5 Simple Hacks To Keep Your Home Free From Clutter - Spring Cleaning

Keeping the house tidy is very important to maintain the family's health. In addition, living in a clean and orderly home contributes to one's efficiency. If you want to speed up your cleaning skills to save time, read more.

Spring cleaning is typically deemed to be a tiresome job, but there are ways to make your life easier and still keep your house neat and tidy. Here are five spring cleaning hacks that will surely help you perform the job better and faster:

1. Determine what needs to be cleaned. To save you time, you have to target the area of your house that needs to be cleaned. Sweeping in an already clean area will not contribute to keeping your home neat.

According to Astol Cleantech, your cabinets, windows, countertops and floors are among the things that you should clean this spring. Target the high-traffic zone in your home.

2. Use the right tool. Cleaning won't be fast and efficient without the right tool. If you are cleaning the carpet and rugs in your home, Astol Cleantech advises that you use a vacuum, cotton cloths, reliable concentrated cleaner, degreaser and hair dryer.

3. For curtains, revive them by steaming. Most fabrics can be steamed, which ultimately removes bad odors.


The process will not take over 10 minutes. First, close the window and spray the curtain with the Cleaning solution. Run the steamer from top to bottom. Open the window and let the curtains dry.

4. For your deck, skip the manual labor of wiping it by hand. As per Astol Cleantech, you can pressure-wash your deck. Use the one with a tip that produces a spray about the width of two-by-four.
Also, avoid too much pressure, just use medium pressure and keep the spray moving, that is the trick to avoid your deck from damages. Then, apply a wood preservative to prevent discoloration and water damage.

5. Delegate the work. Cleaning the entire house by yourself will surely take time. If you are living with your spouse and children, it won't hurt them if you invite them to join in the task.
Astol Cleantech advice that you share the load. Cleaning is more fun if the family members work together.


How do you clean your house? What are your secrets in cleaning your home efficiently? Share your tips and strategies in the comment section below.

Commercial cleaning guide - Cleaning Machines

THE IMPORTANCE OF A CLEAN OFFICE

One thing is for sure; office cleaning is one of the most important things that you need to think about if you are the person who is in charge at your office. With this being the case, it is vital that you stay on top of all of the things that need to be done. Because of this, you might find that it would help to think about the reasons that office cleaning is so important.

The first reason is the fact that if you ensure that the place is clean and tidy, the people who work in the office are much less likely to catch anything through the germs that are left around. With this being the case, it therefore stands to reason that you would lose many fewer hours due to absences, and this means that you would neither have to put up with a loss in profits, nor would you have to cope with finding a replacement for the staff who are off for a longer period of time.

In addition to this, office cleaning is vital to help to prevent things from going wrong in your office. In such a stressful and fast paced environment, you might find that people don’t pay the amount of attention that they should to what they’re doing, and this could mean that they injure themselves by falling over things that have been left lying around by people who haven’t bothered to do the cleaning up properly. If this happens, then you might even find that you have to spend a lot of money in compensation, which is something that you more than likely can’t afford.

Also, you should find that taking the duties of cleaning away from your staff and hiring an office cleaning company is something that would help a lot. It would allow them to focus on the job that they are hired to do, rather than things that they’re not actually all that keen on, and this means that they will be much better for your company in the long term.

Ultimately, office cleaning should be something that is a priority when you’re running a business, as it means that you are able to keep everywhere clean and tidy, and also that you can increase the chances that you’re going to be able to make a profit which will be more impressive than it might have been in the past.

Why Regular Cleaning is Necessary - Cleaning Machines

Just as the clothes we wear need regular washing to keep them fresh and hygienic, our carpets and upholstered furniture require periodic cleaning. Accumulated soil and grit are major causes of reduced carpet and fabric life, and enable destructive and health harmful mites and bacteria to work unchecked. Cleaning costs are minimal when you consider the replacement cost of carpets and furnishings, so regular cleaning makes economic sense too.

Little do most of us realise that what we are seeing is only a tiny fraction of the soil that a carpet contains. The visible grime we notice is only the tip of the iceberg; up to 85 per cent of the dirt the carpet holds is buried deep within the pile. And when you consider that a carpet can eventually trap its own weight or more in soil - as much as 150 lbs for an average-sized living-room - you'll agree it's no trivial matter.

Regular professional cleaning can ensure:

• Increased life expectancy - Eliminating many of the problems that may lead to carpet and soft furnishings needing to be replaced before their time.
• Stain Removal - No longer worry about concealing those discomforting spots, marks and dried in spillages, professional cleaning can ensure removal of most stubborn stains.
• A more hygienic environment - Complete removal of general dust, soil and accumulated debris.
• Improved appearance - Even the oldest of carpets and furniture can look brand new following professional cleaning.
• Elimination of mites and bacteria - Reducing the risk of allergies, mould and many other potential problems.
• Deodorisation - Most odours can be eliminated by general professional cleaning and NCCA members can offer specialist treatments to ensure a fresh, clean smelling carpet.

Vacuuming Is Not Enough

Regular vacuuming is a necessity to keep your carpets clean and hygienic, and some of you will use other equipment to help maintain and preserve your valuable floor coverings. However, most domestic vacuum cleaners, shampooers and steamers, even the more powerful ones, haven't got what it takes to get rid of that deep-down dirt or nasty germs. This is one of those jobs for the professionals, with their highly sophisticated equipment and the training and experience to know how, when and where to use it.

Astol Pool Cleaning Robots - Cleaning Machines

Astol Pool Cleaning Robots

Robotic 6th Sense Technology:

• Smart Programming
• Working on smart Z- Programming
• It have also Some random motion. (random motion are required because all pools are not com platelet rectangular)
• Injury Protection. (the motors automatically stop within second after taken out from water)
• Auto off (automatically off after end of cleaning cycle)
• Auto wall cleaning (astol pool cleaning robot can clime upto 10 Fit)

Chemical and energy saves:

Astol robots saves 30% Chemical and 90% Energy.

Pre-programmed timer:

Astol robots have 3 Pre- programmed timing option.

Fine filtration: 

The porosity of filter bag is 70 micron, which is smaller than thickness of human hair.

Water proofing:

The Main unit has very high water ingress Protection (IP 68). This is very good for electronics products.

Additional accessories:

Caddy cart

Inside the box:

1.    Remote

2.    Filter bags

3.    Main Unit

4.    Power Box

5.    Guide Vane

6.    Synchronous Belt 2

7.    Impeller

For more details contact: Astol Cleantech Pvt. Ltd.

Upholstery Cleaner - Cleaning Machines, Carpet Cleaning Machines, Sofa cleaning machines

Ideal for carpeting, upholstery, dusting and allied applications. This vacuum cleaner is designed for removing high volume of dirt to assure the deeper cleaning on various surfaces.

Follow these furniture upholstery cleaning tips:

• Test cleaning products for colorfastness and shrinkage in an area you can’t see before spot-cleaning upholstery and furniture.
• Make your own non-toxic, environmentally safe, water-based upholstery cleaner by mixing one cup of warm water with 1/4 cup of dishwashing soap in a mixing bowl. With an electric mixer, beat until liquid becomes a thick foam.
• Remove furniture cushions.
• Vacuum surfaces thoroughly with vacuum attachment.
• With a soft-bristled brush, rub foam cleaner onto fabric.
• Remove foam with a spatula.
• With a clean, damp cloth, wipe away remaining suds.
• Use care: Too much water can leave stains and cause fabric shrinkage.
• Keep cleaning solution away from wood accents.
• Let dry completely.

How to find the upholstery cleaner

For further advice and support on choosing the very best Upholstery Cleaner machine for your industry, contact Astol Cleantech (P) Ltd.

Tips on selecting a floor cleaning machine - Cleaning equipments, commercial floors, floor cleaning, scrubbing machines

No matter what industry you operate in, it’s absolutely essential to ensure that you own the kind of equipment that’ll guarantee to keep your floors in perfect condition at all times. Not only does dirty flooring lead to an unsightly, unprofessional appearance, it also has the potential to create the kind of unsanitary conditions that can lead to health and safety issues in the future. Keeping your floors looking their very best promotes a proficient, caring company image, and also ensures the safety of everyone operating the working environment.

When it comes to scrubbing commercial floors, selecting the right floor cleaning machine is half the battle. There are so many to choose from that the options can seem overwhelming, so it is worthwhile taking the time to assess your business needs to help you to make an informed choice.

Listed here are a few questions to consider, which will help you to make the right decision and get the best value from the floor cleaning equipment you invest in.

What’s The Job?

This is the first thing you need to ask yourself when it comes to selecting a floor cleaning machine for your company. Take a good look at what kind of job you need to do, and what kind of surface you’re looking to clean.

Any outside jobs can get the best results through use of a scrubber drier, as these machines will enact the kind of strong force required to remove dirt from areas where it accumulates quickly. Floor sweepers can be used for most hard flooring, with alternative brush types available to sweep away different kinds of dirt (for example, finer dirt will require a softer brush for better effects). A buffing machine is ideal for any large spaces, as mopping expansive environments is not only tiring but also hugely time consuming. Pressure washers are also an effective investment for large commercial areas, and for smaller spaces it may be worth looking at purchasing a pedestrian model. Vacuum cleaners are ideal for removing dirt from carpeted floors, and remember to keep in mind that certain models can also double up as hard surface floor cleaners, with the ability to remove any wet patches or stubborn dirt.

How Long Will You Need It?

It’s important to keep in mind how many times you’ll need to use a particular cleaning machine when selecting one for your business. If you’re looking to renovate an industry space as a one-off job, then hiring a powerful cleaning equipment might be your best option. For any floors that require frequent cleaning, it may be better to buy your own equipment so that you have the right machine on hand for any time you need it.

What’s Around You?

It’s also taking account of the environment around you when selecting a particular floor cleaning machine. If you are looking to clean a public place, a smaller machine that generates less noise is the right way to go, whereas if you’re attempting to enhance the appearance of large industrial space, then a large, powerful ride-on machine is best equipped to do the job.

For further advice and support on choosing the very best floor cleaning machine for your industry, contact Astol Cleantech (P) Ltd.

2in1 Floor Mop & Vacuum Cleaner - Cleaning Equipments

2in1 Floor Mop & Vacuum Cleaner

• Save time by vacuuming debris and steaming hard floors at the same time
• Sanitize with steam, using just water to eliminate 99.9% of germs and bacteria*
• Easy to use with Easy Touch Digital Controls, 5-way adjustable handle, and Quick-Release Mop Pad Tray - 4 mop pads included
• Dry Tank Technology keeps your tank dry while you steam
• *When used as directed, results may vary. Tested under controlled lab conditions.

How to Clean the Dirtiest Items in Your Kitchen - Cleaning is Important

Below are 18 easy and fast best cleaning hacks that will show you how to clean nearly everything in your kitchen -- and beyond:

1. Inside the Microwave
   "Steam lemon juice or white vinegar. Let the steam sit, then wipe everything off," Reichert suggests. "The acid in the steam removes built-up food." But even heating plain water works, too.
   
    
2. Greasy Baking Sheets
   Jill Nystul, a journalist-turned-blogger at One Good Thing by Jillee, uses baking soda and hydrogen peroxide for baking sheets, stove burner pans and her flat iron. She sprinkles on baking soda, pours on a little peroxide, sprinkles on more baking soda and waits at least two hours. After that, you can practically just wipe it clean!
    
3. The Oven
   "One of my least favorite cleaning tasks in the kitchen used to be the inside of the oven," says Nystul. "Scrubbing stubborn, greasy messes is hard enough without having to climb inside your oven to do it!" She puts a shallow dish with a cup of ammonia on the top rack, and a pot of boiling water on the lower. Let it sit overnight. In the morning, the mess wipes clean.
    
4. Plastic Melted on a Toaster Oven Window
   Use a straight-edge razor at a 45-degree angle to remove it.
   
    
5. Waffle Iron
   A knife wrapped in a napkin gets inside ridges without scratching the surface.
   
    
6. Coffeemaker
   Run water mixed with white vinegar through the system, then run plain water through twice more. Carefully scrub inside the pot with ice cubes and salt.
   
    
7. Humidifier
   Run white vinegar through the system. Once you smell vinegar in the air, turn it off and let it sit overnight so the acid kills the bacteria. In the morning, run plain water through the system until the vinegar smell is gone.
   
    
8. Fingerprints on Stainless Steel
   "The reason stainless steel appliances get fingerprints is that they are oxidizing," says Reichert. Scrub the area with a gentle scrubbing powder or baking soda, then rinse. "To keep it clean, use a microfiber cloth."
   
    
9. Tile Grout
   Using an old toothbrush, scrub grout with a paste of hydrogen peroxide and Borax.
   
    
10. Kitchen Walls
    Reichert wipes food grease off walls with a rag dabbed with rubbing alcohol to cut grease and oil. Since it's flammable, make sure there are no open flames when you clean! "If it's been there a while, you can mix alcohol with baking soda," says Reichert. "The alcohol cuts grease -- the baking soda scrubs the stuck-on spots."
     
11. Carpet Stains
    Dab a little club soda on the stain. If that doesn't work, spray hydrogen peroxide mixed with water to lift stains, then absorb with a clean towel.
    
     
12. Kitchen Trash Can
    Take it outside and spray it with a hose, preferably before it starts to smell, then let it dry outside. Use a baking soda paste on caked-on dirt before spraying.
     
13. Stained Pan Bottoms
    Use a mixture of salt, Borax and baking soda with a Mr. Clean Eraser sponge.
    
     
14. Stained Countertops
    Scrub stains off counters with a whitening toothpaste.
    
     
15. Cast-Iron Skillet
    Don't use soap! Soak the pan in water, then scrub with a chainmail scrubber. Scrubbing tough spots with a plastic scrubber works, too.
     
16. Mirrors and Windows
    For streak-free cleaning, use a fine woven microfiber cloth, such as an eyeglass cloth.
    
     
17. Range Hood
    Lots of kitchen surfaces get coated with residue that's hard to clean. Nystul swears by fighting oil with oil! She pours a few drops of oil (any kind!) on a microfiber cloth or paper towel and wipes the gunk right off.
     
18. Any Surface
    Mr. Clean eraser sponges clean fiberglass, stainless appliances, countertops, tables, walls -- even the kitchen sink -- without stripping the surface or leaving residue.

Few things to look for when investing in a vacuum cleaner - Astol Cleantech Pvt. Ltd.

1. Suction power: Essentially, vacuum cleaners work through suction that is created by a built-in motor. The stronger the motor, the stronger the suction power it creates, and the more efficient the vacuum cleaner will be at sucking up all the dirt and dust. “When choosing a vacuum cleaner,” “be sure to take note of its power levels. All Astol Cleantech vacuum cleaners have very powerful motors, ranging from 1 600W to 2 200W depending on model, but this by itself does not guarantee top performance. What is important is that the power is used effectively throughout the system - from the floorhead and the hose, right through the filters and the dustbag, to give maximum suction. And to do this, all parts of the vacuum cleaner must work together to create an optimum flow of air.”

2. Manoeuvrability: Consumers often overlook manoeuvrability; however, good manoeuvrability is one of the most important features a good vacuum cleaner can have. “Having a vacuum cleaner that is easy to get around is essential – it needs to be easy to move to make light work of cleaning, and it needs to be able to get into difficult-to-reach and small areas. Look for wheels that have a 360-degree swivel – the undercarriage of Astol Cleantech vacuum cleaners for example, has three high quality, smooth running castors, making the cleaner extremely stable and very easy to guide around obstacles and over thresholds. The cleaner can also sit upright, making it very convenient for use on stairs. Astol Cleantech latest range of vacuum cleaners – the S8 range – boast DynamicDrive castors that rotate 360 degrees, have steel axles and feature shock absorbers – the rubberized wheels glide smoothly, are gentle on floors and are wear-proof

3. Simple operation and noise levels: Nobody wants to spend hours trying to figure out how to switch the vacuum cleaner on, “Vacuum cleaners should above all, be simple to operate – offering easy functionality to even the most technologically-challenged individuals. Over and above this, its special features should be easily accessible so that it makes the job of vacuuming much easier, not more complicated.

4. Compact and lightweight: Buying a compact cleaner often means making compromises such as accepting poorer quality, less efficient dust pick-up or inferior filtration. That most of us do not want to cut corners when it comes to the cleanliness of our homes or the quality of the air we breathe, but we still want a compact and lightweight vacuum cleaner that is easy to store.

5. Aesthetically good-looking: Today’s appliances don’t just have to be functional, but they should boast good looks as well. Astol Cleantech vacuum cleaners are convincing through their clean and modern lines, and they boast a high level of visual detail. With a combination of fresh, contemporary and classic lines, as well as high-quality surface refinements, each Miele vacuum cleaner is an attractive appliance in its own right.

6. Environmental sustainability: With environmental friendliness being a hot consumer trend at the moment, and with the ever increasing cost of electricity, it is very important to take into account how energy efficient a vacuum cleaner is, “In line with Astol Cleantech cradle-to-grave approach to environmental sustainability; all its vacuum cleaners boast energy-optimised motors that set the benchmark in energy efficient vacuum cleaning. Another thing to look at is the overall carbon footprint of the vacuum cleaner – as with all of Astol Cleantech appliances, its vacuum cleaners are designed, manufactured and tested to last for 1 000 operating hours. 

7. Longevity: It is very important to take into account how long your vacuum cleaner will last for – you may pay more for it initially, but if it is built to last, you will save money in the long run. When it comes to quality, we at Astol Cleantech are confident that nobody tests as diligently as we do. For any parts and components to be included in a Astol Cleantech products, they have to meet very stringent quality requirements and prove that they will endure 20 years of average household use.

- From hard floor to carpet: Check for a footswitch tat is used to gently lift the front of the electrobrush, so you can easily move from a hard floor to a rug.

- Automatic height adjustment: The bristles under the electrobrush should be spring-loaded to effectively clean different depths of carpet pile.

- Swivel neck: A unique swivel neck joint allows for navigation around furniture, and for it to be rotated for easy cleaning around obstacles such as table legs.

- Ergonomic carry handle: Check for an extra ergonomic carrying handle at the back that will allow the user to easily lift the cleaner and carry it upstairs.

- Large dustbags: Large dustbags facilitate the cleaning of large areas.

Few House Cleaner Habits You Should Follow Totaly - Cleaning Equipments

1. When cleaning a house, thinks of everything as a grid.

Do this with small areas, like a mirror or countertop, or larger spaces, like an entire floor. By visualizing the space broken up into a grid, We don't miss anything and don't go over any spot more times than necessary."

2. Always cleans from top to bottom.

If you're doing a major clean-up, do your floors last, That way you're not shaking down dust and dirt onto anything you've already cleaned.

3. Keeps a few odd (but seriously helpful!) items in cleaning kit.

Often use washable cloth baby diapers as a buffing tool. They're really amazing at shining things like granite countertops, mirrors, and windows, and help you use fewer paper towels.
Figured out some double-duty uses for other cleaning tools in her stash. A squeegee is great for sweeping up crummy countertops or dusty stairs, since it's grippy and can get into tight corners. And I like to use a plastic pan scraper for lifting stuck-on messes off floors — it saves your fingers!"

4. Corrals cords.

Electrical cords are a real magnet for dust bunnies, so like to neatly zip-tie them together, or even tack them up off the floor to keep dust from collecting.

5. Relies on hooks to keep things tidy.

"People have good intentions with their organizing systems, but often putting things away in bins is still too much to ask.  I've found I'm more likely to hang things up so  like hooks."

6. Always squeegees her shower.

You finds that keeping her bathroom as dry as possible to fight mildew and soap scum build-up. "I even squeegee shower curtains, or the lip of the shower door frame."

7. Skips hairspray.

"Dust really loves hairspray, so if I use it, tend to spray it outside. If you do end up with a sticky, dusty mess in your bathroom, a Magic Eraser can help clean it up."

8. "house-only" shoes.

Taking off shoes at the door really helps keep dirt out of your house. In the winter, Walk around the house in slippers, and in the summer  use flip-flops.

9. Uses cooking downtime to start cleaning up.

Love sitting down to dinner knowing that all I have left to clean up is the plates. Doesn't waste time watching that pot boil. As her food is cooking, Starts wiping down counters, rinsing prep tools, and putting ingredients away.

10. Treats stains right away.

The longer it sits, the harder it is to get it off. Ain't that the truth. Wipe up spills and grab that prewash stain remover as soon as you see a spot - you can spray it on even days before you do another load of laundry.

11. Keeps clutter tidy until she can toss it or put it away.

Don't devalue the smallest tasks, like straightening a pile of magazines, fixing a stack of mail, or folding a blanket. "They make your space feel clean even if you don't have time to really declutter."

12. Cleans a little bit every day.

People get bogged down in the details, but it's better to look at the big picture. Spend 15 minutes every day tidying up, cleaning countertops, and doing other quick cleaning tasks, which improves your mental well-being and makes deep cleans much easier to tackle later on.

13. Listens to podcasts while cleans.

Though really enjoys how cleaning is the sort of physical task that offers you time to be totally unplugged it's also a great opportunity to take in some passive entertainment. Workout music is great. You'll clean harder and you can totally count that as exercise.

Reasons for Organizing and Cleaning Your Home

Organizing and cleaning are two of the most important aspects of ensuring your home remains clean at all times. Therefore, it can be helpful to know some of the main reasons cleaning and organizing can make your life easier.

1. Always have a clean home: One of the main reasons for organizing and cleaning your home is that you can always come home to a clean place without having to worry about cleaning it yourself.
2. Makes your life less stressful: Organizing and cleaning your home makes your life much less stressful because you do not have to spend hours every week deep cleaning your home.
3. Home is aesthetically pleasing: A clean and organized home is aesthetically pleasing and is the perfect way to ensure your home always looks its best.
4. Prevents you from having to deep clean your home regularly: If you clean and organize your home regularly, it is likely you can avoid deep cleaning it every week, as keeping your home clean is easier than cleaning it when it is dirty.
5. Prevents pest infestations: Organizing and cleaning not only means you can enjoy the comfort of a clean home, but a clean home also helps you prevent pest infestations, as pests are less likely to invade a clean house.
6. Can preserve your home’s materials: In some cases, organizing and cleaning can help preserve your home’s materials. For example, cleaning your carpets regularly can preserve them and keep them looking and smelling fresh.
7. Safer for children: A clean and organized home is safer if you have children, as there are fewer harmful substances in your home.
8. Your things are easier to find: When you clean and organize your home regularly, your things are much easier to find, as having a designated place for all your things makes them easier to locate when you need them.
9. Promotes good health and hygiene: An organized and clean home promotes good health and hygiene for both you and your family and ensures your living space is safe and non-hazardous.
10. Can eliminate dust and other harmful substances in a dirty home: Organizing and cleaning your home can help to eliminate dust and other harmful substances present in a dirty home, making your home a much better environment for you and your family.

Organizing and cleaning your home not only ensures it looks its best at all times, but also makes it an enjoyable place for you and your family. For more reasons why organizing and cleaning your home can benefit you, it is a good idea to consult with a professional house cleaning company.

Pressure Washer Do's and Don'ts - Cleaning Equipments

Do’s

1. Always verify the GPM output of the supply hose is adequate for machine.  Check supply filter.
2. Always check engine and pump for proper level and color of oil before every use.
3. Always shut unit down when letting go of the gun jet more than 30 – 45 seconds.
4. Always change oils regularly every 250-300 hours of use (pump and engine).
5. Always shut down burner first, run for 1-2 minutes or until cold, and then shut the engine down. (Applicable only to hot water units).  Always run at full throttle while burner is on.
6. Always make sure supply valve (house or jobsite) is open all the way.
7. Always get valves adjusted every 300 hours or warranty is void.
8. Always run antifreeze through unit during the winter months, and if more than two months will elapse between uses.  If using during freezing temperatures, run antifreeze immediately after each use.

Don’ts

1. Never walk away from a unit while running in by-pass for more than 45 seconds.
2. Never kink supply or high pressure hose, or run over with a car or forklift.
3. Never run a unit with water leaks anywhere on the machine (gun jet, hose, fittings, etc.).
4. Never continue to run a unit with milky or metallic oil.  Running a unit until it quits just to finish a job is costly.
5. Never throttle down an engine while the burner is running, or shut down a unit while the burner is on.
6. Never tip a machine over or run it at an angle: the oil will not properly lubricate the internal parts.
7. Never allow the unit to freeze.  Just blowing out water will still leave enough water in the unit to cause major damage when the unit freezes.

 To know more click here

Consumer Pressure Washers - Cleaning Equipments, Cleaning Services

Pressure washers designed with the casual user in mind; someone who will be using the machine less than 100 hours per year.  We sell units that have brass pump heads and are economically repairable.   These are a cut above the units sold in the big box stores.   Most have commercial style couplers and can take advantage of a wide variety of accessories to handle your diverse cleaning jobs.

 

Click here to know more

Cleaning without Chemicals - Vacuum Cleaner

Many people are concerned about using chemicals during cleaning as they are perceived to be potentially harmful to the environment and the person using them. No one wants to use chemicals unless they have to, so cleaning methods that reduce or remove the need for them are becoming more popular and dry steam cleaning is one of them.

Using dry steam for industrial cleaning

The efficacy of steam as a cleaning medium has been known for many years and has demonstrable benefits in carrying out industrial cleaning. The basic principle of a dry steam cleaner is that, by putting the water in the boiler under pressure, the boiling point of the water is raised to achieve saturated steam i.e. steam with insignificant water content – usually 5-6%. Steam produced in a pressure washer, for example, has a high water content which may be adequate for some cleaning, but it does not effectively sanitise a surface. Effective sanitation is only achieved where the temperature of the steam is above 140°C when micro-organisms such as bacteria and dust mites will be killed. The high temperature of the steam emulsifies oil and grease as well as destroying germs, which allows the liquefied residue to be removed by vacuum or other means such as a micofibre cloth. A dry steam cleaner can be used on most surfaces except those that are very sensitive to heat. The advantage of this type of cleaner means both a reduction in the use of chemicals and also in water usage, which benefits both the environment and the personnel using it.

Why use a dry steam cleaner

A dry steam cleaner is a versatile cleaning machine that has the advantage of leaving a surface not only looking clean but also being thoroughly sanitised. They can be used in a variety of industrial and commercial settings including hospitals, schools, shopping centres and office buildings. There are also machines designed specifically for chewing gum removal which is a problem for many local authorities and businesses.
Before buying or hiring a steam cleaner there are a few things to consider including:

• The boiler should be made of stainless steel to provide more resistance to lime scale.
• Does the cleaner have continuous water fill?
• The dry steam cleaner should be robustly constructed as it is being used in an industrial environment, with possibly a number of different operators.
• There should be accessories which will enable a thorough cleaning job to be carried out. For example, different brushes and lances suitable for cleaning particular areas.
• Is a vacuum facility required to remove residue?
• Is the machine easily portable?
• What steam pressure is required
• Is a detergent delivery system required
• The surface to be cleaned and sanitised

Using a dry steam cleaner will drastically reduce the need for detergents used in other cleaning methods. It is anticipated that detergent use would be reduced within a range of 80 to 90% and the use of water by up to 95%. Using a dry steam cleaner gives not only environmental advantages but also economic ones as well.
There are many factors to consider before buying or hiring a steam cleaner and before entering into a contract, be sure that the machine will do what you expect it to. If in doubt get expert advice and you can always hire for a period before buying to make sure it does what you want it to. See some examples.

Pressure Washers - Cleaning Machines

Pressure washers are a vital tool in the industrial environment ensuring that cleaning is carried out to the standards and regulations required. The pressure washer has been around for many years and has developed into a wide range of types. The basic principle is the same in that water is fed into a machine and is the pumped out via a lance, exiting through an adjustable nozzle. The spray can be altered by adjusting the nozzle to suit the cleaning job in hand, the narrower the water jet the stronger the cleaning force, but less area is covered.

Selecting a Pressure Washer

Selecting the correctly sized machine from the huge range of pressure washers available can be daunting. The selection criteria are based on the type of job the appliance is required for. An example would be oil or greasy deposits which are adherent may require a high pressure to remove them, however a large hard surface area requires a lower pressure but a higher water volume. Consideration should always be given to the duty that the machine will be required to give to make sure you select the correct machine.

Types of Pressure Washers

The sophistication of pressure washers has developed over the years and there is a lot of choice. Hot water washers as well as cold are now available which are more effective if degreasing or disinfecting are required. The other advantage is that because hot water cleans better than cold, lower pressures can be used. Pressure washers can be portable or static and there are advantages to both:

• Portable Pressure Washers have an advantage as they can be moved where the cleaning is required. If the washer powered by electricity the portability is obviously restricted by the length of the power cord. Some pressure washers are available with their own power source, such as a diesel engine and can be moved around the site or off site for remote cleaning.
• Static Pressure Washers are a static wash system for premises where there is a regular requirement for hot water pressure cleaning. This would useful say in a transport company where a static jet wash facility could be used by a variety of operators at different times or in a small food processing plant where a cabinet mounted pressure washer would enable efficient cleaning. This type of stand alone hot pressure washer can be attached to a ring main system for one or two operators to access at various points to clean around the premises.

For information about pressure washers and how they can help you keep your business spotless, contact Astol Cleantech (P) Limited for the best advice and prices available.

Cleaning Equipment - Vacuum Cleaners

The range of cleaning equipment available for cleaning the industrial environment is large and varied. There is equipment to assist in all areas and can achieve levels of cleanliness and hygiene in a remarkably short space of time, resulting in less downtime and a more efficient use of resources

Types of Cleaning Equipment - Floor

Floor cleaning is a job that has to be done in all environments large and small, and there is a machine for every task. For instance the vacuum cleaner can do more than clean carpets, being available in models that can remove wet or dry residue, or even deal with hazardous dust. The floor sweeper is quite a familiar sight in commercial premises, and mechanically replicates the action of manual sweeping. The dirt is swept back under the machine by the leading rotating brush and swept further by a horizontal brush, back into a collection vessel. There are a variety of configurations and sizes to suit all applications, and to achieve the optimum results. For more adherent deposits there is the scrubber dryer, which is similar in appearance to the floor sweeper but fulfils a different function. This machine also uses a leading rotating brush but also applies a detergent solution and literally scrubs the floor. The resultant residue is then removed by a system of squeegees to leave the floor dry. Both sweepers and scrubber dryers can be pedestrian operated or ride-on depending on size. Basically there is a floor machine for every type of surface and every type of deposit.

Other Types of Cleaning Equipment

Industrial processes are by their nature prone to create dirt and pollution within the workplace and outside; sometimes the dirt and pollution is created by the public (for instance graffiti); but it all requires an efficient clean up. The development of the pressure washer over the last 40 years has improved the ability to remove stubborn dirt and to do it in a shorter time (it is particularly useful in the field of graffiti removal). Pressure washers may use hot or cold water; cold for general grime but for stubborn stains or degreasing then hot water is better. The amount of pressure used to impel the water is important as too high a pressure could damage the surface being cleaned, yet too low would render the washer less effective. A pressure washer can be portable or static. The portable washer has the advantage of being able to be moved around or even off site, however, if the cleaning is part of a regular process, a static cabinet mounted pressure washer could be better as it is always in position ready to go and geared to the job in hand. For instance a pressure washer could be used as a static jet wash in the transport industry or as part of a centralised cleaning system where a number of operatives can use the pressure washer at the same time by using a ring main system.

For more specific and hygienic cleaning, then a steam cleaner may be the answer which as with the pressure washers these can be portable or static.

To find the right solution to your cleaning problem talk to people who know, like Astol Cleantech (P) Limited who have a wealth of experience in the cleaning equipment industry and have great advice and products at good prices.

Industrial Sweeper

The need for sweeping the floor in the industrial and commercial environment is a significant requirement of any cleaning regime. The industrial sweeper has evolved over time to be a significant tool in the fight against dirt in the workplace

Industrial Sweeper – How Does it Work?

The operation of an industrial sweeper is basically quite simple and consists of one or two disc brushes which rotate and sweep the dirt back into the machine. The dirt is swept by a cylindrical brush, back into a collection tank for subsequent disposal. On the face of it quite straightforward, but there are many factors to consider when operating or purchasing a machine

Industrial Sweeper – Salient Points

• Brush Type – depends on the type of dirt being collected. For instance, to collect heavy deposits a stiffer, rougher brush should be used whereas for lighter dirt or dust then a thinner more flexible brush should be used.
• Type – Does the machine need to be a ride-on or walk behind (pedestrian) version. This is dependent on the size of area being cleaned and the access to it.
• Power – If it is engine powered consideration must be given if it is to be used inside to ventilation with regard to exhaust fumes. If it is battery powered then the charge life and type should be considered.
• Ease of Use – It should be easy to use by a variety of operators and ergonomically designed to reduce fatigue.
• Adjustable- Things like the brushes should be adjustable to ensure good contact with the floor. Some machines has a self levelling system to maintain good contact on a variety of floor surfaces.
• Design – It should be robust as it is being used in an industrial environment. Consideration should be given to access for maintenance and cleaning.

There are many other things to consider such as filtration, programmable controls and auto stop safety features. There is undoubtedly much to think about before purchasing an industrial sweeper. To make the right purchase it is best to talk to the experts in cleaning equipment at Astol Cleantech (P) Limited, who have the knowledge and products to ensure you get best machine at the best price.

How does a pressure washer make things clean? - Pressure Washer Cleaners

Understanding the cleaning process is essential to the effective use of a pressure washer. A pressure washer cleans by creating a high pressure stream of water that hits the surface with a large amount of kinetic energy, thus removing the dirt mechanically, while providing a constant flow of water to wash the dirt away. Often dirt is mixed with grease or oil, or other substances, which chemically bond the dirt to the surface you are trying to clean. Sometimes even the force of high pressure water needed to break these chemical bonds is insufficient to get the surface clean without requiring excessive pressure, that is either impracticable or would damage the surface. Adding a detergent, or other cleaning chemical, or using hot water, while agitating or brushing the surface, significantly enhances the cleaning power of the pressure washer.

Detergents and soaps are used for cleaning because pure water can't remove oily, organic soiling. Soap cleans by acting as an emulsifier. Basically, soap allows oil and water to mix so that oily grime can be removed during rinsing.

Detergents cannot accomplish much until some mechanical energy or agitation is added into the equation. This mechanical energy is provided by the pressure washer. As the detergent emulsifies the grime, breaking the chemical bond, the blasting effect of the pressurized water strips the dirt from the surface, while the flowing water rinses the detergent and soil away. Warm or hot water, or steam, melts fats and oils so that it is easier for the soap or detergent to dissolve the soil and pull it away into the rinse water.

Bottom - Line Burnisher Benefits

Burnishers can enhance a facility’s image with clean and shiny floors. Remarkably, experience indicates that distributors don’t aggressively market burnishers, or other high-end cleaning equipment for that matter.

These days, anything a distributor can do to lower costs - especially labor costs - is of interest to customers. In tight times, distributors can make their mark by informing end users of the increased productivity burnishers offer.

Though burnishers offer some unique benefits, they also create some challenges. The majority of these problems can be resolved with good training and a quality preventive maintenance program. Obviously, there are safety precautions that operators must follow when using any piece of powered equipment.

High shine floor finish: Since burnishers operate at high speeds, the interaction between the burnishing pad and the floor finish creates a high shine, often called the wet look.

Burnishers cover large areas in minimal time: Supermarkets are a good example of how burnishers cover large areas in minimal time. Often, one can visit a supermarket late at night and see dull floors, and only a few hours later, in the morning, the floors are clean and shining.

Saving labor dollars: Since burnishers decrease the amount of time needed to polish floors, there is a significant savings of labor dollars.

Image of the overall facility: When floors are clean with a high shine, the overall facility looks clean. Light also reflects better off a highly polished floor.

Safe floors: Clean and well-maintained floors are safe floors. A good floor cleaning and burnishing program provides a clean, slip-resistant surface for customers to walk on.

Compatibility with floor finishes: There are innumerable floor finishes manufactured today for use with high-speed burnishers. Indeed, many floor finishes are specifically designed to provide a high gloss level that is enhanced by high-speed equipment.

Ergonomics: When operated properly, a burnisher can alleviate some of the stress an operator experiences with slower-speed equipment.

Competitiveness: To stay competitive, end users are looking for every opportunity to produce quality floor finishes at the least possible cost. Burnishers are a great tool to use in controlling operating costs.

Power choices and sizes: Burnishers can be electric, battery-operated or propane-operated. In addition, machines have a variety of burnishing paths, suitable for small to very large areas.

How to Maintain the Carpet on Your Staircase

A carpeted staircase adds color, texture, and extra tread for safety on stairs. While you can cover the carpet with plastic runners to protect it from gathering dirt, that is an unsightly solution that should only be temporary. Follow this advice to give the carpet on a high-traffic staircase some special attention to keep it looking new and clean.

Step 1 - Have the Right Vacuum

Just like the carpet in the rest of your home, the carpet on your staircase needs regular vacuuming. It removes dirt, tiny bits of gravel, and debris from the rug that can grind away at it and do damage over time. A standard vacuum cleaner really isn't designed for stairs. It can be heavy to carry and too big for the small steps, making it almost impossible to use properly.

To vacuum the stairs, invest in a lightweight, handheld model that's about the size of a small suitcase. It should include different attachments. You can hold the main unit in one hand and guide the attachment with your other. When vacuuming stairs, always remember to start at the top and work your way down.

Step 2 - Use a Brush Attachment

A hose is good for sucking up surface dirt and may even get some deeper dirt that's loose in the pile. For the best results, use the brush roller attachment, which is similar to the beater brush on your standard vacuum. Doing so loosens impacted dirt and can help your carpet last longer.

Step 3 - Get a Stiff Broom

A stiff broom is also helpful for cleaning your carpeted staircase. It is much more lightweight than any vacuum. Doing so will improve the appearance of the carpet, but vacuuming is still recommended for a deep-down clean. To sweep the carpeted staircase, start at the top and move down. Sweep each step until any debris is on the bottom floor and can be vacuumed or swept away.

Step 4 - Steam Clean

You can steam clean the carpet on your staircase just as you can any carpet. You'll need a steam cleaner with a handheld hose attachment to do this. If you don't want to purchase a steam cleaner, you can probably rent a machine from a local grocery store. Keep in mind that investing in a home steam cleaner will save you money over time.

Step 5- Hand Scrubbing

You can also opt to shampoo the carpet by hand. It is also the best method of spot-cleaning. Some stains, like those with oil bases, may require a pre-treatment solution that loosens the dirt so it can be lifted from the carpet fibers.

Mix specially formulated carpet shampoo with water until you get a light foam. Work it into your carpet with a scrub brush. If you have a Shop-Vac or other wet/dry vacuum, vacuum as much water as you can out of the carpet. Otherwise, use a soft, absorbent towel or cloth to blot the carpet and remove as much water as possible. Once the staircase is completely dry, go over it with a vacuum.