Cleaning with Chemicals

Chemicals have an important role to play in efficient commercial cleaning. We are all much more aware of the environment and our impact upon it, so we take more interest in the chemicals we use both personally and professionally. When it comes to cleaning it is probably true to say that we seek “greener” alternatives to the perceived more aggressive chemical cleaning procedures (see our article for tips on green cleaning) where possible, however chemical based detergents can also help to achieve the best cleaning results whilst minimising the use of other resources.

Why use chemicals in cleaning?

Successful cleaning relies on the effort involved, either mechanical or human, the cleaning agent used, the temperature of the cleaning medium, usually water, and the one resource we are always short of  –  time. Efficient cleaning optimizes all these factors into an effective operation which make the best of the resources in your cleaning system. For best cleaning results, it’s critical to use an appropriate chemical for the job and to use it in the correct dosage. There may be a temptation, perhaps because of environmental concerns, to weaken the solution or perhaps not use detergent at all. We don’t recommend that though, as other factors would have to be increased to compensate, e.g. more mechanical effort, higher temperatures used and quite likely more time spent. There are some eco-friendly cleaning agents available, e.g. the Natural range from Prochem.
Chemicals, when appropriately used in the cleaning process, can save in other areas such as energy usage and operator efficiency. If, for example, there is potential bacteria build up or the area being cleaned is not very accessible then the judicious application of a chemical solution is really the only answer to ensure the correct level of hygiene.

Cleaning and sanitisation

The COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 has brought a requirement for thorough cleaning and sanitising in shops, offices, care homes etc – everywhere that people could be exposed to the virus. Effective sanitisation requires chemicals and the quickest and most efficient way to sanitise all non-porous surfaces is through the use of fogging machines, in conjunction with a suitable antiviral disinfectant.
We supply a range of Chemical Fogging Equipment and also Antiviral Disinfectant, which has been independently tested against Coronavirus.

However, for fogging to be fully effective, surfaces must be cleaned first, otherwise viruses and bacteria may still be lurking under the dirt. So whilst fogging is becoming a normal part of the cleaning regime for many companies, standard cleaning is still just as important.
In addition to the products mentioned below, Prochem Microsan Biocidal Cleaner can be used on hard surfaces and also carpets and upholstery.

Safety precautions when cleaning with chemicals

The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations (or COSHH) is the UK law that requires all employers to control the risks from harmful substances. These regulations are there to ensure that chemicals are handled, stored and used safely and offer specific guidance to users of all types of chemicals. When using chemicals for cleaning there are things that can be done to help with safety and efficiency such as: Follow the instructions. This might seem obvious but it is sensible to follow the recommended dosage (use a proper measurer), both from a cost and environmental perspective. We know sometimes we need to use chemicals but more does not mean better.

• Never mix cleaning chemicals together; this could create a dangerous cocktail, and keep an eye on the use by date as the chemicals will be less effective and may become harmful. Dispose of unwanted chemical safely according to instructions.
• Be careful not to spill any chemicals and ensure that they are stored safely and kept in their original containers so you know what they are.
• Operator safety is paramount, make sure that the correct personal protection equipment is provided and used and that the area being cleaned is well ventilated. In small areas like bathrooms ventilation can be difficult, so make sure the fan is on.
• Make sure you purchase cleaning chemicals from a reliable professional source for specific cleaning jobs. For floor and upholstery cleaning for example firms such as Prochem offer a wide range of cleaning products including a natural range of carpet and floor cleaners.

Cleaning with chemicals should be part of a process that results in a clean environment for those that inhabit it. The process may also involve using a pressure washer, a steam cleaner, a carpet extractor or good old elbow grease and the employment of these resources is only worthwhile if the result is to the required standard. Machinery and cleaning products are only as good as the people using them so operator training from a tried and trusted source like B&G Cleaning, or Prochem (for carpet, floor and upholstery cleaning) ensures not only good cleaning but safe cleaning. Prochem cleaning products are designed for use with floor, carpet and upholstery cleaning machines. Because there are so many different types of carpet and floor covering requiring specific treatment, there is a wide range of products designed for the optimal cleaning and maintenance of carpet and upholstery. From detergents for carpet extractors to fine fabric cleaners and deodorizers and sanitizers they cover the range of cleaning and maintenance products for all materials. As a leading supplier of Prochem cleaning products, we can offer advice on the best products for your needs, as well as offering volume discounts.

Or give us a call to find out how we can help.

Article updated by Ian Hodkinson 24th July 2020