The importance of regular deep cleaning
Deep cleaning goes beyond the regular day-to-day cleaning that most people do. It is, as the name suggests, scrubbing, dusting and vacuuming of hard-to-reach areas that are not generally included in regular cleaning routines. The reason that deep cleaning is so important is that it serves to thoroughly disinfect spaces where bacteria and viruses thrive, contributing to healthier environments and increased productivity.
- The Hidden Dangers in Your Home/Office: The most common airborne allergens are pollen, dust mites, mold and animal dander that can accumulate over time in different areas of a home or office. People with severe allergies are at increased risk of serious allergy-induced reactions like anaphylaxis, asthma, sinusitis and infection of the ears or lungs where there is a prevalence of these allergens, and this is where deep cleaning serves to arrest the growth and accumulation of these offenders.
- Deep Cleaning vs. Regular Cleaning: Deep cleaning gets rid of dirt, grime, soap scum, and other gunk that collects on surfaces. It removes deep seated dirt and germs to leave things sanitary clean. Regular cleaning maintains a clean appearance and involves repetitive tasks such as sweeping and mopping floors, vacuuming carpets, wiping the dust from surfaces, appliances, and fixtures, cleaning and disinfecting the bathroom, cleaning kitchen appliances, doors, and window frames.
- The Health Benefits of Deep Cleaning: There are numerous benefits to be derived from deep cleaning but the main health benefits are:
- Allergen Reduction: Deep cleaning cuts down allergens in your surroundings, mitigating allergies and asthma, promoting a healthier space.
- Disease Prevention: Deep cleaning disinfects spaces, lowering the chances of disease spread, crucial in shared environments like offices.
- Mental Health Enhancement: Deep cleaning, while not physically beneficial, significantly improves mental health. A clean, uncluttered area reduces stress, enhances focus, and boosts sleep quality, contributing to overall well-being.
- Stress Relief and Productivity Boost: A deep cleaned space is linked with less stress and higher productivity levels
- How Often Should You Deep Clean?: The following is a general guideline. The exact schedule may vary based on the specific needs and circumstances of each business.
Office Spaces: For a typical office environment, a professional deep clean is usually recommended every 6 to 12 months. However, high-traffic areas like restrooms and kitchens might require more frequent deep cleaning, perhaps quarterly.
Medical Facilities: Due to the high-risk nature of healthcare environments, these facilities typically require more frequent and specialized deep cleaning. Areas such as waiting rooms, patient rooms, and especially operating rooms may need to be deep cleaned daily.
Restaurants and Food Service Businesses: These businesses must adhere to strict sanitation standards, which often includes daily deep cleaning of specific areas like kitchens. Front-of-house areas should also be deep cleaned regularly to ensure a safe, clean environment for diners.
Retail Spaces: These should be deep cleaned on a regular basis, potentially monthly or quarterly depending on the foot traffic. This not only maintains a healthy environment but also impacts the customer’s shopping experience.
Educational Institutions: Schools and colleges often schedule deep cleanings during breaks when students are not present, though high-use areas like restrooms and cafeterias may require more frequent attention.
Regardless of industry, it’s important to augment professional deep cleanings with daily cleaning routines, ensuring surfaces are regularly wiped down and sanitized, floors are vacuumed or mopped, and trash is properly disposed of. During times of a public health crisis, such as a pandemic, businesses may need to increase the frequency of their deep cleaning schedules.
Deep cleaning goes beyond just making a space look clean. It helps create a safer, healthier environment for everyone and is critically important to maintain healthy environments where business can thrive.