Survey: The extra cleaning measures consumers want businesses to take are…

Most Americans have confidence that businesses are implementing recommended cleaning protocols amid COVID-19.

That’s according to a survey conducted for American Cleaning Institute (ACI) by Ipsos in which 65% of Americans said businesses are cleaning enough. The survey analyzed consumer perceptions of cleaning measures following the decline in sales for many small businesses and retailers due to the pandemic.

More than half of Americans (51%) believe businesses, schools and other public locations are maintaining an adequate level of cleanliness in preparation for cold and flu season.

However, respondents also expect to see businesses take additional cleaning and disinfecting measures in order to maintain a safe environment, including:

• • Providing hand sanitizer (73%);
  • Frequent wipe-downs of surfaces (77%); and
  • Posted signage of cleaning measures and regulations (53%).

To help businesses across the country navigate a successful re-opening, the American Cleaning Institute rolled out new resources through the Healthy Returns program. Adapted from public health recommendations, the free online toolkit provides guidance and checklists containing easy to understand reminders on hygiene and cleaning that are crucial to keeping the workplace healthy and safe.

“As the country continues to grapple with the long-lasting impacts of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, we know how important this holiday shopping season is for many businesses,” said Melissa Hockstad, ACI president & CEO. “At ACI, we are committed to serving our business community and providing them with the tools and resources needed to both ensure safe operations and also reinforce confidence among employees and customers through effective cleaning measures.”