Winter Cleaning Tips

Winter is upon us once again and our floors are going to suffer because of it. Here are a few tips to prolong the life of your floors and carpets through the winter.

First line of defense starts outside. Are you still using rock salt? Have you consider switching to Ice Melter? Yes you will pay more for the product but since it melts better before coming into the building you have less salt tracked through the facility. Plus since rock salt remains in large pieces they tend to get further through your building. The cleaning savings alone can justify the extra cost for the switch

Next Step is your first step inside the facility. Install floor matting. Weather you have ceramic, VCT, marble or carpeting in the entrance a good matting program will save you lots of headaches. Matting is important but even more important is the right type of matting. Rental wiper mats are limited, as the are good for a day or two and then become a cause of water pooling, slip and fall, and poor image due to salt residue. Consider getting a good high quality wiper/scrapper mat. Either a Mat-A-Dor finger tip mat or a premium knop mat. And be sure to install at least 15' worth.

Finally regular cleaning. Have the facility cleaned regularly and use a salt neutralizing product. Every manufacturer make one so choose the product that fits your program and help keep your floors clean, safe, and shiny.

Stay tuned for more winter cleaning tips.
Phil-T
"Nothings too filthy for Phil-T"

Comparison: Mini Floor Scrubbers

Recently most cleaning equipment manufacturers have released there mini floor scrubbers. Great little item at a good price fit's anywhere and usable in tight areas. So the question becomes since everyone has one which one should I get? So here's the scoop, I've had a chance to compare three.

SC 351

1) Advance SC351: Now I must say that in recent years I have not seen eye to eye with advance, and then this year something changed. They have come to market with great innovative products that I like and see my self using. And this is one of those great little products. The SC351 is a 14" scrubber with a nice little wrap around squeegee. My initial thoughts were nothing special but then to see it in action, that's a different story. Lift the front on the unit slightly and the squeegee wraps to the front and now you walk backwards out of any tight corner then with a small turn to the left and then forward the squeegee sets itself right back to where it should be. And if this was not enough the price on the unit is bang on in line with other units on the market. A definite winner in my books.

Nacecare TTB516

2) Nacecare TTB516: Those who know me know I like the Nacecare line. Well priced, does the job and good support, what more do you need. And this unit is no different with one exception. The TTB is probably the lightest and easiest to carry around. With a 45 minute run time and an interchangeable battery pack either swap out and keep going or remove the battery pack and load the unit at under 100lbs (without battery) wherever you need it. Also coming out soon the electric version, and though I'm not usually a fan of an electric scrubber when considering where these units are used I know they will perform just right. And as always Nacecare has the price point that you are looking for.

3) The Third manufacturer has requested to remain nameless has done something specific and different as well. They have created a line of mini scrubbers, Having in the line up a extra small, small and medium sized unit. Giving clients a choice of how small they need or want which also gives 3 price points. Each unit fits a specific purpose and is a good choice for anyone looking for a small scrubber.

At the end of the day I believe that this time the best bet is the Advance SC351. It is the right size, price and innovation for any client. So then why buy one of these mini scrubbers. Here are some potential uses. Restaurants with small floor areas or tight kitchens, pharmacy's under 5000 sq/ft with no janitor closet. Buildings with multiple floors and no elevator. I'm sure you will find a use for yours in whatever building you manage.

Phil-T

"Nothings too filthy for Phil-T"