by Dan Elliott, on February 19, 2024 at 3:28 PM
Commercial floor cleaning machines aren’t one-size-fits-all. No surprise there. But if you’ve only been looking at industrial floor scrubbers, take a few moments to consider an industrial sweeper instead.
Why? Because industrial scrubbers are more than most operations need. Industrial sweepers do an excellent job keeping warehouse floors clean, and they:
- Last longer
- Cost less to own
- Are easier to operate
Industrial Scrubbers vs. Sweepers
Most people start out looking to buy an auto scrubber. Based on the name alone, it makes sense. If you want your floors to be as clean as possible, why sweep when you can scrub?
The fact is, the majority of businesses don’t need a scrubber UNLESS the application is for cleaning up oil, grease, and similar compounds. If you have a grimy work environment or need to disinfect floors, choose a scrubber instead of a sweeper.
The vast majority of warehouse operations can use an industrial floor sweeper to get their floors clean. These high-powered machines are easier to use, have a lower cost of ownership and they get the job done.
Check out the video below. This Factory Cat sweeper eliminates dust and debris in a single pass.
Here are three reasons why sweepers are the best commercial floor cleaning machine for most warehouses.
1. Industrial Sweepers Are Easier to Use
To get floors clean, scrubbers use:
- Water
- Chemicals (usually)
- A squeegee
- and a brush system
With a sweeper, all you have to do is turn it on and go. When equipment is simple and easy to use, floors get cleaned more often.
2. Sweepers Last Longer Than Industrial Scrubbers
Commercial sweepers typically outlast scrubbers, even under harsh operating conditions. Generally speaking, sweepers can last for decades if they are maintained properly. They also require less maintenance than scrubbers, so you'll have more uptime.
3. Sweepers Are More Cost-Efficient Than Scrubbers or Manual Sweeping
We don’t need to tell you about the high cost of labor. If you have a big space to keep clean, a commercial floor cleaning machine will quickly pay for itself.
- The average person can clean 4,000 - 5,000 square feet of flooring per hour.
- With a walk-behind floor cleaning machine, they can clean 13,000 sq. ft./hr.
- A single employee can clean up to 100,000 square feet of flooring per hour with a ride-on sweeper
Unlike auto scrubbers, commercial sweepers don't require any chemicals or water to operate. They also don't require a full clean down after operation — a labor cost that can add up overtime.
Lastly, because warehouse floor sweepers are simpler machines, they require less maintenance and have fewer parts that need replacement. Put another way: industrial sweepers cost less to own.
Industrial Sweepers for Sale and Rental in Washington State
If you’re concerned that a sweeper won’t be able to clean your warehouse floors, keep in mind that sweepers have been used for decades in mines, brick manufacturing plants and rugged steel mills (just to name a few). If you’re not convinced, we’ve got a great video for you featuring the TR:
Each of these models comes with a 3-year warranty, a lifetime filter that filters to 1 micron (made of poly felt, not paper) and an average life span of 15-20 years (for the walk-behind).
Not sure if you should choose a sweeper or scrubber? Deciding between walk-behind vs. ride-on cleaning equipment? Try before you buy. We rent commercial scrubbers and sweepers in a variety of sizes.
Please contact us if you have any questions whatsoever. are here to help. Our industrial cleaning machine experts will take the time to get to know your business and help you make an informed buying decision.
Auburn: 253-854-5438
Pasco: 509-547-7413
Wenatchee: 509-663-9009
Yakima: 509-457-5137
Further Reading:
Factory Cat GTR: Heavy Duty Industrial Floor Cleaning Machine
Product Review: Factory Cat 34 Walk Behind Floor Sweeper
When to Buy Walk-Behind Vs. Ride-On Industrial Cleaning Equipment
Why Does My Warehouse Need A Cleaning Plan?
