In today’s world, maintaining a clean and sanitary environment is crucial for ensuring health and safety. One area of particular importance in this regard is high-touch surfaces. These are surfaces that people frequently come into contact with, making them prime candidates for contamination by germs, bacteria, and viruses. Proper cleaning and sanitization of these areas are essential in reducing the spread of infections and maintaining overall hygiene. This blog explores why high-touch surfaces need special attention, identifies common high touch surfaces, provides effective cleaning methods, and outlines the tools required for optimal results.
Why is it Important to Take Special Care When Cleaning High-Touch Areas?
High touch surfaces are a significant focus in cleaning protocols because many people touch them frequently throughout the day. This constant contact makes them more likely to become contaminated with pathogens.
Prevention of Disease Spread
High-touch surfaces play a critical role in the transmission of infectious diseases. For instance, during flu season or outbreaks of viruses like COVID-19, these surfaces can become breeding grounds for pathogens. When someone touches a contaminated surface and then touches their face, they can introduce harmful germs into their system. Special care in cleaning these surfaces helps minimise the spread of disease and ensures a healthier environment.
Reducing Cross-Contamination
Cross-contamination occurs when germs from one surface are transferred to another or people. High-touch surfaces are particularly prone to this issue because multiple individuals touch them daily. Effective cleaning helps to break this chain of contamination, reducing the likelihood of germs spreading to other areas or individuals.
Enhancing Overall Hygiene
Regular and thorough cleaning of high-touch surfaces improves overall hygiene in residential and commercial settings. Clean environments reduce the risk of illness and improve the overall quality of life. In homes, they ensure a healthier living space, while in businesses, they contribute to a more professional and welcoming atmosphere.
Compliance with Health Guidelines
Many health and safety regulations require special attention to high-touch surfaces, especially in healthcare and food service industries. Adhering to these guidelines helps organizations avoid fines and legal issues while ensuring the safety of employees and customers.
What are Considered High-Touch Surfaces?
High touch surfaces are areas that people frequently come into contact with. These surfaces are often overlooked in routine cleaning but play a significant role in the spread of germs. Common high-touch surfaces include:
Door Handles and Knobs
Door handles and knobs are touched by everyone who enters or exits a room. Whether in homes, offices, or public buildings, these surfaces are constantly exposed to different hands, making them a hotspot for germs.
Light Switches
Light switches are another frequently touched surface. People often use them multiple times daily, making them a prime target for contamination.
Elevator Buttons
Elevator buttons are commonly touched in public places and commercial buildings. Due to their high usage, they require frequent cleaning and disinfecting to prevent the spread of germs.
Handrails and Banisters
Handrails and banisters support people while climbing stairs or navigating railings. However, people frequently touch them, especially in high-traffic areas like staircases and ramps.
Telephones and Keyboards
In office environments, telephones and keyboards are used by multiple individuals throughout the day. These items can harbor a significant number of germs and need regular cleaning.
Faucet Handles
Faucet handles in kitchens and bathrooms are touched often, particularly during handwashing. If not cleaned properly, they are a common site for bacterial growth.
Refrigerator Handles
Refrigerator handles are frequently used in residential and commercial kitchens. Hands that may not always be clean touch them, making them a critical area for sanitation.
Remote Controls
Remote controls are used in homes, offices, and public spaces like waiting rooms. Given their frequent use, they can quickly accumulate germs and require regular cleaning.
Identifying these high-touch surfaces is essential for implementing an effective cleaning strategy. Due to their higher potential for contamination, these areas need to be cleaned and disinfected more frequently than other surfaces.
How Do You Clean High-Touch Surfaces?
Cleaning high touch surfaces requires a systematic approach to ensure thorough sanitation. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to clean these areas effectively:
Remove Visible Dirt and Debris
Start by wiping down the surface with a damp cloth to remove any visible dirt, dust, or grime. This step prepares the surface for more effective cleaning and disinfection.
Apply a Suitable Cleaner
Choose a cleaner appropriate for the type of surface you are working on. A mild soap solution may suffice for general cleaning. However, a cleaner with disinfecting properties should be used for surfaces that need disinfection, such as those in healthcare or food service environments.
Disinfect the Surface
After cleaning, apply a disinfectant to kill any remaining germs and bacteria. Ensure the disinfectant is suitable for the surface material and follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding application time and method. Disinfectants must remain on the surface for a specified period to be effective, so follow the recommended dwell time.
Dry the Surface
Once the disinfectant has had time to work, wipe the surface with a clean, dry cloth. This helps remove any remaining moisture and ensures the surface is ready for use. A dry surface also helps prevent the growth of mold and mildew.
Regular Maintenance
Implement a regular cleaning schedule for high-touch surfaces to maintain hygiene levels. Increase the frequency of cleaning in high-traffic areas or during outbreaks of illness. For example, consider cleaning high-touch surfaces multiple times daily in a workplace setting to ensure they remain sanitary.
What Tools Are Needed in Cleaning a High-Touch Surface?
Having the right tools and supplies is crucial for effectively cleaning high touch surfaces. Here are some essential items to include in your cleaning arsenal:
Microfiber Cloths
Microfiber cloths are ideal for cleaning and wiping down surfaces. They effectively trap dust, dirt, and germs without scratching surfaces. Microfiber is also highly absorbent and can be used with minimal cleaning solutions, making it an environmentally friendly option.
Disinfectants
Choose a disinfectant that is proven effective against a broad range of pathogens. Ensure it is suitable for the type of surface you are cleaning and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper use. Disinfectants come in various forms, including sprays, wipes, and solutions, so select the one that best suits your needs.
Spray Bottles
Spray bottles are useful for evenly applying cleaning solutions and disinfectants to surfaces. They allow for precise application and can be used to reach into crevices and corners where germs may hide.
Paper Towels or Disposable Wipes
Paper towels and disposable wipes are convenient for quick cleaning tasks. By using single-use materials that can be discarded after use, they help prevent germs from spreading further.
Cleaning Gloves
Cleaning gloves protect your hands from harsh chemicals and contaminants during the cleaning process. They also help maintain hygiene by preventing direct contact with potentially harmful substances.
Cleaning Carts
In commercial settings, cleaning carts can help efficiently organize and transport cleaning supplies. They can hold various cleaning agents, cloths, and other tools, making it easier to perform cleaning tasks in large or multiple areas.
Using the right tools ensures that high-touch surfaces are cleaned and disinfected thoroughly, contributing to a healthier and more hygienic environment.
Conclusion
High touch surfaces are a critical focus in cleaning and sanitization efforts due to their susceptibility to contamination and their role in spreading germs and diseases. Identifying these surfaces, using effective cleaning methods, and employing the right tools are essential to maintaining a clean and healthy environment.For those looking for comprehensive cleaning solutions tailored to their specific needs, MaidforHaven offers professional cleaning services to ensure that all areas, especially high-touch surfaces, are thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. Our experienced team is committed to providing the highest standards of cleanliness and hygiene. Visit MaidforHaven or contact us today to learn how we can help keep your home or office pristine and safe.
