The landscape of office cleaning has changed in the last few years. Hence, it’s essential to be aware that virus-containing body secretions and excreta can be aerosolised into infectious virus-containing droplets in various ways. Simply exhaling, talking, coughing, and sneezing can generate and expel these infectious droplets or particles, which can then be inhaled by others, leading to disease transmission in work areas.
To prevent the spread of infection, it is crucial to maintain good hygiene practices, such as regular hand washing and avoiding close contact with sick people.
While it is essential to practice good workplace hygiene at all times, certain hot spots for germs are often overlooked. These hot spots can be found in public and private places and can cause serious illness if not cleaned properly.
Some of the most common diseases in the offices that are spread through these hot spots include COVID-19, influenza, bronchitis, and pneumonia.
To prevent yourself from becoming sick, it is vital to clean these hidden areas regularly.
Some of the most common germs hot spots include:
How to clean doorknobs?
Imagine how many people sneeze, cough into their hands, and then grab the doorknob to your office. Many people often touch these throughout the day, and they can quickly become covered in germs.
One of the best ways to clean doorknobs is by using a disinfectant wipe. These wipes can be purchased at most stores and are easy to use. Wipe down the doorknob, and you’re done!
Coffee pots: Should be washed periodically
Coffee pots are a common germs hot spot because many people often touch them in a working environment throughout the day. They are also difficult to clean properly, leading to the spread of germs.
To avoid spreading germs in an office environment, cleaning your coffee pot regularly is essential. You can use a disinfectant wipe or a vinegar solution to clean the coffee pot, but these should be washed periodically.
Alternatively, the office should invest in automatic coffee machines requiring few touches.
Water coolers: Vinegar solution can be quite effective
Water coolers are another common germs hotspot in the office. The spigot on the water cooler can become a breeding ground for bacteria if not cleaned properly.
Wiping probably won’t do the trick here, so it’s essential to clean the water cooler with a vinegar solution regularly. Fill up the cooler with a 50/50 mixture of vinegar and water and let it sit for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, flush the cooler out with clean water, and you’re all set!
Computer keyboards: Use compressed air to blow the dust
Another common hot spot for germs is computer keyboards. If it’s a communal keyboard in the office, it can quickly become covered in germs. One of the main reasons keywords become hotspots is because people also sit over and breathe over them.
Like COVID-19, which spreads via air droplets, germs are easily spread on the keyboard.
The best way to clean a keyboard is to use a can of compressed air to blow the dust and dirt out of the crevices. Then you can use a disinfectant wipe or alcohol-based cleaner to clean the keyboard’s surface. Just be sure not to get any liquid on the actual keys!
Light switches: Disinfectant wipe
Like doorknobs, office people also touch light switches and can quickly become covered in germs. If you have an office cleaning company, make sure that the office cleaners clean these regularly.
The best way to clean light switches is with a disinfectant wipe. These wipes are easy to use and can be found at most stores. Wipe down the light switch, and you’re done!
Telephones: Use an alcohol-based cleaner
Telephones can easily become covered in germs, whether it’s a landline or a cell phone. This is because they are often handled close to the face, making them one of the primary sources of infection.
The best way to clean a telephone is with an antiviral disinfectant wipe or alcohol-based cleaner. It would be good to place a rule of wearing facemasks while using the device and cleaning them after individuals’ use. This will dramatically reduce the spread of infection.
Toilets: Hire a professional cleaning company
Now, I know you’re thinking, “ewwww, toilets,” everyone knows they are filthy. In fact, aerosolised droplets in toilets can play a central role in transmitting various serious infectious diseases, including Legionnaire’s disease, gastroenteritis-causing norovirus, and COVID-19.
Make sure to hire a professional cleaning company to clean your office toilets on a regular basis. In between professional cleanings, janitorial staff can also use a toilet brush to scrub the bowl and a disinfectant wipe to clean the seat and handle.
Cleaning filthy fridge
It is common for people to leave their old rotten food in the communal fridge in the office, which can lead to bacteria and virus growth. These germs can quickly spread to other food items and make people sick.
The most common problem is mould in office refrigerators which can cause various health problems, including respiratory problems, skin irritation, and asthma attacks.
The primary reason mould occurs in office refrigerators is poor humidity control. If the humidity levels are too high, it can create a perfect environment for mould growth. Mould can also occur if the refrigerator isn’t cleaned correctly. Food residue and crumbs can make an ideal place for mould to grow, so it’s essential to clean the fridge regularly.
The best way to clean a refrigerator is with a vinegar solution. Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle and use it to clean the fridge’s inside. Pay special attention to areas where food residue or crumbs may have accumulated. After cleaning, wipe down the surfaces with a clean, damp cloth.
In addition, make sure to have a professional cleaning company clean your office refrigerator on a regular basis. Your contract must include specifying refrigerator cleaning as part of their scope of work.
Carpets – One of the dirtiest places in any office
They are often stained with coffee, food, and other various spills. In addition, carpets can also harbour multiple harmful bacteria and viruses.
The best way to clean a carpet is with a professional cleaning company. These companies have the proper equipment and experience to safely and effectively clean carpets. In addition, they can also treat carpets with special cleaners that kill bacteria and viruses.
Don’t forget to vacuum your office carpets regularly. This will help remove any dirt, dust, and debris that has accumulated on the surface. Be sure to use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to trap any harmful bacteria and viruses that may be present.
Photocopier and printers
Few office appliances get as much use as photocopiers and printers. Unfortunately, these devices can also be a breeding ground for bacteria and viruses.
To clean a photocopier or printer:
- Start by unplugging the device and removing any paper from the tray.
- Use a damp cloth to wipe down the exterior of the machine.
- Pay special attention to the control panel, as this is where most of the bacteria and viruses will be present.
After you’ve wiped down the exterior of the machine:
- Use a cotton swab or Q-tip to clean the interior of the device.
- Avoid getting any water on the electrical components.
- Once you’re done cleaning, reassemble the machine and plug it back in.
Key Takeaway
The best way to avoid spreading germs in an office environment is to practice good hygiene habits and clean common hot spots regularly.
Common hot spots include doorknobs, coffee pots, water coolers, computer keyboards, light switches, telephones, and toilets. By cleaning these areas regularly, you can help prevent the spread of germs in your office.
You should consider hiring a commercial cleaning company like Cleanology to clean your office for several reasons. Some of the benefits include:
1. Improved hygiene – A professional cleaning company will clean all of the usual hot spots in your office, including photocopiers, printers, and carpets. This will help to reduce the spread of germs in your office.
2. Cost savings – Hiring a professional cleaning company can save you money in the long run. This is because they will use high-quality cleaning products that will last longer and be more effective than the products you would use.
3. Increased productivity – A clean office environment can help to increase employee productivity. This is because employees will feel more comfortable and motivated in a clean office.
Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions or would like a free quote.
