Creating an Office Hygiene Kit: What You Need

Date: 12-11-2024

Maintaining a clean and hygienic environment is more crucial than ever. Providing employees with an office hygiene kit not only helps keep germs at bay but also shows your commitment to their health and well-being. An office hygiene kit can be a simple, cost-effective solution to ensure everyone in the office has access to essential items that promote cleanliness and prevent the spread of illness. 

Here’s a guide to creating a comprehensive office hygiene kit with everything you need to keep your team feeling safe, healthy, and comfortable.

 

1. Hand Sanitiser: Quick and Convenient Cleanliness

Hand sanitiser is essential for any office hygiene kit, especially for employees who are constantly on the go or sharing spaces. Choose a high-quality, alcohol-based sanitiser that contains at least 60% alcohol to effectively kill germs. It’s ideal to provide both individual bottles for desks and larger dispensers in shared areas, like entrances and break rooms, to encourage regular use throughout the day.

2. Antibacterial Wipes: Easy Surface Cleaning

Shared surfaces like keyboards, desks, and office equipment can easily harbour germs. Antibacterial wipes are a convenient way for employees to quickly clean surfaces before and after use. Look for wipes that are effective against a broad spectrum of bacteria and viruses to ensure the highest level of hygiene. They’re also handy for wiping down high-touch areas like doorknobs, light switches, and communal desks.

3. Tissues: A Must-Have for Every Area

Tissues are a simple but important addition to any office hygiene kit. Not only are they useful for sneezes and coughs, but they also help to maintain a cleaner workspace. Providing tissues at individual workstations and in communal areas encourages employees to practise good hygiene habits and helps to minimise the spread of germs.

4. Disposable Masks: Readily Available Protection

While masks may not be necessary at all times, it’s helpful to have a supply of disposable masks available, especially during flu season or if someone is feeling slightly under the weather. Having masks on hand allows employees to take extra precautions when needed, showing your company’s commitment to health and safety.

5. Hand Soap and Lotion: Clean and Comfortable Hands

Hand washing is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of germs, so it’s essential to keep soap dispensers stocked with high-quality hand soap in washrooms and kitchens. For added comfort, consider including a gentle hand lotion in your hygiene kit. Frequent handwashing can cause dryness, so a hydrating lotion shows that you care about employees’ comfort as well as cleanliness.

6. Disposable Gloves: Extra Protection When Needed

While not always necessary for everyday office tasks, disposable gloves can be helpful in certain situations, such as when handling food, cleaning shared equipment, or attending to minor injuries. Keeping a box of gloves in the hygiene kit ensures employees have access to extra protection when required.

7. Paper Towels: Quick and Hygienic Clean-Up

Paper towels are a versatile addition to any hygiene kit, useful for everything from drying hands to cleaning up spills. They provide a hygienic way to clean surfaces without relying on shared cloths or sponges, which can harbour bacteria. Consider placing paper towel dispensers in shared areas like the kitchen and bathrooms for convenient access.

8. Disinfectant Spray: Deep Cleaning for Shared Spaces

For thorough cleaning, a disinfectant spray is essential, especially in shared spaces such as meeting rooms and break areas. Choose a disinfectant that’s effective against bacteria and viruses and easy to use on a variety of surfaces. Encouraging employees to spray down communal areas after use will help keep the office safe and sanitised.

9. Air Freshener or Purifier: Enhancing Air Quality

While not strictly a hygiene item, air quality is an important factor in workplace comfort and health. Including an air freshener or portable air purifier in your office hygiene kit can help maintain a pleasant environment, reduce odours, and minimise airborne allergens or germs. Some air purifiers even have sanitising functions, which can further contribute to a clean and healthy office atmosphere.

 

Setting Up and Maintaining Your Office Hygiene Kit

Creating the office hygiene kit is just the first step; regular maintenance is essential to keep it stocked and effective. Designate someone to check and replenish items as needed, ensuring that hand sanitiser, wipes, soap, and other essentials are always available. Encourage employees to use these resources responsibly and make it easy for them to request refills or report shortages.

 

Prioritising Hygiene for a Healthier Workplace

A well-thought-out office hygiene kit is a simple but powerful tool for promoting cleanliness and health. By providing essential items that encourage good hygiene practices, you demonstrate that your organisation values its employees’ well-being. This proactive approach not only helps reduce absenteeism and the spread of illness but also fosters a culture of care and respect. For businesses looking to create a healthier, more productive workplace, an office hygiene kit is an easy yet impactful place to start.

 

Contact us at OfficeSupermarket today to set up your account and get your workplace hygiene stock sorted for you.