cation, the quat becomes neutralized and the antimicrobial action will be-come inactivated. The complex de-tergent-quat residue that is then left provides even more nutrients for the growth of bacteria.” The Root Of The Problem If initially unaware of what dangers residues might hold, there is likely a similar lack of awareness when it comes to discerning if residues reside on surfaces. Do surfaces feel sticky, tacky, slimy or greasy, even if they appear clean? Residue is unseen at the onset, so a change in surface feel or texture is often an indication, as are any odors. There are visual indicators as well: Over time, as residues are left unchecked and al-lowed to build up, you will begin to actually see the offending residue on various surfac-es; soap scum in a shower is an example of this type of residue buildup. Residue starts at a microscopic level where you cannot see it until it reaches a macroscopic level, or a level where it can be seen. The way certain surfaces, especially flooring, are made can make them inher-ently more prone to attracting and collect-ing residues. “Rapid resoiling of surfaces, either car-peted or hard, can also be an indicator of residue, since some types of products are formulated to attract soil,” quips Rathey. Finding Solutions When trying to find a solution to this all-too-common problem, the immediate thought might be to simply eliminate the use of any products that would leave residues behind. This is, unfortunately, easier said than done — and, it is not necessarily safe or hygienic. “There is very little chemistry that is free of residues,” concludes Rathey. “The real solution to the residue issue is to use methods that actually rinse away cleaner. Some solvents and steam vapor systems are examples of residue-free chemistry. Completely water soluble and rinseable, soap-free products for carpet and hard floor care are a valuable part of the professional cleaner’s arsenal of residue-free cleaners.” Issues occur with residues for a number of reasons, the first of which is the fact that some residues will make a surface act like and adhesive; particles of an organic nature, like dust, dirt, grease, grime, flesh and pollens, can act as a food source for mold and other microbes. Residues pose not only a health and safe-ty risk to building occupants, but they can also be one of the major factors behind why buildings degrade before their time. Cleaning with environmentally preferable solutions, such as soap-free detergents or equally as effective yet far kinder to the envi-ronment technologies such as steam vapor, are easy ways you can begin to eliminate these health and safety risks. By cleaning a new building with free-rinsing cleaners from the start, residues wont have the chance to buildup; the more your older building is cleaned using these methods, the less buildup you will see over time. CM Product Information no. 208 on page 24 www.cmmonline.com 35
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