Products, machines and equipment in the service trade
What you work with — and how to use it correctly
Introduction
The right equipment used the right way is the difference between efficient cleaning and wasted work. As a service assistant you must know your agents machines and tools — and when to use what.
Cleaning agents and pH
Cleaning agents are chosen after dirt type, and pH is the key. Acidic agents (low pH) loosen limescale and rust. Alkaline agents (high pH) loosen fat and protein. Neutral agents (around the middle) are used for gentle daily cleaning. Special agents are used for disinfection that kill microorganisms – but disinfection doesn't replace cleaning, it comes after, as dirt protects bacteria.
| Medium type (pH) | Loosens | Usually used for |
|---|---|---|
| Sour (Low pH) | Limescale, urinary stone and rust | Descaling, sanitation |
| Neutral (middle) | Light, daily grime | Gentle daily cleaning |
| Basic (high pH) | Fat, protein | Kitchen, greasy dirt |
| Disinfection | (kills microorganisms) | After cleaning, at risk of infection |
BFA's overview of the product types. Skin has a pH of approx. 5 — the further from 5, the more careful you must be with your skin:
| Product type | pH according to BFA |
|---|---|
| Toilet cleaner | 0-2 |
| Descaler | 0-4 |
| All-purpose cleaner | 7-9 |
| Wash-and-care product | 7-9 |
| Floor polish | 5-10 |
| Deep-cleaning agent | above 9 |
Cloths, mops and microfiber
Microfibre is one of the profession's most important tools: the fine fibres mechanically catch dirt and microorganisms and clean effectively with little water and chemistry. Colour-coding of cloths and mops is used to keep areas separate — e.g. one colour for toilets and another for tables — so bacteria are not moved from one place to another. Cloths and mops must be washed and changed according to regulations.
Machines
Floor washing and polishing machines take over the heavy floor work, and vacuums — preferably with filters — remove dust without swirling it up. On larger sites, special equipment is also used for large surfaces. Machines must be operated correctly, kept clean and inspected so they are safe to use.
Robots have entered the programme: in the subject Commercial Cleaning the student must «under guidance acquire knowledge and skills in relation to robot technology». NIR Rengøring says that in hospitals robot vacuum cleaners are mainly used in common areas and not in patient rooms, and that they are supplemented because they are not always as effective as an ordinary vacuum cleaner.
Requirements for equipment in hospitals and nursing homes
NIR Rengøring sets these requirements for cleaning equipment:
- 01The cleaning trolley is set up so that clean and dirty items are stored separately, so the cloths and mops do not become contaminated. NIR writes «including 20 cm above the floor».
- 02Mops, cloths and other reusable textiles must be able to withstand heat disinfection: at least 80 °C for 10 minutes.
- 03Containers with cleaning solution are emptied and cleaned daily or after use.
- 04Used cloths and mops are washed or disposed of after each use.
- 05There must be a plan for cleaning, use and maintenance of machines and trolleys.
- 06Cleaning equipment is stored clean and dry.
Protective equipment and chemical safety
Chemical agents can be corrosive or irritating. Use the prescribed gloves and possibly eye protection, never mix products (especially not chlorine and acid, which can develop dangerous gas), ensure ventilation and know the agent's safety data sheet. Store agents in their original packaging with labels.
Environmental labels and green cleaning
Many products carry environmental labels such as the Swan Mark or EU Flower indicating less environmental and indoor climate impact. Together with the Sinners circle — where more mechanics can replace more chemistry — modern cleaning becomes gentler without compromising on results.