Maintaining clean, well-kept commercial spaces is essential to a building’s health and the safety of those in it. But we understand that questions often arise around the best practices for commercial cleaning and floor care.
Whether you’re curious about cleaning agents or wondering how to best care for your commercial flooring, we’ve got you covered.
Keep reading for some commonly asked questions in the commercial cleaning world, answered by the experts at Midlab!
Common Cleaning & Floor Care Questions
What is a commercial grade cleaner?
A commercial grade cleaner is a specially-formulated product designed to handle the tougher cleaning demands found in professional environments. These cleaners are more concentrated and effective than household cleaners, capable of removing heavy dirt, grime, and stains that are common in high-traffic areas. Commercial cleaning agents and hard-surface cleaners often include powerful ingredients that ensure thorough cleaning and sanitizing, making them ideal for use in places like offices, schools, and industrial facilities.
What is the difference between cleaning and sanitizing in a commercial setting?
Cleaning and sanitizing, while related, serve different purposes in a commercial setting. Cleaning involves removing visible dirt, dust, and debris from surfaces, usually using detergents and water. This process helps maintain the appearance and basic hygiene of a space.
On the other hand, sanitizers go a step further by reducing the amount of germs and bacteria on a surface. Sanitizing often involves the use of disinfectants that target and kill microorganisms, ensuring surfaces are not only clean but also safe from potential pathogens.
With more than 200 cleaners, sanitizers, and disinfectants, the comprehensive MAXIM® product line serves industries like janitorial (jan-san), industrial, healthcare, foodservice, and beyond with products that clean effectively and help protect what matters most.
When our distribution partners ask us,”what is the most common cleaning product,” multipurpose cleaners and disinfectants like Bulldozer Cleaner & Degreaser and Facility+ by MAXIM often come to mind due to their many benefits and versatility in commercial settings.
Bonus: Both are available in your choice of concentrate or ready-to-use (RTU) formulas with a Midlab partnership.
How often should a commercial floor be mopped?
The frequency of mopping commercial floors depends on the type of facility and the amount of foot traffic. For example, a commercial kitchen floor, which is prone to spills and grease, should be mopped daily to maintain hygiene standards.
In contrast, office buildings, hotels, and schools may require less frequent mopping, perhaps several times a week, depending on the traffic and specific areas. High-traffic zones like lobbies and restrooms should be prioritized and cleaned more frequently to ensure cleanliness and occupant safety.
How often should commercial floors be buffed?
Buffing commercial floors helps to maintain their appearance and extend their lifespan. Generally, commercial floors should be buffed once a month to keep them looking polished and free of scuff marks. However, high-traffic areas may benefit from more frequent buffing, perhaps bi-weekly, to maintain their shine and durability. Regular buffing also helps in protecting the floor’s surface, making daily cleaning tasks easier.
What is the best way to clean commercial floors?
The best way to clean commercial floors depends on the type of flooring. For example, to clean commercial tile floors, start by sweeping to remove loose debris, then mop as directed with an effective cleaning solution.
For other types of flooring like LVT (Luxury Vinyl Tile), VCT (Vinyl Composition Tile), vinyl, polished concrete, and other laminates, tailor your cleaning approach to the material:
- Laminates (LVT, linoleum): Avoid excessive moisture and use a cleaner designed for laminate flooring to prevent warping.
- Vinyl (VCT): Use a neutral cleaner and avoid excessive water to prevent damage. Regular sweeping and mopping with a mild cleaner will keep it looking good.
- Polished Concrete: Use a pH-neutral cleaner to maintain the finish without damaging the surface.
How do you maintain commercial flooring?
Maintaining commercial flooring involves a combination of regular cleaning, periodic deep cleaning, and protective measures. For commercial vinyl flooring like VCT and polished concrete, follow these steps:
- Regular Cleaning: Sweep or vacuum daily to remove dirt and debris that can cause scratches.
- Mopping: Use appropriate cleaning solutions and techniques based on the flooring type. For VCT, use a pH-neutral cleaner. For polished concrete, use a mild detergent solution.
- Buffing & Polishing: Regular buffing helps to maintain shine and protect the surface.
- Sealing & Waxing: Periodically seal or wax floors to provide an additional layer of protection and enhance their appearance.
- Spot Cleaning: Address spills and stains with a soft cloth or mop immediately to prevent permanent damage. Use recommended cleaners for tougher stains.
To maintain laminate flooring, including LVT, linoleum, and similar materials, follow these steps:
- Regular Cleaning: Sweep or vacuum daily to remove dirt and debris. Use a vacuum with a soft brush attachment to avoid damage.
- Mopping: Use a damp mop with a pH-neutral cleaner designed for laminate flooring. After damp mopping with light water, use a dry mop or cloth to remove excess moisture.
- Spot Cleaning: Clean spills immediately using a soft cloth or mop. For stubborn stains, use a mixture of water and mild detergent. Avoid abrasive cleaners to prevent damage.
- Periodic Deep Cleaning: Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for deep cleaning and consider professional cleaning periodically to keep floors like-new.
- Preventative Maintenance: Maintain consistent indoor temperature and humidity levels to prevent the flooring from expanding or contracting. Also, regularly inspect for and address scratches, stains, or wear patterns.
Additional tips for maintaining all types of commercial floors include the use of:
- Entrance Mats: Place mats at entrances to reduce the amount of dirt and moisture tracked onto the flooring.
- Furniture Pads: Use protective pads under furniture legs to prevent scratches and dents.
- Regular Inspections: Conduct regular inspections to identify and address any issues such as scratches, stains, or wear patterns early.
By following these practices, you can ensure that your commercial flooring remains clean, attractive, and durable, enhancing the overall environment of your facility.
Learn Directly from Midlab Experts
Keeping your commercial space spotless doesn’t have to be a challenge. By understanding the right products and methods for cleaning and maintaining your floors, you can ensure a clean, inviting environment that leaves a lasting impression.
Enjoy this read? Check out these easy commercial floor care tips to prevent common problems from arising or learn more and explore our products at midlab.com. You can also follow us on social media (@midlabeverythingclean) for future updates and quick reads like this!
