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OSLO, Norway, Sep 15, 2004 (United Press International via COMTEX) -- A Norwegian professor of sanitation says traditional wet-mopping of floors creates twice as many bacteria as there were before, Aftenposten reported Wednesday.
Oddbjorn Sjovold, also a professor of energy economy at Oslo University College, said the amount of moisture is the key factor.
"The film of water left behind on the floor provides fertile conditions for bacteria in the room," he said. "In the worst case, if a lot of water is used, it can set the stage for fungal growth."
He recommends instead vacuuming with a HEPA, or High Efficiency Particulate Air filter, followed by a microfiber mop that is barely moistened with water, and no soap.
Afterwards, the floor should be dried with a cloth as quickly as possible, he said.
Copyright 2004 by United Press International.
