The 5 cleaning procedures generally refer to the basic steps involved in a cleaning process to ensure surfaces and spaces are properly sanitized and maintained. These steps are typically followed in both residential and commercial cleaning, including settings like hospitals, hotels, and offices.

Here’s a breakdown of the 5 key cleaning procedures…

Pre-Cleaning (Preparation)

This step involves getting the area ready for cleaning. Proper preparation is crucial for an effective cleaning process.

• Tasks
  • Remove large debris, trash, or any obstacles that might interfere with cleaning.
  • Gather all necessary cleaning supplies: brooms, mops, vacuums, disinfectants, cloths, gloves, etc.
  • Ensure the space is well-ventilated (open windows or doors if needed).
  • Dusting of surfaces that can easily be wiped down first (e.g., shelves, counters).

Cleaning (Physical Cleaning)

This is the primary step where you physically remove dirt, dust, grime, and debris from surfaces.

• Tasks
  • Sweep, vacuum, or dust to remove loose particles and debris from floors, walls, and surfaces.
  • Wipe down surfaces with soap or a cleaning agent. This includes countertops, tables, doorknobs, and light switches.
  • Scrub areas that need deeper cleaning (e.g., kitchens, bathrooms) to remove built-up grime, soap scum, or grease.

Rinsing (If Needed)

After the cleaning solution is applied, rinsing helps remove any remaining cleaning agents, soap, or dirt left behind.

• Tasks
  • For areas that have been scrubbed with cleaning agents, rinse with clean water to remove residue.
  • This step is particularly important in kitchens, bathrooms, or other areas that have been cleaned with detergents or chemicals.

Disinfecting (Sanitizing)

After cleaning and rinsing, disinfection is essential for killing bacteria, viruses, or other harmful pathogens.

• Tasks
  • Apply a disinfectant or sanitizer to high-touch areas like doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, and kitchen surfaces.
  • Allow the disinfectant to sit for the required contact time (usually 5 to 10 minutes, depending on the product).
  • For high-risk areas (e.g., hospitals, kitchens), focus on areas with the potential for cross-contamination.

Final Inspection and Touch-Up

This is the final step to ensure everything is cleaned thoroughly and looks presentable.

• Tasks
  • Inspect the area to ensure it is clean and meets desired standards. Check for missed spots or areas that may need extra attention.
  • Perform a final wipe or touch-up of areas like mirrors, glass surfaces, or counters that might have smudges or streaks.
  • Dispose of any remaining trash, and return items that were moved or stored during cleaning.

Summary of the 5 Cleaning Procedures

• Pre-Cleaning (Preparation) – Set up your space, gather tools, and remove large debris.
• Cleaning – Remove dirt, dust, and grime from surfaces.
• Rinsing – Rinse off cleaning agents or soap, if needed.
• Disinfecting – Apply disinfectant to kill germs and pathogens.
• Final Inspection and Touch-Up – Ensure the space is spotless and everything is in place.

These steps can vary slightly depending on the type of cleaning (e.g., residential vs. commercial) but provide a comprehensive guide to the cleaning process.