Steam cleaning vs. traditional methods for washroom sanitisation

Washroom hygiene is critical to public health, especially in healthcare facilities and other public spaces. Traditional and steam cleaning are two primary approaches for maintaining cleanliness and safety in these areas.

With the advent of COVID-19 and heightened health standards, steam cleaning protocols have gained traction as a superior alternative, offering benefits beyond the surface. This guide will explore how traditional cleaning measures against steam cleaning protocols for COVID-19 and beyond in public washrooms.

Traditional washroom cleaning methods

Standard traditional cleaning tools and techniques

The most widely used tools in traditional cleaning include:

Mops and Buckets: Essential for cleaning floors, mops are often soaked in chemical disinfectants.

Disinfectant Wipes and Sprays: Used on various surfaces to kill bacteria and viruses, disinfectants are a quick fix for touchpoints like faucets, toilet flush handles, and door handles.

Scrub Brushes and Sponges: Useful for tackling tougher grime in toilets and sinks.

Limitations of traditional cleaning methods

Difficulty reaching crevices and corners

Traditional tools like mops and wipes often fail to reach tight spaces where dirt and pathogens accumulate. These hard-to-reach areas can become breeding grounds for germs, challenging complete sanitisation.

Reliance on harsh chemicals

Many traditional cleaning agents contain chemicals that can be harsh on the skin and harmful if inhaled. Moreover, these substances can harm the environment, contributing to pollution and toxic waste.

Potential for cross-contamination

If cleaning tools are not properly sanitised between uses, they can transfer bacteria and viruses from one surface to another. 

The shift toward advanced cleaning technologies

This approach offers a more thorough cleaning by using high temperatures to sanitise surfaces, which proves effective in killing a broad spectrum of pathogens, including those resistant to conventional cleaning agents.

The power of washroom steam cleaning

How steam cleaning works

Steam cleaning machines generate vapour at high temperatures, often exceeding 175 degrees Celsius (347 degrees Fahrenheit). This vapour penetrates surfaces at high pressure, dislodging dirt, grease, and pathogens from washroom fixtures, tiles, and porous grout lines that typically harbour bacteria.

Critical benefits of steam cleaning in washrooms

Effective disinfection

The heat of the steam effectively destroys these microorganisms, it includes pathogens notoriously resistant to traditional cleaning methods, such as MRSA and norovirus.

Chemical-free approach

Steam cleaning does not rely on chemical detergents or solutions, making it a highly eco-friendly steam cleaning solution for commercial washrooms.

Deep clean capabilities

Using steam, facilities can maintain cleaner, more hygienic washrooms with less effort and time which is beneficial for maintaining high standards of cleanliness in public restrooms.

Improved air quality

Unlike many conventional cleaning agents that can leave behind solid odours and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), steam cleaning eliminates unpleasant smells and potential allergens such as dust mites and mould spores. 

Reduced water usage

By minimising water use, steam cleaning supports water conservation efforts and offers an ideal solution for regions facing water scarcity or those aiming to reduce their water consumption.

The impact of steam cleaning beyond conventional methods

Steam cleaning represents a significant advancement in washroom sanitation technology. Its ability to deliver a high level of cleanliness, combined with its health and environmental benefits, makes it an increasingly popular choice for facilities looking to enhance their sanitation practices.

Washroom hygiene goes beyond cleaning.

Washroom hygiene goes beyond just cleaning. Providing a range of sanitary bins is essential, as ensuring that each type of waste has a designated bin helps prevent overflow and misuse, significantly reducing the spread of germs and improving overall cleanliness. Effective clinical waste management is also crucial for maintaining hygiene and ensuring the facility adheres to health regulations, safeguarding both washroom users and the environment. Moreover, enhancing the user experience with better facilities is vital. This includes maintaining well-stocked, odour-free, and accessible washrooms, installing touch-free dispensers, ensuring adequate lighting, and maintaining privacy and comfort for all users.

Educating users and staff

Training programs that emphasise the importance of hygiene, proper handwashing techniques, and correct facility use can significantly enhance the effectiveness of cleanliness initiatives. For staff, understanding the best practices in cleaning and maintenance, especially when using advanced methods like steam cleaning, is crucial for successful hygiene programs.

Impact of Comprehensive Hygiene Approaches

By adopting a more comprehensive approach to washroom hygiene, facilities can achieve higher cleanliness and user satisfaction. The Initial Washroom Dignity initiative is an exemplary model that showcases how integrating various hygiene and user-focused strategies can create a safer and more pleasant environment for all washroom users.

To sum up, maintaining high washroom hygiene standards is crucial for aesthetics, public health, and safety. The contrast between steam cleaning and traditional methods for washroom sanitisation reveals a clear preference for modern, more effective technologies like steam cleaning that offer significant advantages in terms of disinfection, environmental sustainability, and overall efficiency.

o learn more about how Initial Hygiene can help you implement these cutting-edge solutions in your facilities, visit Initial Hygiene today!