How do you choose the right scrubber for your industry?
Choosing the right scrubber depends on your sector, floor area and frequency of use. For small spaces, a hand scrubber is sufficient, while large industrial environments are better served by self-propelled models. Determine the working width based on your space size, choose the right battery system for your use and consider factors such as tank capacity in your decision.
Why is the right scrubber important for your business?
A right scrubber directly affects your floor cleaning efficiency and your company's operational processes. The wrong choice leads to longer cleaning times and potentially poor cleaning results.
In the industrial cleaning sector, machine choice also determines workplace safety. Professional scrubbers effectively remove dirt and grease, preventing slippery surfaces. This reduces the risk of accidents and ensures a safe working environment.
Different industries have specific floor cleaning requirements. Healthcare facilities have different hygiene standards than manufacturing environments, and retail spaces require different cleaning frequencies than warehouses. The right scrubber fits these industry-specific needs and regulations.
What are the different types of scrubbers?
Four main types of scrubbers are available, each with specific applications and benefits for different operating environments.
Hand scrubbers are ideal for smaller areas up to 500 square meters. These machines are maneuverable and suitable for use around obstacles. They have built-in water tanks and water extraction systems, cleaning and drying floors in one motion.
Step-up scrubbers offer greater comfort and efficiency for medium to large areas. These machines have larger tank contents and wider working widths, allowing you to clean large areas faster without frequent refills.
Self-propelled scrubbers are designed for very large industrial environments. They combine maximum efficiency with user comfort and can clean surfaces up to 17,560 square meters per hour with working widths from 96 to 154 centimeters.
Sweep-scrub combinations perform two functions at once: sweeping and scrubbing. These machines remove small debris with the sweeping system and then wet clean, so you only need one machine instead of two separate systems.
What factors determine the best scrubber for your industry?
Floor area is the most important factor when choosing a scrubber for business. Spaces under 500 square feet are suitable for hand models, while areas over 2000 square feet require walk-on or self-propelled machines.
The floor type determines which brushes, pads and cleaners you need. Tile, vinyl, wood and stone require different approaches for optimal results. Hard floors such as concrete can tolerate heavier brushes, while sensitive surfaces need soft pads.
Cleaning frequency affects your choice of battery type and tank capacity. Daily use requires long-lasting lithium batteries that can be recharged between uses, while occasional use warrants other battery types.
| Sector | Recommended type | Working width | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Retail/offices | Hand scrubber | 43-51 cm | Daily |
| Hospitals/schools | Stepping Scrubber | 51-71 cm | Several times a day |
| Warehouses/production | Self-propelled machine | 96-154 cm | Weekly intensive |
| Parking garages | Sweeper-scrub combination | 96-154 cm | Weekly |
How do you determine the right size and capacity of your scrubber?
The working width calculation is simple: divide your total floor area by your available cleaning time. For 1000 square meters in 2 hours, you need a machine that can clean at least 500 square meters per hour.
Tank capacity determines how often you need to refill during cleaning. Allow for about 1 liter of clean water per 100 square meters of floor space. For large areas, choose machines with tanks of 100 liters or more to minimize interruptions.
Battery life should match your work pattern. Lead acid batteries require 6-8 hours of charging time and should not be fully discharged. Gel batteries are maintenance-free but require full charge cycles. Lithium batteries offer the most flexibility because they can be recharged between charges without damage.
Also consider the layout of your space. Narrow hallways require compact machines with good maneuverability, while open spaces benefit from wider machines for maximum efficiency.
Which brands and models are best suited for different industries?
A-brands such as Tennant, Hako, Nilfisk and Fimap offer proven quality for professional applications. These brands have extensive dealer networks and good parts supply, which is important for business continuity.
Tennant is known for rugged machines for heavy-duty industrial applications. Their models are ideal for production environments and warehouses where reliability is paramount.
Nilfisk offers a wide range of machines for different sectors, from compact office models to large industrial systems. Their machines combine user-friendliness with technical innovation.
Meijer's own brand focuses on simplicity, quality and excellent value. These machines offer reliable performance and are suitable for businesses seeking quality.
For healthcare facilities, quiet machines with HEPA filters are important. Retail environments benefit from compact, maneuverable models that can be used during the day without inconveniencing customers.
What are the most important considerations when buying, renting or leasing?
Upon purchase, consider the total cost of ownership over the entire service life. Several options are available, from new hand scrubbers to step-up models in different categories. Used scrubbers also offer interesting capabilities.
Rental is interesting for seasonal use or projects. You pay only when you need the machine and do not have to worry about maintenance and repairs.
Leasing spreads the investment over several years and can offer tax advantages. Maintenance contracts are often included, providing budget certainty and preventing unexpected expenses.
Service contracts are important regardless of your choice. Regular maintenance extends the life of your machine and prevents repairs. Also consider parts availability and speed of service in your area.
For companies looking to make the right choice, we at Metech offer on-site demonstrations. This allows you to test different models in your own environment before making a final decision. With more than 700 machines in stock, we can deliver quickly and we are happy to advise you about the best solution for your particular situation.