Summer brings increased foot traffic to many businesses, making it essential to maintain a clean and hygienic environment. High traffic areas, outdoor spaces, and humidity control are key factors in ensuring your business remains welcoming and safe for both employees and customers. Here are top tips for summer cleaning to keep your business spotless and inviting during the busiest months of the year.
1. Identify and Regularly Clean Hot Spots
High traffic areas are breeding grounds for germs and dirt. Identifying these hotspots and implementing a regular cleaning routine is crucial.
Common Hot Spots:
- Entrances and Exits: Door handles, push plates, and revolving doors see constant use and can quickly become contaminated.
- Reception Areas: Desks, counters, and waiting areas are frequently touched by multiple people.
- Restrooms: Sinks, faucets, and door handles are high-touch surfaces that require frequent disinfecting.
- Break Rooms: Tables, chairs, microwaves, and refrigerators are used by many employees and need regular cleaning.
Cleaning Tips:
- Daily Disinfection: Use SONO Disinfecting Wipes to clean high-touch surfaces multiple times a day. These wipes are effective in killing germs and are convenient for quick cleaning.
- Scheduled Deep Cleans: Implement a schedule for thorough cleaning of hot spots, ensuring all surfaces are disinfected and sanitized regularly.
- Employee Training: Train staff on the importance of cleaning high traffic areas and provide them with the necessary tools and supplies.
2. Outdoor Spaces: Keeping Employee and Customer Areas Clean and Welcoming
Outdoor areas can enhance the customer experience but also require regular maintenance to remain clean and inviting.
Key Areas to Focus On:
- Outdoor Seating: Tables, chairs, and benches should be cleaned and disinfected regularly.
- Entrance Areas: Ensure sidewalks, entryways, and doormats are free of dirt and debris.
- Outdoor Fixtures: Clean and maintain items like trash cans, ashtrays, and decorative elements.
Cleaning Tips:
- Disinfecting Wipes for Furniture: Use disinfecting wipes to clean outdoor furniture daily, removing dirt, pollen, and germs.
- Power Washing: Periodically power wash sidewalks, patios, and exterior walls to remove grime and maintain a fresh appearance.
- Trash Management: Empty outdoor trash cans frequently and ensure they are cleaned to prevent unpleasant odors and pests.
3. Humidity Control: Managing Heat and Moisture to Prevent Bacterial Growth
High humidity levels in summer can lead to bacterial growth and mold, which are detrimental to both health and the business environment.
Strategies for Humidity Control:
- Air Conditioning Maintenance: Ensure your air conditioning system is functioning correctly and serviced regularly to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature.
- Dehumidifiers: Use dehumidifiers in areas prone to high moisture levels, such as basements, storage rooms, and restrooms.
- Ventilation: Improve ventilation by using exhaust fans in restrooms and break rooms to reduce moisture buildup.
Cleaning Tips:
- Monitor Moisture Levels: Use a hygrometer to monitor humidity levels and keep them below 50% to prevent mold growth.
- Clean Air Vents: Regularly clean air vents and ducts to ensure they are free of dust and mold spores.
- Dry Surfaces: Ensure surfaces, especially in restrooms and kitchens, are wiped dry after cleaning to prevent moisture accumulation.
Additional Tips for Maintaining a Hygienic Environment
Hand Sanitizer Stations:
- Accessibility: Place hand sanitizer stations at entrances, exits, and other strategic locations to encourage regular hand hygiene.
- Regular Refill: Ensure that sanitizer stations are regularly refilled and maintained.
Floor Mats and Rugs:
- High-Quality Mats: Use high-quality floor mats at entrances to capture dirt and moisture from shoes.
- Regular Cleaning: Clean and vacuum mats and rugs regularly to prevent dirt accumulation.
Employee and Customer Awareness:
- Signage: Use clear signage to remind employees and customers about hygiene practices, such as handwashing and sanitizing.
- Feedback System: Implement a feedback system where employees and customers can report cleanliness issues promptly.