It’s not always easy being green, especially when we’re in the midst of a pandemic. But when it comes to your facility’s cleaning program, you can still take small, strategic steps to incorporate green-cleaning practices.
Since 2011, we’ve held ISSA’s “Cleaning Industry Management Standard – Green Building” certification (excuse the humble brag). We only mention it because we have the training and the chops to help you achieve your environmental goals.
Choosing to adopt green cleaning practices will not only help the environment by reducing the release of harmful chemicals into our waterways; it benefits your staff, cleaning team and potentially your bottom line.
We know that’s tricky right now, because you need to use powerful disinfectants to kill COVID-19. But that doesn’t mean it’s impossible. Below are six easy ways to layer in some green cleaning.
6 Green-cleaning Hacks
Amp up your recycling program. Make sure recycling bins are placed throughout the office, if not at every workstation. Establish a plan for collecting and recycling used toner cartridges and batteries.
Opt for green cleaners. More than likely, there’s a “green” variety of each cleaner you’re currently using. Try to choose eco-friendly window cleaners, toilet bowl cleaners, stainless steel polishes, degreaser for floors, etc. It’s perfectly safe to continue to use these in the age of COVID-19, as long as you also use a disinfectant from the EPA’s List-N group. Using these green cleaners will help reduce employee and cleaning staff exposure to cleaning chemical irritants such as chlorine and ammonia, which can be harmful to the skin and lungs
Use cold water. Hot water isn’t always necessary when cleaning. Using cold water can be just as effective and help reduce energy usage and costs.
Use high-efficient batteries. They’ll hold a charge longer. Opt for cordless options when you can. For instance, Proteam’s GoFree vacuums are a great example.
Watch your VOCs. Keep an eye out for Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). Lower VOC means less emission of harmful toxins into the air. That’s good for everyone.
Source green. If you outsource your cleaning, make sure the company you choose is green certified and follows best practices that can improve your own facility’s environmental impact.
You can learn more about our green-cleaning practices, here.
About the Author
Jeremy Angle leads our team in Southeast Wisconsin. As general manager of our Milwaukee branch, he works with some of our largest clients to ensure they have the right cleaning program in place.