POLICY AND PROCEDURE
HOUSEKEEPING
SECTION 3
CLEANING PROCEDURES
Daily
Drinking fountains
Dust mopping and manual sweeping
Facility restrooms
Shower and tub units
Sink and Lavatories
Toilet bowls and urinals
Wet mopping
Disinfectants
Periodic
Decorative metal surfaces
Windows
As Needed
Furniture Cleaning Recommendations including Crypton cleaning procedure
POLICY AND PROCEDURE
HOUSEKEEPING
SECTION 3
Cleaning Drinking Fountains
Equipment Required:
Double compartment plastic pail
Cellulose sponges or rags
Product recommendation:
Disinfectant
Procedure:
1. Fill double compartment plastic pail with warm water. Add disinfectant to wash
compartment in recommended proportions. Leave rinse compartment filled with plain water.
2. Use disinfectant solution. Scrub thoroughly and carefully all surfaces with clean cellulose
sponge or clean rag. Pay special attention to fountain jet and protective guard. Use suitable
brushes for cleaning fountain jet, guard and drain openings.
3. Rinse all exposed surfaces and parts of unit with damp sponge using sanitizer rinse solution.
4. Remove any cleaning solution spilled on floor.
POLICY AND PROCEDURE
HOUSEKEEPING
SECTION 3
Dust Mopping and Manual Sweeping
Equipment Required:
(Choose those items needed for your particular operation).
Broom, vertical or push
Broom, corn type
Long-handled dust pan
Floor tool or washable dust mop
Chemically treated disposable floor cloths
Spatula or scraper
Warning signs
Procedure:
1. Using push broom, remove all larger litter from area to be cleaned. Be sure that warning
signs or ropes are in place so no one will trip over accumulated litter before it can be picked
up.
2. Where sweeping is done in an enclosed area, and dust is a problem, a treated dust mop, or
floor tool with treated dust cloths should be used.
3. Place floor tool over the middle fold of floor cloth. Fold cloth over tool, press corners into
tool to hold treated cloth in place. Avoid lifting or jarring tool while in use as this will raise
and distribute dust particles and bacteria.
4. Dust floor in a definite pattern so that all floor areas are cleaned. Start at far end of room or
area and work toward the door. The floor tool should be kept flush with the floor surface to
keep loose soil ahead of tool. Avoid pulling tool back - twist handle in order to bring loose
soil out ahead of tool. Where present, also clean coving and ledges when cleaning the floors.
5. When treated cloth shows substantial soiling, reverse sides of cloth carefully so as not to
scatter dust and bacteria. Use of the disposable cloth should be limited to two surfaces.
6. Carefully dispose of soiled cloths into plastic lined wastebasket.
7. Inspect area to determine if floors have been properly cleaned.
POLICY AND PROCEDURE
HOUSEKEEPING
SECTION 3
Cleaning Facility Restrooms
Equipment Required:
As outlined in applicable procedures.
Procedure:
1. Clean sinks, according to procedures outlined for cleaning sinks and lavatories.
2. Clean insides of bowls and urinals according to procedures outlined for same.
3. Wash down surrounding walls and partitions with disinfectant product, spray product on the
rag to prevent streaking.
4. Wipe down with sponge wrung out in clear water.
5. Mop floor according to recommended wet-mopping procedures, using disinfectant product as
directed and leave “WET FLOOR” signs in place until dry.
6. Refill soap dispensers.
7. Replenish towel and paper supply.
8. Return equipment to proper storage.
POLICY AND PROCEDURE
HOUSEKEEPING
SECTION 3
Cleaning Shower Units
Equipment Required:
Tub/Shower scrub brush
Product Recommendation:
Oasis 299 or Comet Gel type product
Procedure:
1. Put on gloves and goggles.
2. Remove and dispose of used articles from shower and tub units.
3. Spray down walls of unit with hand held shower device.
4. Wet scrub brush and apply product.
5. Scrubbing, clean top to bottom and all sides of unit.
6. Rinse with cold water from top to bottom and wipe dry with clean dry cloth.
7. Return cleaning equipment to proper storage.
POLICY AND PROCEDURE
HOUSEKEEPING
SECTION 3
Cleaning Sinks And Lavatories
Equipment Required:
Bowl & bathroom cleaner
Clean cloths
Scouring pad
Product Recommendation:
Non-Acid Bowl and Bathroom Cleaner Disinfectant
Procedure:
1. Wear gloves during procedure, drain and flush surfaces thoroughly with clear water to
remove soil residue. When more than one lavatory is involved, the procedure outlined should
be followed at the same time for each sink rather than starting the procedure on one sink and
completing it before going on to the next sink.
2. Apply adequate amount of bowl and bathroom cleaner onto moist cloth. Wipe down
thoroughly (including faucets) entire sink inside and out until clean. Clean faucets, soap
dishes, plumbing pipes, prior to cleaning of the fixture interior.
3. Clean overflow vent with scouring pad.
4. Cleaned surfaces should be rinsed with warm water.
5. Moisten cloth to wash all other surfaces and plumbing beneath.
6. With clean cloth wash wall surfaces near sink likely to have been soiled through the use of
lavatories.
7. Dry surfaces with clean cloth.
8. Report any clogged drains or leaking faucets.
POLICY AND PROCEDURE
HOUSEKEEPING
SECTION 3
Cleaning Toilet Bowls And Urinals
Equipment Required:
Cone bowl mop
Product Recommendation:
Non-Acid Bowl and Bathroom Disinfectant Cleaner
Procedure:
Note: The most effective way to control odors is to remove the cause of odors. Scrupulous
sanitation of the rest rooms will accomplish this. If effective sanitation practices are carried out,
the use of such things as deodorant blocks or fluids should never be required.
1. Wear gloves during the entire procedure.
2. Remove water from bowl by forcing over trap with cone bowl mop applicator.
3. Remove excessive water from applicator by pressing it against side of bowl.
4. Pour one ounce of Bowl & Bath Cleaner or comparable product on applicator.
5. Clean entire unit, especially under rim at water outlets.
6. Flush and rinse out applicator.
7. Wipe bowl and entire unit with a disinfectant product.
POLICY AND PROCEDURE
HOUSEKEEPING
SECTION 3
Wet Mopping
Equipment:
Double bucket with mop press
Two stage dolly
Clean mop
Cove brush
Scraper or putty knife
Product Recommendation:
XO Product or general cleaner
Oasis 499 or comparable product (if disinfecting)
Procedure:
1. Move furniture and light weight equipment to clear as much space as practical to prepare for
mopping.
2. Dust mop floor with treated floor cloth before wet mopping. (Follow manual sweeping
procedure). Pry up gum or other sticky substances with scraper or putty knife.
3. Fill pails with warm water. Add X-O or comparable product to wash pail in the ratio of 4
oz. per gallon of water. Mop buckets should be permanently marked to indicate proper water
level. A paint circle inside the bucket is the easiest method.
4. Place wet floor signs ahead and behind area being mopped.
5. Put mop into solution and use wringer pressure to remove excess solution.
6. Work with small sections at a time. Mop all corners using the heel of the mop. On floor
surfaces which are heavily soiled, a deck or cove brush should be used.
7. Mop open areas using a side stroke keeping the mop flat. Do not roll the mop. Avoid pushpull stroke except in restricted places where a scrubbing action is needed.
8. Avoid striking the mop against walls and furniture to prevent splatter.
9. Allow floor to dry thoroughly before leaving unattended. Floors must be left dry to avoid
the hazard of slips and falls.
10. Remove wet floor signs.
11. Return furniture and portable items to proper place.
12. Inspect area to be certain that floor is properly cleaned and that room or area is in order.
13. At routine intervals, add water to floor drains to assure an adequate water seal in the trap.
Water seals prevent odors from coming back up through drains.
14. Wash and rinse all equipment used at the end of the use period. Drain and store. Proper care
of mops and other equipment after use should be considered a part of the operation itself.
POLICY AND PROCEDURE
HOUSEKEEPING
SECTION 3
Disinfectants
There are many products that are labeled “disinfectants”. It is our policy to utilize those that will
kill the following:
Fungus
Molds and Mildew
Bacteria such as salmonella and E. coli
Staphylococcus
Streptococcus
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)
Hepatitis B Virus
Review the label of disinfectants carefully before choosing whether to incorporate the product
into the facility’s product line.
POLICY AND PROCEDURE
HOUSEKEEPING
SECTION 3
Periodic Maintenance Of Decorative Metal Surfaces
Proper maintenance of decorative metal surfaces requires care, time, and the use of the correct
materials. These requirements cannot be overemphasized. Harsh abrasives, incorrect chemical
and cleaning agents, can severely damage or destroy a metal surface.
There are a few general rules that should be considered when working with most metal surfaces.
1.
2.
3.
4.
No metal should be polished with harsh abrasives, such as steel wool or abrasive papers.
Use the proper polish for the metal surface to be treated.
Polish only with a soft cloth (e.g. chamois or microfiber cloth).
Where a detergent is recommended for cleaning, it should be a neutral compound. A neutral
detergent is one which is neither acidic nor alkaline.
5. Follow directions printed on labels of detergents or polishes.
The following hints may be of value in the care of some of the more common metal surfaces.
Copper
Wash only with a mild detergent and water. Rinse with clear water, then dry, using a soft cloth.
(Corrosion can be removed by applying weak acid solutions or metal polish cleaners.) Rinse and
dry the surface, rubbing gently with a soft cloth.
Lacquered Copper
This metal surfacing should be cleaned only by gently rubbing with a soft cloth. A polishing
agent or detergent should never be used, since it may remove the lacquer coat.
Nickel
Nickel surfaces must be cleaned frequently because of the tendency to darken. Wash the surface
with a solution of mild detergent and water, then rinse with clean water. Polish by using a
diluted or mild polish on a soft cloth. Nickel, when cleaned with a harsh polish, may soon be
ruined because of wearing away of the plating.
Brass
Brass should be washed only with a solution of mild detergent and hot water. It should then be
rinsed with clear water and dried with a soft clean cloth or chamois. Rottenstone and linseed oil,
mixed in a thin paste, produces a soft dull satin finish. Polish with a clean soft cloth. For a very
high luster, various polishes are available which will give excellent results. Follow
manufacturers instructions carefully.
Pewter
Stains and discoloration can be removed from pewter by using a polish followed by washing with
a mild detergent solution. Rinse with clear water and dry with a soft cloth. Pewter is a very soft
metal, and should never be subjected to harsh polishes.
POLICY AND PROCEDURE
HOUSEKEEPING
SECTION 3
Window Cleaning
Equipment Required:
Double compartment plastic pail
Clean cellulose sponges
Clean cloths
Nylon hand brush
Newspaper (optional)
Product Recommendation:
White Vinegar
Liquid Dish Detergent
Procedure:
1. Fill double compartment plastic pail with warm water. Add white vinegar at rate of 1 cup per
gallon, or recommended product to wash compartment and add a couple drops of dish soap.
Use separate cellulose sponge for each compartment.
2. Wash window frame, moldings and sill. Special attention should be given to corners.
3. Rinse thoroughly and dry.
4. Wash glass with sponge from detergent solution. In the case of textured glass, use the nylon
brush.
5. Finish with rinse sponge from clear water. Sponge away excess water.
6. Use clean, soft lint-free cloth for drying.
POLICY AND PROCEDURE
HOUSEKEEPING
SECTION 3
Furniture Cleaning Recommendations
Page 1 of 2
A. Casegoods
1. Laminate Surfaces
Wipe using a clean damp cloth (water dampened) on surfaces. Avoid contact with wood
surfaces with damp cloth. Wipe dry with a soft clean cloth.
If the laminate surface has an excessive amount of grime (glass rings, food, etc.) wipe surface
using a small amount of household hand dishwashing liquid diluted with water to the point
where there is little to no sudsing. Rinse surface to remove dishwashing liquid/water solution
with clean water and a dampened cloth. Dry surface with a soft clean towel.
2. Wood Surfaces
Use a non-silicone spray wax. Lightly spray wax on clean cloth (not directly on furniture)
and wipe surfaces. Avoid heavy saturation of cloth with wax. Avoid getting wax on
laminate surfaces as this will cause streaking.
Avoid the use of heavy chemical cleaners, bleaches, abrasives, etc. on wood or laminate
surfaces as they will cause damage.
Always clean or wipe with the grain of the wood or laminate.
B. Upholstery
1. Crypton Upholstery Fabric Summary
Wipe off excess spills with dry cloth. Use a powdered enzyme detergent (like Cheer or Tide)
mixed with water to clean Crypton. If necessary use a soft brush. Wash off the soapy cleaner
with clear water. As with any other fabric, take care of spill ASAP. See specific “Crypton”
cleaning procedures for details.
2. Vinyl Fabrics - options
A. Remove excess spill with damp cloth. Clean with 1:1 mix of Ivory-type liquid and
water. Rinse with clean water and dry.
B. Use straight application of concentrated cleaners such as Formula 409 or general
cleaner. Then wipe with clean cloth.
C. Use a 1:1 mix of ammonia and water or a 1:4 mix of bleach and water, if necessary.
Rinse with clean water and dry.
POLICY AND PROCEDURE
HOUSEKEEPING
SECTION 3
Furniture Cleaning Recommendations
Page 2 of 2
D. Use 1:1 mix of isopropyl alcohol and water. If stain persists use straight alcohol.
Rinse thoroughly with clean water and pat surface dry. If stains remain, use a 1:1 mix
of acetone and water. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and pat surface dry.
3. Laminated Fabrics
Any spill should be wiped up immediately with a clean damp sponge or cloth, and dried with
a clean cloth.
More severe spills may require the use of a mix of hand dishwashing detergent dissolved in
water. Use a soft bristle brush or a damp cloth and dry immediately with a soft, dry cloth.
Do not use harsh chemical cleaners on laminated fabrics as the lamination may become
brittle.
POLICY AND PROCEDURE
HOUSEKEEPING
SECTION 3
Crypton Cleaning Procedures
It is important to be aware that 95% of the upholstery in our facility is Crypton.
Crypton is 100% polyester with outstanding stain resistant and moisture proof qualitites. It is
also fire resistant and bacteria resistant.
Everyday Spills
Crypton’s moisture-resistant fabrics can be cleaned quickly by following these simple
instructions.
1. Remove debris and spills quickly with a clean, dry cloth.
2. Wipe off with clean water (you may need to leave a few drops of water on the stain to
loosen it). If a stubborn stain does not come off with simple water, use a powdered
enzyme laundry detergent mixed with water.
3. Remove excess soap completely with clear, clean water.
General Cleaning Methods
Like any textile, Crypton must be cleaned on a regular basis. Since dirt and dust can build up on
the fabric, cleaning every three months is recommended in high-abuse areas. Studies show that
nothing works better on Crypton that a powdered enzyme detergent such as Tide or Cheer, mixed
with water. The fabric must be rinsed thoroughly, leaving no soap residue. Be sure to rinse with
a clean cloth and clear, clean water.
Professional hot water extraction, aided by a prespray, can be performed with good results.
Customary upholstery cleaning foam can be used, but is the least effective way to clean Crypton.
Stubborn Stains on Classic Crepe and Classic Suede
Most Stains – Make a paste with an enzyme detergent, leave it on the fabric for a few moments to
generate a chemical reaction, and use a stiff nylon brush to agitate the stained area.
Ball point pen ink – Rust remover is effective on some types of ink. Let it sit on the fabric for
two to three minutes, scrub gently, and blot with a clean towel. Rinse the area thoroughly with
clean water and then follow the general cleaning instructions.
Chewing gum, grease, and tar – Harden the stained area with ice. Carefully remove the
hardened substance with a dull scraper and then follow the general cleaning instructions.
Stubborn Stains on Wovens
Mayonnaise and other oily stains – Normal household rubbing alcohol can be used to clean the
spots left by mayonnaise or other oily stains. Leave it on the fabric for two or three minutes,
scrub gently, and blot with a clean towel. Rinse the area thoroughly with clean water and then
follow the general cleaning instructions, using the enzyme detergent or hot water extraction
method.
POLICY AND PROCEDURE
HOUSEKEEPING
SECTION 3
Ball point pen ink – Q-tips wetted with rubbing alcohol will remove some ink stains. (Be careful
not to spread the stain.) Rinse the area thoroughly with clean water and then follow the general
cleaning instructions.
Before removing any stubborn stains, test the stain-removing product on a hidden area to make
sure that the fabric’s structure and color won’t be damaged. Hold a towel against the wet area for
10 seconds. Examine the towel to determine whether there’s been a dye transfer and the fabric
for a color change.
Please Note:
Because Crypton fabrics are designed for easy maintenance, the use of solvent-based cleaners is
unnecessary. In fact, some heavy-duty solvents can damage the textiles’ fibers. To be safe, it is
recommended that you not use solvents in the general maintenance of Crypton fabrics.
Diluted bleach (four parts water to one part bleach) can be used to disinfect Crypton, but should
be removed quickly and completely to avoid fading. Bleach that is not completely removed will
eventually fade the fabric.
All of the information on this page was provided by the Association of Specialist in Cleaning and
Restoration.