At Advance Champion, we’ve never really thought of ourselves as a “supplier.”
We’re part of how facilities run.

That goes back a long way, before Kevin and I were running the day-to-day, before most of our current customers were even in their buildings. Our family has been in this business for decades, and a lot of what we believe came from Frank.

Frank didn’t talk much about “strategy” or “positioning.”
He focused on doing right by people.

Answer the phone.
Show up when you say you will.
Fix the problem, even if it wasn’t technically your fault.

Simple stuff. But it’s not as common as it should be.

What We Learned Early
Growing up around the business, we saw what really matters to the people we work with.

Most of them aren’t looking for the cheapest product.
They’re trying to keep a facility running.
Keep employees safe.
Make sure customers walk into a place that feels clean and professional.

And a lot of times, they’re doing it with limited time and a lot of responsibility.

When something goes wrong, late deliveries, wrong products, no call back, it creates real problems for them.
That’s where we’ve always tried to be different.

Carrying the Standard Forward
Kevin and I didn’t come in looking to change everything.
We came in knowing what already worked.

Take care of people.
Be easy to do business with.
Know what you’re talking about.
Don’t oversell.

That last one matters more than people think.

A lot of facilities don’t need more products.
They need the right products, and someone who can explain why.

Sometimes that means telling someone, “You don’t need that.”
And we’re fine with that.

Because the goal isn’t the order.
It’s the relationship.

What Commitment Looks Like Today
For us, commitment isn’t a slogan. It shows up in small, everyday ways.

Returning calls quickly.
Helping fix ordering mistakes.
Letting customers return things if it didn’t work out.
Talking through problems instead of just shipping boxes.

A lot of our customers have been with us for years.
Not because we’re perfect.
But because they know we’ll take care of it when something isn’t.

Why It Still Matters
A clean facility does more than people give it credit for.

It affects how employees feel coming into work.
It affects how customers see your business.
It plays a role in safety and health.

We’ve seen it firsthand across all kinds of facilities.
And when it’s done right, everything runs a little smoother.

That’s the part we care about.

If There’s a Fit
Not every business is a fit for us.

But if you’re running a facility, handling cleaning in-house, and just want things to work the way they should, we’re always open to a conversation.

No pressure.
We’ll just talk it through and see if it makes sense.

The post The Work Behind a Cleaner Facility appeared first on Advance Paper & Maintenance Supply.

Why Cold and Flu Season Matters for Business

The economic impact of cold and flu season on businesses is substantial. The average employee with the flu misses three to four days of work, and even those who come to work while sick experience reduced productivity. Beyond the immediate costs of absenteeism, workplace illness can create a ripple effect that affects team morale, customer service, and project timelines.

Taking preventive action isn’t just good for employee wellbeing—it’s a smart business decision that protects your bottom line.

Creating a Healthy Workplace Environment

Enhance Cleaning Protocols

During cold and flu season, standard cleaning procedures may not be sufficient. Consider increasing the frequency of cleaning high-touch surfaces such as doorknobs, light switches, elevator buttons, shared equipment, and kitchen areas. Provide cleaning supplies at workstations so employees can wipe down their own keyboards, phones, and desks throughout the day.

Improve Air Quality and Ventilation

Proper ventilation plays a crucial role in reducing the spread of airborne illnesses. Ensure your HVAC system is well-maintained and filters are changed regularly. If possible, increase fresh air circulation and consider using air purifiers in shared spaces. Maintaining appropriate humidity levels between 40-60% can also help reduce virus transmission.

Provide Hygiene Stations

Make it easy for employees to practice good hygiene by placing hand sanitizer stations in strategic locations throughout your workplace—near entrances, in conference rooms, break rooms, and common areas. Ensure restrooms are always stocked with soap and paper towels.

Encouraging Preventive Health Measures

Promote Vaccination

One of the most effective ways to reduce flu cases in your workplace is to encourage vaccination. Consider hosting an on-site flu shot clinic, partnering with a local pharmacy or healthcare provider to bring vaccinations directly to your employees. If that’s not feasible, provide paid time off for employees to get vaccinated and communicate information about where vaccines are available.

Educate Your Team

Knowledge is power when it comes to preventing illness. Share information about proper handwashing techniques, respiratory etiquette (covering coughs and sneezes), and the importance of not touching one’s face. Regular reminders through email, posters, or team meetings can reinforce these healthy habits.

Implementing Supportive Sick Leave Policies

Review Your Sick Leave Policy

Ensure your sick leave policy is clear, generous, and easy to use. Employees should never feel pressured to come to work when they’re ill. If your current policy is restrictive, consider whether temporary adjustments during peak flu season might be appropriate.

Discourage Presenteeism

Create a culture where staying home when sick is not only accepted but encouraged. Leadership should set the example by staying home when they’re unwell. Make it clear that coming to work sick puts others at risk and can actually prolong recovery time.

Enable Remote Work

For employees whose jobs allow it, offering the option to work from home when they’re mildly ill can help them rest while staying productive and preventing the spread of illness to coworkers.

Supporting Employee Health and Immunity

Encourage Healthy Habits

Promote wellness initiatives that support immune health. This might include sharing information about nutrition, adequate sleep, stress management, and regular exercise. Consider offering healthy snacks in the office or organizing wellness challenges.

Provide Flexibility

Stress and exhaustion can weaken immune systems. During cold and flu season, consider whether you can offer additional flexibility with schedules to help employees maintain work-life balance and get adequate rest.

Ensure Access to Healthcare

Make sure employees understand their health benefits and know how to access care when needed. Provide information about telehealth options, urgent care facilities, and what to do if they develop symptoms.

Communicating Your Plan

Be Proactive and Transparent

Don’t wait until illness strikes. Communicate your cold and flu season preparedness plan to all employees before the season begins. Let them know what steps the company is taking and what you expect from them.

Regular Updates

During peak illness times, provide regular updates about any cases in the workplace (without violating privacy), remind employees about preventive measures, and reinforce your sick leave policy.

Create Easy Reference Materials

Develop simple, accessible resources such as a one-page guide on symptoms that should keep someone home, proper hygiene practices, and who to contact if they’re ill.

Preparing for Business Continuity

Cross-Train Employees

Ensure that critical functions aren’t dependent on a single person. Cross-training team members means your business can continue operating smoothly even when key employees are out sick.

Have a Contingency Plan

Identify which functions are essential and develop backup plans for maintaining them during periods of high absenteeism. This might include temporary reassignment of duties or bringing in temporary help.

Review Your Technology

Ensure your remote work technology is functioning properly and that employees know how to use it. Test video conferencing systems, VPN access, and collaboration tools before they’re urgently needed.

Conclusion

Preparing your business for cold and flu season doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. By combining preventive measures, supportive policies, clear communication, and contingency planning, you can create a workplace that stays healthier and more productive throughout the season.

The key is to start early, be proactive rather than reactive, and create a culture where employee health is valued and protected. When your team knows you’re invested in their wellbeing, they’re more likely to take the necessary precautions to stay healthy—benefiting everyone in the organization.

Remember, every business is different. Assess your specific workplace needs, involve employees in the planning process, and be willing to adjust your approach based on what works best for your team. With thoughtful preparation, you can minimize the impact of cold and flu season and maintain a thriving workplace all year long.

Contact the professionals at Advance Champion Supply to help create a safety plan designed for your business that includes the proper products and procedures to protect your staff and your business.

The post Preparing Your Business for Cold and Flu Season: A Guide to Keeping Your Workforce Healthy appeared first on Advance Paper & Maintenance Supply.

The Sobering Statistics

According to a recent report from the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID), nearly half of

U.S. adults—a staggering 48%—admit to forgetting or deliberately choosing not to wash their hands in critical situations. This includes moments after visiting grocery stores, restaurants, coffee shops, or healthcare facilities like doctor’s offices and hospitals.

The timing of this report is particularly significant, coming after what health officials called the worst flu season in 15 years and multiple norovirus outbreaks across the country.

Knowledge vs. Practice: A Critical Gap

While most Americans understand the basics of handwashing in theory, their real-world habits tell a different story. The survey found that 62% of respondents correctly knew that washing hands with soap and water for 20 seconds effectively reduces germ transmission. However, knowledge doesn’t always translate to action.

Why People Skip Handwashing

The reasons behind poor hand hygiene habits vary:

Forgetting remains the top reason people don’t wash their hands, but perhaps more concerning is that one in five adults (20%) actively choose not to wash their hands. Their justifications include:

• Believing it’s unnecessary
• Not having enough time
• Worrying about skin dryness

Interestingly, the survey revealed gender differences in handwashing behavior: men are more likely to simply forget, while women tend to reach for alternatives like hand sanitizer when they skip traditional handwashing.

When Americans Do Wash Their Hands

The survey identified the top situations that prompt handwashing:

1. After using the restroom (69%)
2. After handling food (48%)
3. After handling human or animal waste (39%)

However, only 30% of respondents wash their hands after coughing or sneezing—a particularly troubling finding given how easily respiratory diseases like flu spread through airborne droplets.

The Bigger Picture: Health Impact and Motivation

The stakes couldn’t be higher. Health experts estimate that if everyone routinely washed their hands properly, approximately 1 million lives could be saved worldwide each year.

Most Americans (55%) say they wash their hands primarily to stay healthy and avoid illness. Additionally, 68% cited preventing the spread of germs to others as a top motivation, showing that community- minded thinking does influence hygiene habits.

Seasonal Patterns and Post-Pandemic Trends

The data reveals some interesting behavioral patterns:

• 26% of respondents increase their handwashing frequency during fall and winter months, despite germs being present year-round
• One-third of Americans report washing their hands more frequently now than they did during the COVID-19 pandemic

The Bottom Line

As Dr. Robert H. Hopkins Jr., NFID medical director, emphasized: “While handwashing is an important strategy for disease prevention, and should be complementary to vaccination, it is a critical and often overlooked tool.”

The report serves as a crucial reminder that proper hand hygiene remains one of our most powerful— and underutilized—weapons against infectious disease. Bridging the gap between knowledge and practice could have profound implications for public health, potentially saving countless lives and reducing the burden of preventable illnesses.

This summary is based on the 2025 NFID State of Handwashing Report, which provides comprehensive insights into American handwashing behaviors and attitudes.

The post Hand Hygiene Reality Check: Americans Struggle with Basic Handwashing Habits appeared first on Advance Paper & Maintenance Supply.

Air Dryers vs. Paper Towels: The 70/30 Split

Currently, paper towels are winning the popularity contest, with users choosing them over air dryers at a 70/30 ratio. This preference isn’t just about personal choice – it’s often driven by practical limitations.

Many older facilities simply lack the electrical infrastructure needed for modern air dryers.

For new construction and remodels, there’s a growing trend toward air dryers as builders incorporate the necessary electrical work. However, speed and effectiveness are crucial – slow or weak air dryers actually discourage proper hand hygiene, as people may skip washing altogether rather than wait.

The health debate remains contentious. While some experts cite studies showing air dryers can blow germs into the air, the CDC takes a more neutral stance, stating there isn’t enough scientific evidence to definitively prove one method is more effective at reducing germs than the other.

Smart Paper Towel Choices

For facilities sticking with paper towels, the key is choosing the right dispenser system:

• Stub-roll systems offer the best sustainability benefits
• High-capacity dispensers work best for high-traffic areas
• Manual no-touch systems provide universal accessibility
• Avoid c-fold towels – they score poorly on user experience, maintenance frequency, and cost- effectiveness

Strategic Hand Sanitizer Placement

While handwashing with soap and water remains the gold standard for infection prevention, hand sanitizers serve as crucial backup when sinks aren’t available. Smart placement includes:

• Facility entrances
• Near elevators
• Outside restrooms
• Nursing stations and classrooms without sinks

The CDC recommends sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol content, though they won’t be effective against all germs like Cryptosporidium, norovirus, and C. difficile.

Foam Beats Gel

When choosing sanitizer types, foam consistently outperforms gel options. It’s cleaner, more cost- effective, distributes more easily, and dries faster – making it more appealing to users. Wall-mounted dispensers are preferred over bottles or pumps in public settings to avoid spills and maintenance issues.

Don’t Forget the Signage

While most people know how to wash their hands, signage serves important regulatory compliance purposes and acts as helpful reminders. Effective signage should emphasize the 20-second scrubbing rule and can include illustrations to overcome language barriers and engage younger users.

The Bottom Line

Making hand hygiene convenient and accessible dramatically improves health and safety outcomes. Whether you choose air dryers or paper towels, foam sanitizers or gel, the key is selecting solutions that encourage consistent use while meeting your facility’s specific needs and constraints.

Summary based on reporting by Caryn Jones for CleanLink

The post The Great Hand Drying Debate: What Facilities Need to Know appeared first on Advance Paper & Maintenance Supply.

Bleach is a powerful oxidizer and can sometimes sanitize non-porous surfaces of certain microbials. When you encounter a semi-porous wall covered in mold straight bleach is NOT the product to use. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recognizes that this is not the correct solution.

Most people have come to believe that jug bleach that you purchase in the store which contains sodium hypochlorite is effective in removing discoloration but may leave microflora that will enable the mold to return to the same spot when conditions are right.

So what do we do? First a thorough cleaning of the surface is necessary. There are some products that contain bleach but also contain other antimicrobial agents that will combat the mold. When you use the right kind of antimicrobial the mold will be eliminated and the remaining bio-slime eliminated too.

Education is the key to the proper treatment of mold. Contact your local supply sales professional to determine the correct products for your application.

At Advance Champion Supply we are experts in the science and technology of cleaning. Rely on our expertise to help you. You can visit our cleaning solutions center to learn more about combating mold and other business and household cleaning challenges.

We are here to help you.

The post Bleach and Mold: The Urban Myth appeared first on Advance Paper & Maintenance Supply.

I don’t know if this has any value to you so I thought I would ask:

Why would you be interested in doing business with Advance? After having been in this industry for 44 years personally, I know that I have information that can benefit you. Would you like to improve your bottom line? Increase productivity and health in your workplace? Create a better image for your employees, customers and prospects that you are seeking? Ask me, I can offer you solutions.

I would be excited to talk to you, meet your staff, take a look at your facility, and possibly offer some new ideas for the health and safety of your building that will enhance opinions of your business.

I can only do this if you are open to new ideas, concepts and technology that can help you. Are you open minded?

The post 66 years in Business and still kicking… appeared first on Advance Paper & Maintenance Supply.

Restrooms: A Hygiene Priority

The cleanliness of restrooms is a critical aspect of maintaining a healthy workplace. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

• Clean, Disinfect, and Sanitize:
  Begin by thoroughly cleaning all surfaces, including mirrors and bright metals. Use appropriate cleaning agents to ensure a sanitary environment.
• Mop Floors with Disinfectant:
  When mopping restroom floors, always use a disinfectant. Importantly, avoid using the same water or mop for other areas to prevent cross-contamination.
• Focus on Toilets and Urinals:
  Disinfect and sanitize all toilets, urinals, and areas with frequent human contact. This step is crucial for preventing the spread of germs.
• Proper Waste Disposal:
  Dispose of all cleaning materials in a hazardous waste container. This ensures the safe and responsible handling of potentially harmful substances.
• Guest Consideration:
  Remember that restrooms are not only for employees but also for guests. Cleaning them meticulously reflects your commitment to the health and well-being of everyone associated with your business.

Entry Ways: A Reflection of Your Business

The entryway sets the tone for the entire business, leaving a lasting impression on visitors. Follow these tips to maintain a clean and inviting reception or entry area:

• Clean Windows:
  Clear, streak-free windows enhance the overall appearance of your entryway. Regularly clean windows to ensure a bright and welcoming atmosphere.
• Floor Maintenance:
  Vacuum all carpets to remove dirt and debris, providing a clean and professional look. Regular carpet maintenance contributes to a healthier indoor environment.
• Mat Care:
  Keep entrance mats clean and well-maintained. These mats are crucial in trapping dirt and preventing it from spreading throughout the premises.
• Clutter-Free Zone:
  A clutter-free entryway creates a sense of organization and professionalism. Regularly remove any unnecessary items or clutter from the reception area.

Maintaining a clean and hygienic workplace is not only a reflection of your business’s professionalism but also a key factor in promoting the health and well-being of everyone in the vicinity. By following these daily cleaning tips, businesses can create a positive and inviting environment for employees and guests alike.

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Have you ever wondered why were inclined to live in clean and organized spaces? Is it a genetic predisposition to avoid illnesses, or is there another reason?

While the exact motivation for maintaining cleanliness remains uncertain, numerous scientific studies suggest that clean and organized environments have significant positive effects on our health and well-being.

Psychologists assert a clear link between cleanliness and mental ease, influencing our mood and ethical behavior.

Research indicates that tidy surroundings induce a sense of order, making us more inclined to be honest and ethical. Conversely, neglectful environments may foster frustration, leading to dishonesty and deceit.

Tidiness goes beyond aesthetics; it deeply impacts our emotions and can influence our decision-making processes. The emotional impact is so profound that it can sway our attitudes toward right and wrong.

The Essential Benefits of a Clean Environment

Cleaning as a Stress Reliever

Studies reveal that cluttered spaces can impede concentration and hamper information processing in the brain. Conversely, an organized environment enhances information processing, leading to increased productivity and reduced mental fatigue. During times of stress, the urge to clean and declutter emerges as a manifestation of the human desire for control over living spaces. [Source: Psycom – https://www.psycom.net/anxiety/mental-health-benefits-cleaning]

The Workplace Connection

Clean, tidy, and organized workplaces aren’t just visually appealing; they also enhance employees concentration and boost productivity. Whether in offices or schools, periodic tidying not only reduces time spent searching for documents but also improves morale. [Source: Small Business UK – https://smallbusiness.co.uk/does-a-clean-office-improve-productivity-2505666/]

Efficiency and Health Benefits

Consistent cleaning activities contribute to limiting the spread of germs and bacteria, reducing the likelihood of employees falling ill at work. Clean offices not only enhance professional appearances for clients but also instill pride in employees for their workplace.

The Power of Perception

Cleanliness isn’t merely a reflection of professionalism; it affects how others perceive us. Clients visiting a clean and organized office are more likely to trust the competence of the service provider. Similarly, employees are more likely to take pride in their work and workplace.

Balancing Act

Maintaining cleanliness and order is crucial for both health and productivity in various settings, from homes to offices. However, it can be time-consuming, especially for tasks like cleaning windows and floors.

IPC offers a range of cleaning solutions for both indoor and outdoor spaces, providing efficient machines and manual equipment for various cleaning needs.

Your local IPC Worldwide dealer is Advance Champion Supply located in Gilbert Arizona. For more information and how we can help you create a cleaning process to benefit your business please call Kevin De Rosa at 480-302-5945 or visit www.advancechampionsupply.com.

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Here are three ways to ensure successful results

1. Cleaning starts from top first and then works down to the bottom. Start with ceiling fans, vents and lights. This allows for pathogens, dirt and dust fall down during the cleaning process. Using the correct tools; microfiber cleaning cloths and microfiber mopping tools, the soil will be retained while the cleaning is being done or at the end when it is gathered on the floors.
2. Start in the cleanest areas first and working towards the dirtier areas to ensure the cleaner areas stay cleaner. This is most important when cleaning with reusable cloths rather than disposable cloths.
3. Wipe in an S shape pattern to avoid overlapping with a clean area.

Bye Bye to Germs

1. Use different color microfiber cleaning towels to reduce and eliminate cross contamination. A suggestion would be to use Red towels only in restrooms and green towels in break-rooms. This will eliminate the possibility of cross contamination from one area to another. Some cleaners will also use Blue towels for windows and mirrors. Folding towels strategically will also avoid cross contamination. A simple method is a four-square, fold the towel in half and then half again constantly changing the sides to reduce contamination.

It is everyone’s responsibility in the facility to participate in the health and safety of the facility. In addition to the cleaning professionals tasked each day all staff can do their part by washing hands, throwing away trash and using the best practices for personal hygiene.

Suggested items that every business should have on hand for staff use.

• Plenty of hand soap and hand sanitizer
• Microfiber cleaning towels for general and personal use around work areas
• Cannisters of disposable disinfectant wipes
• Ready to Use cleaners and disinfectants available for cleaning professionals and general staff

The post Enhance your cleaning process to prevent cross contamination especially during cold and flu season. appeared first on Advance Paper & Maintenance Supply.

Commercial Office Spaces: A Hub of Productivity

In commercial office spaces, maintaining a clean and healthy environment is not just about comfort but also productivity. Employees spend a significant portion of their day at work, making it crucial to minimize the risk of illness. Here’s a cleaning and disinfecting schedule suitable for offices:

• Daily Cleaning: Janitorial staff or employees should perform daily cleaning tasks like emptying trash cans, wiping down shared workstations, and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces like doorknobs, elevator buttons, and communal kitchen areas.
• Weekly Cleaning: Weekly cleaning routines may include vacuuming and mopping floors, cleaning restrooms, and thoroughly sanitizing common areas such as conference rooms, break rooms, and waiting areas.
• Monthly Cleaning: On a monthly basis, conduct a more comprehensive cleaning effort. This can involve deep cleaning carpets, polishing floors, and disinfecting HVAC systems and air ducts to maintain indoor air quality.
• Seasonal Cleaning: Commercial spaces should undergo seasonal maintenance. This may include window cleaning, upholstery cleaning, and thorough inspections for any structural issues that could impact hygiene.
• Special Events or Circumstances: If there is an outbreak of illness among employees or after hosting large gatherings in the office, consider a special, intensive cleaning and disinfection process to ensure everyone’s safety.
• Educate Employees: Encourage employees to maintain cleanliness at their workstations. Provide them with disinfecting wipes or sprays for personal use, and promote good hygiene practices like handwashing.

Conclusion: A Clean Space, A Healthy Workplace

Regular cleaning and disinfecting in commercial office spaces are key to creating and maintaining a healthy environment. While the frequency of cleaning may vary depending on the setting, it’s essential to adapt to changing circumstances, such as pandemics or seasonal outbreaks, to ensure everyone’s safety. By following a consistent cleaning and disinfection schedule, we can reduce the risk of illness, promote well-being, and protect our employees in all spaces we inhabit. Remember, a clean space is a healthy place.

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