Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to some of your most common questions.
Chemicals
- Are disinfectants effective against COVID-19?
According to Health Canada, most disinfectants are effective against COVID-19. It's important that you clean prior to disinfecting and use a disinfectant with a DIN. All of our disinfectants have a DIN from Health Canada. That said, we have some disinfectants that have the proven data to show effectiveness against COVID-19.
- How long is a disinfectant effective on a surface?
The amount of time any chemical would be most effective on a surface all depends on how often the surface is touched. Here’s a snippit from our Enhanced Cleaning Practices guide:
- Low Risk: Clean according to a fixed schedule and additionally as required (e.g. gross soiling).
- Moderate Risk: Clean and disinfect or sanitize at least once daily and additionally as required (e.g. gross soiling).
- High Risk: Clean and disinfect or sanitize after each use, at least twice per day and additionally as required.
- What PPE should I wear?
PPE is always recommended. Refer to the product label or the SDS to see what PPE should be worn.
- How do I clean coffee and tea based spots?
Blot to remove excess liquid with a clean white towel. Rinse towel thoroughly with clean water. Using a trigger sprayer, apply diluted spotter to spot. Gently agitate towards the center and allow dwell time. Blot to remove liquid. Do not rub! Rinse with clear water to remove any residue and blot excess moisture.
For more information, you can read our “All about Spots” article.
- Are your products safe for food handling surfaces?
Some of our cleaning products are certified as being safe for food contact surfaces. Look for this icon on individual product pages to know whether or not it certified:
You can also filter products to only display the ones that are food safe. Click here for a full listing of food safe products.
- Are your products Kosher certified?
Some of our cleaning products are certified as being Kosher. Look for this icon on individual product pages to know whether or not it certified:
You can also filter products to only display the ones that are Kosher. Click here for a full listing of Kosher products.
- Do green products work?
Yes! Often, our best performing products are those that have green certifications. By properly following the use instructions, you’ll be surprised with their performance. Learn more about our ecological footprint on our sustainability page.
- How long do your cleaning products last?
Like most products, our chemical products have a shelf life/expiry date. Dustbane guarantees the performance of its regular cleaning products for three years after it leaves our warehouse. Disinfectant products have an expiry date that is 3 years after the date of manufacturing which is printed on the neck of the bottle. However, these products can lose their effectiveness with heat and if diluted with water. If stored undiluted at moderate temperatures, the products should easily last for 3 years or more.
- Should I be diluting products with warm/hot water to improve their performance?
No! In the past, cleaning with warm water was proven to be the most effective. However, times have changed and so did the cleaning chemicals. Unless otherwise indicated on the label, our products are designed and are most effective when diluted in cold or room temperature water. In fact, warm water can reduce the effectiveness of a product.
- When using concentrated chemicals, will a stronger dilution improve the cleaning performance?
No! Each one of our products has specified dilution rates determined by application method and type. These specified rates were established based on extensive performance testing. Using a different dilution rate may actually degrade the performance of the product. Always refer to the product label and use as directed.
- What makes a product "green"?
Green products are certified by UL ECOLOGO® for their reduced environmental impact. The materials used to create these products are able to breakdown without causing long-term problems for the environment. We offer the widest selection of UL Certified Products in Canada. Our products and facility comply with the strict specifications of the ECOLOGO® Program. For more information about the ECOLOGO® certification program, please visit www.ul.com/EL.
- Are your cleaning products compatible with all types of equipment?
Most of our solutions have been formulated to work with all types of cleaning equipment. If you have specific questions or concerns, please contact us for help.
Equipment
- How long will the batteries in my new machine last?
The DBX-Power Series battery is designed for the cleaning industry and can easily deliver more than 600 cycles at 80% depth of discharge. Optimizing charging conditions extends the service life of the batteries.
For more information about the DBX- Power AGM Batteries please consult our care guide.
- What does CRI stand for?
The Carpet and Rug Institute’s Seal of Approval (SOA) program evaluates how effectively vacuums, extractors and cleaning solutions clean carpets. They have developed the carpet industry’s only scientific program to test and measure the effectiveness of cleaning products and equipment. The results help consumers make informed decisions and help manufacturers improve their products. Carpets are cleaner, healthier and last longer. Everyone benefits.
Look for this icon on individual product pages to know whether or not it qualifies:
You can also filter products to only display the ones that have the seal of approval from the CRI. Click here for a full listing.
- How do I get my equipment serviced?
Dustbane has an established authorized service network across Canada. By either viewing the service centre section on our website or by contacting us directly, we can help find the right service provider.
- Does Dustbane equipment have electrical approvals that comply with Canadian laws?
Yes! Operator safety is extremely important. You can view the various approvals on the product pages on our website.
- What is the warranty policy on Dustbane equipment?
Generally, our equipment is covered for 1 year of parts and labor, 3 years for parts and 10 years on rotationally moulded plastics. For more specifics, please view the documents section of the product page.
- Can I use Dustbane equipment outside?
Most of our equipment is intended for indoor use. Please contact us and we’ll be happy to help determine the right piece of equipment for the task at hand.
- Are your cleaning products compatible with all types of equipment?
Most of our solutions have been formulated to work with all types of cleaning equipment. If you have specific questions or concerns, please contact us for help.
General
- How do I become a Dustbane partner?
Please complete the following form on our Contact page to become a distributor and we will reach out to you shortly.
- I am not from Canada but would be interested in obtaining your products, is this possible?
Our products are designed to comply with Canadian regulations. However, we are more than happy to help you find a solution to your challenge. Contact us and see how we can help!
- I am intimidated by all of the cleaning products offered in the marketplace. How do I know what is the best solution for my application?
A big aspect of what we do is we work with companies to determine the best cleaning program that fits their needs and budgets. By utilizing various tools including site surveys, we will be there to help you and your business succeed. Contact us directly to learn how we can help.
- Can I buy products directly from Dustbane?
Dustbane sells its products through distribution. With distribution partners in all parts of Canada, there are many options from which to choose. To find a distributor near you, visit our network page.
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