Different floors and surfaces require different cleaning equipment – for example, tile floors need scrubbing while granite floors require polishing to maintain their look. When choosing the right professional cleaning equipment and industrial cleaning products, it’s important to first consider the type of surface you’re cleaning. A knowledgeable cleaning supply company can offer professional advice on some of the toughest floors to clean and how to lift stubborn grime.
Once you determine the right type of professional cleaning equipment, other important key factors include equipment size, cost, whether you prefer a ride-on or a walk-behind machine, battery life, and other features.
The different types of professional cleaning equipment
Commercial Sweeper
Floor sweepers remove dirt and trap them so the dirt doesn’t scatter back out into the environment. Unlike a vacuum, commercial sweepers have powerful circular brushes that break down built-up dirt before the suction picks up the dirt and passes it through a filtering unit. Professional sweepers can be used on low-pile carpets, hard surfaces, and outdoors to keep walkways clean.
Automatic Scrubber
An automatic scrubber, also known as a power scrubber or floor scrubber, eliminates the need for a traditional mop and bucket. Auto scrubbers can do the job more efficiently and with less strain on workers. These machines rely on rotating brushes to gently scrub the surface without damage while wetting the surface with water or steam. As the grime is broken down, it is extracted back into the equipment and leaves behind a clean, polished surface.
Kaivac No-Touch Cleaning System
A no-touch cleaning system is equipped with an indoor pressure washer, a wet vacuum, and an automatic chemical injection that works together to achieve a deep clean. The low-pressure spray and cleaning solution breaks down tough stains and built-up dirt. The floor is then rinsed with clean water and vacuumed dry to leave behind an incredibly clean finish.
Carpet Extractor
For facilities with carpets, an extractor is a must-have piece of equipment for deep cleaning. While vacuuming effectively removes surface-level dirt, carpet extractors can remove dirt and stains that are deeply embedded into the carpet fibres. Carpet extractors use water, pressure, suction, and centrifugal force to suck up moisture, minimizing the amount of time the carpet needs to dry. Deep cleaning carpet helps keep the carpet looking fresh and new.
Burnishers and Polishers
Professional floor burnishers and polishers leave behind a streak-free and high gloss finish for facilities that need to make an impression such as malls, retail stores, schools, and hospitals. These machines use a brush or a pad to effectively remove marks and can also be combined with a sealant that protects the floor against damage.
Power Steamer
Steam effectively lifts grease, grime, hard water deposits, and mold. Commercial power steamers are excellent for detailed cleaning in kitchens, bathrooms, grouted floors, draperies, and carpets. Today’s power steamers require very little drying time.
Tips to Maintain your equipment
Purchasing professional cleaning equipment is an investment – of course, you want to make sure that the equipment lasts. You can extend the life of your equipment and prevent costly repairs and replacements by:
- Scheduling routine maintenance – Professional cleaning equipment needs to be maintained periodically. By following a routine schedule, any potential issues such as a clogged hose or damaged brush are taken care of and ensure that you’re getting the most out of your equipment
- Properly storing the equipment – Always empty water tanks before putting away the equipment. Store cleaning equipment in dry and temperature-controlled areas, avoiding humid and wet environments as it can damage the machine. Carefully tuck away any cords and hoses.
- Keep the machine clean – Wash recovery and solution tanks, wipe the machine down after each use and replace pads as needed.