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Cleaning and Disinfecting
Disinfecting Recommendations by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) for Hard Material Surfaces
The COVID-19 virus was a significant concern for everyone in the world. The CDC recommends cleaning non-porous (hard) surfaces such as Boltaron® materials, with disinfectant products having EPA-approved viral pathogens claims and that are effective against the virus that causes COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2). The CDC specifically recommends the following disinfectants, which have been tested and are safe to use on Boltaron thermoplastics:
- 70% isopropyl alcohol
- Hydrogen peroxide (3%)
- Bleach dilution in water (1/3 cup bleach per 1 gallon of water)
Use caution when using cleaners Containing Quaternary Ammonium Compounds
In some cases, the CDC recommends using disinfectants containing quaternary ammonium compounds (QAC) such 409. When using disinfectants or cleaners containing quaternary ammonium compounds pay special attention to ensure proper use. Always follow all label instructions and remove cleaner completely with water before wiping dry. Avoid using quaternary ammonium compounds at elevated temperature or on parts which could be exposed to elevated temperatures as this can have an adverse effect on the appearance of Boltaron® or similar flame retardant thermoplastics.
Be Sure to Follow Instructions on the Label
The CDC states that the most important parameter for killing the COVID-19 is contact time or the amount of time the disinfectant has in contact with the surface of the material/virus. When using disinfectants you should always follow the label instructions for concentration, application method, contact time and personal protective equipment (PPE). Also, make sure that the disinfectant is not expired. Always remove all cleaner and disinfectant residue with a clean, damp cloth so that nothing on the surface remains.
How to Clean and Disinfect Material Surfaces
Boltaron® high performance materials are engineered to maintain their quality appearance for a long lifetime of use. Whether used for airplane seat parts, which need to withstand passenger abuse and rigorous daily cleaning practices, or for other applications in the medical, equipment manufacturing or architectural fields with similiar cleanability requirements, SIMONA Boltaron is committed to providing materials that stay looking great and last as long as you need them.
It is very important to note the difference between cleaning and disinfecting a surface.
Cleaning refers to the removal of germs, dirt, and impurities from surfaces. Cleaning does not kill germs, but by removing them, it lowers their numbers and the risk of spreading infection. Disinfecting refers to using chemicals to kill germs on surfaces. This process does not necessarily clean dirty surfaces or remove germs, but by killing germs on a surface after cleaning, it can further lower the risk of spreading infection.
SIMONA Boltaron relies on the CDC to provide the best guidelines for disinfecting hard surface materials and recommends that you clean the surface following regular protocols before the disinfecting process using the following steps.
Cleaning Stage
Step 1: Wipe the surface with a dry cloth to remove all dirt or residue.
Step 2: Spray the surface with an approved cleaner.*
Step 3: Follow the cleaning manufacturer’s instructions for the length of time to leave the cleaning solution on the surface to be effective before removing it.
Step 4: Remove all of the cleaning solution residue from the surface using water and wipe dry with a clean cloth to prevent water spots.
Disinfecting Stage
Step 5: Use a CDC recommended disinfectant (70% isopropyl alcohol, 3% hydrogen peroxide or 1/3 bleach to 1 gallon of water) to disinfect the surface.
Step 6: Follow the cleaning manufacturer’s instructions for the length of time to leave the cleaning solution on the surface to be effective before removing it.
Step 7: Remove all of the cleaning solution residue from the surface using water and wipe dry with a clean cloth. Leaving reside on the surface could cause material discoloration.
*See list below for SIMONA Boltaron tested cleaners.
Clean with Confidence
SIMONA Boltaron has manufactured its industry leading thermoplastic materials for more than 25 years, continuously testing new cleaning products to verify their safe impact on material color and performance properties. The following broad range of cleaners have no adverse effects on Boltaron® thermoplastics.
Aircraft Cleaning Product List
- Callington Aero Glass Cleaner
- Real Clean Aerocide
- Celeste Sani-cide EX3
- Celeste Sani-com 3205 Pre-moistened Towel
General Cleaning Product List
- Seventh Generation All Purpose Cleaner (Free & Clear)
- Windex Streak-Free Shine! With Vinegar
- Lysol with Hydrogen Peroxide Multi-Purpose Cleaner
- Windex Multisurface Disinfectant Cleaner
Medical Grade Cleaning Product List
- Birex by Biotrol
- Sporicidin by Contec
- Sani-Cloth Bleach Germicidal Disposable Wipe
Cleaning Products to Avoid
Our extensive research and testing revealed that discoloration can occur due to a unique combination of improper cleaning practices and elevated temperatures. When a cleaner containing quaternary ammonium compounds was applied incorrectly (i.e., not wiped or rinsed from the material’s surface) and the improperly cleaned part was exposed to elevated temperatures for several hours, discoloration on the surface of the material was observed. Following proper cleaning procedures is critical to prevent such adverse effects.