If a client asks you for sanitising and disinfecting in addition to Deep Cleaning, you will need to use specific supplies. Read on for tips from Taskers on how you can become a sanitising superhero!
Sanitising and disinfecting hard surfaces
Diluted household bleach solutions (at least 1000ppm sodium hypochlorite) can be used if appropriate for the surface. Bleach is not recommended for use on wood, granite, or metal surfaces. Check to ensure the product is not past its expiration date. Never mix household bleach with ammonia or any other cleanser.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application, ensuring a contact time of at least 1 minute, and allowing proper ventilation during and after application. You may wish to open a window or bring a small fan.
If you or your client doesn’t have bleach, you can mix your own. Bleach solutions will be effective for disinfection up to 24 hours. Here are the ingredients:
- 5 tablespoons (1/3rd cup or 75 mL) bleach per gallon of water or
- 4 teaspoons bleach per quart of water
Sanitising soft surfaces
After removing any large particles, launder items as appropriate in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. If possible, launder items using the warmest appropriate water setting for the items and dry items completely.
Electronics and appliances
Remove any visible contamination and then wipe down using a 70% alcohol-based disinfectant spray or antibacterial wipe. Dry the appliance with a clean towel. Toss several towels in your go-to cleaning kit so you don’t use the same one over and over again.
Linens and fabrics
Use disposable gloves to handle any linens you are washing and discard after use. If you are not using gloves, immediately wash your hands after handling linens. Launder items according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If possible, launder items using the warmest appropriate water setting for the items and dry items completely. Clean and disinfect laundry baskets as you would any hard surface.
What are some examples of sanitising tasks? Think rental properties, commercial businesses or other public settings, any environment with children or pets, etc.
