Cleaning POS (Point of Sale) equipment properly is essential for maintaining its functionality and preventing the spread of germs.

Here’s a detailed guide to cleaning your POS equipment effectively while ensuring the safety and longevity of your devices:

1. Understand Manufacturer Guidelines

Before cleaning your POS equipment, always refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines. Each device may have specific instructions regarding cleaning procedures, recommended cleaning agents, and precautions to take. Check the user manual or contact the manufacturer directly if you’re unsure about any aspect of cleaning.

2. Power Down and Disconnect

Always turn off and unplug your POS devices before cleaning. This is essential to avoid electrical hazards and prevent any accidental damage to the equipment. Disconnect any cables and ensure the devices are powered off completely before starting the cleaning process.

3. Use Appropriate Cleaning Agents

Selecting the right cleaning agents is crucial for both effective cleaning and maintaining the integrity of your equipment. Recommended cleaning agents include:

• Isopropyl alcohol (70% or higher): Commonly used for disinfecting and cleaning, especially for touchscreens, card readers, and keyboards.
• Mild, non-abrasive cleaners: These are less likely to cause damage compared to harsh chemicals like bleach or ammonia.

Avoid abrasive materials or ammonia-based cleaners, as they can scratch surfaces or damage delicate components.

4. Cleaning Process

Our cleaning solutions empower banks & credit unions to easily maintain their branch technology to attain the best performance results.

The cleaning process may vary depending on the type of POS device. Here are step-by-step instructions for each major component:

a. Screens and Touchscreens:

• Dust Removal: Use a dry microfiber or lint-free cloth to gently wipe the screen and remove dust, dirt, and fingerprints.
• Dampen Cloth: Lightly dampen the cloth with isopropyl alcohol (preferably 70% or higher) or the recommended cleaning solution.
• Wipe in Circular Motions: Wipe the screen using gentle, circular motions, ensuring you cover all areas, especially the edges and corners.
• Dry the Screen: Make sure the screen is completely dry before powering it back on. This prevents moisture from seeping into the device.

b. Keyboards and Keypads:

• Dusting: Use compressed air or a soft brush to remove any dust or debris from between the keys.
• Cleaning: Dampen a soft cloth with the appropriate cleaning solution (isopropyl alcohol is ideal) and wipe down the keys and surrounding areas. Focus on high-touch areas.
• Drying: Allow the keyboard or keypad to air dry completely before reconnecting or using it again.

c. Card Readers and Payment Terminals:

• Dust Removal: Gently wipe the surfaces of the card reader using a soft, lint-free cloth.
• Dampen the Cloth: Lightly moisten the cloth with isopropyl alcohol or your chosen cleaner.
• Clean Card Slot Areas: Wipe the card reader, paying special attention to areas where cards are inserted or swiped.
• Drying: Allow the card reader to air dry completely before using it again.

5. Frequency of Cleaning

The frequency of cleaning depends on the usage of your POS equipment. Areas that are frequently touched, like touchscreens, keypads, and card readers, should be cleaned more often.

Suggested cleaning frequency:

• Daily: High-touch areas like touchscreens, keyboards, and card readers should be cleaned daily or after each use in high-traffic areas (e.g., during peak business hours or in healthcare settings).
• Weekly: Less frequently touched components may be cleaned on a weekly basis, such as the area around the POS terminal or cash drawer.

Establish a regular cleaning schedule that aligns with the usage and traffic of your business. During health concerns (e.g., flu seasons, pandemics), you may need to clean more frequently.

Additional Tips:

CR80  is a disposable presurated cleaning card that has been specially designed for removing dirt, magnetic oxides and other contaminants from concealed magnetic heads and optic sensors.

• Use lint-free cloths to avoid leaving fibers behind, which can impair the functionality of screens and other sensitive areas.
• Avoid excessive moisture: Always use a damp (not wet) cloth to prevent liquid from seeping into the device.
• Replace worn-out cleaning supplies: Regularly inspect your cloths and cleaning tools to ensure they are in good condition and safe to use on your devices.

By following these cleaning practices, you’ll not only maintain the appearance and functionality of your POS equipment but also ensure a cleaner, safer environment for both your staff and customers.