As awareness around per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) continues to grow, many businesses are re-evaluating their cleaning products and looking ahead toward a PFAS-free future. This shift has led to new questions from distributors and their customers about alternatives to PFAS in floor care and cleaning solutions.
To help navigate these discussions, we’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions that cleaning industry distributors may encounter, and how to address them with confidence:
PFAS in Commercial Cleaning & Floor Care
PFAS chemicals have been widely used in commercial cleaning and floor care for their durability and resistance to water, grease, and stains. However, due to environmental and health concerns, many businesses are transitioning to alternatives. Let’s start with some basics:
What are the six PFAS chemicals?
The term “PFAS” refers to a large group of synthetic chemicals, but six specific PFAS are often regulated due to their persistence in the environment. These include PFOA, PFOS, GenX, and others commonly found in industrial applications, including floor finishes and coatings.
What were PFAS replaced with?
As PFAS regulations increase, manufacturers are developing PFAS-free product alternatives that maintain durability and performance without relying on these chemicals. To accomplish this, many floor care products now use advanced polymer technologies.
If you’re on the lookout for PFAS-free cleaning products for your commercial floors, several product alternatives with no intentionally-added PFAS are now available, including Midlab’s expanded MAXIM® floor care line, which offers high-performance solutions while addressing concerns over PFAS.
PFAS-Free Cleaning Alternatives for Flooring
Are there regulations or guidelines requiring businesses to switch to PFAS-free products?
While there is no federal mandate requiring all businesses to transition away from PFAS-containing products, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the General Services Administration (GSA) have implemented measures to reduce PFAS usage in federal custodial contracts. As of April 8, 2024, contractors providing cleaning services for federal buildings are required to use products certified by ecolabels such as EPA’s Safer Choice or certain Green Seal® certifications, which do not allow intentionally added PFAS in product formulations.
Additionally, several states have enacted their own restrictions on PFAS in cleaning products. For example, states like Colorado, Connecticut, Maine, Minnesota, and Washington have passed policies to phase out or ban PFAS in cleaning products. Businesses across the nation are encouraged to stay informed about both federal and state regulations to ensure compliance as the market for PFAS alternatives continues to grow.
How do floor finishes without PFAS compare to traditional finishes?
Midlab has developed new formulations designed to maintain the same durability, gloss, and protection as traditional PFAS-containing finishes — without the use of intentionally added PFAS. These MAXIM® floor care products are made for a seamless transition, ensuring end users experience the same high-quality results (or better!) when it comes to application and performance.
Do cleaning and maintenance procedures change when using floor finishes without PFAS?
No, the application process and maintenance procedures are the same when using MAXIM® PFAS alternative finishes. These products are ready to use with no dilution required, and maintain the same dry times and application methods as traditional finishes. Customers can continue their standard mopping, scrubbing, and maintenance routines per usual.
Are there any flooring types that should not be treated with a PFAS-free floor finish?
Most PFAS alternative finishes — including all of our MAXIM® PFAS alternative finishes — work well on resilient floor surfaces like Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT), Vinyl Composite Tile (VCT), linoleum, rubber flooring, terrazzo, and more. However, they may not be suitable for certain surfaces.
- Unsealed wood flooring can absorb finishes unevenly, affecting adhesion and durability.
- Natural stone surfaces like marble and granite may experience buildup or altered appearance.
- Floor finishes are not typically designed for exterior application on outdoor surfaces, due to exposure to UV and weather.
Distributors should always confirm product compatibility before application, as different finishes may interact uniquely with various surfaces. You can reach out to your Midlab sales representative directly with any questions.
Product Recommendations for Jan-San Distributors
What are the best floor strippers for removing a floor finish without PFAS?
Floor finishes without intentionally added PFAS work the same as traditional finishes, meaning no changes are needed to standard stripping processes. Midlab’s MAXIM® line offers high-performance options that ensure thorough removal and preparation for new applications:
- Heavy Duty Floor Stripper – A fast-acting formula that quickly liquefies multiple layers of finish, making it ideal for tough buildup and minimizing labor time. This is beneficial when transitioning from older finishes to PFAS alternative coatings.
- Commercial Floor Stripper – Recommended for its efficient emulsification of aged and built-up finishes, ensuring a smooth and even removal process. It’s a great all-purpose option for facilities that need reliable stripping without excessive dwell time.
What are the best burnishing pads for floor finishes without PFAS?
MAXIM® PFAS alternative floor finishes are compatible with the same burnishing pads used for traditional finishes. For high-maintenance finishes, harder pads — such as natural fiber pads — are preferred to enhance shine. In contrast, low-maintenance finishes require softer pads to prevent damage while achieving a high-gloss look.
Pro tip: Always recommend testing in a small area before full application for the best results!
Is sealing necessary when using PFAS-free floor finishes?
MAXIM® PFAS alternative floor finishes are self-sealing, meaning a separate sealer is not required under normal conditions. However, if the flooring is old, heavily worn, or damaged, applying two coats of sealer is recommended to enhance adhesion, protection, and longevity.
How does the waxing or buffing process change when using PFAS-free finishes?
When it comes to PFAS alternatives, we’re all about changing the products — not the process. That’s why there are no changes to the waxing or buffing process when using MAXIM® PFAS alternative floor finishes. These products are designed to work within existing application and maintenance routines for ease and efficiency.
Helping Janitorial Product Distributors Navigate the Shift
As businesses look for PFAS alternatives in floor care, distributors play a key role in educating customers and recommending the right solutions. By staying informed on regulations, product performance, and best practices, you can help customers transition smoothly while maintaining quality floor care.
Need more guidance on PFAS alternatives? Head to Midlab.com/PFAS to learn about our expanding MAXIM® product line and take the next step toward sustainable, high-performance solutions.
