For many small business owners, reopening their stores after the easing of lockdown guidelines can mean survival amidst this pandemic. While reopening your store might come as a relief after months of having no income, you have to do so with utmost care.
Proper hygiene and social distancing are two of the best weapons against the coronavirus. If you are going to reopen your store, here’s how to clean and disinfect the premises to protect both your customers and employees from the virus:
1. Deep cleaning
Before you open your store, it’s a good idea to give the premises a good once-over with a deep cleaning. Contact a professional general cleaning company, and perhaps window-cleaning services, to give your store a good scrubbing. Doing this will not only help get rid of any lingering bacteria and viruses on surfaces, but it will also create a pleasant and fresh environment for your customers.
2. Clean frequently touched items
Handles, telephones, keyboards, and other items that are frequently touched should be cleaned and disinfected regularly. If your employees work in shifts, it’s a good idea to disinfect the things they touch between every shift to decrease the risk of transmission.
3. Keep sanitizer nearby
Set up sanitizer stations near the entrances and POS systems. Advise employees to sanitize their hands whenever they touch money, credit cards, products, and just about anything that other employees and customers routinely touch.
4. Wear gloves
While cleaning and disinfecting your store, wear disposable gloves and promptly throw them away afterward.
5. Use the right cleaning products
Wiping your counters with baby wipes might not be enough to get rid of the virus. Use soap and water to reduce the number of germs, dirt, and dust from surfaces. Then, use an EPA-registered household disinfectant to kill the bacteria on the surfaces.
Moreover, be sure to use disinfectants properly. Follow the directions and read the warning label. Do not overuse the product or mix it with another chemical. While cleaning, it is also wise to have enough ventilation in the room to avoid inhaling fumes.
6. Clean only what needs to be cleaned
Don’t waste your disinfectant on outdoor areas, such as the sidewalk, that only need standard routine cleaning. Instead, focus on disinfecting items that are frequently touched, such as door handles, bike racks, or outdoor seating.
It is also unnecessary to disinfect establishments that have been unoccupied for more than seven days since COVID-19 does not survive beyond this. Normal routine cleaning, however, is still ideal for removing accumulated dust, dirt, and impurities on surfaces.
7. Disinfect soft and porous material
Use EPA-approved disinfectants to disinfect soft and porous surfaces, such as carpets, rugs, and seating furniture. If removing the item is feasible, it is much better to do so in the meantime.
For items that can be laundered, such as curtains, towels, and aprons, wash them according to the label using warm water.
Now that more and more stores are reopening, everyone should be more cautious. Aside from cleaning and disinfecting your store, ensure that your employees are washing their hands and wearing appropriate face masks.
