Office Cleaning Products Are Changing With The Times

Periodically I like to get back to the basics of cleaning since we all can benefit from reminders along the way for the steps necessary to clean a facility effectively and safely.

It is important to remember that you are supposed to be the SME (subject matter expert) in custodial operations. A savvy BSC can use their knowledge in the safest, greenest, most effective way of cleaning to acquire and keep satisfied customers. Consider the following points:

1. Technology is changing on an increasing frequency. The old upright vacuum cleaners that were cheap to buy and expensive to own are being supplanted by backpack and upright units that have HEPA type filtration, better tools, better suction and even more ergonomic handles.

2. Carpeting and carpet care is changing for the better. At one time, shampooing carpet with a sticky detergent that tended to re-soil quickly has been replaced by encapsulation and other chemistries including simply using treated water to great effect. HWE (hot water extraction) is needed less often and with better lift cleans much more thoroughly for a better outcome.

3. Stripping and recoating often is being replace with more scrubbing and burnishing when necessary. Many are converting to diamond pad systems that reduce or eliminate the need for finishes that can harm the environment and require unnecessary labor.

4. Floor finishes (still called wax in many areas) has gone green in the removal of the metals that proved to be detrimental to the environment.

5. Pads and brushes keep evolving to reduce labor while being more environmentally friendly. This includes pads made from recycled plastic bottles and then recycled again when worn out.

Unless you reach out to your prospects and current customers about the improvements in IAQ (indoor air quality) as well as environmental changes, they may not really know the value you bring to the table. Your comments and questions are important. I hope to hear from you soon. Until then, keep it clean...

Mickey Crowe has been involved in the industry for over 35 years. He is a trainer, speaker and consultant. You can reach Mickey at 678-314-2171 or CTCG50@comcast.net.