Is cleaning alone effective against the Coronavirus disease?

There can be little doubt that the Coronavirus, COVID-19, has had a devastating effect in most parts of the world. It has caused death and suffering as well as untold financial and economic distress to people, families, and entire countries. The entire way of life has been disrupted, and many people have become isolated, unemployed, or worse. Sadly, it is not over yet.

We hear of all the things we are supposed to be doing, and many people wonder, "Is cleaning alone effective against the Coronavirus disease?" The truth is that, alone, it is not going to solve the problem. It is, however, one of the most important things that can be done to at least slow the spread of this scourge.

What the experts tell us is to wash hands, practice social distancing, test, and isolate if infected. The most important thing to do, however, is to clean and disinfect effectively. This applies to your home but especially to public areas, schools, offices, and other areas where people gather.

While we are taught from childhood that cleaning is important, the rapid and horrific spread of the Coronavirus has changed the game. It is no longer good enough for homes or public areas to simply look clean. They need to be sanitized, germ-free, and hygienic. Never before has this been as important as it is now.

We are already seeing a "second wave" of COVID-19 in many areas. Although the reasons are complex, it is often because people, communities, and public officials have let their guard down. One lesson to be learned from the Coronavirus pandemic is that strict cleaning and hygiene are essential. While we will recover from this issue in time, who knows what lurks around the corner if we do not take the correct action?

Why cleaning is important for Coronavirus

While there is some debate about the specifics of how COVID-19 is spread and transmitted, it is true that the virus can remain active on surfaces for hours to days, possibly weeks in some cases. The incubation period is fairly long. It can take 5 to 14 days before infected people have symptoms.

This means that many people are out in public, spreading the virus without knowing it. Sadly, some people who are aware they are infected also continue to go out in public. For this reason, cleaning is critical.

The other measures we mentioned are important. The wearing of masks, social distancing, washing hands, and other measures are all essential. Testing, control, and isolation are necessary.

Given that the virus can remain on surfaces for a fair amount of time, correct and effective cleaning is the most effective way to combat the problem.

How to clean

Cleaning and disinfecting public spaces, including your workplace, school, home, and business, will require you to:

• Create a plan
• Drive the plan
• Monitor, maintain, and adjust the plan where necessary

While this may sound like fairly simple advice, it requires skills, knowledge, experience, and the correct equipment.

The CDC offers some good advice on cleaning during this pandemic.

Cleaning vs. Sanitizing

There is a big difference between the two. While both are extremely important, one needs to understand the difference. Cleaning with soap and water will remove dirt and many of the germs.

In order to ensure the area is completely safe and free from viruses and other germs, the surfaces and areas need to be disinfected after it has been cleaned.

This requires quality materials, advanced technologies, as well as skills and experience.

Why work with professionals

The leading cleaning companies keep up to date with developments and follow the needs of the market as well as the general health environment. Most of them rapidly adapted their cleaning protocols to be effective against COVID-19. Some were already doing such a great job that little adaptation was necessary.

Disinfecting technologies

There are several technologies used by leading sanitizing companies to ensure that the job is done safely, correctly, and effectively. Different environments will require different applications, but here are some important technologies to be aware of:

Electrostatic disinfecting

This is an important technology to use at offices, schools, medical areas, other public areas, and even in your home. It is a fast and effective way to sanitize areas.

Dry Vapor Steam Sanitizing

Another effective method is Dry Vapor Steam Sanitizing. It is fast and cost-effective while also being eco-friendly. It will eliminate germs and microbes without the need for disinfectants. It is a great application for homes, offices, and public areas.

Ozone shock treatment

For effective disinfecting, this is an ideal option. The added benefit is that it eliminates odors.

Complete facility cleaning

It is no good simply cleaning the common areas, bathrooms, kitchens, and other areas. One also has to ensure that the HVAC Duct, UV lights, and the dryer vent are cleaned regularly and correctly. Again, for this, the professionals are best.

The above technologies are excellent, but are needed above basic quality and effective cleaning. This is best done by trained and experienced professionals with the correct materials and skills.

Testing

The only way to ensure your cleaning is effective is through correct testing. You might think you, your cleaning staff, or cleaning contractors are doing a good job. The only way to ensure this is to test.

ATP (Adenosine triphosphate ) testing is the best way to ensure you are controlling the spread of microbes. This will give you, your staff or family, customers, or patients peace of mind. You can never be sure of effectiveness without testing.

Final thoughts

The reality is that we have not seen the end of the Coronavirus. We might see a new virus in the near future. The best form of protection is cleanliness. The best way to do this is by using professionals who have the skills, equipment, knowledge, and experience to deal with the pandemic as well as other health concerns. They know how to get the job done to keep those in your environment safe.