advice on the right equipment and how to maintain it. Tel: +27 11 406 4000 or email: sales@safic.co.za