How to Choose the Right Chemical for the Job
Steve Hanson
How do you choose the cleaning chemicals you will use in your cleaning business? Before just picking an all-purpose cleaner off the shelf, ask yourself the following questions:
- What am I going to be cleaning -- wood, ceramic, fabric, porcelain, granite, etc.?
- What type of soil will I have to remove -- dirt, grease, food, soot?
- What will I use to apply the product -- cotton cloth, microfiber cloth, mop, sponge, bonnet?
- How will I dispense the product -- dilution control, pre-measured packets, spray bottle, pump-up sprayer?
- Do I need to give the chemical dwell time to work? Do I need to agitate it with a brush?
- Do I need to disinfect or sanitize the surface after cleaning?
- Do I have any environmental issues to keep in mind?
There are basically four types of cleaners: neutral cleaners, acids, alkalis, and solvents. Each are designed to work on certain types of surfaces and soils. For example, you would use neutral cleaners (pH of 7) for normal, daily cleaning on surfaces that are water-washable, or on floors that have floor finish (neutral cleaners will not ruin or dull the floor finish).
Acid cleaners are used for mineral deposits, rust, soap scum and water spots on fiberglass, china, metal and glass. Alkali cleaners are used for heavy soil and food stains on vinyl flooring, concrete, tile, and fabric. Solvent cleaners are used for oils, paint, varnish, and heavy grease on machinery and metal.
As a professional cleaner, you need to know what each chemical you use is for, as well as how to handle and mix chemicals properly. Be sure to read all directions so you know what the chemical is to be used for, and also to find out what surfaces it is safe to use on. Using chemicals properly will increase your efficiency, productivity, and bottom line!
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Steve Hanson helps owners of small cleaning companies build a more profitable and successful cleaning business through his online community at TheJanitorialStore.com. Read inspirational cleaning success stories at http://www.cleaning-success.com, and sign up for weekly cleaning tips at http://www.TheJanitorialStore.com.
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