EXTREME CLEANING, DISINFECTION AND HOUSE CLEARANCE
Is it safe to clean up by oneself after a death has occurred in a home, and what precautions should be taken?
Cleaning up after a death in a home can be both emotionally taxing and potentially hazardous, especially if the death was unattended and not discovered immediately. Biological materials, such as blood and bodily fluids, can pose serious health risks, including the transmission of infectious diseases. While minor cleanups might be handled personally with proper precautions, it's generally recommended to hire professional biohazard cleanup services for most situations.
If one chooses to undertake the cleanup themselves, here are essential precautions to consider:
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- Wear protective gear: This includes gloves (nitrile gloves are recommended), a face mask or respirator to prevent inhalation of hazardous particles, protective eyewear, and disposable clothing or a biohazard suit.
Proper Cleaning Agents and Equipment
- Use appropriate cleaning agents: Regular household cleaners may not be sufficient to clean and disinfect biohazardous materials. EPA-registered disinfectants should be used to ensure thorough decontamination.
- Have the right equipment: Items like heavy-duty trash bags, biohazard waste containers, a putty knife (for scraping up dried fluids), and a steam cleaner for carpets and upholstery might be necessary.
Safe Cleaning Practices
- Never eat, drink, or touch your face while cleaning: This reduces the risk of ingesting or coming into contact with hazardous materials.
- Carefully dispose of contaminated materials: Anything that cannot be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected (like certain fabrics, carpets, or furniture) should be considered biohazardous waste and disposed of properly.
- Double-bag biohazardous waste: Use leak-proof bags, sealing them tightly before disposal. Check local regulations regarding the disposal of biohazardous waste, as it may require special handling.
Emotional Considerations
- Emotional impact: Cleaning up after the death of a loved one can be extremely distressing. Consider the emotional toll and whether professional help might also support you in this difficult time.
- Seek support: Engaging with friends, family, or a professional counselor can provide emotional backing. Remember, it's okay to ask for help, both for the cleanup and for coping with loss.
Professional Cleanup Services
- Consider professional services: Professionals are trained to handle biohazardous materials safely and are equipped to thoroughly clean and disinfect the area. They can also navigate the emotional aspects more objectively, which might be beneficial during such a sensitive time.
In summary, while it's possible to clean up by oneself after a death has occurred, significant precautions must be taken to ensure safety and health. Given the risks and emotional challenges involved, professional biohazard cleanup services are often the safest, most effective option.
FAQ
What distinguishes a Greater Manchester cleaning company's approach to deep cleaning from standard house cleaning services?
Deep cleaning services provided by a cleaning company in Greater Manchester significantly differ from standard house cleaning through their thoroughness, attention to detail, and the areas they cover. While standard cleaning focuses on the visible and frequently used parts of a home, deep cleaning delves into the nooks, crannies, and often overlooked areas, ensuring a comprehensive cleanse that not only improves the appearance of a home but also its hygienic conditions.
Attention to Detail: Deep cleaning services are meticulous, addressing areas that are not typically covered in a routine cleaning. This includes cleaning behind appliances, washing baseboards, scrubbing grout between tiles, and more. The objective is to remove the accumulated dust, grime, and allergens that can affect the health of the home's occupants. A Greater Manchester cleaning company specializing in deep cleaning will often have a detailed checklist to ensure every potential area is cleaned.
Specialized Equipment and Products: Deep cleaning often requires specialized cleaning products and equipment to effectively remove build-up in hard-to-reach places or to treat specific types of surfaces without causing damage. For example, professional-grade steam cleaners may be used to sanitize bathrooms and kitchens, or high-quality polishers may be applied to restore the shine to hardwood floors. Companies in Greater Manchester are equipped with these tools and the knowledge of how to use them effectively.
Duration and Frequency: Unlike regular house cleaning, which is often performed weekly or bi-weekly, deep cleaning is usually undertaken bi-annually or quarterly. It is a more time-consuming process because of the level of detail involved, and it may require several hours or a full day to complete, depending on the size of the home and the specific services requested.
Customized Services: Deep cleaning services can often be customized to suit the specific needs and preferences of the homeowner. Whether it's focusing on areas affected by pet ownership, addressing concerns related to allergies, or preparing a home for a special event, cleaning companies in Greater Manchester offer flexibility in their deep cleaning packages to meet these unique demands.
Health and Wellbeing: The primary distinction between standard and deep cleaning lies in the impact on the occupants' health and wellbeing. Deep cleaning targets the removal of bacteria, mold, and allergens that can contribute to health issues. This is particularly important in areas like Greater Manchester, where varying weather conditions can contribute to the buildup of dampness and mold in homes.
Professional Expertise: Lastly, the expertise and experience of professional cleaners play a crucial role in deep cleaning. They are trained to identify areas that need extra attention and to use the most effective cleaning techniques. Their knowledge ensures that the cleaning is done efficiently and safely, using the right products for different materials and surfaces.
In summary, a deep cleaning service offered by a Greater Manchester cleaning company is an extensive process that goes beyond the surface level to ensure a home is thoroughly sanitized, offering peace of mind and a healthier living environment for its inhabitants.