Expert Cleaning Blogs: Tips for Commercial and Residential Cleaning

Disinfection in Healthcare Facilities: What the CDC Recommends

Healthcare facilities operate at a higher standard than most commercial buildings. Patients arrive with weakened immune systems. Staff move quickly between exam rooms. Families wait in shared spaces. In this environment, disinfection is not optional. It directly impacts patient safety.

At Imperial Cleaning, we understand that healthcare cleaning carries serious responsibility. That is why we perform our due diligence to align our protocols with current CDC recommendations and industry best practices. We do not treat medical facilities like typical office space. We build cleaning programs specifically for healthcare environments.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides clear guidance on cleaning and disinfection in medical settings. These guidelines aim to reduce healthcare-associated infections and protect patients, providers, and visitors. Imperial Cleaning uses these standards as the foundation of our healthcare cleaning programs.

Cleaning vs. Disinfecting: We Follow Both Steps

The CDC makes a clear distinction between cleaning and disinfecting. Cleaning removes dirt and organic material. Disinfecting uses EPA-registered products to kill specific pathogens.

At Imperial Cleaning, we never skip steps. Our teams thoroughly clean surfaces before applying disinfectants. This ensures the disinfectant can properly contact and eliminate harmful microorganisms. Cutting corners compromises safety. We do not cut corners.

Our supervisors train staff on CDC-aligned procedures and verify that each step is completed correctly.

High-Touch Surfaces Receive Targeted Attention

The CDC emphasizes frequent disinfection of high-touch surfaces. These areas collect germs quickly and require consistent monitoring.

Imperial Cleaning identifies and prioritizes surfaces such as:

• Exam tables
• Bed rails
• Doorknobs
• Light switches
• Keyboards
• Countertops
• Waiting room chairs and armrests

We customize cleaning frequencies based on patient volume and facility type. In many healthcare environments, we disinfect high-touch areas multiple times per day. Nightly service alone is not enough, and we plan accordingly.

We Use Proper Products and Respect Dwell Time

Disinfectants only work when used correctly. The CDC stresses following manufacturer instructions, especially dwell time. Surfaces must remain visibly wet for the full contact time listed on the label.

Imperial Cleaning trains technicians to understand dwell time requirements and apply products properly. We use EPA-registered disinfectants that meet healthcare standards and are effective against pathogens such as influenza, COVID-19, MRSA, and C. diff.

We document product usage and ensure compliance with regulatory expectations. Our due diligence protects your patients and your practice.

Preventing Cross-Contamination Is Non-Negotiable

Technique matters. The CDC recommends cleaning from cleaner areas to dirtier areas and working from high surfaces down. We follow these principles on every visit.

Imperial Cleaning uses color-coded microfiber systems to reduce the risk of cross-contamination between restrooms, exam rooms, and common areas. Our teams also follow strict personal protective equipment protocols. Gloves, masks, and other PPE are used appropriately to protect both our staff and your facility.

We do not rely on assumptions. We rely on training, supervision, and accountability.

Air Quality and Environmental Control

Surface disinfection is critical, but air quality also affects infection control. The CDC encourages proper ventilation and well-maintained HVAC systems.

Imperial Cleaning supports healthcare facilities by maintaining clean vents, reducing dust buildup, and coordinating with facility management to support a healthier indoor environment. Our comprehensive approach addresses more than what is visible.

Documentation, Compliance, and Rapid Response

Healthcare facilities must demonstrate consistency. The CDC recommends maintaining cleaning schedules and logs. Imperial Cleaning provides structured documentation and transparent reporting to support inspections and compliance reviews.

When a confirmed case of contagious illness occurs, we respond quickly. We implement enhanced cleaning protocols, increase service frequency when needed, and apply broader-spectrum disinfectants in affected areas. Our team works efficiently to minimize disruption while maintaining strict standards.

A Partner That Takes Compliance Seriously

Healthcare cleaning requires more than basic janitorial service. It demands expertise, discipline, and a commitment to CDC-aligned practices.

At Imperial Cleaning, we take that responsibility seriously. We conduct our due diligence. We train our teams thoroughly. We follow documented protocols. We prioritize patient safety in every facility we serve.

If you manage a medical office, urgent care center, dental practice, or outpatient facility, partner with a commercial cleaning company that understands compliance and executes with precision. Imperial Cleaning helps you maintain a safer environment while protecting your reputation and the people who depend on your care.

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