2.7 Describe how equipment should be cleaned and stored

This guide will help you answer 2.7 Describe how equipment should be cleaned and stored.

Keeping equipment clean and properly stored helps stop the spread of germs and keeps people safe. Clean equipment works better, lasts longer, and reduces the risk of infection in health and social care settings. Each piece of equipment may have its own cleaning routine, but there are general steps everyone should follow. Always follow your own organisations policies and procedures, this article contains some examples of common steps.

Steps for Cleaning Equipment

1. Read Instructions

Check the manufacturer’s guide or workplace policy before cleaning any equipment. Some items need special care or can be damaged by certain products.

2. Wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Always wear the right PPE for the task. This often means gloves, aprons, and sometimes masks or goggles—especially if equipment is soiled with body fluids or used by someone with an infection.

3. Remove Visible Dirt and Debris

Wipe or rinse away any obvious dirt, body fluids, or food matter. Use disposable paper towels or designated cloths to avoid spreading germs.

4. Clean With Detergent and Water

Wash equipment thoroughly using warm water and a detergent. This removes most germs, dust, and residues. Use separate cleaning tools (like cloths or brushes) for different areas—never the same cloth for toilets and kitchens, for example.

5. Rinse and Dry

Rinse off all detergent with clean water to prevent residue. Dry the equipment with disposable paper towels or leave it to air dry, depending on the item.

6. Disinfect When Necessary

If the item has been in touch with body fluids or used by someone with an infection, disinfect it using an approved agent (such as a chlorine-based or alcohol-based disinfectant). Pay attention to correct dilution and contact times as stated on the product label.

7. Check for Damage

While cleaning, inspect the equipment for any cracks, rust, sharp edges, or signs of wear. Report or repair damaged items straight away.

Cleaning Shared Equipment

If equipment is shared between people (for example, hoists, thermometers, commodes, beds), it should be cleaned and disinfected after each use. Wipe down contact surfaces like handles, buttons, and supports.

Cleaning Electrical Equipment

Some equipment cannot be safely washed with water (such as hoists with electric controls, blood pressure monitors, or hearing aids). In these cases:

• Use disposable wipes meant for electrical items.
• Never spray liquids directly onto electronics.
• Make sure the item is unplugged (if possible) before cleaning.

Storing Equipment

Clean, dry, and safe storage is as important as cleaning. Proper storage prevents recontamination, keeps equipment in good condition, and reduces the risk of accidents.

1. Ensure Equipment is Completely Dry

Damp or wet equipment can grow mould or bacteria. Dry thoroughly before storing. Air drying racks can help for items like bedpans or commodes.

2. Store in a Clean, Designated Area

Keep equipment in areas assigned by your employer. Storage spaces should be:

• Clean and dry
• Away from waste, cleaning chemicals, or soiled items
• Organised, with similar items together

Never leave clean equipment on the floor or in bathrooms.

3. Keep Equipment Off the Floor

Use shelves, racks, or hangers for storage. This prevents contamination from dirt and makes cleaning easier.

4. Cover or Seal When Needed

Some items (such as sterile dressings or cleaned wound care kits) must be sealed in clean packaging or covered with plastic lids.

5. Label Items Clearly

Clean equipment should be labelled as “clean” or “ready for use.” Do not store dirty and clean equipment together. Reusable items waiting to be cleaned should be marked “used” or “dirty.”

6. Secure Storage

Some equipment must be locked away for safety reasons (for example, sharp tools, medication pumps, or oxygen cylinders). Only authorised staff should have access.

7. Regularly Check and Maintain Stored Equipment

Check equipment storage areas for:

• Dust and dirt
• Pests or insects
• Signs of moisture or water damage
• Out-of-date or broken items

Remove and repair damaged equipment immediately.

Safe Storage of Cleaning Equipment

Buckets, mops, and cleaning cloths must be:

• Washed after use
• Dried thoroughly
• Stored separately for different areas (for example, one set for kitchens and another for toilets, using colour coding if possible)
• Kept in a ventilated store cupboard
• Replaced regularly, especially if worn or smelly

Documenting Cleaning and Storage

Keep records if required by your workplace. Some organisations use cleaning checklists or logs. Always complete these after cleaning equipment, especially for shared or high-risk items.

Special Considerations: Single-Use Equipment

Some items are single-use only (for example, certain syringes, wound dressings, or incontinence pads). These are never cleaned or stored for reuse. Dispose of single-use items straight after use in the correct waste bin.

Always Follow Policies

Always follow your organisation’s cleaning and storage policy. Procedures are there to protect everyone and ensure consistent, high-quality care.

Final Thoughts

Equipment must be cleaned using the right steps—removing debris, washing, disinfecting if needed, rinsing, drying, and checking for damage. Only store clean and dry items in a safe, designated area away from anything dirty or hazardous. Good cleaning and storage help prevent infection, keep equipment working, and protect everyone in the care environment.