Innovations in Vivarium Cleaning

In the relentless pursuit of scientific breakthroughs, the cleanliness of vivarium environments plays an unsung yet critical role.

As the backbone of reliable research and safe experimentation, cutting-edge cleaning technologies are pushing the boundaries of what's possible in maintaining pristine conditions.  Join us as we dive into the dynamic world of vivarium cleaning advancements and explore the groundbreaking trends set to redefine the standards of hygiene in animal holding rooms, necropsy, cage wash rooms, BSL rooms, procedure rooms, and kennels.

Recent Innovations in Vivarium Cleaning

Advanced Microfiber Technology

 Microfiber cleaning tools have been around for a while, but recent advancements have significantly enhanced their effectiveness. Products like Premira® Portables™ from Contec® Professional use state-of-the-art microfiber technology to capture and retain dust, dirt, and microorganisms. The fine fibers of these microfiber pads are designed to trap even the smallest particles, ensuring a thorough clean that traditional materials can't match.

Better disinfecting agents

An innovative approach to sanitizing vivariums involves the use of Peroxigard® instead of traditional quaternary ammonium (quat) disinfectants. Peroxigard® is an accelerated hydrogen peroxide (AHP) that combines hydrogen peroxide with surfactants, wetting agents, and chelating agents, enhancing its germicidal efficacy and cleaning performance. This synergy dramatically increases its ability to disinfect surfaces effectively and quickly. All ingredients in AHP are listed on the EPA inert lists and the FDA Generally Regarded as Safe List (GRAS). Supported by over 55 peer-reviewed studies, Peroxigard® has become a leading cleaner/disinfectant in the lab animal sciences space, compatible with most surfaces and faster than other disinfectants on the market. This makes it an ideal choice for maintaining a sanitized vivarium environment.

Benefits of Using Peroxigard:

1. 1. Significantly faster dwell time than other disinfectants
   2. Will not quat find
   3. Will not increase residue and/or biofilm
   4. Boasts an increased safety profile.
   5. Has a 90-day discard schedule after dilution (many quat solutions must be discarded after one day)

Contec LAS's Zerogravity™ system revolutionizes vivarium sanitation with its lightweight, ergonomic design and interchangeable components for every cleaning task. These tools assist in animal holding rooms, necropsy areas, cage wash rooms, BSL rooms, procedure rooms, and kennels. Paired with Premira® Portables™, they eliminate the need for mop buckets, streamlining the process. The intuitive design allows operators to cover large areas and reach tight corners effortlessly. Zerogravity™ components can be cleaned in the cage wash process, maintaining high hygiene standards. This system promotes a healthier, safer environment and enhances productivity in vivarium facilities.

Sustainable Disposable Products

The push for sustainability has led to the development of eco-friendly cleaning solutions. These biodegradable and non-toxic agents are designed to be just as effective as their chemical counterparts but without the environmental impact. Using green cleaning solutions helps vivariums reduce their ecological footprint while maintaining high standards of hygiene. While disposable cleaning products like Premira® Portables™ offer significant advantages in preventing cross-contamination, the future may see these products becoming even more sustainable. Third-party studies have revealed that the Premira® line of premium disposable microfiber products have decreased impact on the environment compared to relaundered microfiber products.

Embracing these innovations not only improves the cleanliness and efficiency of vivariums but also supports the overall goals of scientific research and environmental responsibility. Stay ahead of the curve by integrating the latest cleaning technologies and practices into your vivarium, and ensure a brighter, cleaner, and more sustainable future for your research endeavors.

Contact a Contec LAS cleaning expert here.

*This article was initally generated with the help of AI, then perfected and approved by Contec LAS experts.