puhastus

Puhastus is the act or process of removing dirt, contaminants or unwanted substances from surfaces, objects or environments. It covers a range of methods, including mechanical action, chemical cleaning agents and, in some cases, thermal processes. The goal is often hygiene, maintenance, safety or aesthetics. The word derives from the Estonian root puhast-, meaning clean.

Domestic puhastus refers to everyday cleaning of homes and private spaces. It includes tasks such as dusting, vacuuming, washing floors and surfaces, and urinal or bathroom sanitation. Common tools range from brushes and cloths to vacuums and mops, while cleaning agents may be detergents or disinfectants.

Industrial and institutional puhastus describes cleaning in factories, offices, healthcare facilities and other large-scale environments. It emphasizes cleanliness standards, equipment sanitation, and process cleanliness to prevent contamination, corrosion or downtime. Cleaning in these settings often relies on specialized detergents, automated systems, and validated procedures.

Medical and laboratory puhastus focuses on sterile or contamination-controlled environments. It involves rigorous cleaning and disinfection, attention to infection prevention, and compliance with health regulations. Special procedures are used for patient areas, operating theaters, and research laboratories.

In a broader sense, puhastus can also mean purification of substances or environmental cleanup, such as water or air purification and remediation of polluted sites. Methods include chemical purification, filtration, and controlled environmental cleanup efforts.

Overall, puhastus is a fundamental, context-dependent activity spanning homes to industry, balancing effectiveness, safety and sustainability.