The Science of Floor Cleaning

THE BASICS

» Mop buckets – Change water once it gets dirty. Dual compartment buckets keep dirty wringer water from cross contaminating clean water extending time between water changes. » Mop type - cotton is the least expensive, holds water well, but does promote mildew. Looped ends last longer. Synthetic blends hold less water, last longer and are less prone to mildew. The larger the mophead the bigger area it will cover, however they are heavier and require more effort to work with. » Neutral cleaner vs. acid or alkaline – most surfaces are damaged by anything other than a neutral floor cleaner.

Painted, waxed, wood, polished marble and sealed quarry tile are examples. » While an alkaline degreaser is great for removing grease, it also strips the wax or sealant off the surface. » Acid works well for etching unsealed quarry tile or cement; however, it is overly aggressive on other surfaces as well. » Enzymes – cleans grease and oils while not stripping off sealants

SLIPPERY WHEN WET

No rinse floor cleaners are designed to clean while not leaving a residue that becomes slick when wet.

RINSE OR NO RINSE?

Folks often use all purpose cleaners, pot and pan soap or laundry soaps to clean floors. These products require rinsing to prevent wet floors from becoming slick and dangerous. Unless an area has floor drains allowing for rinsing and the use of a squeegee, this is often unpractical.