Cleaning and Disinfecting
What’s the difference?
Cleaning refers to the removal of dirt and impurities, including germs from surfaces. Cleaning alone does not kill the germs. But, by removing the germs it decreases their number and therefore risk of spreading infection.
Disinfecting works by using chemicals, for example EPA-registered disinfectants, to kill germs on surfaces. This process does not necessarily clean dirty surfaces or remove germs. But, killing germs remaining on a surface after cleaning further reduces risk of spreading infection.
Please see CDC Cleaning and Disinfecting for more detailed information.
Populist Cleaning has been taking care of our public safety building for years, and we are pleased with the service we receive. From daily office cleaning and disinfecting wipe-down due to COVID19, monthly locker room cleaning, and quarterly floor waxing, Populist delivers on their quality of service. We would like to say Thank You to Dorothy, Erin, and Deon for the professionalism, thoroughness, and kindness exhibited by them each day.
At the beginning of the Covid-19 outbreak we asked Populist what options were available to supplement our night time cleaning efforts in the building. Being an essential First Responder, we had to keep our staff on the job each day, however we were concerned about their health and safety. Populist sends in a team of trained professionals each day to clean all touch points of our kitchens, restrooms, conference rooms and lobbies. The crew is very professional, personable and respectful.
What does this mean?
The process of disinfecting requires “dwell time” in order for a surface to be truly “disinfected” and meet the “kill” claims of the product being used. Most disinfectants on the CDC/EPA COVID-19 list require a surface to remain wet (dwell time) with disinfectant for up to 10 minutes for the surface to be “99% disinfected”.
The specific guidelines for disinfecting can be found at the CDC and EPA websites and on MSD [Material Safety Data] sheets for disinfectants.
Daytime Cleaning
We clearly understand the challenges this presents during daytime cleaning processes. For those customers who are unable to have surfaces remain wet and unusable for that length of time, we thoroughly spray and immediately wipe down surfaces with our EPA-approved disinfectant. We will not allow surfaces to remain wet.
This process of wiping down surfaces with disinfectant using clean microfiber cloths cleans the surface, removes germs, and helps reduce the spread of the virus and germs. In this case, disinfection (99% kill claims) will not be an expectation on the part of the Customer
Nighttime Cleaning
For facilities that are cleaned after business hours, we are performing cleaning according to the agreed upon contracted specifications. It is important to understand again that disinfecting requires dwell time. This can add significant time to each job site budget depending on the number of areas to be truly disinfected. This level of service may not have originally been accounted for. It is important to clarify whether true disinfecting is required or if wiping clean with a disinfectant product and clean microfiber cloths is acceptable. If you are unsure about your needs or have further questions, please let us know.
We’re here to help!
Frequently touched areas need frequent cleaning and disinfecting. Reduce the risk of exposure to COVID-19 in your workplace by regularly cleaning and disinfecting all hard, non-porous surfaces.
Populist Cleaning Co can help you maintain a safe and healthy facility during these unprecedented times. Our certified technicians use EPA registered products and proven techniques to sanitize, disinfect, and deep clean your work spaces.
We offer competitively priced:
- daytime cleaning and disinfectant wipe down
- after hours electrostatic spraying, fogging, and hot water extraction services.