Each pass with a properly treated dust mop helps to remove dirt, dust, and abrasive particles, without leaving the floor dull or slippery. Cleaning staff should dust-mop as follows:
Fill a properly labelled (per OSHA requirements) trigger-spray bottle with a water-based dust mop treatment prepared according to label directions, and spray (using a course stream rather than a mist to avoid aerosolising chemical) the treatment onto a clean dust mop. Follow the manufacturer’s directions for application rate, and apply next to the backing at the base of the yarn, without overrating it.
Roll the dust mop, treated side in. Place it in a plastic bag to help the mop head fibres absorb the treatment for at least 24 hours. After 24 hours, place the treated dust mop on the frame.
Dust mop the area, using a continuous motion, without lifting the mop from the floor. Begin at the perimeter (next to the wall) and walk to the other end of the work area. At the opposite end, rotate the dust mop so that the leading edge remains the same. Return to the opposite end and repeat. Overlap the previously mopped path by 2–4 inches to ensure complete coverage.
Sweep accumulated soil to a collection area, lightly shake the loose soil from the dust mop, and continue. Remove gum, tape, or other sticky residues with a scraper, using care not to mar or scratch the floor finish. Continue the dust-mopping process until the entire area has been dust mopped. When finished, pick up the collected debris using a counter brush and dustpan, or vacuum.
Clean excess dust from the mop head. Place the mop over a trash container. Brush with a stiff bristle brush in a firm, downward motion and/or vacuum.
Store the mop in a hanging position. Do not store the dust mop on the floor. The mop treatment may discolour the floor, and the mop fibres may become matted.
When the dust mop no longer attracts adequate soil, it may be re-treated. Spray the mop at the end of a work shift, and allow the treatment to be thoroughly absorbed.
Launder soiled dust mop heads monthly, weekly, or as needed. Soak mop heads overnight in a neutral pH cleaning solution. Rinse thoroughly, wring out, and hang them to dry. Machine washing and drying following manufacturer’s recommendations is another option.
Re-treat as directed above for initial treatment.
No microfiber dust cloths may also be treated with some dust mop treatments. (See their label instructions.) Spray lightly and allow fibres to absorb the treatment for 24 hours before use.
Further information about Cleaning:
- What is Cleaning?
- Cleaning Procedure
- How to improve cleaning?
- How to train your cleaning employees?
- How to guide cleaning staff?
- How to keep and maintain communication with cleaners?
- About entryways and lobbies cleaning?
- How is dust cleaned?
- How to mop dust
- Floor care and maintenance
- How to maintain hard floor?
- Floor stripping and removal
- Buffing and burnishing techniques
- Carpet maintenance and care
- Carpet extraction and cleaning
- How to Cleaning Data Centre and Server Room?
- How to Clean Computer and Keyboard?
- How to clean your restroom
- What is disinfection?
- How to reduce solid waste?
- Pets cleaning management
- How indoor plans help in cleaning the environment?
- What are the special needs for cleaning?
- Information about cleaning products
- What are concentrated cleaning products?
- What do all-purpose cleaners mean?
- Facts about restroom cleaners
- How to disinfect your restroom?
- Facts about carpet cleaners
- What is chrome cleaner and polisher?
- What is dust treatment?
- Facts about floor finish
- Floor strippers meaning
- Information about Furniture polishes
- General degreasers
- Information on general degreasers
- General disinfectants and cleanings
- Glass cleaners
- Graffiti removers
- Gum removers
- Lime and scale removers
- What is a sanitiser?
- Solvent spot removers absorbents
- Urinal deodorisers
- Wood and stone floor coatings
- Disposable paper and plastic bags
- Selection and use of janitorial equipment
- How to clean a dry floor?