A deep clean goes beyond routine janitorial work. Learn the difference between cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting, and when a facility needs it.
Businesses, schools, and public buildings often schedule a “deep clean” after an illness outbreak, before reopening, or simply when routine cleaning isn't keeping up. But what does a deep clean actually involve?
Cleaning vs. sanitizing vs. disinfecting
- Cleaning removes dirt, dust, and germs from surfaces using soap or detergent and water.
- Sanitizing lowers the number of germs on a surface to a safer level.
- Disinfecting uses EPA-registered products to kill the germs listed on the label, when left on the surface for the required contact time.
A deep clean combines all three: surfaces are cleaned first so the disinfectant can do its job, then high-risk areas are disinfected.
What a deep clean includes
- A multistep process — clean, then disinfect — instead of a quick wipe-down
- Extra attention to high-touch points: door handles, light switches, railings, elevator buttons, faucets, and shared equipment
- Restrooms, break rooms, and kitchens cleaned top to bottom
- Floors, baseboards, vents, and other areas skipped in routine service
- Products matched to the surface and the germs you're concerned about
When your facility needs one
Consider a deep clean after a confirmed illness in the building, during cold and flu season, before reopening or a new tenant moves in, or after construction and renovation. Ongoing, more frequent cleaning of high-touch areas — plus hand sanitizer stations and good hygiene habits — keeps the results going.
SL Restoration builds a cleaning plan that fits your building, whether that's a one-time deep clean or recurring janitorial service for offices, schools, and government facilities.
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