Going Clean and Staying Green
We all want to do our part in preventing the spread of COVID-19 and the flu. During the colder months, as we spend more time indoors, it’s likely we will do more sanitizing and disinfecting, too. To prevent increased exposure to harmful chemicals, you can opt for safer products to clean.
Many mainstream products used consist of chemicals derived from alcohols, aldehydes, ammonium compounds, oxidizing agents and phenolics. While they are effective at killing germs, over time, harmful levels of toxic chemicals build up on surfaces. This can reduce air quality, and when rinsed away, these toxins pollute groundwater and soil. Exposure to these harsh chemicals can also cause health problems.
Fortunately, there are many environmentally friendly products that are effective for sanitizing and disinfecting. Plus, many are common household and workplace items.
Here are some ways to go clean and green when sanitizing and disinfecting.
Hydrogen Peroxide
For years, 3% hydrogen peroxide products have been used as an over the counter antiseptic to clean wounds. Hydrogen peroxide is also used as an antimicrobial agent and an oxidizing agent. It is used throughout the healthcare industry to clean and disinfect. It is a common product to find in homes and in the workplace as part of one’s first aid arsenal.
Here are other ways this over the counter antiseptic can be used to sanitize and disinfect:
Put undiluted hydrogen peroxide in a spray bottle to disinfect surfaces.
Use it to sanitize and disinfect the kitchen/breakroom area including inside the refrigerator. Bonus: you don’t have to worry about harsh chemicals near your food.
Spray it in the intricate parts of dishwashers where moisture can linger and create mold and mildew.
Combine it with baking soda to create a paste to remove grime buildup on sinks and in grout.
Mix one cup of hydrogen peroxide with one gallon of hot water for a natural and effective floor sanitizing solution.
Hydrogen peroxide can be used in many ways to sanitize and disinfect without any harmful effects on the environment.
Rubbing Alcohol
Rubbing Alcohol (70% isopropyl alcohol) is another household and workplace staple that can be used to safely disinfect:
To create a disinfectant, combine two parts rubbing alcohol to one part water in a spray bottle.
Use it directly on a cotton pad to disinfect your keyboard, mouse, or other items on your desk.
Rubbing alcohol works well on stainless steel products to remove fingerprints while disinfecting at the same time.
Combine rubbing alcohol with aloe vera gel to create your own homemade hand sanitizer!
White Vinegar
This common household item can make a great multipurpose cleaner because of its high acidity. It is safe for sanitizing most surfaces and can kill various foodborne pathogens. This product is also great for sanitizing prior to disinfecting.
White vinegar can also be used to sanitize and remove those lingering smells coming from the dishwasher. Simply fill a bowl with two cups of white vinegar and put it on the top rack and run the dishwasher.
There are also several companies that manufacturer environmentally friendly products. Cleaning Tips to Help You Live Green will assist you in finding out more about those companies and products.
Cleantec aims to offer helpful information to our clients and friends. We currently serve all of New York, including the Syracuse, Ithaca, Manhattan, Rochester, Utica, and Buffalo regions. We also have operations in Palo Alto, CA; Denver, CO; Muscle Shoals, AL; Tampa, FL; and Sanford, NC. Give our sales professionals a call at (877) 469-0543 for a free consultation and quote regarding janitorial services. Learn how we can help your business achieve your cleaning needs.
Cleantec ensures all staff members are thoroughly vetted conducting background checks and drug testing. In addition to providing professional cleaning services, we are also a supplier of specialized cleaning products and green chemicals. Please call (315) 463-5353 to place an order.
