Using safer acids for restroom cleaning

April 12, 2023
By CLR PRO for the Blue Print

A new normal has formed coming out of the pandemic. Office buildings are operating at a reduced capacity. Lodging establishments have fewer staff, and staff shortages occur across many industries. As a result, cleaning is not happening as frequently as it once did.

​Cleaning in office buildings has fallen from multiple times per week to just once a week in many instances due to a general labor shortage and many employees who are still working from home. Numerous hotels have reduced daily guestroom cleaning and housekeeping services and only clean between stays if guests request more frequent cleaning.

This lack of frequency of cleaning means that hard water deposits, soap scum, grime, and more have a chance to build up. Janitorial and facility staff need multipurpose products that are tough to save on time yet safe for them to use regularly.
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Keep your restrooms clean with regular maintenance

While all areas in a commercial facility should be kept clean, one of the most important places to clean is the restroom. Restrooms can harbor many bacteria and germs, which can easily spread to other areas of the facility and cause health issues among employees and customers.

​When it comes to cleaning restrooms, cleaners can vary significantly. Some cleaners are designed for dissolving grease and organic grime; cleaners that contain bleach and other disinfectants to kill bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens that can be found in restrooms; and finally, cleaners that contain acids that help dissolve mineral deposits and stains in toilets, sinks, showers, tile, and more.
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Many acidic bathroom cleaners contain harsh hydrochloric, phosphoric, or uric acids. While these acids are generally used to quickly break down and remove tough buildup, they also pose a number of risks.

Hydrochloric acid

• Can be corrosive and damaging to surfaces if not used properly
• Can release toxic fumes if mixed with certain other cleaning chemicals
• Can cause burns or irritation if it comes into contact with the skin or eyes​​

Phosphoric acid

• Can cause skin irritation and burns if not used properly
• Can be harmful if ingested
• Can release toxic fumes if mixed with certain other cleaning chemicals

Uric acid

• Can be corrosive and damaging to surfaces if not used properly
  
• Can cause burns or irritation if it comes into contact with the skin or eyes
  
• Additionally, all these acids are harmful if released into the environment

Using cleaners with these types of acids requires PPE such as gloves, eye protection, and additional ventilation. They are also considered hazardous substances and require extra appropriate safety precautions when working with and transporting. Using a safer cleaner with an EPA Safer Choice-approved acid, such as lactic, is a good alternative when possible.

A safer clean

Lactic acid is a mild, organic acid that can be produced through the fermentation of sugars by lactic acid bacteria. Because it is mild, it is safer to use on surfaces and less likely to cause damage or discoloration. It is also a natural and readily biodegradable acid, making it less harmful to the environment than other synthetic acids. While safer, it is still very effective at removing and breaking down buildup found in restrooms.
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However, it may not work in all situations, such as thick buildup and requiring a stronger acid. Also, even though it is mild, it is still an acid and can cause skin irritation, so gloves and other PPE may still be necessary.

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​Content originally from CLR PRO. Reused here with permission.

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