You’re on your clogs all day. By the end of your shift, they will have experienced a lot, potentially coming into contact with liquids, dirt, and in some environments, potentially infectious material. Proper cleaning is therefore not an afterthought but an essential part of workplace hygiene. But how do you do it correctly? And what should you definitely not do?
Cleaning and disinfecting: what’s the difference?
In healthcare, the terms cleaning and disinfecting are often used interchangeably, but they don't mean the same thing.
Cleaning means removing visible dirt and dust from surfaces and materials. This reduces the presence of bacteria but does not kill them. Disinfecting means killing microorganisms on surfaces or materials with a disinfectant, and you always do this after cleaning, because disinfection does not work well on a dirty surface.
The same principle applies to medical clogs: first clean, then disinfect if necessary.
How to clean Florensa clogs?
Florensa clogs are made of leather with a smooth PU coating. This coating makes the clogs very easy to wipe clean. Follow these steps for the best results:
Step 1: Remove coarse dirt
First, remove visible dirt, dust, or residue with a dry or slightly damp cloth. Work from top to bottom and from the upper to the sole.
Step 2: Clean with a damp cloth
Wipe the clog with a damp cloth and a mild cleaning agent. The PU coating is resistant to most common cleaning agents used in healthcare. Pay extra attention to the seam between the upper and the sole, as dirt accumulates there most quickly.
Step 3: Disinfect if necessary
Do you work in a department where disinfection is required? Then use an alcohol-based disinfectant that is approved for use on medical devices. Apply the agent with a clean cloth and allow it to work for the prescribed contact time.
Step 4: Dry thoroughly
Dry the clogs with a clean, lint-free cloth. Then let them air dry completely before storing or reusing them.
How often should you clean medical clogs?
This depends on your workplace and the hygiene requirements of your institution. As a general guideline:
• After every shift, at least wipe with a damp cloth
• If visibly dirty, clean immediately, do not wait until the end of the shift
• After contact with bodily fluids, clean and disinfect immediately
• Weekly, thoroughly clean including the sole and the inside
What should you absolutely not do?
There are a few common mistakes when cleaning medical clogs:
• Do not put in the washing machine, the heat and water will damage the PU coating and the bond between the upper and sole
• No abrasive cleaners or steel wool, this scratches the coating and makes the clog harder to keep clean
• No bleach or harsh solvents, these will damage the leather and accelerate wear
• Do not leave wet, a wet clog that does not dry becomes a breeding ground for bacteria and can deform