Did you know that over 2 million workplace injuries occur each year due to slips and falls? In large facilities, keeping floors clean isn’t just about appearances; it’s a vital safety measure.
Industrial floor cleaners are designed to handle heavy-duty cleaning tasks that smaller machines simply can’t manage. But, using them effectively requires more than just turning them on and pushing them around.
It involves understanding your facility’s specific needs, choosing the right equipment, and following a series of best practices to ensure every corner is spotless. In this blog, we’ll explore practical steps to help you get the most out of your industrial floor cleaners.
Choosing The Right Industrial Floor Cleaner
Not all floors are the same. The first step in using industrial floor cleaners effectively is to match the cleaner to the type of flooring in your facility. Each floor material has its own set of characteristics that require specific care.
For example, concrete floors are durable but porous, so they may need a cleaner that can penetrate deep into the surface. On the other hand, tile floors are more resistant to stains but require careful handling to avoid scratching.
Similarly, larger facilities may need machines with greater capacity and more powerful motors to cover extensive areas efficiently. Consider the layout as well. Are there narrow aisles, tight corners, or expansive open spaces?
Choose a cleaner that is maneuverable enough to handle your facility’s unique challenges.
Preparing Your Facility For Cleaning
Clear The Area Of Obstacles
Before using any industrial floor cleaner, make sure the area is free of obstacles. Remove any equipment, furniture, or debris that could interfere with the cleaning process.
Not only does this help prevent accidents, but it also allows the cleaner to work more efficiently.
Obstacles can cause unnecessary wear and tear on your machine and reduce its lifespan. Plus, they can leave areas uncleaned, resulting in a patchy, unprofessional finish.
Pre-Sweep The Floor
Even the most powerful industrial floor cleaners can struggle with large debris. To get the best results, always start by sweeping or vacuuming the floor to remove any loose dirt, dust, or large particles.
This step helps protect the cleaner’s brushes and prevents clogging, ensuring a smoother and more effective cleaning process.
Check And Prepare The Cleaner
Before starting, check the industrial floor cleaner for any signs of damage or wear. Ensure that all parts are in good working order, and the machine is properly assembled.
Fill the water and detergent tanks according to the manufacturer’s instructions, and check that the batteries are fully charged if you’re using a battery-operated model.
Operating The Industrial Floor Cleaner
Start With A Test Run
Before diving into a full-scale cleaning, it’s always wise to do a test run. Choose a small, inconspicuous area of the floor and test the cleaner to ensure it’s working correctly.
This step allows you to make any necessary adjustments to the machine settings, such as the water flow rate, detergent concentration, or brush pressure.
Use The Right Detergent
Selecting the right detergent is crucial for achieving optimal results with your industrial floor cleaner. Always use a detergent that is specifically formulated for your type of flooring.
Using the wrong detergent can damage the floor, cause discoloration, or leave behind a sticky residue that attracts more dirt.
Follow A Systematic Cleaning Pattern
To ensure thorough coverage, adopt a systematic cleaning pattern. Start at one end of the facility and work your way to the other, using a back-and-forth motion. Overlap each pass slightly to avoid leaving streaks or missed spots.
This method not only ensures a uniform clean but also reduces the chances of missing any areas.
Control Speed And Pressure
It’s tempting to rush through the cleaning process, especially in large facilities, but speed is not always your friend. Moving too quickly can reduce the effectiveness of the cleaning process.
Instead, maintain a moderate, consistent speed to allow the brushes and detergent to work effectively on the surface.
Similarly, adjust the pressure settings based on your floor type. For delicate floors, use lower pressure to avoid damage, while tougher surfaces may require higher pressure for a deeper cleaning.
Post-Cleaning Practices
Rinse And Dry The Floor
After cleaning, it’s essential to rinse the floor thoroughly, especially if you’ve used a detergent. Leftover detergent can leave behind a residue that attracts dirt and makes the floor look dull. Many industrial floor cleaners have a rinse function, which makes this process easier.
Once rinsed, ensure the floor is completely dry before allowing foot traffic. Wet floors can be slippery and pose a safety risk. Use a dryer setting if available, or allow the area to air dry.
Inspect And Maintain The Cleaner
After each use, take the time to inspect your industrial floor cleaner. Check the brushes, squeegees, and tanks for any signs of wear or damage.
Clean the brushes and tanks thoroughly to prevent build-up, which can affect the machine’s performance over time. Regular maintenance will extend the lifespan of your equipment and ensure it remains effective.
Schedule Regular Deep Cleanings
While regular cleaning is essential, scheduling periodic deep cleanings is also important. Deep cleaning targets dirt and grime that may have built up over time, reaching areas that daily cleaning might miss.
Use a more robust detergent or cleaning solution for these sessions to achieve a more thorough cleaning.
About Us
At Sunrise Industrial Cleaners, we provide innovative and reliable industrial floor cleaning solutions designed to meet the unique needs of your facility.
Our range of products and services ensures that you always have the right tools to keep your environment clean, safe, and efficient. With over four decades of experience, we are your trusted partner in industrial cleaning.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you maintain a spotless facility.
