Past Tips

June 2010

 got ink?

                  INTRODUCING OUR NEW DRY ERASE BOARD WIPES

        Mötsenböcker’s Lift Off_®

   New Dry Erase Board Cleaner

     Biodegradable · Water-based Solution

Removes:

Dry Erase markers

Nail Polish & Hair Dye

Correction Fluid

Fountain & Ball-Point Pen

Dirt Build Up

Stamp Pad Inks

Highlighters

Permanent Markers

Newsprint & Pencil Marks

Makeup & More!

From:

Dry Erase Boards

Desk & Countertops

Office Equipment

Hands & Walls

Leather & Plastics

Tennis Shoes

Bus Seats

Stamp Pads

Restrooms

Plexiglass^® & More!

To order, or for more information,                   
contact your CTL representative.

May 2010

      Scotch-Brite™ Sienna Diamond Floor Pad Plus

Based on a diamond formula, this system is a

simplified, one-step process that simultaneously

cleans and polishes stone floors.

Brings Marble, Terrazzo and Polished Concrete

to a Brilliant Shine

●Helps reduce labor and material costs up to 50%
    Addressed labor and material costs associated with
       stripping, deep scrubbing and burnishing floors

●Easy to use and easy to maintain

●Environmentally Preferable Cleaning System*

   Eliminates the need to use floor finishes, coatings,    
      stripper and crystallization products, and the labor-
      intensive work associated with applying these
      chemical products

* Some damaged floors will require grinding before using
    Scotch-Brite™ Sienna Diamond Floor Pad Plus

To order, or for more information,                   
contact your CTL representative.

April 2010

     Did You Know…

     3M™ Floor Pads

Remove black marks up to 6 times faster. Increase soil removal by up to 60%. Maintain aggressiveness over the life of the pad by up to 10 times.  Extend pad life by up to 25 times.

With reduced budgets, fewer employees and less time to do the work, 3M™ Floor Pads can help you reduce your bottom line costs.

All floor pads are not created equally

The differences between floor pads may seem small. But when added up, they can make a big difference to your  bottom line in terms of productivity and labor.

3M™ Floor Pads offer:

►Uniform distribution of mineral abrasives throughout
    pad (not just on the surface) assures superior
    performance and long, useful life.

►Individually separated and coated fibers help produce
    better, more consistent results. 

►The right amount of aggressiveness for every type of
    stripping, scrubbing and cleaning job is available.

►Each floor pad is engineered specifically for a
    particular maintenance task.

                          Which 3M pad to use.

(Listed below are the first choice pad for each operation.)

To order, or for more information,                   
contact your CTL representative.

March 2010

             Introducing SmartDose^TM/MC

Delivering a Dose of Perfection

        Mixing concentrated cleaning products just got

                                Simpler, Safer, Smarter.

The patent-pending SmartDose^TM/MC bottle allows

you to easily, safely, and accurately dose concentrated

 cleaning products. This innovative and sustainable

 solution delivers better cost control than any other

dosing system.

The portable SmartDose^TM/MC bottle goes wherever you

go. Simply select the appropriate dosing icon, pull up

the pump once, then push the knob down to dispense

the accurate amount of concentrated cleaner. It’s that

easy!

•Minimal training needed

•Easy to understand icons

•No water hook-up required

•Maintenance-free system

The SmartDose^TM/MC bottle minimizes unwanted contact

with concentrated cleaning products with and anti-drip

spout and Spill-Tite® sonically-welded head. The

ergonomic design enhances comfort and ease-of-use.

•Minimal used exposure to chemicals

•No dangerous refilling

•Drop and spill resistant package

The SmartDose^TM/MC bottle automatically calculates two

precise doses of concentrate, allowing accurate dilution

and enhancing cleaning performance.

•Calculates correct dosage for bottle, bucket,
   autoscrubber and toilet applications

•Eliminates guesswork or the use of complicated
   calculations

•Prevents partial dosing

•Helps control costs

To order, or for more information,                   
contact your CTL representative.

February 2010    

Effective

■Bactericidal and Virucidal in ONE MINUTE, kills HBV,
   HCV, HIV-1 (AIDS virus) in one minute, Tuberculocidal
   in five minutes and kills fungi in ten minutes

■ Patented technology contains a high performance
    surfactant system that delivers faster and better      
    cleaning results

Environmentally Responsible

■ No VOC’s, no added fragrance, no NPE’s

■ The active ingredient breaks down to water and
    oxygen

Easy to use

■ Can be sued to clean most hard, non-porous
    environmental surfaces with confidence

■ Non-irritating to skin and eyes and contains no
    substances which at the given concentration, are
    considered to be hazardous to health per OSHA
    standards

Available In

Ready-To-Use Quarts and Convenient Wipes

To order, or for more information, contact your CTL Sales Rep.

January 2010 

SaniGuard has been tested to kill Influenza A viruses in

which H1N is a subtype. The efficacy data shows claims

for type A influenzas; A/Brazil, A/PR and A/Hong Kong

along with the Avian flu virus.

● SaniGuard Dry Sanitizing Surface Spray and Total Release
    Fogger are powerful weapons in fighting the spread of
    nosocomial infections.

●Total Release Fogger allows for sanitation of larger rooms
   such as a patient room, waiting room, restrooms or offices.

●Testing has shown SaniGuard to be effective on TB and

   C. Difficile and kills 99.9% of Norovirus.

●SaniGuard helps reduce healthcare acquired infections by
   controlling germs while they are on the surface, before being
   picked up on the hands of staff, patients and visitors.

●Use on charts, stethoscopes, door handles, computer
   keyboards and mouse.

●Use in waiting rooms, restrooms, patient rooms and offices.

●SaniGuard protects students from germs.

●Kills MRSA, Mat Herpes, Meningitis, Strep, Hepatitis, E-Coli
   and Salmonella.

●SaniGuard is excellent for cafeterias and kitchens because no
   potable rinse is required.

●Use in locker rooms, nurse’s office, gymnasium, classrooms,
   school busses, restrooms and college dorms.

●Use on door handles, water fountains, lockers, gym and
   athletic equipment, toys and games.

●Kills germs where they are most present, on the desktop.

●Reduces work place absenteeism by controlling germs before
   they spread.

●SaniGuard is non-conductive because it’s DRY ON CONTACT.

●Use SaniGuard on computer keyboards and mouse, phone,
   calculators and door handles.

●Use SaniGuard in lobbies, conference rooms, break rooms,
   kitchens/cafeterias and restrooms.

●SaniGuard can be used on surfaces other products cannot
   because SaniGuard dries on contact and requires no potable
   rinse.

●SaniGuard meets current EPA regulatory standards (FDA,
   CFR 178.101) for food contact surfaces.

●Kills germs like Salmonella, E-Coli and Influenza on contact
   BEFORE cross contamination takes place.

●Use on counter tops/prep stations, equipment, cash
   registers/electronics, tables and chairs.

●Use in dining rooms, restrooms, offices and kitchens.

●SaniGuard Spray and Fogger saves your housekeeping staff
   valuable times and gives guests peace of mind.

●SaniGuard gives you the tools to protect your customers
  environment and the confidence to assure your guest’s well
   being.

●Customers rank the cleanliness and safety of a facility as the
   top two concerns when choosing where to spend their time
   and money.

●Microbiology studies indicate that the TV remote is almost
   always the most germ laden surface in the entire room.

●Use on TV remote, phones, furniture, bedspreads, carpet and
   door handles. 

●Use in lobbies, workout facilities, restrooms and conference
   rooms.

To learn more, contact your CTL Sales Rep.

December 2009 

Convertible Utility Cart

FOR VERSATILE TRANSPORT

Improve productivity and reduce labor costs with

the new Convertible utility Cart. This patent-pending, multi-function cart converts from a utility cart to a platform truck in just seconds  saving you time and money.

Features:

The Utility (2 shelf) Cart configuration holds up to 400 lbs. The extended bottom shelf makes loading easier and helps reduce worker strain.

The Platform Truck configuration carries bulky loads of up to 250 lbs. on the large 24” x 36” area.

When completely folded, the unit measures just 10-7/8” high for efficient storage.

Two push buttons easily convert the cart from utility Card to Platform Truck. Depress the foot pedal to fold for storage.

Locking casters on the rear wheels.

To learn more, check out Item #4300 at www.rcpworksmarter.com, or contact your CTL Sales Rep.

November 2009

PUMIE^®

SCOURING STICK

Cleans porcelain and ceramic tile

Removes tough deep stains

Cleans off toilet rings in seconds, cleans rust drip stains, mineral deposits, acid stains or paint. Removes heavy staining and permits chemicals to work better.

Works where cleansers fail

Bar form lets you apply fine-grain cleanser with pressure. Natural soft-pumice then wears away to expose new cutting surfaces to clean “impossible jobs” on porcelain and ceramic tile.

Easy to use

Always use wet. Bar shapes to curved surfaces, can be cleaned under water faucet. Bar is approximately 1” x 1 ½” x 6”, easy to use without handle or glove.

Discover its revolutionary cleaning properties

This is actually soft pumice with a foamy texture, and it floats. Its fine abrasive action is unexcelled for cleaning toilets, urinals, bathtubs, sinks, laundry trays, ceramic tiles in shower or swimming pools, or other hard surfaces.

Safe for hands

Contains no harsh chemicals or detergents to harm hands or nails.

To order, or for more information, contact your CTL Sales Rep.

October 2009

Discover the ease and convenience of wipes!

CTL stocks these fine products which will help

make all of your cleaning tasks much easier.

To learn more contact your CTL Sales Rep for a demo. 

September 2009

       Rubbermaid PULSE™         

MICROFIBER FLOOR CLEANING SYSTEM         

Clean more square feet in less time with the new Rubbermaid PULSE. Industry-best microfiber, on-board reservoir, and user-controlled release of solution mean more efficient cleaning and lower labor costs.

Q969 RUBBERMAIN PULSE FLOOR CLEANING KIT

Includes:  Trigger Handle with Fluid Reservoir and One 18” Microfiber Quick Connect Frame

FEATURES:

■ LIGHTWEIGHT CONSTRUCTION

    Weighs only 4 lbs when fully loaded with solution.

■ ON-BOARD FLUID RESERVOIR

     High-capacity refillable reservoir holds 21 oz of   
      solution to clean up to 850 sq ft of floor space.
      Reservoir windows allow easy monitoring of fluid
      level.

■ LARGE REFILL OPENING

    Reservoir features a wide refill port for easy manual
     refilling.

■ CLEAN CONNECT™ CAP

    Clean Connect cap and Rubbermaid PULSE Hose   
     snap together for spill-free refilling. Flow
     automatically stops when reservoir is full.

To learn more contact your CTL Sales Rep for a demo. 

August 2009

               RubbermaidFLOW™

Save time and money with the new Rubbermaid FLOW™ Floor Finishing System. this high-capacity, highly portable complete finishing system helps reduce labor costs and improve worker well-being.

Features:

■ HIGH-CAPACITY BACKPACK SYSTEM

    Rubbermaid FLOW™ Backpack holds 1.5 gallons    
    for finishing up to 3,000 sq ft of floor surface. The 3”
    diameter opening makes refilling easy.

■ IMPROVED COMFORT

    Backpack features venting channels to improve 
    airflow and reduce moisture on back while wearing.

■ LUMBAR AND BACK PADDING

    Extra thick padding provides comfortable lumbar
    and back support.

■ PROTECTS WORKER WELL-BEING

    Chest and waist straps distribute weight to the hips
    instead of shoulders, reducing back strain.

■ BUILT-IN CONVENIENCE

    Includes 2 pockets for MSDS sheet, water bottle, and
    MP3 player for comfort and efficiency.

■ NON-SLIP TIP

    When placed against a wall this tip helps prevent the
    handle from sliding and falling

■ TRIGGER HANDLE

    Red ergonomic trigger dispenses finish solution with 
    each press.

■ CLEAN CONNECT™ TECHNOLOGY

    Backpack hose connects to the trigger handle using
    Clean Connect™ technology for spill-free delivery of
    finish solution.

■ QUICK CONNECT CONVENIENCE

    Enables quick and easy mop head/frame changes.

LIGHTWEIGHT ALUMINUM FLAT MOP OPTION

For users preferring flat mopping, there is a Rubbermaid FLOW Kit featuring a lightweight aluminum frame and Q805 Nylon Finish Pad.

To learn more, check out Item #Q979 at www.rcpworksmarter.com, or contact your CTL Sales Rep for a demo. 

July 2009

Take the Kimberly Clark

WYPALL* X Wiper Challenge

The WYPALL*X Wiper Challenge is simple. Replace your cloth rags or shop towels for 60 days, and we’ll guarantee you a minimum savings of 10%. If you don’t see the savings, we’ll write you a check for the difference* up to $1,000 per customer facility. Visit wypall.com for full details.

Get in Touch

We’re only a phone call away.  For more information, call our Customer Solution Center toll-free at 1-888-346-GOKC(1-888-346-4652) or visit us at www.kcprofessional.com or email us at wypall@kcc.com.

Our Guarantee:  Your total satisfaction means everything to us.  If, for any reason, our products do not meet your expectations, Kimberly-Clark will reimburse you* for your initial purchase, via FREE product, for up to $1,000.

For more information on Kimberly Clark Wipers, contact your CTL Sales Rep.

*Printable PDF of WYPALL X Wipers Challenge Form

June 2009

To make a positive impact on the environment, we all have to work together. LEED® is helping make that happen.

A green building rating system developed by the U.S. Green Building Council, LEED® provides the most comprehensive framework for assessing a building’s overall environmental performance.

That’s why KIMBERLY-CLARK PROFESSIONAL* supports the LEED® Green Building Rating System™ by providing innovative, environmentally sound products for buildings that allow visitors to use less

product  −  and building management to create less landfill waste.

We are proud to join with the LEED® program in promoting buildings that are environmentally responsible, economically profitable and healthy productive places to live and work.

For more information, please contact your CTL Salesman at 1-800-995-8281

May 2009

Hot Water Extraction – most thorough way to preserve carpet life and appearance

There are many advantages and disadvantages with the various cleaning methods in this segment. But for the most effective way to safely and thoroughly clean carpets, major carpet manufacturers and fiber producers recommend hot water extraction for both scheduled and interim cleaning.

Water extraction cleans to the base of the carpet fibers, leaving less residue than any other cleaning method, plus removing residue left by other methods. This keeps carpets cleaner longer because residue attracts dirt and can act as food for microorganisms. The less residue the better.

For productivity, hot water extraction simultaneously washes, rinses, and vacuums. A combination of hot water, chemical action, and agitation cleans and rinses the carpet, while a vacuum carries away the soiled water.

Effective hot water extraction methods

Pre-spray and neutralizing rinse is the most effective method because it allows more time for the chemical action. It also permits the harsh alkalinity of the cleaning chemical to be neutralized in the rinse, leaving the carpet looking brighter and more lustrous.

Step 1: Pump stray a diluted solution of pre-spray chemical onto the area of carpet to be cleaned about 10-15 minutes before extracting that area.

Step 2: In the solution tank of the extractor, dilute the hot water with a proper amount of neutralizing rinse. Extract the pre-sprayed carpet with this solution.

In-the-machine extraction cleaner is a little quicker and requires just one simple step: dilute the hot water in the solution tank with the proper amount of carpet extraction cleaner. Extract the carpet using this solution.

With either method, you can cut dry time in half by directing an air blower on the wet carpet.

When to use defoamers

Well-formulated extraction cleaners and pre-sprays are usually non-foaming, so a defoamer is often not necessary. If a carpet, however, is alternately shampooed or bonnet buffed, a residue of high foaming chemical may be present and can cause excessive foaming during extraction.

If foaming occurs, put a small amount of defoamer into the recovery tank of the extractor. Spraying defoamer onto the inner wall of the recover4y tank can give faster contact with foam as it enters the tank.

Warning: Never put defoamer into the solution tank. This can clog the spray jets. Also, defoamer residue on the carpet will attract resoiling.

Maintenance Tip: Rinse plain water through the solution system when cleaning up after extracting to keep pump and spray jets in top condition. Also, check the spray jets for clogs before operating the extractor. Carpet streaking is a sure sign of clogged spray jets.

Carpet Protectors – proven to slow down resoiling

Most carpet manufacturers incorporate special chemicals absorbed into the fibers that repel soils and materials that cause stains. This protection can be very effective, but wears away with each cleaning. Also, if a carpet is cleaned with chemicals that are above 10 pH, the protector will be stripped immediately from the carpet.

Over time, as the manufacturer’s protector loses effect, you can bring back that soil repelling protection by spraying a good protector onto the carpet after extracting. But beware – most carpet protectors have similar chemistry and are very expensive, and some suppliers will water down to ineffective dilutions in order to sell at a competitive price. You truly will get what you pay for.

For more information, please contact your CTL Salesman at 1-800-995-8281

April 2009

Carpet Care – Spot Removal

Spot removal can be one of the most confusing and frustrating aspects of carpet care.  Improperly treated or ignored spots can destroy expensive carpet. The following eight rules can also help simplify the challenge. 

The Eight Rules of Spot Removal

1.  The faster you get to a spot the better for removal. At the minimum, spot removal must be a daily routine.

2.  Know the fiber make-up of your carpet. Most commercial carpets use either nylon or olefin (polypropylene) fibers, or a blend of both. IICRC certified professional car4pet cleaners have simple tests that can determine fiber type for you. Nylon carpets will usually contain stain blocking chemicals, which is properly maintained, can facilitate removal of serious stains.

3.  Know and recognize the common spots in your facility. Keep a spotting kit on hand with a general purpose spotter and specialty spotters for spots specific to your area of responsibility. Offices, for example, often have coffee or copier toner spots. Hospitals commonly have blood or betadine spots. You can expect coffee, tea, and red food dye spots in retail or hospitality facilities. Nursing homes commonly have urine stains. Gum stains are common in public facilities.

4.  Many spots are concentrated areas of general soil tracked into an area. A general purpose water-based spotter will remove these.

5.  Greasy spots and tar are best removed by an oil or solvent-based spotter.

6.  Protein or fatty soils such as vomit, feces, or blood can be effectively removed with an enzyme-based spotter.

7.  When applying a spotter, never rub the spotted area. Always carefully blot the spot with a cloth. To help prevent resoiling, use a spotting water extractor such as the Windsor Presto to thoroughly clean the spotted area after blotting.

8.  As an alternative to a spotting extractor, use a dry absorbent powder cleaner such as Windsor Dri-Matic™ Powder Clean Kit to thoroughly clean spotted areas without wetting the carpet.

For more information, please contact your CTL Salesman at 1-800-995-8281

March 2009

Proactive cleaning for the health of the carpet and end user

Without frequent mopping, a hard floor quickly shows scratches from dirt and soil build-up.  The problem is similar with commercial carpet, even though the damage may not be as quickly obvious.  Without regular removal, dirt and soil accumulate to grind and permanently damage fibers, so carpets “ugly out” before their time.  For the long life and health of your carpet, proactive cleaning is essential.

Proactive cleaning is preventative maintenance before the carpet looks dirty, instead of reactive cleaning after the carpet is visibly soiled.

Proactive daily, scheduled, and interim maintenance can reduce or eliminate the cost and time of reactive restoration required for extreme cases of badly soiled or damaged carpet.  Restoration involves water extraction with aggressive agitation followed by thorough rinsing and pile grooming.

Proactive cleaning also provides the best possible carpet appearance day after day and contributes to good indoor air quality for end users.

Carpet acts as a filter that traps and keeps dust and dirt out of the air.  This is a significant end user health benefit since most people spend up to 90% of their time inside.  When removing contaminants from carpet, it’s important to prevent recirculation into the environment and protect the surrounding air quality. Recirculating dust and dirt can also redeposit on the carpet and undo your work.

For more information, please contact your CTL Salesman at 1-800-995-8281

February 2009

       Purell Sanitizing Hand Wipes

●With Moisturers, Vitamins A & E and Aloe

●Hands feel soft, smooth and refreshed!

●Sanitize while removing dirt from hands

●Use anytime for quick clean-up when soap and water are not available

100 Individually Wrapped Wipes Per Box

For more information, or to place an order, contact your CTL Salesman at 1-800-995-8281

January 2009

■ Claire Green products are certified in concentrates and at any dilution, not just one or more pre-determined dilution rates stated on the label.

■ All products are 100% renewable and readily biodegradable

■ Claire Green formulation process is patented and proprietary. The only company with a patent for Green cleaning products.

■ Claire Green has more environmental certifications per product than any other cleaner line available on the market today.

■ Claire Green products are highly concentrated making the cost per gallon extremely competitive.

■ Claire Green products perform well, are competitively priced, and are safer for the individual as well as the environment.

___________________________________________________________________________

There are no universal standards for Green Certification.  Each of the organizations shown has their own set of guidelines.  No matter how rigid the criteria – the Claire Green products listed below have passed each organizations test to earn their seals of approval.

____________________________________________________________________________

            X                            X                          X

307 Heavy Duty Carpet Pre-Spray

Used primarily as a pre-spray prior to carpet extraction.  Also used in the extractor tank for general extraction after pre-spray.  Effective spot and stain remover on most protein based stains.

____________________________________________________________________________

             X                            X                           X

308 Carpet Extraction Cleaner

Under normal conditions this product is a one pass cleaner that effectively inhibits re-soiling.  Use this product as a pre-spray prior to extraction or in an extraction solution tank

____________________________________________________________________________

X                          N/A                        N/A

310 Graffiti Remover

This unique formulation removes paint, ink, permanent marker and unwanted graffiti from a variety of surfaces. 310 Graffiti Remover is environmentally friendly and much safer for the user than the traditional graffiti remover.

____________________________________________________________________________

             X                            X                            N/A

311 Heavy Duty Cleaner & Degreaser

Use with a mop, spray & wipe, floor equipment, pressure washer, etc. to remove grease, oil, and other heavy soils from hard surfaces.

____________________________________________________________________________

             X                            X                             N/A

312 Tile & Grout Restroom Cleaner

A high foam cleaner that clings to the surface to maximize the removal of mold, mildew, soap scum, and hard water deposits from tile, painted surfaces, and fixtures, with a minimum of effort.

N/A – Certification not applicable to this product.

For more information or a demo of these products, please contact your CTL Salesman at 1-800-995-8281

December 2008

HOW TO: CLEAN BY HAND

HARD SURFACES

(1,2) For best results, use a terry-finish cloth or mitt or general cleaning. For intricate jobs, use mitts for more control and full hand coverage.

Dampen cloth/mitt to clean all hard non-porous surfaces (not natural wood). While no chemicals are necessary to clean, follow your company requirements.

For natural wood surfaces, use dry cloths and mitts to
prevent white spotting. For sanitary reasons, use a separate (color-coded) cloth for cleaning bathroom fixtures.

(3) Do not bunch fabric to clean. Fold cloth into quarters and use flat. When cloth is soiled, refold to expose a clean surface. Used properly this provides 8 usable surfaces.

(4) Wipe surface areas to clean. Fine microfiber strands reach into cracks and crevices to remove dust, dirt and bacteria.

(5) When job is complete, hand wash or launder for reuse.

GLASS & MIRRORS

(6) For best results, use the blue Glass & Mirror cloths or mitts to minimize linting. Fold cloth into quarters and use flat.

(7) Dampen with water to clean. No chemicals are required to remove grease, grime or fingerprints.

(8) Starting at top, clean downward using “Figure 8” strokes. Overlap strokes slightly to insure coverage.

(9) When cloth is soiled, refold to expose a clean surface. Used properly, this provides 8 usable surfaces.

(10) When job is complete, hand wash or launder for reuse.

November 2008                                    

Winter Weather Deicers
Need Not Damage Concrete

Winter weather can take a tool on more than just cars and attitudes. Concrete walks, driveways, and steps take a pounding from both deicing chemicals and the elements. But some simple precautions can prevent damage to concrete this winter.

The most common winter damage to concrete is scaling – the flaking or peeling away of surface mortar. Scaling can leave the concrete’s surface pockmarked and expose the stones (coarse aggregrate) in the concrete mix. Minor scaling can be merely a cosmetic flaw. But if left unchecked, it can turn a smooth concrete walk in to a rustic gravel path.

Scaling is caused by cycles of freezing and thawing. Water is absorbed in to very fine capillary spaces in the concrete. When the temperature drops, this absorbed water freezes and expands. Such expansion creates pressure that forces flakes of mortar loose from the surface. As the temperature swings above and below freezing, this process is repeated – in some area many times throughout winter.

A Word About Deicers

Other winter hazards to concrete come fro chemicals used to melt snow and ice. Deicers can increase scaling by increasing freeze-thaw cycles. But a few deicers attach concrete chemically.

Deicers sold as safe for grass and shrubs can chemically attack concrete. These products usually contain ammonium nitrate or ammonium sulfate – fertilizers. They’re fine for landscaping but can destroy concrete.

The safest deicers for concrete are also the most common: sodium chloride, rock salt – and calcium chloride. Sodium chloride, however, will damage vegetation and corrode metal. Calcium chloride has little effect on vegetation but promotes rust. Ursa, although more expensive and less effective at low temperatures, will not damage plants, metal, or concrete.

Refrain from using deicers until the concrete is (one) 1year old. Instead, clean off loose snow before it turns to ice. Use sand or another gritty material for firm footing.

October 2008 

Clorox^®   Commercial Solutions^® Clorox^® Anywhere Hard Surface^TM Sanitizing Spray delivers the sanitizing power of bleach in a ready-to-use, stable formula.  Clorox^®   Anywhere Hard Surface ^TM  Sanitizing Spray sanitizes, a wide variety of hard surfaces using a revolutionary new pH-balanced formula that is color-safe and mild enough to use without gloves.

Ideal for sanitizing hard, nonporous surfaces in:

• Any food service operation

• Child-care facilities

• Hotels (guest rooms, lobby, elevators)

• Office buildings 

For more information on Clorox^® Sanitizing Spray, contact your CTL representative.

September 2008 

Simple Carpet Maintenances

A daily carpet maintenance routine that combines vacuuming with spot and gum removal will maintain the overall appearance of your carpet.

Vacuuming
Regular vacuuming is the most cost-effective way to keep carpets looking new and help extend carpet life. Vacuuming removes dry soil from the carpet surface before foot traffic forces the dirt deeper in to the carpet pile where it is more difficult to remove and can cause premature wear.

Spot, stain and gum removal
It is important to address spots and spills within 24 hours of their occurrence. The longer spots, stains and gum remain on the carpet fibers, the more difficult it is to get them out.

Entrance matting stops dirt at the door
A quality matting system will capture dirt so it never gets to your carpets. A 3MTM NomadTM Entrance Matting System can remove up to 86-100% of the dirt from people’s shoes as they enter your building.

Air-handling system
Changing your building’s air filter(s) regularly is as much a part of carpet care as vacuuming. Building air filters trap airborne dust and dirt particles, preventing them from settling on carpets.

For more information on carpet maintenances , contact your CTL representative.

August 2008 

WaveBrake^® Mopping Systems

WaveBrake’s revolutionary bucket shape with molded-in patent-pending wave brakes reduces splashing up to 40% for safer, easier, and more efficient mopping.

Dirty Water Bucket

■ Separates dirty water from clean water

■ Preserves the quality and cleaning power of cleaning
   solution

■ Isolated dirty water reduces risk of cross-contamination

■ Helps produce cleaner, less slippery floors

■ Divides liquid weight; less lifting power needed when
   emptying buckets

How it Works

Traditionally, wringers release dirty water directly back into the bucket’s primary cleaning water.  With Rubbermaid’s Dirty Water Bucket nesting below the WaveBrake^®  Wringer, it collects the dirty water and keeps it separate from the cleaning solution.

For more information on Wavebrake^®  Mopping Systems, contact your CTL representative.

July 2008 

Cleaning with microfiber 

■ Collect and Hold, Dust, Dirt, and Allergens

   Microfiber’s unique construction collects and holds   
   dust, dirt, and allergens better than traditional   
   cleaning methods and has been shown to reduce
   bacteria levels by as much as 99%.

■ Clean With or Without Chemicals

   Microfiber uses up to 95% less chemicals and water for
   substantial cost savings and greener cleaning.

■ Increase Productivity

   Microfiber mops can be laundered and reused hundreds
   of times, resulting in an estimated 60% lifetime cost   
   savings.  Microfiber floor care tools are up to 75% lighter
   than traditional tools, reducing worker strain and saving
   as much as 20% in labor costs per day.

For more information on cleaning with microfiber, contact your CTL representative.

June 2008 

Cleaning:  Wet Mop Selection Guide

Wet Mopping

There are several important factors to consider when choosing a wet mop. Use the guideline below to choose the best wet mop for your floor care needs.

General Mopping

Choose mops with high absorbency, release, and durability.  If laundering is available, launderable mops will be the most economical choice.  Synthetic, rayon, and blended fiber mops with looped ends and woven tailbands offer the best performance and lauderability.

Finish Mopping

Look for rayon or synthetic mops for high absorbency and release, and construction features such as tailbands and looped ends for better floor coverage and less streaking.

For more information on selecting the right wet mop, contact your CTL representative.

May 2008

Environmentally Certified Products

Johnson Wax Professional offers a line of environmentally certified products specifically formulated to have low impact on the environment, yet deliver the performance and safety you expect.  These certification symbols assure you that these products are not only safer to use, but deliver high quality results and have minimum environmental impact.

Begin with responsible products.

Our ResponsibleSolutions program offers you a full line of certified and environmentally preferable chemical products, tools and equipment.

Add responsible practices.

The ResponsibleSolutions program, through our Healthy High Performance Cleaning program, then goes beyond products to give you green practices, training, occupant education and much more. 

Team with a responsible partner.

Our Responsible Solutions program means you can trust our development and manufacture of products and programs to be environmentally responsible and respectful of human health.

To help your facility earn LEED^® certification, contact your CTL representative.

April 2008

Why is participation in the LEED® program so important?

To make a positive impact on the environment, we all have to work together. LEED® (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is helping make that happen.

A green building rating system developed by the U.S. Green Building Council, LEED® provides the most comprehensive framework for assessing a building’s overall environmental performance.

That’s why CTL and Kimberly-Clark Professional support the LEED® rating system by providing innovative, environmentally sound products for buildings that allow visitors to use less product ―and building management to create less landfill waste.

We are proud to join with the LEED® program in promoting buildings that are environmentally responsible, economically profitable and healthy productive places to live and work.

A growing commitment to cleaner, greener solutions.

Kimberly-Clark Professional is working to safeguard our world for future generations. With the goal of using less and leaving less, our innovative washroom systems offer greater efficiency, recycled content and reduced packaging. Kimberly-Clark Professional is also an active member in the U.S. Green Building Council and an advocate for the LEED® rating system.

March 2008

“Hands On” Solutions

                           “Avoid wearing latex gloves.”

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and health (NIOSH) Latex Allergy Alert June 1997 lists this as its’ number one recommendation for latex allergy prevention:

“Use non-latex gloves for activities that are not likely to involve contact with infectious materials (food preparation, routine housekeeping, maintenance, etc….)”

This describes the janitorial trade applications precisely. In other words, for non medical applications use synthetic, nitrile or vinyl gloves.

Latex Alternatives:

Synthetics                                          Vinyl                        

A stretch vinyl material using                 A poly vinyl chloride

vinyl as its’ base with additives to          material derived from

increase flexibility similar                      petroleum.

to latex.

Nitrile                                                 Polyethylene

A man made nitrile buna                       A thin low cost material

Rubber (NBR).                                     Made from PE resins.

Material Characteristics

For more information contact your CTL Representative

February 2008
 

Proper Hand washing

“hand washing is the single most important means of preventing the spread of infection.”
~U.S. Center for Disease Control
 

Hands should be washed!

• after touching ears, nose, mouth and hair

• after contacting an infected or otherwise unsanitary area of the body

• after use of a handkerchief or tissue

• after hand contact with soiled clothing, shop rags or any other material that is soiled

• before and after handling of raw food, partially cooked meat or poultry

• after handling money

• before and after eating

• after using the restroom

Hand washing facts!
Fact #1 – 68% of the population washes their hands after using the restroom.

Fact #2 – nosocomial infections (infections caught while in healthcare facilities) contribute to 100,000
deaths annually. One of the major reasons is the
breakdown of hand washings.

Fact #3 – Food poisoning causes 9,000 deaths annually. The key to food protection is hand washing!
 

January 2008

Norovirus

What disinfectants are effective against NV? At the present time little is known about the survival of NV in the environment or disinfection procedures needed to remove NVs from contaminated settings. This is because NVs cannot be grown in cultures.

The CDC recommends either chlorine bleach or U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPS) approved disinfectants to control norovirus outbreaks. All disinfectants should be used on clean surfaces for maximum performance and staff should wear the appropriate protective barriers. If using chlorine bleach, it should be applied to hard, non-pourous, environmental surfaces at a minimum concentration of 1,000 ppm (1:50 dilution standard household bleach). In areas with high levels of soiling and resistant surfaces, up to 5000 ppm chlorine bleach may be used. Always follow the manufacturers’ instructions for use. If using an EPA approved disinfectant, check the manufacturer’s label claims for activity against norovirus (or its surrogate FCVO. The EPA website also has a list of hospital use disinfectants registered by the EPA with specific claims for activity against noroviruses.

The following 3M™ products have been tested, and have received EPA approval, using the Feline Calicivirus for Norovirus:

Twist’n Fill No. 5 3M Quat Disinfectant Cleaner
3M™ TB Quat Disinfectant Cleaner

In recent studies, phenols have been found to be effective against FCV (the surrogate for NV) only at twofold to fourfold higher concentrations than recommended by the manufacturers.

What are the environmental control measures? Although person-to-person spread might extend NV outbreaks, the initial event is usually a common source e.g. food or water. Efforts to prevent the initial contamination (e.g. food and water sanitation) and subsequent person-to-person transmission (e.g. restricting ill staff from work and sick persons to their room, hand hygiene) are necessary to prevent spread of NV. The high infectivity and persistence in the environment make NV difficult to control through routine sanitary measures.

For more information on this product contact your CTL Representative

November 2007

Increase Productivity with Accessories for Your Rubbermaid® BRUTEs!
 

BRUTE® Rim Caddy
• Snaps securely onto BRUTE rim (44 gal.)
• Provides storage and transport for spray bottles, wet-floor signs, lobby dustpan, brushes, liners, gloves and other cleaning supplies
• Integrated bag straps allow easy polyliner attachment
• User-friendly handle improves maneuverability and minimizes contact with refuse
• Durable construction with smooth surfaces for easy cleaning

Easy Lift Vent StripTM
This simple but effective product makes removing polyliners more efficient.
• Vent channels allow air to escape from the bottom of the trash receptacle
• Air-escape prevents vacuum seal from forming under the trash liner
• Eliminating the vacuum seal means less worker exertion when lifting a filled trash liner — helps reduce back strain or injury

BRUTE Quiet Dolly
Navigate through your facility unnoticed.
• Precision engineering eliminates 88% of dolly noise
• Specifically designed for hospitals, nursing homes, offices, schools and hospitality facilities

BRUTE Tandem Dolly
Doubles your productivity in waste collection by providing efficient dual collection of recyclables and general waste.
• Heavy-duty 8” (20.3 cm) wheels and 4” swivel casters offer easy mobility for maneuvering through workplace
• Dolly can be folded upright for space-saving storage
• Innovative center hinge facilitates smooth transport of uneven loads
• Holds any combination of 32- and 44-gallon round BRUTE containers

Trash BungeeTM
Helps keep trash liners in place.
• Attachment device keeps Trash Bungee attached to the trash receptacle
• Increases worker efficiency by eliminating the need to tie knots or to devise other methods of keeping the trash liner in place

October 2007

Food Safety Tools

T-Stick® Temperature Sticks

T-Sticks take the guessing out of cooking time/temperature-sensitive foods. T-Sticks are available in multiple temperatures to indicate that different types of foods have been cooked to their required minimal internal temperatures. Once used, T-Sticks can be saved as a permanent part of your HACCP records.

• Single-use stick prevents cross-contamination

• Easy-to-read and color-coded — verify proper internal temperatures in seconds

• Replaces expensive thermometers that are easily misplaced, not properly sanitized or regularly
calibrated

• Shows your customers that you care to ensure their safety against food-borne illnesses

• Ideal for batch testing

• 1 pack = 250 T-Sticks

140˚ F T-Stick. Perfect for maintaining hot-holding temperatures of foods in cafeterias, restaurants and buffets where water baths or steam tables are used. Sensor turns green at 143˚ +/- 2˚ F in 5 seconds.

160˚ F T-Stick. Perfect for cooking hamburgers, ground meats, fish, pork and eggs. Sensor turns black at 160˚ +/- 1˚ F in 5 seconds.

167˚ F T-Stick. Perfect for cooking chicken and stuffed meats, stuffed fish or stuffed pasta, along with reheating previously cooked or refrigerated foods. Sensor turns brown at 173˚ +/- 2˚ F in 5 seconds.

Use 160˚ F T-Stick to Test Dish Machine Rinse Water.

Insert T-Stick into clean fork tines. Run fork through dish machine with regular load. May be placed anywhere in dish rack. T-Stick turns black if safe water temperature of 160˚ has been reached at the utensil surface.

Note: Some health departments require 170˚ to meet state requirements.

Contact your CTL Representative for more information on food safety tools.

September 2007

Food Safety Tools

Essentials for Effective Hand Washing

Studies show that the number one cause of food-borne illness is poor hygiene. Because proper hand washing is critical in preventing the spread of disease, CTL has a complete line of hand-washing tools. From effective cleaning under fingernails to touchless paper towel dispensing, hygienic solutions from CTL make hand washing efficient and effective.

Mani-Kare® Brushes

Disposable and effective in preventing cross-contamination at the hand-washing sink, the unique design of the Mani-Kare Brush removes soil and bacteria from pores, wrinkles, nails and cuticles. Simply use for a day and throw away.

• Food-safe blue color for easy identification

• Center channel for cleaning under nails

• Wall dispenser can be placed over sink for easy access

• Perfect for use with San Jamar Kleen-BrushTM System

For more information, contact your CTL Representative.

July 2007

Vacuum Cord Maintenance

Properly wrapping and maintaining your vacuum’s electric cord will save you repair costs and ensure your machine runs efficiently — and safely. A few easy steps should be followed to keep your cord functioning correctly:

1. Before wrapping the cord, make sure it is unplugged from the wall.

2. Start the procedure from your vacuum and work towards the plug end. Make sure any coils or kinks are worked out.

3. Wrap the cord in a figure-eight shape and loosely hang it off the back of your vacuum.

4. Make sure to check the cord for any cuts or frays. Also, make sure the plug end has three prongs, including the ground post.

Following these simple steps will lengthen the life of your cord and keep power flowing to your vacuum.

June 2007

Air Care — Keeping Your Facility Smelling Great.

CTL offers several fine deodorant systems. One of the best available is the #767 Fully Programmable Metered Dispenser from Big-D.

Big-D: Remains on the cutting edge of technology with this state-of-the-art metered aerosol dispenser. The full programmable unit permits customized start and stop options. Its LED clock is set to 24-hour “military” time to ensure accuracy. May be programmed for either 5- or 7-day service. Spray intervals may be set from 1 to 60 per hour, allowing more controlled use of the product. Covers up to 6,000 cubic feet.

Metered Concentrated Room Deodorant: This product contains Big-D odor counteractants that neutralize odors rather than mask them. The uniform actuator valve enables this canister to be used in most metered aerosol dispensers. Effectively deodorizes a 6,000 cubic foot area. Each seven-ounce can contains approximately 3,400 metered sprays.

To find out more about how your facility can be improved by using these and many other fine products, contact CTL today!

April 2007

What You Should Know About Your Edlund #1 & #2 Can Openers

• Both can openers use a double-edge knife that can be reversed after one edge has become too dull or nicked.

• The drive gear on both openers can be removed easily and/or replaced. Drive gear should be jammed with a soft nail or screwdriver and the handle turned counterclockwise. This unscrews the arbor from the drive gear, enabling removal of the arbor. The gear will then drop out. When replacing the gear, be sure that the proper side is up (side stamped “UP”). Also, note that the #1 opener includes a spacer washer on top of the drive gear (spacer washer is not used on opener #2).

• On all openers using a drive gear for can rotation, the gear must dig into the can bead for gripping. This produces a metal powder from the can bead; the powder falls outside the can and should be no problem. In any case, it is the “nature of the beast” and always will be.

• Metal slivers, however, are another story and can be harmful. They can be produced from either of two sources:

March 2007

Boiler-Free Steamer Cooks Fast and Stays Clean!

Easy to Operate • Quick & Accurate Cooking

Automatic Preheat. At startup, compartment and water reservoir are brought up to temperature, allowing cooking within 10 minutes.

Automatic Water Fill & Control. Eliminates the need to constantly monitor and re-fill water reservoir. Ensures constant cooking without temperature interruption.

Clean, Safe & Easy to Maintain. Boiler-free design eliminates the need to descale a separate generator or boiler. Increases safety by preventing splashing from the water reservoir.

Saves Energy. 193-degree F energy-saving standby feature reduces energy costs. Increased heat transfer efficiency with multiple elements in aluminum blocks when compared to clamp-on style elements.

January 2007

Set up your 2007 carpet maintenance schedule.

How often should you attend to carpet upkeep? First take a look at your needs. Every carpet maintenance situation is unique — no two buildings have the same traffic flow, soil loads, traffic patterns and maintenance equipment available. Once you know where traffic is light, medium and heavy you can begin to assign maintenance responsibilities and set up a schedule for cleaning frequency.

TEN TIPS FOR BETTER CARPET MAINTENANCE

1. HAVE A PLAN.
A regular schedule of preventive, interim and restorative maintenance is the best way to prolong carpet life.

2. PLACE WALK-OFF MATS AT EVERY ENTRANCE.
They can trap 70% of the soil before it reaches your carpets. Clean or replace mats frequently.

3. USE AND INDUSTRIAL, UPRIGHT VACUUM OFTEN.
You can remove 80% of carpet soil with regular vacuuming.

4. DON’T HESITATE TO VACUUM BUSY AREAS MORE FREQUENTLY.
Removing loose soil will extend carpet life and postpone more time-consuming maintenance procedures.

5. CLEAN SELDOM-USED AREAS LESS FREQUENTLY.
Preserve resources for other areas that need them.

6. CHECK BELTS, MOTOR AND BEATER BAR/BRUSH OFTEN.
The vacuum is only effective if it’s working properly.

7. CHANGE FILTERS IN HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEMS REGULARLY.
The carpet — and the entire building — will stay clean longer.

8. TREAT SPOTS IMMEDIATELY.
Many carpets are stain resistant, but no carpet is completely stain proof.

9. RINSE COMPLETELY.
When a stain reappears after cleaning, it’s usually because cleaning agents were not removed completely.

10. HAVE THE RIGHT EQUIPMENT FOR THE JOB.
Machine costs can be readily justified by reduced labor expense and extended carpet life.

December 2006
The “Right” Wet Mop for You
Be “Style Conscious”

Cut-end Mops – These are generally lowest in initial cost, but over time will fray and unravel, creating lint and leaving loose strands behind. Also, cut-end mops leave gaps between yarn strands, resulting in limited “spread” and less coverage area per pass. Some models feature “tailbands” to reduce these shortcomings. Since cut-end mops should not be laundered, their useful life is limited.

Looped-end Mops – There are no cut ends to fray or unravel, and a tailband ensures wide, gap-free “spread” for maximum productivity. The tailband also eliminates yarn tangling and snagging. Looped-end mops can be laundered and reused over and over, lasting far longer than cut-end mops.
 

Use a finish mop or synthetic blend mop to lay sealers and finish. Cotton mops may have oil and lint in them. Use a designated mop for each sealer and finish used (mark them with a laundry marker pen).

If you know when you leave at night that you will need to use a new cotton mop the following day, soak the mop in a bucket of clean water overnight. This will remove oil and make it more absorbent.

For more information, contact your CTL Representative

November 2006
The Benefits of Foam Hand Soaps

An effective, economical alternative to traditional liquid hand soaps.

• Economical – Refills last longer, hand washes require less soap.

• Increased User Satisfaction – Hand washers perceive foam soap as gentler and “nicer” on their
  hands, increasing the likelihood of washing.

• No Pump-Clogging Problems – Each refill comes with its own foaming pump, so there are no
  concerns about dispenser pump buildup and clogging with age

For more information, contact your CTL Representative

September 2006
Strip Tips for Floors

When stripping floors with a swing machine (single disc buffer), work the machine from right to left along baseboards or areas where you want to control the spreading for the slurry. Use masking tape to achieve clean, straight edges. Build a “fence” or tape down plastic to prevent splatter on areas you want to protect.

After stripping, RINSE! Two good flood rinses are recommended, followed by a final damp mopping. If you desire to use a Neutralizer, use it in the first rinse only, and apply at the proper dilution – usually one packet per bucket of water (4-6 gallons). Rinse baseboards immediately. After sitting for a few days, this is a tougher project.

CTL stocks a variety of products, including stripper stops for doorways, to make your project easier. For more information, contact your CTL Representative.

August 2006

Don’t “Experiment” With Chemicals!

Never mix chemicals

It is a very dangerous practice to combine chemicals not indicated as “mixable.” Toxic fumes, burns and even explosions can result. Use the proper dilutions recommended by the manufacturer; these are the mixtures that will deliver the best results. Most cleaning products today are manufactured to use certain amounts of water to activate them. More is not better!

CTL stocks several systems (including 3M’s Twist N Fill and Johnson’s RTD) that will accurately and safely dispense the proper chemical solution for your every need. For more information, contact your CTL Representative.

Rest Assured – Clean Restrooms are Good for Business

Did you know?

85% of restroom users feel that a clean restroom is an indication of a clean facility.

86% of respondents say they are more likely to shop longer in stores with clean restrooms.

90% of cleaning professionals surveyed rank restroom complaints #1 or #2.

CTL has everything your business needs to keep your restrooms clean and fresh. Contact your CTL Representative for a complete restroom analysis.

KChemical-Free Cleaning with Scotch-Brite

The 3M™ Scotch-Brite Easy Erasing Pad
makes stubborn stains & marks disappear!

This innovative spot-cleaning tool is designed to erase marks without scouring or scratching. No sprays or cleaners necessary – simply wet the pad, erase the mark and wipe away! Perfect for commercial spot cleaning in restaurants, schools, hospitals and more.
• Scuff marks
• Permanent marker
• Ink pen
• Soap scum
• Grease and grime
• Metal markings
• Hard water spots
• Crayon … and much more!

For more information, contact your CTL Representative.

Keep Dirt Out of Tile & Grout

3M Scotchgard™ Tile & Grout Protector is the key to maintaining a clean restroom.

This ready-to-use, water-based formula penetrates and bonds with porous tile and grout to provide:
• Better-looking floors – Protects tile and grout from getting dirty or stained by resisting liquid
penetration. Protects against mildew growth on treated surfaces.
• Faster, easier routine cleaning -- Invisible shield helps prevent soils from soaking into the
grout, making mopping quick and easy.
• Quick, simple application -- 3M™ provides step-by-step instructions and can offer you all of
the tools needed.
• Fresher-smelling floors – Protects against odor-causing mildew on treated surfaces.

By protecting your floors with the new Scotchgard Tile & Grout Protector, you can improve the appearance of your floors while reducing cleaning time and costs. Scotchgard Time & Grout Protector creates an invisible shield that helps protect restroom floors from unsightly soils, stains and odors for several months.

For more information, contact your CTL Representative.

New! “Green Seal” Products

Non-Corrosive Bathroom & Bowl Cleaner/Descaler from NYCO

Non-corrosive cleaner for all bathroom surfaces easily cleans and removes calcium, magnesium, rust and other hard water deposits. Use on porcelain, chrome and other bathroom surfaces to remove mold and mildew. Safe on metal fixtures, sinks, faucets, bowls, urinals, walls, floors and grout.

For more information on this and other Green Seal products, contact your CTL Representative.

Have an Easy-going New Year!

The 3M™ Easy Clean System is designed to get the job done, while going easy on your budget.
• Reduce labor costs by up to 70%
• Increase performance by up to 6 times
• Cut chemical waste by as much as 80%
• Reduce mop drag by up to 10 times

3M™ Easy Trap Duster System
Trap and hold more dust, dirt, sand and hair.

Using specially developed disposable sheets, the 3M™ Easy Trap Duster System traps and holds six times more material than traditional mops and other disposable dusting systems — it’s the more efficient way to dust.

3M™ Easy Scrub Flat Mop System
Clean more rooms with less effort.

Room cleaning is a much more productive process with the 3M™ Easy Scrub Flat Mop System, saving you time and money.
• Mop drag is up to 10 times less than other flat mops
• Handle holds 15 oz. of solution; pushbutton actuation on top for dispensing
• Cleans and scrubs up to 3 times faster than other flat mops
• Reduces chemical waste by up to 80%
• Eliminates mops and buckets

3M™ Easy Shine Applicator System
More consistent shine in half the time.

With the 3M™ Easy Shine Applicator System you get results you can be proud of every time.
• Reduce labor costs by as much as 70%
• Reduce finish usage by up to 35%
• Easy to apply finish in corners and along baseboards
• Low-drag mop delivers smooth, even coats of finish
• Specially designed filling station allows use of any conventional floor finish and most other
cleaning chemicals such as neutral, general purpose and disinfectant cleaners
• Eliminates mops and buckets

Ask your CTL Representative about our other 3M cleaning products.

Helpful Job Hints

By: Clare F. Merwin, Johnson Wax Professional

1. Do Not Mix Chemicals. This is a very dangerous practice. Toxic fumes, explosions, burns, etc. can be a result of mixing chemicals together.

2. Use the proper dilutions that the manufacturer calls for when using products. These dilutions are the ones that will give you the best results. Most all products today are manufactured to use certain amounts of water to activate them. More is not better!

3. When treating dust mops, remember that a little treatment goes a long way. Hang the mop overnight for the treatment to work. Water-based treatments may require retreating during the day if soil loads are heavy.

4. Always empty your wet vacs, extractors and auto scrubber’s recovery tanks. Also, set the covers on the units (both solution and recovery) so that air can circulate through the tanks, otherwise, you will create a STENCH that will get into the air when you run the unit the next time.

5. Remember that you cannot disinfect what hasn’t been cleaned.

6. If you know when you leave tonight that you’ll need to use a new cotton mop tomorrow, soak the mop in a bucket of clean water overnight. This will soak the oil out of it and make it more absorbent.

7. Take care of spots ASAP. Today, they are spots; next week, they are stains. Match your spotter to the stain. General-purpose for water-based, solvent for petroleum-based, protein for organic-based (the icky kind) and tannin for browning. And yes, it may take more than one spotter to do the job.

8. On wavy or irregular floors, put a worn-out red pad behind the pad you are using. This puts a little “flex” to the pad holder.

For more information contact your CTL representative.

Happy Holidays from CTL!

 

4 Steps to Cleaner, Longer-Lasting Carpet

A preventive maintenance program performs Proactive Cleaning before the carpet looks dirty, instead of Reactive Cleaning after the carpet is soiled and damaged. There are four stages of carpet maintenance: Daily, Interim, Scheduled and Restorative. Follow these steps to improve your carpet’s appearance and extend its useful life.

1. Daily Maintenance-The importance of this preventive phase of carpet care cannot be underestimated. Daily Maintenance applies to HEAVY, MEDIUM and LIGHT traffic areas. There are three key elements:

   1. Walk-Off Mats

   2. Prompt Spot Removal with extraction, powder or blotting. Spots should be cleaned immediately to guard against permanent staining.

   3. Vacuuming track-off, funnel and main traffic lanes every day is vital. Some areas may even need to be vacuumed more often.

    

2. Interim Maintenance-This step includes fast, light surface cleaning for HEAVY or MEDIUM traffic areas. Low-moisture methods can be used, but water extraction is recommended. Extraction of medium and large areas can be done easily be cleaning a small portion at a time each day. This applies to both interim and scheduled maintenance. A clear water rinse should be done at least every third cleaning for all methods.

3. Scheduled Maintenance-To keep carpets looking their best, they require a periodic, overall cleaning. Water extraction is the best way to clean to the base of the fiber. Extract with a clear water rinse at least every third extraction.

4. Carpet Restoration-Restoration is used only in extreme cases where the carpet has been badly soiled of damaged. If the above stages are followed correctly, carpet should never require restoration. Use water extraction with aggressive agitation and then thoroughly rinse the carpet and groom the pile.

For more information on products to help you with your carpet maintenance program contact your CTL representative.

It’s easy as A-B-C!

Use the ABC method of cleaning to get the best results.
 

Analyze the surface and soil type
	What exactly are you trying to clean and remove? Common soil? Hard-water and mineral deposits? Soap scum? Mildew? Floor finish/sealer?
Bring the right cleaner for the job
	Once you’ve analyzed the problem, you can choose the right tools for the job. One cleaning chemical may be ideal for removing soap scum, while another is better for removing hard water and mineral deposits. Make sure you have the right cleaner for the task at hand.
Clean with the best practices
	Using the product right is as important as using the right product. Does the job call for you to apply the cleaner, agitate and rinse? Apply cleaner and wipe? Apply cleaner, agitate with a brush and remove?

   
And…Always Put Safety First!

Before using any cleaning product, always follow the directions outlined on the label. Make sure you have the appropriate safety equipment on hand, including personal protective equipment and safety signs.

For more information on cleaning products and other supplies, please contact your CTL representative.

 

Daily Restroom Maintenance

The basic procedures for daily restroom maintenance are simple and easy to accomplish with a minimum of time and effort. They are intended to help keep a clean environment in restroom and shower areas.

The procedures are designed around the basic concept of cleaning from CLEAN to DIRTY. The rule of effective restroom sanitation is to start with the cleaner areas and then proceed to the dirtier sections. By following this guideline, and the procedures outlined below, the potential for cross-contamination of germs/bacteria is greatly reduced. The cleaning and sanitizing process is more effective and work is done more efficiently, with less effort.

1. Spray-apply disinfectant solution to “high-contact surfaces” such as sink faucets, door handles/push plates, dispensers, toilet seats, around bowls, urinal handles, etc. Allow the solution to remain on these surfaces.

2. Apply toilet bowl cleaner to inside of bowls and urinals. Swab interior areas with clearly identified bowl swab. Inspect and remove old/deteriorated bowl blocks, urinal screens/blocks or debris.

3. Replace/replenish soap, paper and odor control products.

4. Depending on the amount of paper/trash on the floor, sweep the floor.

5. Clean and wipe sink and fixtures.

6. Clean mirrors and any stainless steel surfaces.

7. Wipe and clean all “high contact surfaces” which had been sprayed with disinfectant solution-with the exception of toilet/urinal handles and toilet seats. Change wiping cloths frequently. To reduce the potential of cross-contamination, DO NOT use the same wiping cloths on different fixtures.

8. Swab interior of bowls and urinals again and flush.

9. Wipe clean the disinfectant solution from toilet/urinal handles.

10. Wipe clean the disinfectant solution from toilet seats.

11. Spray enzyme solution around the base of the toilets, under urinals and in drains to reduce odors.

12. Empty trashcans and replace liners.

13. Damp mop floors with properly diluted disinfectant solution. Allow floor to dry.
    
    For more information on products to help clean restrooms, please contact your CTL representative.

Choose the Right 3M™ pad for the job

System Procedures

Stripping

1)      Dust mop.

2)      Mask off delicate surface.

3)      Apply properly diluted stripping solution.

4)      Let solution dwell 5 minutes.

5)      Strip with floor machine and pad.

6)      Pick up dirty solution.

7)      Detail damp mop.

8)      Let dry and dust mop prior to applying finish.

Scrubbing:

1)      Dust mop.

2)      Apply properly diluted scrubbing solution.

3)      Scrub with floor machine and pad.

4)      Pick up dirty solution.

5)      Detail damp mop.

6)      Let dry and dust mop prior to buffing or applying finish.

Cleaning:

1)      Dust mop.

2)      Apply properly diluted cleaning solution.

3)      Clean with floor machine and pad.

4)      Pick up dirty solution.

5)      Let dry prior to buffing.

Burnishing:

1)      Dust mop.

2)      Burnish only clean floors.

3)      Burnish to a high gloss using overlapping passes.

4)      Dust mop.

Contact your CTL Representative today.

.

Cleaning floors? Remember to use T.A.C.T.

Time

Agitation
Concentration
Temperature

Changing any of the principles of T.A.C.T. can increase or decrease the effectiveness of the cleaning solution. If your floors are heavily soiled, you can increase the TIME the cleaning solution remains on the floor. AGITATING with a floor tool will also aid in soil removal. CONCENTRATION and TEMPERATURE should follow label directions.

For the finest in floor cleaning solutions, get in touch with your CTL Representative.

Care for Your Carpet Equipment

Proper carpet care starts with properly maintained equipment. Follow these regular procedures for best results.

Vacuums

Daily:
1) Check bag/clean tank.
2) Check for clogs and blockages.
3) Check brush for wear--no lint or strings attached.
4) Inspect cord for cuts and frays.
5) Check ground wire.
6) Wipe down with damp cloth.

Weekly/monthly:
1) Check and clean/replace filters.
2) Check hoses for cracks and holes.
3) Check handles for damage.
4) Inspect and clean vacuum shoe.
5) Check belts and bearings.
6) Check all gaskets for wear and leakage.

Carpet Extractors

After every use:
1) Run one gallon of clean water through the system.
2) Run vacuum motor at least one minute.
3) Clean solution and recovery tanks.
4) Place brush in storage position.
5) Store with dome off.

Daily:
1) Inspect cord for cuts and frays.
2) Check recovery dome and tank for proper seal.
3) Check brush for wear--no lint or strings attached.
4) Check vacuum shoe for blockages.
5) Check hoses for wear, damage, blockages.
6) Wipe down with a damp cloth.

Weekly/monthly:
1) Clean bearings and belt.
2) Check gaskets.
3) Check and clean spray jets for proper spray pattern.
4) Inspect vacuum shoe for damage and clean.
5) Check overall machine.

Remember, routine maintenance decreases downtime, saving time, money and headaches. And when you are in need of maintenance, contact our specialists at CTL.

Machine Maintenance

Regular maintenance of your battery-operated autoscrubbers, burnishers, sweepers and rider equipment is the best way to protect your investment and ensure long life. Follow these periodic procedures to keep those machines running.

After every use:

1)      Run one gallon of clean water through the system.

2)      Run vacuum motor at least one minute.

3)      Clean solution and recovery tanks.

4)      Thoroughly clean scrub deck and wipe off machine.

5)      Remove squeegee and clean.

Daily:

1)      Check battery connection and check for full charge.

2)      Check pads, pad drivers and/or brushes.

3)      Check squeegee for proper installation and cleanliness.

4)      Check for clean wheels.

5)      Check rider equipment brakes and steering assembly.

Weekly/monthly:

1)      Check batteries for corrosion, leakage and evidence of overheating.

2)      Check battery water level and add water after full charge (if plates are exposed, add enough water to cover plates and then charge).

3)      Clean and lube all grease points and chain.

4)      Check gaskets.

5)      Check squeegee assembly and scrub splash skirt.

6)      Inspect and clean grounding chain.

7)      Check overall performance.

8)      Grease rider equipment wheels/casters.

9)      Check ride equipment belts and chains.

Quarterly:

1)      Have an authorized service center perform inspections.

A little care goes a long way…spending a few minutes to properly maintain floor machines and burnishers saves your money and time. Contact the machine specialists at CTL for all of your maintenance needs.

Water’s Cheap. Batteries aren’t!

Proper care and maintenance will prolong the life of your batteries and ensure top performance. In addition to paying attention to charge cycles and solid connections, proper watering procedures need to be followed.

Common mistakes that affect battery life:

1)      Undercharging. Storing the battery in a state of discharge or continually not allowing the battery to reach full charge leads to SULFATION, i.e. formation of lead sulfate compounds on plates.

2)      Overcharging. Results in accelerated corrosion of the positive plates, excessive water consumption and damage-causing internal temperatures.

3)      Under-watering. Water is lost during charging cycles; if plates are exposed, irreparable damage occurs.

4)      Over-watering. Dilutes electrolyte.

5)      Over-discharging. Using more than 80% of a battery’s capacity.

Proper watering procedures:

1)      Always use distilled water.

2)      Water levels should be checked regularly and at least weekly.

3)      After charge cycle, water level should be ½” to ¾” over top of plates.

4)      As a rule, only add water AFTER charge cycle is complete (EXCEPTION TO RULE: add water to cover plates if exposed prior to charging).

Using aged batteries:

1)      Water usage increases.

2)      Reduced power capacity.

3)      Longer charging cycle, more out-gassing and sulfuric acid smell.

Is it okay to combine new and old batteries in a series hookup?

Batteries draw down to the weakest battery in a series hookup, thus shortening the life of the new batteries. If batteries are older than a year, change the whole pack. If less than a year old, change the affected battery if the others test okay.

For a free Battery Maintenance Chart, or information on replacement batteries, consult your CTL representative.

Neutralize!

In this beautiful season of winter, the focus of building maintenance tends to be outside where snow and ice need to be dealt with. However, don’t forget your floors…they need extra attention at this time of year.

Salt residue can create significant floor-care problems. On hard floors, it can damage the finish; on carpet, it can leave a white residue and damage fibers. Left unattended, these conditions will lead to labor-intensive restorative procedures.

Be sure to take time to neutralize salt deposits and properly dry the surface. And, don’t forget to use a lot of matting!

Ask your CTL representative about neutralizer/conditioner for your floors-available in easy-to-use, water-soluble packets; this product can save you time and money!
 

Get off to a clean start!

Welcome to the New Year…and virus season! We have some tips* on proper hand-washing procedures to help prevent the spread of disease.

1) Wet hands and wrists with clean, warm water.
2) Dispense soap into hand.
3) Lather for 15 seconds-thoroughly scrub between fingers and under fingernails.
4) Dry hands with clean paper towel (proven to be more effective in fighting bacteria than air dryers).
5) Use paper towel to turn off faucet.

* For a color chart with the above tips, contact your CTL representative.

CTL has a full line of hand care products to suit your every need: hand sanitizers; antibacterial soaps; gentle lotion soaps; extra-duty hand cleaners…and ask you CTL representative about our dispenser loan program.

Happy New Year from CTL!

New Claire® Ready-to-Use Industrial Wipes

Claire wipes offer the single-step alternative to traditional cleaning methods.

Glass-Wipes

• Non-streaking

• Film-free

• Ammonia-free

• Lint-free

Sana-Wipes

• Eliminates germs and bacteria

• Sanitizes and conditions skins

• Fresh wintergreen fragrance

Versa-Wipes

• Removes grease and oil from non-porous surfaces

• Cleans dirt and grease from hands

• Excellent cleaner for tough jobs

Organa-Wipes

• Enzyme powered

• Cleans and deodorizes

• Eliminates odors, leave a fresh fragrance

Claire…Fast, Effective, Versatile, Convenient!
To see how these products can work for you, contact your CTL representative.
Happy Holidays from CTL!

How Can I Tell the Difference Between Hard Water Stains and Soap Scum?

From a distance, soap scum can look like a hard water stain. To really tell the difference, you’ll need to get a closer look. Soap is usually physically softer and easier to remove than hard water mineral deposits. To determine whether it’s scum or a hard water deposit, apply a little water to the area. If it softens, it’s soap scum and you can easily remove it with a mild cleaner and a sponge.

Hard water mineral deposits—buildups of calcium or magnesium salts present in tap water—are more difficult to remove. Apply an acidic cleaner and a little elbow grease. 3M has a wide variety of products that give you all the cleaning power you need for just about any challenge your restroom offers.

For the right products for your restroom needs, contact your CTL representative.

Rubbermaid’s Pedestrian Safety System - a Strategic Defense Initiative

Slip, trip and fall accidents are the leading cause of injuries in commercial environments, according to OSHA. With over two million accidents annually, the problem is real; liabilities for medical care, pain and suffering compensations, and list work due to injury are costly and disruptive to any facility. Warning patrons and employees or potentially dangerous areas is key to preventing injuries. Rubbermaid® Commercial Products offers the most complete indoor pedestrian safety system available.

All businesses are susceptible to accidents and Rubbermaid has the right system to fit any facility and any need, including multi-lingual signage, cones, warning mechanisms and spill clean-up.

The most comprehensive offering of safety products includes:

• Pop-up safety cone

• Audio Guard warning mechanism

• Site safety hanging signs

• Over-the-Spill system

• Hanging safety sign

• Floor signs

• Lobby Pro wet/dry spill system

• Safety cones and barricade system

• Portable mobile barriers

For more information on these Rubbermaid products, contact your CTL representative.

Introducing Shima PVA Sponge Products

With a full line of towels, wipes, mops, scrubber pads, blocks, a variety of special-use mops, plus support products, such as PVA anti-bacterial sanitizing solutions and buckets, Shima products offer exceptional performance for a wide range of sanitary applications.

Static-free, lint-free PVA sponge is hydrophilic with porosities from 55% to 95%. The surfaces of each sponge are conducive to specific duties required in sanitary maintenance-from very, very smooth to open pores in sea sponges. All deliver an exceptionally high volume and speed of absorption, actually holding many times the volume of liquid compared to a sea sponge or natural chamois.

Elasticity and tensile strength properties help provide durability and allow the material to last much longer than other materials, even under the most difficult conditions. Simply wash as necessary. The material can be used safely with most chemicals, including acids, bases and organic solvents in ph range 2-12. Heat-resistant to 176°F (80°C) wet, 148°F (64°C) dry.

For more information on the full line of Shima Products, contact your CTL representative.

Microfiber-a New Technology for Cleaning

Microfiber cloths are the new wave in cleaning technology. With the ability to absorb nearly seven times their own weight in liquid, disinfecting surfaces becomes an easy task. With thousands of microscopic fibers, dust, dirt and grime can be wiped away effortlessly.

The Rubbermaid Microfiber Cleaning System can keep your facility sanitized and clean. Simply attach the pad holder to the handle and you’re ready to clean. In addition to simplicity of use, Microfibers clean much more effectively, and with a lighter-weight mop! When you’re done cleaning, simply wash the cloths and pads to get them ready for the next cleaning cycle.

• Superior cleaning efficacy

• Lightweight design

• Color-coded for sanitary purposes

• Durable and stain-resistant

• Machine washable

• Multiple-surface use

For more information on this innovative system, contact your CTL representative.

How to Translate Mils into Micron Equivalents

1 Mil = 25.4 Microns
 

General formulas: (X Mils x 25.4 = X Microns) or (X Microns/25.4 = X Mils).

Mil Thickness     Approx. Micron Equiv.

0.23                                     6
0.27                                     7
0.31                                     8
0.35                                     9
0.39                                    10
0.41                                    11
0.47                                    12
0.51                                    13
0.55                                    14
0.59                                    15
0.63                                    16
0.67                                    17
0.71                                    18
0.75                                    19
0.79                                    20
0.83                                    21
0.87                                    22
0.91                                    23
0.94                                    24
0.98                                    25

Measure for Correct Can Liner Size

Bag Width: Use one-half of the outer circumference of

the container.

Bag Length: Use the height of the container, plus one-half of the diameter of the container bottom, plus three inches for the overhang. For square or rectangular containers, use the diagonal of the container bottom rather than the diameter.

For a complete selection of trash liners, contact your  CTL representative.

Carpet Care-in Case of Accidents!
 

Some of the very worst carpet messes are caused by pets. Cleaning urine out of carpeting is the biggie - the real challenge to pet owner and professional carpet cleaner alike. Urine spots in carpet tend to soak down into the carpet backing and pad, making them very difficult to remove. The quicker you act, the better.

For a fresh urine stain on carpet, gently blot up all you can with paper towels, being careful not to spread the stain or drive it deeper. After blotting up all the free liquid, put a terry towel on the spot and apply pressure to absorb all remaining liquid.

After blotting, use a chemical deodorizer/spot remover; this will do the job if you catch the stain immediately, but a bacteria/enzyme digester (such as Outright Pet Odor Eliminator) is really the only way to completely eliminate organic material down deep in the carpet. It’s this residue that causes persistent odor from a pet stain.

Bacteria-enzyme digester is a culture of friendly bacteria that you bring to life by adding warm water. The bacteria actually eat up organic matter and eliminate it. It takes time, 2 to 24 hours, but it’s the surest way to be rid of odor once and for all. To reach the urine down in the carpet fibers and backing, you have to get the Outright down as far as the urine went. Apply about 1-1/2 times as much solution as you estimate there was urine. Step on the spot with your shoe and work the solution clear through the back of the carpet and into the pad until it feels squishy underfoot. Leave the solution in the carpet for 6 to 8 hours before you blot. In dry climates, you may have to cover the spot with a piece of plastic wrap or damp towel to keep it from drying out too soon (the beneficial bacteria will die if the spot dries up.

For more information on cleaning products, contact your CTL representative.

Time for a “Sanitary Check”! Paper Towels vs. Hot Air Dryers

Many people have the belief that using hot air dryers is a more hygienic method for drying hands than paper towels. An eye-opening report from the University of Westminster* clears the air on this subject!

• Using paper towels after washing helps remove bacteria from hands and reduces general bacterial counts by an average of 58%.

• Hot air dryers not only increase the bacterial count on the hands (up to 439% with some bacteria), but also blow out bacteria from inside the dryer.

• The average time spent to achieve 95% dryness is 12 seconds with a paper towel vs. 43 seconds with a hot air dryer.

For more information on paper towel products, contact your CTL representative.

*Source: “Hand Drying: Studies of the Hygiene and Efficiency of Different Hand Drying Methods” Keith Redway or Brian Knights, School of Biosciences, University of Westminister.

Floor Waxing is Faster and Easier with the Johnson Wax Professional Jonmaster™ Applicator

Waxing large open areas, such as retail aisles and shopping malls, can be accomplished at an extraordinary rate of up to 14,500 square feet per hour!

The Jonmaster applicator will change the way you think about floor care.

• Reduce product waste-saves money

• Simple to use, easy to clean up

• Consistent finish

• No electricity, no batteries required

• Lightweight, compact portable

• Pressurized system for variable application speed

• Reduced baseboard splash

• Flow selector allows adjustment of coating thickness during application

• Rental available!
   

For more information on carpet care products, contact your CTL representative.

For Effective Carpet Care, Choosing Scotchgard® is Step One

The most trusted name in carpet protection helps you keep your carpets looking good longer with a superior maintenance system: Scotchgard Cleaners and Scotchgard Carpet & Upholstery Protector. Scotchgard offers the following tips to prolong the life and appearance of your carpet.

·        Don’t wait until carpet looks dirty. Regularly scheduled maintenance removes soil before it can build up and cause irreparable damage.

·        Don’t “drown” your carpets. Too much moisture and insufficient drying time can be very damaging, and cause problems such as mold or a condition know as “wicking” where stains reappear when the carpet dries. Excess moisture can also cause stretching and wrinkles.

·        Practice daily maintenance. Vacuuming is the most cost-effective way to maintain carpets, removing dirt before it is ground deeper in by foot traffic. Spot and gum removal is most effective within the first 24 hours of occurrence; the longer stains and gum remain, the more difficult it is to remove them.

·        Interim (weekly/monthly) maintenance. By combining the right cleaners and mechanical tools, high-traffic areas can be effectively maintained in between quarterly restorative cleanings. Interim cleaning with the 3M™ Carpet Bonnet Pad and Scotchgard Bonnet Cleaner or Scotchgard Spray Cleaner is done quickly and with minimal moisture, so carpets dry quickly, minimizing downtime in your facility.

·        Restorative Maintenance. Quarterly or semi-annual cleaning is a vital component of carpet maintenance. Restorative maintenance employs quality cleaners, and deep penetration for thorough cleaning.

·        Protection. Using Scotchgard Carpet & Upholstery Protector after thorough cleaning is the most important part of 3M’s carpet care system. Spill and stain removal and vacuuming are easier. Extends time between costly restorative cleanings.

New from Johnson Wax Professional – the revolutionary RTD® cleaning chemical mix-and-dispense system in a bottle!

Dilution control system is built into the maintenance-free, recyclable container.

The RTD dispensing system combines the technology of wall-mounted dispensing systems with the convenience of portability. Ready to dispense – bottle hooks up to your water source in seconds. It’s a foolproof system, completely closed and sealed to prevent contact with concentrated chemicals.

Dual flow control for filling a bucket or bottle reduces risk of messy – and costly – spills.

• No moving parts

• No extra equipment to buy

• Minimal training required

• Improved safety

• A perfect mix every time

• Saves money!

Help your concrete “weather” the winter

Winter weather can take a toll on more than cars and attitudes. Concrete walks, driveways and steps can take a beating from deicing chemicals as well as the elements. Shifts between freezing and thawing cause expansion and contraction of the concrete surface, resulting in flaking of mortar and a rougher surface.

Deicing chemicals can increase scaling by increasing freeze-thaw cycles. Certain deicers actually “attack” concrete chemically, breaking it down. Deicers designed to be safe for grass and shrubs are actually the most destructive for concrete. These deicers typically contain ammonium nitrate or ammonium sulfate (fertilizers).

While you may not be able to control the weather, you can take steps to protecting your concrete.

It is recommended that you refrain from using chemical deicers until the concrete is one year old. Instead, clean off loose snow before it turns to ice. Use sand or another gritty material for firm footing.

The safest deicers for concrete are also the most common: sodium chloride (rock salt) and calcium chloride. On the other hand, sodium chloride is hazardous for vegetation and will corrode metal. Calcium chloride is safe for vegetation, but promotes rust. Ursa, although more costly and less effective at very low temperatures, will not damage plants, metal or concrete.

Batteries- Autoscrubbers and Burnishers

We rely on rechargeables to get the job done for us, but we need to keep them charged correctly to get the most out of them. Starting with a daily inspection.

Battery Inspection

• Look for corrosion

• Check battery mounting assembly

• Cleanliness of battery

• Cracks in the case

• Swelling of the case

Safely clean off any corrosion to posts, cables or battery casing, using manufacturers’ recommended procedures and proper protective equipment, before examining the electrolyte level. We don’t want any contaminants to fall into the battery once the caps are taken off.

Maximizing Battery Life

• Maintain proper electrolyte level

• Avoid charging too frequently

Generally, batteries have a given amount of recharges to their life, varying greatly from battery to battery. Their approximate run time will vary as well.

Under-utilizing a battery’s potential. A particular battery may have a cycle life of approximately 300 recharges and an approximate run time of three hours between charges. If you use the battery for one hour every day and charge it every night (not using the extra 2-hour capability), it will last 300 days. But if you recharge the battery every third day, the battery will last 900 days. The moral: don’t recharge if you don’t have to. On the other hand, don’t get caught with a dead battery; that could slow production to a halt!

For a FREE battery care and maintenance chart for Advance® equipment, contact your CTL representative.

Happy Holidays from your friends at CTL!
 

There’s Mats….Then There’s Mats!

How do I know which mat to choose? Each type of mat has been developed to solve specific problem or offer a unique benefit. Following is a brief overview of the types of mats available at CTL.

Anti-Fatigue Mats - Enhance Comfort and Increase Productivity.
It has been proven that proper use of anti-fatigue mats can enhance worker productivity by 20-25%. These mats are designed for use whenever…and wherever…workers spend hours standing, and are made in a wide range of
sizes, weights and materials. Safety models feature yellow safety borders.

Anti-Static Mats - Protect Computers and Electronic Equipment.

Carpet-faced, static-dissipative mats can effectively protect computers and
other sensitive electronic equipment. They will drain static away from anyone who comes into contact with them while providing excellent dust control. Can be ordered in special cut lengths for use in large areas.

Kitchen Mats - Designed for Wet Areas.

Kitchen mats allow liquids to pass through them, eliminating slips hazards. They also serve as anti-fatigue mats.  Available in two colors: Red (grease-proof and chemical resistant), and Black (chemical-resistant).

Safety and Traction Mats - Protect from Slips and Trips.
CTL offers many types of safety and traction mats. SafeTraC™ Safety mat is the best anti-slip mat in the industry. Other safety mats feature anti-fatigue properties and come with OSHA-yellow safety borders and beveled edges. Anti-slip treads with grit surfaces are also available.

Message Mats - Greet Customers and Create Awareness.

These mats, offered in a broad range of messages and color combinations, will provide safety warnings, drug awareness messages, or environmental reminders among others. They are made with a rugged, high-twist yarn that won’t crush and stays looking new and fresh.

Logo Mats - Promote Company Image. 

Custom-designed logo mats can play an important role in promoting a company’s image. Logos or other artwork can be replicated on the carpet-faced mat in eye-catching colors. Logo mats add a professional look, while acting as a further barrier to dust.

CTL can supply matting to meet every need in your facility. For more information contact your CTL representative.

Beating Dirt with Entrance Matting

Did you know?

• It can cost more than $500 to remove one pound of dirt after it has been tracked into a building.

• Up to 24 pounds of dirt can be tracked in by just 1,000 people coming through an entrance every day over a 20-day work period.

• Without adequate matting, 42% of a floor’s finish can be removed within the first six feet of an entrance after only 1,500 people have walked in.

• 3M™ Nomad™ Scraper Matting removes up to 72% more dirt than other types of entrance matting.

There are two basic types of matting within the Nomad™ entrance matting system:
Scraper Matting. This outdoor and foyer matting is your first line of defense, scraping dirt and moisture from your shoes.
Carpet Matting. Your last line of defense, the Nomad™ entrance matting system is designed for indoor use. This matting removes moisture as well as small dirt particles not removed by the outdoor scraper matting.

Contact your CTL representative for 3M Matting Sale Pricing through the month of October!

The ABCs of Restroom Cleaning
 

You’ve got an image to maintain. Restroom cleanliness is a crucial part of building maintenance, since people are apt to judge cleanliness of a building by the appearance of its restrooms. Selecting the optimum combination of cleaning products is the key.

Use the ABCs method of cleaning to get the best results:

Analyze the Surface and Soil Type. What exactly are you trying to clean or remove? Common soil? Hard-water and mineral deposits? Soap scum? Mildew? Floor finish/sealer?

Bring the Right Cleaner. Once you’ve analyzed the problem, you can choose the right tools for the job. One cleaning chemical may be ideal for removing soap scum, while another is better for removing hard water and mineral deposits. Make sure you have the right cleaner for the task at hand.

Clean with the Best Practices. Using the product right is as important as using the right product. Does the job call for you to apply the cleaner, agitate, and rinse? Apply cleaner and wipe? Apply cleaner, agitate with a brush, and remove?

AND…

Always Put Safety First. Before using any cleaning product, always follow the directions outlined on the label. Make sure you have the appropriate safety equipment on hand, including: personal protective equipment and safety signs.

For a FREE 3M Restroom Systems Brochure, contact your CTL representative. This brochure shows the full line of 3M restroom products, and indicates the best use for each product on every surface in your restroom.

Nice Weather for Cleaning Windows
 

Clean, streak-free windows do a lot for your business: people inside enjoy a clear view of outside, and just as important, your building and business enjoy a more positive, inviting image.  But getting the job done right takes proper equipment, supplies and technique.

Window-cleaning tips:

1. Avoid cleaning on sunny days; direct sun promotes streaking.

2. Don’t skimp on cleaner; for the liquid to do its work dissolving dirt it needs to be applied liberally.

3. Work at a brisk pace to avoid allowing cleaner to dry, evaporate or run down and off windows.

4. Use high-quality cleaners.  CTL stocks Ettore®
   professional window cleaning supplies.

Contact your CTL representative, or visit www.ettore.com for illustrated window cleaning tips.

Wet Mop “Break-In”

While many Rubbermaid wet mops are designed to eliminate the need for a before-use “break-in,” this practice can optimize early performance. A good break-in method is as follows:

1. Fill a mop bucket with 120°F-140°F water and a correct dilution of cleaning solution.

2. Submerge mop in solution and agitate for 2-3 seconds.

3. Thoroughly wring out.

4. Repeat steps 2 and 3 five to ten times.

5. Dispose of solution.

6. Fill mop bucket with cold water.

7. Rinse and wring in cold water.

Bowl Cleaning Basics

Choosing the correct product for cleaning toilet bowls and urinals can be a reasonably straightforward process. The correct product choice depends on the quality of water and what residues (rust, scale) are found in the water.

The Three Available Types of Cleaners.

1. Hydrochloric Acid (HCL). These products are extremely effective on rust (red scale) or white mineral scale. They are available in high or low concentrations, thin or thicker clinging formulations. These cleaners are aggressive and will damage metal fixtures and carpet fibers, and will etch marble surfaces.

2. Phosphoric Acid. These formulations are effective against white mineral scale deposits; also know as lime or water scale. Phosphoric acid is not as effective on rust, but is safe to use on chrome or other metal fixtures. They are also safer to use if accidentally spilled on carpet, marble, etc.

3. Non-Acid. These products are very safe and perform best in soft water conditions. They are used for cleaning, disinfecting and maintaining bowls and urinals that do not have scale deposits or build-up. Non-acid formulations are also used in areas with sensitive surfaces or in locations which have limited staff skills, or in schools, nurseries, etc. where risk of accidental exposure needs to be minimized.

Carpet Care Tips

General Spotting Rules.  Identify the stain and use the appropriate spotter(s).  If a stain cannot be identified, use General Purpose Spotter.  If the stain remains, use P.O.G. Spotter.  Follow with a thorough rinsing to ensure that no cleaner residue is left in carpet.

Difficult Spots and Stains.

Rust Removal. After applying Rust Remover to carpet, always neutralize with
Alkaline Conditioner.

Asphalt Tracking.  Vacuum thoroughly before applying diluted Heavy Duty Prespray.  Agitate with a carpet rake, extractor or brush and let sit for 10 minutes to loosen soils.  Extract according to directions.  Dry carpet as quickly as possible.

Recurring Spots.  This happens because excessive soil or detergent from spotter remains in carpet.  Remove by recleaning with appropriate spotter, rinse until thoroughly clean and blot dry.

Preventing Recurring Spots from Wicking.

1. When spotting, be sure to blot until all the liquid is removed.  If using an extractor, the same applies.

2. Dry the carpet as quickly as possible using carpet fans or some type of air mover.

3. Use a carpet rake. Depending on the thickness of the pile of the carpet, using a carpet rake can decrease drying time by at least 30%.

4. Do not over wet the carpet.

Removing Recurring Spots from Wicking.  Apply Minimum Moisture Methodä directly to the spot.  Work into carpeted area with a soft brush and allow to dwell for 5-10 minutes. Vacuum thoroughly. Repeat the process if necessary.

Solids and Floor Finishes

What are solids? Solids are the polymers, resins, waxes, surfactant and other ingredients that remain as the dried film after a floor has been finished and water solvents and other volatile ingredients have evaporated.

The finish product gets virtually all of its gloss, wear, removability, and other important properties from these remaining solids, often referred to as non-volatile content. The amounts of solids or non-volatile content are expressed as a weight percentage.

Typically, most finishes contain solids in the range of 10%-25%. As the percentage (solids content) rises, it would seem reasonable that the performance of the product would improve. This is generally true around the 10% range, but as solid content increases, the finish becomes unstable and more difficult to use properly. Powdering and poor appearance are common problems with higher-rated finishes. Properly applied, high-solid-content finishes are more apt to provide greater gloss, but not necessarily greater durability.

Different finishes will contain different solids. A finish with 12% solids may outperform one with 16% or 18% solids. It all depends on:
1. The different polymers available.
2. The skill in formulating and combining them.
3. Facilities available to process finish emulsions correctly.

Not surprisingly, it’s the quality, not the quantity, of the solids that makes the difference. The only reliable test of a finish is how it performs on your floor, under your conditions. For best results, talk with your CTL representative about your floor type, traffic, equipment and desired frequency of finishing.
 

3M Entrance Matting Systems

A 3M Entrance Matting System is designed to stop dirt and moisture at the door, helping keep floors clean throughout your entire facility. It’s called a system because it’s more than just a single mat. It consists of different types of mats, each doing its specific job to help keep your building clean. 3M Entrance Matting Systems provide:

• Better looking floors – Continually provides a cleaner floor at the entrance and throughout the facility.

• Floors that stay cleaner longer – Helps protect the floor from damage due to tracked-in soil and other debris.

• Easier-to-maintain floors – Reduces the time and effort needed to clean and maintain floors.

• Safer floors – Reduces dirt and water on hard floors, which can help reduce slips and falls.

Contact CTL for special early season SALE prices!

Choosing the Right Mop

The right mop can help lower maintenance costs. Fiber strongly affects performance, labor costs and product life. There are three basic fiber types: cotton, rayon and synthetics. Blended yarn is engineered to obtain the strongest qualities of various component fibers: cotton to absorb and hold water for effective floor drying; rayon for maximum water pickup and elimination of “break-in”; and polyester for increased strength and long life.

Mop construction is important. The biggest advantage of cut-end mops is low initial costs. However, when in-use costs are considered, this initial advantage quickly evaporates. Looped-end mops are higher in initial purchase price than their cut-end cousins. However, this initial extra cost is more than offset by savings in performance and product longevity.

Sizing is also important to overall mopping efficiency. A wet mop should be sized both to the person mopping and the mop wringer.

Selection of headband style depends on anticipated job conditions and the mop handle type.  Narrow (1”) headbands are designed for use with invader® mop handles.  Wide (5”) headbands are designed for use with Gripper® handles.

Dirty Restrooms

80% of all cleaning related complaints come from bathrooms.  Clean (or dirty) restrooms form a persons image of your building!
 
A well kept restroom makes a statement to your customers.  Contact CTL for the best restroom maintenance products available.
 

Cleaning Windows
Put a capful of ammonia or five drops of liquid dish soap in two gallons of water. Resist the urge to use too much soap as this will cause streaks.
 

Laundering Dust Mops

Proper laundering of cotton dust mops significantly increases the life of the mop head.

1. Make sure dust mops have been brushed, vacuumed or shaken out thoroughly before laundering.

2. Always use laundry nets to restrict movement during the wash cycle.  CAUTION:  Do not use bleach when laundering mop heads (voids product guarantee).

3. Soak mops for 7 to 10 minutes in warm detergent preferably at a temperature below 160° F.

4. At low machine speed wash mop head for 5 minutes.

5. Rinse in warm water for 3 to 5 minutes.

6. Dry mop heads at a temperature not to exceed 200° F. Caution: Do Not Over Dry.

Experience is the best teacher.  Laundering conditions will vary based on individual needs.

Keep Your Carpet Clean

1. Trap Dirt Outside: By keeping parking lots, playgrounds and sidewalks clean, less dirt ends up inside. More than 80% of dirt on indoor carpets is tracked in on shoes.

2. Daily Vacuuming: This is the single most important thing to do. Vacuum all high-traffic areas, entrances, main hallways – al areas where there is a lot of people walking – every day! It may even be necessary to vacuum some entrances twice a day. The more vacuuming you do, the less cleaning you will need to do. Remember the majority of the dirt that comes into a building is dry.

Contact CTL for the best carpet care products available!

Winter Floor Care

More than 75% of your floor care problems will occur over the winter months.  To effectively do battle with the elements, you need a preventative maintenance program.

Hard Floor Care

Pre-winter Preparation:

1. Schedule floor strip-out and recoat in fall before the cold weather begins.

2. A base application of six coats of floor finish will allow you to do the additional scrubbing and burnishing required to keep your floors looking good during the winter season.

3. Apply three or four additional coats of finish before the snow falls to provide a heavier wear layer.

4. Install additional walk-off mats to cover entrance areas.

Winter Maintenance:

1. Increase the frequency of auto scrubbing according to the increased winter traffic and soil load.

2. Following auto scrubbing, buff or burnish repair surface scuffs and scratches.

3. If a scrub & recoat is necessary, deep clean with a blue cleaner pad, rinse, dry and reapply two or three additional coats of finish.

By increasing the number of coats of finish in your initial application and increasing the frequency of cleaning at the start of the season, you can reduce or eliminate the need for a strip-out prior to your spring-cleaning.

Don’t Forget To Wash!

The frequency of hand washing is vitally important.  Convenience, accessibility and cleanliness of the washroom and the hand cleaner dispenser can encourage washing more often and increase the healthiness of your facility.

Remember to wash hands using warm water and soap.

1. Wet – Wet hand with warm water first.

2. Soap – Use soap, preferably antibacterial.

3. Lather – Lather well beyond wrists.

4. Wash – Work all surfaces including wrists, palms, back of hands, fingers and under fingernails.  Rub hands together for at least 15-20 seconds.

5. Rinse – Thoroughly rinse with clean, warm water – be sure not to touch sides of sink.

6. Dry – Dry hands completely, use towel to turn off water and protect hands from resoiling.

Carpet Care Tips

Remove Spots Every Day:

Establish a simple spot removal program that encourages and makes it easy to clean up and remove spots daily.  An easy technique is to use a dry extraction cleaner and brush.  Brush the cleaner through the spot and vacuum; no mixing of chemicals, no risk of damage. 

Reoccurring spots:

This occurs because excessive soil or detergent from spotter remains in the carpet.  Remove by re-cleaning with appropriate spotter, rinse until thoroughly clean and blot dry.

Preventing Reoccurring Spots From Wicking:

• When spotting, be sure to blot until all of the liquid is removed.  If using extractor, the same applies.

• Dry the carpet as quick as possible using carpet fans or some type of air mover.

• Do not over wet the carpet.

Proper Removal of Disposable Gloves

Disposable gloves are designed to protect you from skin irritants, pathogens or other hazards. While these gloves are an effective barrier, you must follow a safe procedure for their removal, being careful that no substance from soiled gloves contacts your skin. Follow these steps:

1. With both hands gloved, peel one glove off from top to bottom and hold it in the gloved hand.

2. With the exposed hand, peel the second glove from the inside, tucking the first glove inside the second.

3. Dispose of the entire bundle promptly.

4. Always remove gloves when they become contaminated, damaged, or before leaving the work area.

5. Wash hands thoroughly.

Choosing a Vacuum

Contrary to many retail marketers’ claims, amps or peak horsepower are not valid indicators of how a vacuum performs. These values merely describe how much electricity the unit uses; the higher the rating does not mean the better the machine. The rating to look for is the sealed suction of a machine in terms of inches of water lift. A higher water lift number indicates better suction.

Noise level is an important feature. Many vacuums are very noisy. A really quiet machine will also cost more. Noise level is measured in decibels (dB). Levels exceeding 70 dB are unnecessary, unpleasant and can harm your hearing.

Maintenance considerations:
1. Proper airflow through the unit’s filtration system is vital. Use only high-quality replacement bags and filters.
2. Stretched or slipping belts and worn or soft bristles will lower a machine’s performance. Check regularly and replace as needed.

To get the vacuum that best suits your needs, talk to your CTL representative.