Disinfecting surfaces in office buildings, on job sites, and in public spaces is now a main point of focus for many companies and cleaning teams. With the worldwide spread of COVID-19, the pandemic has changed how we think about public surfaces - and what it really means for them to be clean.

With many businesses now open again following pandemic-related closures, janitorial and maintenance teams are developing plans to keep employees, customers, and the public as safe as possible.

Many purchasers now face the task of deciding what disinfectant spray to buy, as well as learning what products to use for carpet sanitization, what personal protective equipment to purchase, and how to maintain good indoor air quality. There is no one-size-fits-all solution, which is why Jon-Don is dedicated to helping every company and team form a plan that is suited to their unique needs.

What to Know about Disinfecting Surfaces

The process of disinfecting surfaces may seem more complicated now that COVID-19 is here. You may wonder if you are using the right products and if those products are effective at killing the virus. It's essential to understand what type of disinfectant spray to use based on the area you are cleaning, how to use that spray, and what equipment you'll need to get the job done right. For example, machines such as electrostatic sprayers can provide comprehensive spray coverage of a disinfectant in an efficient manner compared to a more labor-intensive, spray and wipe method.

The United States Center for Disease Control sets forth the following guidelines for cleaning community spaces, places of business, and schools:

• When disinfecting surfaces, always wear disposable gloves and throw them away immediately upon completion, without touching anything else. Wash your hands upon taking off the gloves.
• Start by cleaning hard surfaces with soap and water or a neutral cleaner, then apply a disinfectant spray.
• Apply disinfectant spray to high-touch items, such as pens, shopping carts, and keypads before and after each use.
• Focus on high-touch surfaces, such as doorknobs, light switches, countertops, tables, keyboards, restrooms, phones, etc.
• Check the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) website to see if a cleaning product is classified as a List N disinfectant. These are products that the EPA has determined can be used against SARS-COV-2 – the virus that causes COVID-19. Always follow the instructions on the label when disinfecting surfaces.

Additionally, there are special measures you should take when disinfecting surfaces with commercial cleaners.

• Ensure that the space has proper ventilation while using disinfectant sprays and products.
• Always wear eye protection and protect your skin against splash hazards.
• Never mix chemical products.
• Ensure that disinfectant sprays and products are stored safely, out of reach of children and animals.
• Follow the detailed usage instructions on the chemical's EPA-registered label. You will find important information such as proper dilution ratios, dwell times, types of surfaces the disinfectant can safely be applied to, and more.

If your cleaning or janitorial team is providing a contracted service, it is essential to be aware of several important things when dealing with customers.

• Never make claims to your customers, such as stating that you are killing germs. Stick with verbiage that notes you are providing cleaning and application services, or that you are applying disinfectant to an area.
• Use one dedicated applicator or machine per disinfectant spray or solution, do not use various products in the same machine.
• Keep copies of the Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for each cleaning agent you use on-hand at all times.
• Clean your equipment and tools at the end of each job, before loading them back into your vehicles.
• Clean your vehicles and all surfaces and equipment after your last job each day using a surfactant cleaner and EPA List N Disinfectant.

Disinfectant Sprays, Agents & Solutions

When it comes to disinfecting surfaces, many organizations have questions about which is the best disinfectant to use. It is essential to note that not all products are registered for use against
SARS-COV-2. Only products on the EPA LIST N are expected to be effective against SARS-COV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19.

Additionally, following the product label is imperative. This includes adhering to the recommended contact time. The surface must remain visibly wet for the entire contact time listed on the label.

Carpet Sanitization: Products and Procedures

Another common question we hear is, "Can I disinfect the carpet?" The answer is no. Carpets and soft surfaces, such as upholstery, cannot be disinfected, they can only be sanitized. Should a customer ask for carpet disinfectant, it is crucial that you explain this difference to them to avoid making false claims.

Whether you're applying a disinfectant to hard surfaces or sanitizing carpet, the same guidelines apply: wear personal protective equipment, use one dedicated machine per solution, and always follow the instructions on the label. Don't make hard claims to your customers that their carpets are disinfected or sanitized, instead explain that you are applying a carpet sanitizer as per the label instructions.

It is also important to note that when cleaning carpets, some carpet manufacturers may have guidelines regarding what solutions you can use. If possible, always check these guidelines before you begin a job. The last thing you or your customers want is to use a carpet sanitizing solution that stains or bleaches the carpet fibers. Also, check the label on the carpet sanitizer itself to see if it is advised against use with certain surfaces or materials.

Equipment, Supplies, and Expertise at Jon-Don

In the cleaning and sanitization business, efficiency is the name of the game. We know that your team needs not only the right disinfecting sprays and carpet sanitizer but also the best machines and equipment to apply them. No matter what type of surface you are treating, Jon-Don has just what you need. Additionally, we know that many organizations are in the process of upgrading their cleaning equipment to meet the increased demand for frequent application of disinfectants.

We can help ensure that you get not only the right products and equipment but also that your team knows how to use the new machines you buy. We will provide hands-on training so that your employees can get the most out of the equipment you use when disinfecting surfaces and applying cleaning solutions.

At Jon-Don, you will find equipment, such as electrostatic sprayers, auto scrubbers, rotary floor machines, hard surface cleaners and extractors, carpet extractors, high-speed buffers, and more. Additionally, you will find all of the ancillary supplies you need, including respiratory protection, coveralls, gloves, rags and wipes, eye protection, and more. We have everything you need for each stage of the job, so you're covered from start to finish.

Let's Develop a Plan

Whether you provide janitorial and building service to other organizations, or are looking to develop a plan for disinfecting surfaces and protecting employees and customers at your own company, Jon-Don is here to help each step of the way. With the new threat of COVID-19, there's a new meaning of clean.

With the right guidance on what to order, how much to order, and what equipment will best meet your needs, you can help ensure that your business stays up and running despite the challenges of today's world. When you purchase from Jon-Don, you get more than just a supplier of chemicals and equipment. You get a trusted partner who is here for you always.

Additionally, when you shop Jon-Don, you'll receive the industry's best satisfaction guarantee, a dedicated customer service team to answer all of your questions, access to training, seminars, and industry events, and same-day shipping on eligible items. We can help your team earn industry certifications and become the pros your customers trust to help ensure the health and safety of their employees, visitors, and guests. Don't go through the process alone–turn to Jon-Don. The source the experts trust when developing plans for disinfecting surfaces, purchasing disinfectant sprays, carpet sanitizer, and so much more.