Day Porter Cleaning Tips

Periodically I like to simply review things we already know but tend to put off or forget. Following are a few final suggestions to consider:

• Remember that restrooms are very labor intensive when compared to the same square footage for virtually any other tasks in most buildings.

• In most cases, restrooms receive more use (and scrutiny) than any similar area, including breakrooms and lobbies.

• When possible, conduct all wet work at night when building is empty to reduce risk of slip/fall.

• When possible, have a day porter check, stock and touch up key restrooms that cannot go without extra service over a 24 hour period.

• When conducting porter service, always check for odors, trash on floor, low soap, toilet tissue, paper towels and other supplies as well as spills or vandalism.

• When possible use a disinfectant product to at least sanitize (less than 99 percent kill rate) on all touch surfaces during porter service.

• Consider using an enzyme type product around urinals to deal with urine odors and build up.

• Always rinse/clean toilet seats of any chemicals to avoid users being injured by chemical burns. Some people have very sensitive skin.

• Although floor does not have to be disinfected, it should be clean of soils and be safe to walk on. This may require periodically rinsing/flooding floor with clean water to remove any build up of detergents.

• Avoid “ring around the color” by using clean microfiber flat mops, clean solution and only touching baseboards when necessary. A soiled, old fashioned type mop can cause the baseboards to become dingy due to soil residue in solution.

• Remember to pour water/cleaning solution/enzyme products down floor drains to keep the P trap filled and reduce chance of odor.

Anyone who dismisses cleaning as “simple” obviously have not worked as a modern day custodian. Can you think of any other tips/reminders? Your comments and questions are always welcome. I hope to hear from you soon. Until then, keep it clean…..

Mickey Crowe has been involved in the industry for over 35 years. He is a trainer, speaker and consultant. You can reach Mickey at 678.314.2171 or CTCG50@comcast.net.