Cleaning crews usually focus disinfection on door handles, counters and railings. Floors often get mopped, but not much more. Yet floors collect whatever comes in on shoes, wheels and bags. In some facilities, floor disinfection deserves a place in the infection control plan.
So here is when floor disinfection makes sense, and how to do it well.
Why Floors Matter
After all, floors are the largest surface in most buildings. They pick up dirt, spills and germs from shoes, carts and wheelchairs. In addition, people often set bags and personal items on the floor and then move them to desks and counters. As a result, what is on the floor does not always stay there.
Where Floor Disinfection Matters Most
Of course, not every floor needs disinfection every day. However, some areas deserve more attention:
- Restrooms and locker rooms.
- Healthcare spaces, such as exam rooms and patient areas.
- Food service areas and break rooms.
- Areas with spills or bodily fluids.
Clean First, Then Disinfect
The CDC advises cleaning surfaces before you disinfect, because dirt can keep disinfectants from working well. For floors, that means removing dust and debris first. In particular, choose dust mops and tools that trap dirt rather than spread it around.
Best Practices for Floor Disinfection
- Choose the right product. Make sure it is labeled for the floor surface and the use.
- Follow contact time. The floor should stay wet for the full time on the label.
- Control dilution. Measured dispensing helps crews use the right amount.
- Prevent cross contamination. Use separate mops and pads by area, and change them often.
- Keep people safe. Use wet floor signs and schedule work around traffic.
Protect the Floor Too
However, harsh or incorrect products can damage floor finishes. Therefore, match disinfectants to the floor type and plan periodic floor care, such as scrubbing and refinishing. Read our guide to your floor care strategy.
How WOW! Approaches Floor Disinfection
WOW! Facility Services provides floor care services and integrated disinfection programs. In addition, we use a color coded system to help keep tools in the right zones. Every program starts with a facility assessment, and then we build a customized scope of work around your building. Once service begins, account managers complete quality control inspections against that scope. Meanwhile, our integrated operational platform technology documents inspections, deficiencies and corrections.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do all floors need to be disinfected?
No. Most floors need regular cleaning. However, restrooms, healthcare spaces, food areas and spill sites often need disinfection as well.
Can disinfectants damage floor finishes?
Yes, the wrong product can. Choose disinfectants labeled for your floor type and follow the label directions.
How often should restroom floors be disinfected?
It depends on traffic and use. However, many busy restrooms need floors cleaned daily and disinfected on a set schedule, plus spot treatment for spills.
What tools help prevent cross contamination on floors?
Separate mops and pads for each area, a color coded system and frequent changes of mop heads and water all help.
Do I have to switch vendors after a facility assessment?
No. WOW! offers facility assessments at no cost and with no obligation. In fact, you can use one simply to benchmark your current program.
Which areas does WOW! serve?
WOW! Facility Services has its headquarters in White Plains and serves New York, New Jersey and Connecticut, including Westchester County, Fairfield County, Rockland County and New York City.
Protect Your Floors and Occupants
WOW! Facility Services has its headquarters in White Plains and serves New York, New Jersey and Connecticut. Book a facility assessment at no cost and with no obligation, or call 1-866-780-9966. Want a quick benchmark first? Then grade your current service with the Facility Assessment Scorecard.