CDC Updates Guidelines for Cleaning and Disinfecting Facilities: What Orange County Businesses Need to Know

by | Jan 20, 2025 | Blog, Commercial Cleaning | 0 comments

The COVID-19 pandemic has transformed the way businesses approach cleanliness and hygiene. For facility owners and managers in Orange County, California, staying up to date with the latest CDC guidelines for cleaning and disinfecting facilities is crucial to ensuring the safety of employees, customers, and visitors. As the CDC continues to refine its recommendations based on scientific findings, businesses must adapt their cleaning practices to meet these evolving standards.

In this blog, we’ll dive into the updated CDC guidelines for cleaning and disinfecting facilities, explain how they impact Orange County businesses, and provide actionable tips to help you maintain a safe and compliant environment.

What Are the New Guidelines for Cleaning and Disinfecting Facilities?

The CDC’s latest updates regarding guidelines for cleaning and disinfecting facilities emphasize a more targeted approach to cleaning and disinfection, reflecting the current understanding of COVID-19 transmission. Here’s what Orange County businesses need to know:

Surface Transmission Risk is Low in Most Cases

The CDC Guidelines for cleaning and disinfecting facilities now states that the risk of contracting COVID-19 from touching contaminated surfaces is generally low. However, regular cleaning remains essential to minimize any potential risk, especially in high traffic areas.

Daily Cleaning is Sufficient in Most Settings

For facilities without suspected or confirmed COVID-19 cases, cleaning once a day with soap or detergent is often enough. These products not only remove germs but can also weaken or damage virus particles, reducing the risk of infection.

Disinfection is Recommended in Specific Scenario

Disinfection is advised in indoor settings, schools, and homes where a COVID-19 case has been confirmed suspected within the last 24 hours. In these cases, both cleaning AND disinfection are necessary.

Focus on High-Touch Surfaces

High-touch areas like doorknobs, light switches, elevator buttons, and countertops should be prioritized. These surfaces are more likely to harbor germs and require consistent attention.

Use EPA-Approved Disinfectants

The CDC Guidelines recommends using disinfectants from the EPA’s List N, which are proven effective against SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19.

How Do the Updated Guidelines Impact Orange County Businesses?

Orange County is home to a diverse range of businesses, from bustling offices in Irvine to schools in Anaheim and healthcare facilities in Santa Ana. The CDC’s updated guidelines for cleaning and disinfecting facilities have specific implications for these industries.

Offices and Commercial Spa

With many Orange County businesses adopting hybrid work models, maintaining a clean and safe office environment is essential. Daily cleaning of high-touch surfaces and shared spaces can help reduce the risk of transmission and reassure employees returning to the workplace.

Schools and Educational Facilities

Schools in Orange County must remain vigilant, especially with the spread of COVID-19 variants and the slow rollout of vaccines for younger demographics. Regular cleaning and disinfection of classrooms, cafeterias, and restrooms are critical to protecting students and staff.

Healthcare Facilities

For hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities in Orange County, the CDC’s guidelines for cleaning and disinfecting facilities remains unchanged. High-touch areas and patient rooms must be disinfected regularly to protect vulnerable individuals.

Retail and Hospitality

Orange County’s thriving retail and hospitality industries rely on customer confidence. Regular cleaning a disinfection of high-traffic areas, such as checkout counters, fitting rooms, and hotel lobbies, can help businesses attract and retain customers.

Manufacturing and Industrial Facilities

While the CDC’s updated guidelines for cleaning and disinfecting facilities primarily focus on non-healthcare settings, manufacturing and industrial facilities in Orange County should still prioritize cleaning and disinfection to protect workers and maintain productivity.

Guidelines for Cleaning and Disinfecting Facilities

The Importance of Daily Cleaning and Disinfection in Orange County

Daily cleaning isn’t just about compliance—it’s about creating a safe and healthy environment for everyone who enters your facility. Here’s why consistent cleaning matters for Orange County businesses:

  • Reduces the Spread of Germs: Regular cleaning removes dirt, grime, and germs, while disinfection kills harmful pathogens.
  • Boosts Confidence: A clean facility reassures employees and customers that their health and safety are the priorities.
  • Prevents Outbreaks: Proper cleaning and disinfection can help prevent the spread of illnesses, reduce absenteeism, and maintain productivity.
  • Prepares for the Future: The lessons learned during the pandemic will shape cleaning standards for years. Businesses that invest in professional cleaning services will be better prepared for future challenges.

How to Develop a Customized Cleaning Plan for Your Orange County Facility

The CDC Guidelines for cleaning and disinfecting facilities recommends creating a tailored cleaning plan to meet the unique needs of your facility. Here’s how Orange County businesses can get started:

Identify High-Touch Areas

Focus on surfaces like doorknobs, light switches, elevator buttons, desks, and restroom fixtures. These areas should
cleaned and disinfected daily.

Choose the Right Products

Use EPA-approved disinfectants and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper application and dwell time.

Train Your Staff

Ensure your cleaning team understands the difference between cleaning (removing germs) and disinfecting (killing germs). Proper techniques and PPE are essential.

Partner with a Professional Cleaning Service

Managing cleaning and disinfection in-house can be time-consuming and resource intensive. Partnering with a trusted cleaning company in Orange County ensures your facility meets the highest standards of cleanliness.

Why Choose Professional Cleaning Services in Orange County?

At OC House Cleaning Services, we specialize in providing top-tier cleaning and disinfection services tailored to the needs of Orange County businesses. Here’s what sets us apart:

  • Local Expertise: As an Orange County-based company, we understand the unique needs of businesses in our community.
  • Customized Plans: We create cleaning plans tailored to your industry, whether you run a school, office, healthcare facility, or retail space.
  • Eco-Friendly Solutions: We offer green cleaning options that are safe for your employees, customers, and the environment.
  • Peace of Mind: With our professional services, you can focus on running your business while we handle the cleaning.

Take the Next Step Toward a Cleaner, Safer Facility

The CDC’s updated guidelines for cleaning and disinfecting facilities highlight the importance of regular cleaning and disinfection in reducing the spread of COVID-19 and other pathogens. By partnering with a professional cleaning service in Orange County, you can ensure your facility meets these standards while providing a safe environment for everyone.

Ready to elevate your cleaning routine? Contact OC House Cleaning Services today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help your business thrive in a post-pandemic world.

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