Choosing the right cleaning agent for you scrubber is crucial for optimal cleaning results and the preservation of your floors. An incorrectly selected agent can lead to foam formation, damage to floor surfaces or reduced cleaning power.
Whether you work with a sweeper or scrubber, the choice of cleaning agent determines not only the effectiveness of your cleaning process, but also the lifespan of your equipment. In this article we answer the most frequently asked questions about cleaners for scrubbers.
What types of cleaning agents can you use in a scrubber?
There are three main types of cleaners suitable for scrubber scrubbers: neutral cleaners (pH 6–8), alkaline cleaners (pH 8–14) and acidic cleaners (pH 1–6). Each type is designed for specific types of soiling and floor types.
Neutral cleaning agents form the basis of daily maintenance. They are gentle enough for regular use on all floor types without causing damage. These products are ideal for general dirt, dust and light stains.
Alkaline cleaners tackle stubborn contamination, such as grease, oil and organic stains. They are more powerful than neutral agents, but require caution when used on sensitive floors, such as natural stone or painted surfaces.
Acidic cleaners specialize in removing limescale, rust and mineral deposits. They are mainly used in industrial environments or for specific cleaning problems.
What is the difference between neutral and alkaline cleaners?
The main difference is in the pH value and cleaning power. Neutral cleaners have a pH between 6 and 8 and are suitable for daily use, while alkaline cleaners have a pH of 8 to 14 and are more powerful against grease and organic contamination.
Neutral cleaners are the safest choice for frequent use. They do not damage floor surfaces or leave a residue that makes the floor sticky. These products are perfect for offices, shops and other commercial areas that require daily scrubbing.
Alkaline cleaning agents break down fat and protein compounds due to their high pH value. They are indispensable in kitchens, production areas and warehouses where heavy pollution occurs. The disadvantage is that they can damage floors or leave a film if used incorrectly.
For most applications in warehouses and logistics centers, neutral cleaning agents are sufficient for daily maintenance, with alkaline agents as a supplement for periodic, thorough cleaning.
How do you correctly dose cleaning agent in a scrubber?
The correct dosage is usually between 0.5% and 2% of the water content of your scrubber. This means 50–200 ml of cleaning agent per 10 liters of water, depending on the degree of contamination and the type of agent.
Always start with the lowest recommended dose and increase if necessary. Too much detergent leads to excessive foam formation, which overloads the suction motor and makes the machine less effective. In addition, overdosing leaves behind residue that makes the floor sticky.
Modern scrubbers often have an automatic dosing system that adds the right amount. If dosing manually, use a measuring cup for consistent results. Make a note of which dosage works best for your specific situation.
For very stubborn dirt, it is better to scrub twice with a normal dosage than once with too high a concentration. This prevents problems and produces better results.
Why does my scrubber foam foam and how do you prevent this?
Foam formation is caused by an overdose of cleaning agent, the use of the wrong type of agent or residues of previous cleaning agents. Foam clogs the suction hoses and significantly reduces the suction power of your scrubber.
The most common cause is overdose. Many users think that more detergent gives better results, but the opposite is true. Too much agent causes excess foam, which can cause the machine to malfunction and leave streaks on the floor.
Incorrect products can also cause foam. Household cleaners are not suitable for scrubbers because they produce too much foam. Only use professional low-foam cleaning agents that have been specially developed for mechanical cleaning.
- Reduce the dosage by 50% at the first signs of foaming
- Rinse the water tank thoroughly after using another product
- Use anti-foaming agent as a temporary solution
- Check that all soap and detergent residues have been rinsed away
Which cleaning agents are suitable for different floor types?
Use alkaline or neutral agents for ceramic tiles and concrete, only neutral agents for natural stone, and neutral agents with occasional mild alkaline cleaners for PVC and linoleum. Epoxy floors tolerate all types, but neutral agents usually give the best results.
Ceramic tiles and concrete floors are the most versatile. These hard surfaces tolerate both neutral and alkaline cleaning agents. In warehouses and production halls where there is a lot of grease and oil, alkaline agents are often necessary for effective cleaning.
Natural stone floors such as marble, granite and slate require extra care. Only use neutral cleaning agents, as acidic or strongly alkaline agents can etch and permanently damage the surface. These floors are often found in representative spaces.
PVC and linoleum floors are sensitive to strong chemicals. Neutral cleaners are the safest choice, with very mild alkaline agents for stubborn stains. Avoid acidic agents completely, as they can damage the material.
Epoxy floors in industrial environments are chemically resistant, but perform best with neutral cleaners for daily maintenance. For heavy contamination, alkaline agents can be used without damage.
How Metech helps with cleaning agents for scrubbers
We not only offer an extensive range of scrubbers from top brands such as Tennant, Nilfisk and our own brand Meijer, but also advise on the right cleaning agents for optimal results. With more than 700 machines in stock and 22 specialists, we help you find the perfect combination of machine and cleaning agent.
Our approach includes:
- Personal advice about cleaning agents that suit your floor type
- On-site demonstrations to test effectiveness
- Delivery within 24 hours of both machines and cleaning agents
- Maintenance contracts, including advice on the right products
Take contact Contact us for a no-obligation demonstration and discover how the right combination of scrubber and cleaning agent keeps your company floors spotless.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my current cleaning agent is suitable for my scrubber?
Check whether the product has been specifically developed for mechanical cleaning and has a 'low-foam' or 'non-foam' indication. Household cleaners are almost always unsuitable because they produce too much foam. Always test a new cleaner in a small amount first to prevent foaming.
Can I use different cleaning agents together or alternately?
Never switch directly between different cleaning agents without thoroughly rinsing the tank. Residues can react with the new agent and cause unexpected foaming or reduced effectiveness. Always rinse the tank with clean water before switching to another product.
What should I do if my floor feels sticky after scrubbing?
A sticky floor usually indicates an overdose of cleaning agent or insufficient rinsing. Reduce the dosage by 25-50% and ensure there is sufficient clean rinsing water. If necessary, scrub the floor again with just water to remove all residues.
How do I best store cleaning products and how long do they last?
Store cleaning agents at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and frost. Most professional cleaning products have a shelf life of 2-3 years in unopened packaging. Pay attention to the expiration date and always use the FIFO principle (first in, first out) with your stock.
Are there environmentally friendly alternatives that are equally effective?
Yes, there are biodegradable and ecological cleaners that provide similar results. These are often certified with labels such as EU Ecolabel or Cradle to Cradle. They are safe for the environment and often friendlier to the user, without sacrificing cleaning power.
What are the most common mistakes when using cleaning agents in scrubbers?
The three biggest mistakes are: overdosing (more is not better), using household products instead of professional products, and not rinsing the tank when changing products. These errors lead to foam formation, machine breakdowns and poor cleaning results.
How do I determine which dosage works best for my specific situation?
Always start with the lowest recommended dosage on the package and test this on a small area. Increase gradually until you achieve the desired result without foaming. Note the effective dosage and take into account seasonal differences in pollution.