Issue Date: 20 September 2013
Ref: DIV13/23
Simpler Retail Cleaning
Retail cleaning presents a challenge when shops are busier and open for longer. Even if the shop is closed overnight this might not be the most convenient or economical time to undertake cleaning operations because of additional wage, lighting, heating and security costs. It is now widely understood that out-of-hours cleaning can be expensive and difficult to manage and unpopular with cleaning professionals who aim to find a balance between personal and professional life. Most retailers want to keep their premises clean when it matters most, during opening hours, and this means “daytime” cleaning.
The appearance of the shop will have a direct bearing on customer perceptions and the resulting reputation of the business. Routine cleaning needs to be well organised and methodical to ensure all areas are covered to the appropriate schedule. Cleaning teams must be properly equipped to make the most of the time available and maintain the appearance of the shop without letting costs run away.
One of the major routine cleaning requirements is floorcare. Water on floors can be a particular challenge. Brought in from outside it can introduce dirt and contamination which spoils the shop’s appearance and presents a potential slip hazard for customers. It can easily be removed using a scrubber drier from the advanced TASKI swingo range from Sealed Air’s Diversey business. Available in sizes from compact upright models to large ride-on machines, they remove water and soiling from the floor and leave it clean and dry ready to be put back into use almost immediately.
Although TASKI scrubber driers are highly efficient they deliver the best performance and economy when operations are co-ordinated and well-managed. This could mean for example, working from one end of the shop to the other, up and down each aisle in turn, so that all areas are cleaned without repetition. Correctly specified machines - not too large, not too small - are able to work around temporary or permanent obstructions so that all areas are cleaned during each pass.
The microfibre mops and cloths in the TASKI Standard range represent an alternative option for floors and hard-surfaces. For many general cleaning tasks these can be used with water alone which promotes sustainability. Microfibre is also excellent for removing dust from shelves, counters and other hard surfaces.
Water can also get onto floors during hot weather when the drainage points of inefficient chiller cabinets cannot cope and overflow. When this happens, Diversey’s super-absorbent Zorba strips can provide an effective barrier to retain water and prevent it spreading or forming puddles in busy aisles. Each 60cm strip of Zorba absorbs up to two litres of water, ready for removal during quieter periods. Any residual water can be picked up by scrubber drier or microfibre mop.
Another key area for many retailers is the washroom. These will most likely be checked and cleaned very frequently. Simpler, more efficient processes can improve standards and cut costs. The unique TASKI Sani 4in1 washroom cleaner replaces four or more alternative products. It can be used for all periodic and daily cleaning tasks and delivers best-in-class disinfection, descaling, cleaning and deodourising to maintain or improve the washroom’s appearance. It is suitable for all acid-resistant areas. Early adopters reported better control over cleaning costs with improved results.
Integrated trolley systems such as the TASKI Trolley are ideal for general cleaning operations because they allow all items to be kept together for efficiency and convenience. But while routine cleaning is essential there will inevitably be times when emergencies arise. Trolleys are also perfect for periodic, problem solving and spot cleaning. In large and busy shops a high profile “rapid response” trolley can configured with specialist products and tools. This will deliver a clear signal to customers that the retailer takes cleaning seriously and deals with problems quickly and professionally.