In Healthcare and Other Settings: Getting Best Results When
Using Microfiber Mop Systems
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When picking up
puddles of liquid, the traditional string mop may still be the
best bet, but microfiber cleaning continues to get widespread
attention from cleaning professionals, especially in the
healthcare segment.
The Hospitals for a Healthy Environment says that microfiber
mopping has been the subject of much interest among healthcare
housekeeping professionals in the US in recent years.
“Increasingly, we have good data on the efficacy and economics of
switching from conventional mopping to microfiber systems,”
according to the joint project of the EPA, the American Hospital
Association, the American Nurses Association and Health Care
Without Harm which seeks environmental sustainability in health
care. “Several well-designed pilot projects have evaluated
ergonomic factors, chemical and water use reductions and cost
benefits related to the use of microfiber mops.”
Microfiber mops are constructed of very thin fibers of polyamide
(nylon) or polyester.
These fibers, which are approximately 1/16 the diameter of a
human hair, are far more absorbent than conventional cotton
mops, holding up to six times their weight in liquid. In
addition, the microfibers are positively charged, which allows
them to attract negatively-charged dust and dirt particles.
And because of their tiny size, the fibers are actually able to
penetrate the surface pores of most flooring materials to remove
dirt. At the ISSA/Interclean 2006 trade show and convention last
October, a product innovation award was presented to Rubber-maid
Commercial Products (RCP) for its Microfiber Cleaning Cart.
“Healthcare professionals are asking for help in combating
cross-contamination,” said Bob Lauer, product manager for
Rubbermaid Commercial Products. The microfiber mopping system
“helps reduce cross-contamination during the cleaning
process, and the new Healthcare Cleaning Carts have been specifically
designed to support microfiber cleaning.” The cart meets JCAHO
healthcare industry standards for keeping cleaning supplies
concealed and secure, and although specifically designed for the
healthcare industry, they can be used in any environment that
requires high-capac-ity storage options, superior security
features, quiet operation and high-end aesthetics.
Perhaps as important as microfibers’ dirt-attracting qualities
for healthcare settings, is the way in which they are used. Like
every good tool, when used properly by an adequately trained
operator, microfiber can deliver superior results.
RCP says the wave of new microfiber product innovations is a
clear indication that superior results require specialized
tools. One particular weave of microfiber cloth is optimal for
cleaning glass; another is the most effective tool for dusting.
Dusting deserves further mention. The outright superiority of
microfiber for the task of grabbing and holding minute dust
particles creates impressive opportunities to improve cleaning
and indoor environmental quality.
Specialized dusting tools – flexible wands with extendable poles
ensure that previously difficult-to-reach areas are accessible to
effective cleaning. RCP recommends using the following
information when choosing products according to cleaning task:
For picking up large spills:
Use a fringed high absorbency pad w/pedal wring bucket — note
that the best tool for puddle pick-up may still be a traditional
blended string mop.
For scuff marks on floors:
Use a microfiber pad with integrated nonabrasive scrubber pad.
For cleaning or scrubbing stone or textured flooring:
Use a microfiber pad with scrubber strips.
For applying floor finish:
Use a trapezoid finish pad.
For cleaning walls, windows or other hard to reach areas:
Use an 11-inch wet pad, frame and extension handle – for
ultimate control; use with a pedal wring bucket. For cleaning
remote areas where access to water is limited:
Treat pads ahead of time in a water tight disinfecting bucket.
For effectively dusting hard-to-reach areas with lots of cracks
and crevices:
Use a microfiber dusting tool attached to extension handles as
needed.
For dusting large open areas:
Use a microfiber frame and pad 24 to 48 inches wide.
For dust mopping large debris or dust bunnies:
Use microfiber dust pads with fringe.
For dusting live or artificial plants:
Use microfiber mitts to eliminate chemicals and minimize damage
to plants.
For manual cleaning and wiping of glass, stainless steel, and
other smooth, relatively non-porous surfaces: Use smooth texture
microfiber cloths that help control or eliminate streaking. For
more on microfiber cleaning, go to www.rcpworksmarter.com. ❑ |
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