How to Store Cleaning Supplies Safely in Care Homes

Storing cleaning supplies might seem like a simple task — but in a care home environment, it’s an important part of infection control, resident safety, and compliance with regulations like COSHH and CQC standards.

Poorly stored chemicals can lead to accidents, cross-contamination, and serious health risks. In this guide, we’ll explore how care homes should store their cleaning supplies safely, efficiently, and in full compliance with UK care regulations.

Why Proper Storage Matters in Care Settings

In a residential care environment, cleaning products are used constantly — from disinfectants and floor cleaners to laundry detergents and descalers. But if these items are not stored correctly, several risks arise:

• Accidental exposure to chemicals by residents or unauthorised staff
• Incorrect product use, especially if labels are damaged or packaging is mixed
• Incompatibility between chemicals stored too closely (e.g. acids near bleach)
• Inspection failures due to non-compliant storage practices

A clear, well-organised storage system helps keep your team safe, your equipment protected, and your inspections stress-free.

Legal Requirements for Cleaning Chemical Storage

Under COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health) regulations, care homes must take appropriate steps to store hazardous substances safely and prevent unauthorised access. This includes cleaning chemicals.

Key COSHH-aligned storage practices include:

• Use of a lockable cupboard or storage room, clearly labelled as chemical storage
• Storing chemicals in original containers with labels intact
• Keeping a COSHH file with safety data sheets (SDS) for all products
• Using spill kits and PPE (e.g. gloves, goggles) in nearby areas

Tips for Effective and Safe Storage

In addition to legal compliance, here are some practical tips for making cleaning supply storage safer and more efficient in your care home:

• Group products by type (e.g. surface cleaners, toilet cleaners, laundry) and store on separate shelves
• Never store chemicals above eye level
• Keep water-sensitive items away from sinks and wet areas
• Clearly label shelves and containers to reduce error
• Use colour-coding to match cleaning products with appropriate tools (e.g. red = toilet areas)
• Store reusable cloths and mop heads dry, in a designated area

How to Handle Bulk or Refill Containers

Bulk supplies are often used to reduce packaging waste and cost, but they require extra care:

• Keep large containers on lower shelves to avoid lifting injuries
• Label refill bottles clearly with the product name, dilution, and hazard warnings
• Use auto-dosing systems where possible to eliminate mixing errors
• Train staff regularly on safe handling and correct dilution practices

Don't Forget Your Cleaning Tools

Chemical storage is just one part of a safe system — cleaning tools also need proper storage:

• Hang mops and brooms to dry (do not store wet tools in a bucket)
• Keep cloths colour-coded and designated for specific areas
• Disinfect reusable tools regularly (e.g. at the end of each day)
• Store cloths in ventilated containers or racks, not sealed plastic tubs

Build It Into Your Cleaning Schedule

Cleaning supply storage isn’t a one-time setup — it needs regular attention. Schedule monthly audits to check expiry dates, container conditions, PPE availability, and that your COSHH file is up to date.

Assign responsibility to a shift leader or cleaning coordinator so that the system stays maintained.

Need Help Setting Up or Reviewing Your Storage System?

If you’re unsure whether your care home storage setup meets current best practices, we can help. From compliant cleaning products to colour-coded tools and COSHH training support, we’ve got what you need.

Browse our full range at Able Cleaning & Hygiene or contact us for guidance tailored to your site.

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Further Reading: You can also find our latest care sector updates and thought pieces on our Able Healthcare Substack, where we explore similar topics in more depth.