Cleaning is the process of removing unwanted toxins, bacteria, impurities, or other substances from an object, human, or specified area. The process can occur over a wide variety of contexts, ranging from commercial cleaning, to personal hygiene, to environmental remediation, to housekeeping.
Depending on the context in which the activity is done, there also exist an even wider array of cleaning methods and tools, and it is up to the individual responsible for the task to determine which approach is most appropriate. A hot shower might suffice following a routine workout at the gym, whereas one might use a mop to clean kitchen flooring.
Cleaning, the practice of removing dirt, impurities, and clutter, has been a fundamental aspect of human life across all cultures and eras. Initially driven by the need for hygiene and health, early humans cleaned their living spaces and themselves to prevent illness and maintain a comfortable environment. As societies evolved, cleaning practices became more sophisticated, reflecting cultural norms and social structures. In many ancient civilizations, cleanliness was linked to spiritual purity, with rituals often involving cleaning processes.
The development of cleaning tools and methods paralleled advancements in technology and understanding of health. Over time, cleaning has become a critical part of daily life, influencing public health, home maintenance, and personal hygiene, showcasing its enduring importance in ensuring a safe and orderly living environment.
In the future, cleaning practices are likely to become more advanced and efficient, driven by technology and environmental concerns. Automation could play a significant role, with robots and smart devices undertaking more cleaning tasks, from household chores to public space maintenance. Eco-friendly cleaning products and methods might become the norm, reflecting a growing awareness of environmental sustainability. Innovations in materials science could lead to self-cleaning surfaces, reducing the need for frequent cleaning.
Additionally, the integration of technology in cleaning tools, like sensors and AI, could make cleaning more effective and less time-consuming. The emphasis on hygiene, amplified by recent global health events, is expected to continue, possibly leading to the development of new cleaning technologies and standards that prioritize health and safety.
Dry cleaning is a cleaning process that involves the use of a chemical solvent other than water to clean clothing and other textiles. A dry cleaning machine combines a domestic washing machine and a clothes dryer. Dry cleaning is a method used by dry cleaners to clean clothes with specific dry cleaning instructions.
A deep cleaning is performed by a dental hygienist to treat gum and periodontal disease. A deep cleaning cleans between the gums and teeth down to the roots. Tartar buildup is removed down below the gum line to the root of the tooth.
Data cleaning is a process that detects and removes corrupt or inaccurate data points from a record set, table, or database. The incomplete, inaccurate, or irrelevant parts of the data are identified, then replaced, modified, or deleted. This process can be performed with data wrangling tools or through scripting.
