Top Tips for maintaining hygienic wall cladding and vinyl flooring
Maintaining hygienic surfaces isn’t just about keeping things looking clean, it’s essential for health, safety, and compliance. Whether you're managing a commercial kitchen, healthcare facility, or cleanroom, these practical tips will help you get the most from your wall cladding and flooring.
1. Use the right cleaning products
Choose non-abrasive cleaners that are designed for vinyl or plastic surfaces. Harsh chemicals or solvents can degrade the surface, making it more susceptible to bacteria and damage. Always use cleaners at the correct concentration.
Tip: Avoid bleach unless the manufacturer specifies it's safe, and always rinse thoroughly after disinfection.
2. Stick to a regular cleaning schedule
Consistency is key. High-traffic or high-risk areas (like operating rooms or food prep zones) may need daily or even shift-based cleaning, while low-risk areas can be done weekly.
Tip: Keep a simple cleaning log to track when and how areas are cleaned because it is useful for audits and accountability.
3. Inspect for damage during cleaning
Cracks, lifting edges, or bubbling can become breeding grounds for bacteria. Get into the habit of visually inspecting surfaces during cleaning. Remove scuff marks and heavy soiling more regularly than the maintenance programme e.g. daily.
Tip: Encourage staff to report minor issues early. Repairs are cheaper and easier before the damage spreads.
4. Don’t use scouring pads or harsh tools
Scratches not only make surfaces look worse — they also create crevices where microbes can hide. Always use soft cloths or non-scratch pads.
Tip: If you’re unsure whether a tool is safe, test it on a small, hidden section first.
5. Train your team the right way
Even the best materials won’t stay hygienic without proper care. Provide basic training to cleaning staff and users of the space so everyone knows what to do (and what to avoid).
Tip: A quick laminated “Do and Don’t” sheet near cleaning stations can serve as a helpful reminder.
Maintaining hygienic surfaces is an investment in your environment’s long-term safety and performance. With the right approach, you’ll extend the life of your materials and keep hygiene standards consistently high. Always check with the manufacturer for the recommended cleaning methods, programmes and products. For example, you will find cleaning guides for Altro wall cladding and flooring products on their website.
If you are unsure about how to clean your hygienic wall cladding or flooring, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team.
