It’s been a busy time here at Victor Floorcare – and as demand for our machines continues to grow across the UK, we’ve been strengthening the team behind the scenes to make sure we continue delivering the level of service our customers expect.
We’re pleased to welcome Rebecca Stewart and Aaron Griffiths to the Victor team, both joining our supply chain and operational support functions.
Over the last 12 months, we’ve seen strong growth across a number of sectors including healthcare, education, logistics and facilities management, alongside several major contract wins. That includes becoming a preferred supplier to Royal Mail and securing a framework agreement with the University of Glasgow.
Managing Director Edward Blackledge says the appointments are all part of making sure the business continues to grow in the right way.
“The last 12 months have been an extremely busy period for Victor Floorcare, with significant growth across a number of sectors and several major contract wins,” he says.
“As demand increases, it is essential that we continue investing behind the scenes to ensure our operational structure grows with the business.”
An important step
Like many manufacturers, the cleaning industry has faced its share of supply chain challenges in recent years – from longer lead times to increased demand and component availability pressures. But at Victor, we’ve always believed that honest communication and strong customer support matter just as much as the machines themselves.
That’s why strengthening the operations side of the business is such an important step forward.
“Our focus is not simply on increasing sales volumes, but on building a stronger, more responsive operation that supports customers properly for the long term,” Edward adds.
As a British manufacturer, one of our biggest strengths is staying closely connected to both production and customer requirements. By continuing to invest in people, systems and support, we’re putting ourselves in the best possible position for the future.
Since 1946, Victor Floorcare has manufactured specialist floor cleaning machinery here in the UK, supplying organisations across healthcare, education, retail, logistics and the public sector.
We are thrilled to announce that Victor Floorcare is relocating from Ace Business Park, Birmingham to Lancaster Court, Lancaster Road, Harlescott Industrial Estate, Shrewsbury, SY1 3LG. This move marks a significant milestone in our company’s journey, allowing us to expand our operations and better serve our ever growing customer base.
The new premises will provide us with larger facilities to accommodate additional staff, increased warehousing space, and enhanced production capacity. This expansion is a direct response to the recent increase in demand for our high-quality floorcare products. With more space, we can streamline our production processes, improve efficiency, and continue to innovate in the floorcare industry.
Interestingly, Lancaster Road holds a special place in our company’s history. The Victor name was chosen by Les Davies, our former Sales Director and joint Managing Director, inspired by his time flying Lancaster Bombers during World War II. Squadron planes were marked with the code letters VN, followed by the individual aircraft recognition letter. The phonetic call sign to the control tower on take-off and landing was “Victor Nan,” plus the letter of the aircraft. Les survived a full tour unscathed and considered the plane he was usually allocated – VN-F: Victor Nan-Fox – lucky.
Les Davies’ story is not just a fascinating piece of history; it embodies the spirit of resilience and innovation that has driven Victor Floorcare since its inception. Established in 1946, Victor Floorcare has built a strong reputation for producing robust, well-designed machinery that is easy to service and delivers high performance. The quality of our products is unparalleled in the industry, with owners often seeking service or parts for machines manufactured as far back as the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s.
Our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction has been the cornerstone of our success. We understand that our customers rely on our machines to keep their environments clean and safe, and we take that responsibility seriously. Each machine we produce is a testament to our dedication to excellence, from the initial design phase to the final product.
The move to Lancaster Court is not just about physical expansion; it’s about positioning ourselves for the future. As we continue to grow, we are excited to explore new opportunities and challenges. The larger premises will enable us to increase our production capacity, ensuring that we can meet the rising demand for our products without compromising on quality. Additionally, the expanded warehousing space will allow us to maintain a larger inventory, reducing lead times and improving our ability to respond to customer needs promptly.
We are also looking forward to welcoming new team members to Victor Floorcare. The additional space will enable us to expand our workforce, bringing in fresh talent and perspectives that will help us continue to innovate and improve. Our team is the heart of our company, and we are committed to providing a supportive and dynamic work environment where everyone can thrive.
As we prepare for this exciting transition, we want to take a moment to thank our loyal customers for their continued support. Your trust in our products and services has been instrumental in our growth, and we are dedicated to maintaining the high standards you have come to expect from Victor Floorcare. We look forward to welcoming you to our new premises and continuing to provide the exceptional service and products that have defined Victor Floorcare for nearly eight decades.
In conclusion, the move to Lancaster Court represents a new chapter in the Victor Floorcare story. It is a testament to our commitment to growth, innovation, and excellence. We are excited about the opportunities this move will bring and are confident that it will enable us to serve our customers even better.
Thank you for being a part of our journey, and we look forward to sharing this next phase with you.
Cost-Effective Floorcare: High-Quality Solutions That Won’t Break Your Budget | Maintaining clean and safe environments while sticking to a budget can be a daunting task for facilities managers. The challenge of finding high-quality machinery that is also cost-efficient can be incredibly frustrating because many variables should be considered. At Victor Floorcare, we recognise the potentialconflict between departments seeking approval for budgets & purchases. This is wherethoughtful & strategic budget planning is essential.Such as the idea offocusing on long-term efficiency to reduce impact to year-over-year costs. You may be surprised to learn thatinvesting in high-quality machinery could be beneficialto your budgetcompared to cheaper and more disposable solutions.
The True Cost of Floorcare: What Facilities Managers Need to Consider
Investing in durable and reliable machines can be eye-wateringly expensive. Choosing more expensive equipment over cheaper alternatives requires thoughtful consideration and purchasing decisions shouldn’t be made in haste. You must consider all your options, complete comprehensive research and make comparisons which will then enable practical and informed decision making. But when comparing cost of machinery, you should also consider the long-term running & maintenance costs as well as the longevity of the machinery.
Victor has been established for nearly 80 years, and like many esteemed brands, we have manufactured all our machinery and parts in the UK—a tradition we proudly uphold to this day. Unfortunately, in recent years, we’ve witnessed the rise of a throwaway culture among many other businesses in the UK. The drive for increased profits and cost-cutting measures has led to a decline in the longevity and quality of many products and machines. Commonly parts and machines are manufactured in countries such as India or China where there’s lower labour and production costs. However, materials are often lower quality, the workforce may not be highly skilled and there’s less regulations in quality-control, if any at all.
In the context of machinery and products, planned obsolescence can lead to increased waste and environmental impact, as well as higher costs for consumers who need to replace items more frequently. According to a study by McKinsey, companies that invest in high-quality machinery can reduce maintenance costs by up to 30%. Therefore, choosing machines which may have a higher upfront cost, could reduce additional costs in the long-run.
Another variable is the cost of training. Once you’ve purchased new machinery it’s essential your cleaning team has a comprehensive understanding of how the machine operates. If the user is inadequately trained there could be a breach of health & safety and injury could occur to the user or others in close proximity. Proper training on using cleaning machines can help prevent these accidents by ensuring staff know how to operate the equipment safely. Lack of training could also result in damage to the machinery which could be irreparable or expensive to repair.
Additional costs will also be incurred for general maintenance. It’s important to ensure maintenance is done as frequently as required this will ensure your machinery is working efficiently and reduce the need for expensive repairs which may be necessary if maintenance is neglected. Although servicing should be maintained, depending on the supplier of your machine it can be very costly, especially if the machinery uses sophisticated technology. Complex maintenance requires highly skilled technicians and specialised parts therefore this will increase long-term costs.
Additionally, the additional cost of consumables should be considered including accessories such as pads, brushes and squeegees. More expensive cleaning machines often come with specialised consumables that can be pricier than those for more basic models. The higher initial cost of the machine usually reflects advanced technology, higher efficiency, and better build quality, which sometimes translates to more expensive consumables. These might be tailored specifically to the machine to ensure optimal performance.
Cost-Effective Floorcare Machines from Victor Floorcare
Rotary machines are synonymous with the Victor brand. We have been manufacturing floor buffers and polishers for over 75 years. Thanks to their durable ergonomic designs, Rotary Machines became synonymous with the Victor brand. Designed for a wide variety of applications such as buffing, polishing and cleaning.
As well as our infamous Rotary range we have a wide variety of scrubber dryers and specialist deep-cleaning machines, the Ocelot 400 & the Ocelot 400 Plus. As well as, providing custom solutions for customers that have particularly unique cleaning challenges.
Focused on Longevity all Victor machines are manufactured in the UK using only the best materials and parts. Enhancing productivity and efficiency further, we offer battery operated Cleaning Machines. These machines feature high-quality Lithium-ion batteries which are known for providing longevity, increased run-time and consistent power. Commonly, cleaning machines feature cheaper alternatives, such as Lead-Acid which are reliable and inexpensive but also heavy and have a much shorter lifespan compared to Lithium-ion batteries. Overall, Lithium-ion batteries are generally more expensive but you’re guaranteed a better return on investment because the cleaning machine will provide optimal power whilst cleaning and you’ll be able to operate the machine for extended periods before losing power.
Real-world Example
As the official supplier of commercial cleaning machines to Ministry of Justice, Victor machines have transformed and simplified cleaning operations across UK prisons.
There are some particularly unique challenges in correctional facilities, depending on the category of prison, the use of cleaning chemicals can be restricted. This can make deep-cleaning tasks difficult, which is why the Victor oscillating machines are a favoured solution in the MOJ because they provide immaculate cleaning results with reduced moisture and without any chemicals. This is due to intense cleaning action, applied by the rectangular cleaning pad which rapidly vibrates in a multi-directional motion.
The Victor machines are well known for providing durable and efficient floorcare solutions which meet requirements for specific applications. Specifically, for HMP Channingwood, their workshops required high-level cleaning which couldn’t be completed using their regular equipment, so they sought the support of a cleaning agency. Unfortunately, facilities operations in prisons often have limited budget and the quotes received were astronomically priced and therefore not feasible.
At Victor we were able to support their objectives by providing a custom solution, the Victor 5.5m Long Reach Dual Motor Wet & Dry Vacuum. Utilising the Victor WD60 combined with custom integrated accessories to create a complete solution for high-level cleaning requirements.
Wood Mill Instructor, Andy Smith commented on the outcome of choosing the customised Wet & Dry vacuum, “The Victor vacuum was superb, powerful, and easy to move around. The long reach gave us plenty of height to vacuum the roof space and all the pipework, including the extraction pipes below.”
Choosing a commercial cleaning machine from Victor meant HMP Channingwood were able to avoid the expense of specialist cleaning services and they’re able to utilise the Wet & Dry vacuum as often as required, enabling return on their investment. This was supported by Andy Smith when he said, “It was the best thing we ever did and saved a fortune at the same time.”
Conclusion
Maintaining clean and safe environments doesn’t have to mean compromising your budget. By investing in high-quality, durable floorcare machinery, you can reduce long-term costs, enhance operational efficiency, and meet the unique challenges of your facility. At Victor Floorcare, our commitment to quality, innovation, and customer-focused solutions ensures that you have the tools needed to achieve exceptional results.
Whether you’re managing an office, healthcare facility, retail space, or school, our cost-effective machines are designed with your needs in mind. With nearly 80 years of expertise and a proud tradition of UK manufacturing, we’re here to help you make informed decisions for your cleaning operations.
Discover how Victor Floorcare can provide high-quality solutions that save time, money, and effort. Let us help you achieve a cleaner, safer, and more sustainable future.
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Maximise your EOY Facilities Budget | As the financial year draws to a close, making the most out of your end-of-year (EOY) budget becomes paramount. It is essential to be meticulous when allocating your budget across various business functions. Take a comprehensive look at all business processes and identify areas that require improvement. When investing the remaining budget, focus on optimising resources, exploring automation methods, and leveraging modern technologies. Most importantly, aim to ensure a satisfactory return on your investment. Conduct thorough research to compare different solutions, review current processes to then determine which solutions are best suited for your operations.
Evaluating your current spending & business requirements.
Before making any purchasing decisions, begin with a comprehensive evaluation of your current spending and business requirements. Strategic analysis and budget planning contribute significantly to effective operations. Start by collecting all relevant financial records to ensure you have a detailed spending report. Categorise expenditures to determine which areas have received the most funds. Identify key business requirements and discuss them with your team to gather their insights and opinions. This collaborative approach ensures that all critical needs are addressed and supports informed decision-making for optimal budget utilisation.
Why should you invest in Cleaning & Maintenance?
Investing in cleaning and maintenance is crucial for your organisation’s success. A clean environment keeps everyone healthy and safe, improves your organisation’s reputation, and boosts employee morale and productivity. Regular upkeep saves money by preventing expensive repairs and extending the life of equipment. It also helps you comply with regulations and reduces risks. Prioritising cleaning and maintenance shows your commitment to excellence and creates a better workplace for everyone.
Health & Safety | Preventing illness and injury
Ensuring compliance with health & safety in cleaning & maintenance is critical to the wellbeing of employees, customers and visitors. Clean environments can prevent the spread of infections and other illnesses, and in-turn can reduce the rate of employees taking sick leave.
Ensuring that areas such as walk-ways are kept free from obstructions and maintaining the cleanliness of flooring to prevent potential slips and trips which could otherwise result in injuries. This does not only ensure the safety of employees but also prevents costs to employers of sick leave. Research shows that slips, trips, and falls result in UK employers spending over £73 million annually on employee leave. There could also be other direct costs including medical expenses, compensation claims, and legal fees. According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), slip and trip accidents cost UK employers over £500 million per year.
Compliance and Regulations: Importance of Cleaning and Maintenance
Organisations must ensure compliance with a variety of key regulations and guidelines. Legislation set out by the UK government applies to all businesses, regardless of size. Such as the Health & Safety at Work Act, which is the primary legislation covering occupational health & safety. Employersare responsible for health and safety within their business, and maintaining cleaning and maintenance significantly contributes to preventing breaches of health and safety regulations.If standards are not maintained this could have critical consequences for the employer, companies can face fines, prohibition notices, and even criminal charges.
Industry Standards
In addition to government regulations, many industries have specific cleanliness standards that must be met to obtain notable certifications or even to continue operating the organisation altogether.
Healthcare Sector Example
For example, hospitals have much stricter requirements when it comes to cleaning standards to ensure patient well-being and prevent the spread of infections and diseases. Some patients may be especially vulnerable to illnesses, and an unclean environment could be detrimental to their health. Those with pre-existing conditions such as heart disease, diabetes or respiratory issues are likely to have weakened immune systems and contracting a simple cold could result in a serious deterioration in health and potentially have life threatening consequences.
Therefore, the NHS must dedicate significant resources and budget to their estates and facilities teams, cleaning equipment, and more. This investment ensures that hospitals maintain the highest standards of cleanliness, protecting both patients and staff.
Specifically,when considering floor maintenance there should be critical focus. Hospital environments are often equipped with anti-slip flooring materials which often feature a textured surface. Dirt can then be forced into the indentations of the flooring and create a smoother surface, resulting in reduced slip resistance. Therefore, a cleaning schedule should be maintained using durable cleaning machines which can apply enough cleaning pressure to the flooring to successfully remove the embedded dirt.
Summary | Maximise your EOY Facilities budget
Effectively managing your EOY budget requires a thorough analysis of your current spending and the identification of the most important requirements in your facilities operation. Cleaning will always require consistent attention—it is an essential aspect that contributes to your company’s success in multiple ways. A clean environment not only ensures the health and safety of employees and visitors but also enhances your company’s reputation and boosts employee morale and productivity. By prioritising cleaning in your budget, you invest in a vital component that supports overall operational efficiency and excellence.
If you’re looking to optimise your cleaning with durable commercial machinery but facing difficulties with budget. Victor provide versatile payment options to suit your organisations requirements with MONDU Buy Now Pay Later.
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As industries across the board adopt modern innovations and technologies, sustainability has emerged as a pivotal concern. Businesses now face significant pressure to operate with environmental considerations in mind, including their cleaning operations. Implementing sustainable cleaning processes to minimise environmental impact is no longer just a trend—it’s a necessity. Cleaning operations typically include the use of chemicals, consumption of energy and water which all combined has extensive impact on the environment. This is why careful consideration of cleaning products and machines used in floor cleaning solutions is essential.
Energy consumption is a key consideration when powering machines for commercial use. At Victor Floorcare, our machinery can be powered either with cords-to-mains or with battery power. As manufacturers of industrial floorcare solutions, we have thoughtfully designed, developed, and tested our machines to ensure they provide efficient and effective power.
The Importance of Sustainability in Floorcare
Choosing commercial floorcare machines that meet your objectives for an efficient and eco-friendly floor cleaning solutions can be challenging. Commercial cleaning machines often rely on considerably more power than regular consumer cleaning machines and can have a significantly adverse effect on the environment.
Cleaning chemicals also impact air pollution with volatile organic compounds being released into the atmosphere. The UK’s department for Environment found has found that indoor air pollution can be up to five times higher than outdoor levels due to these chemicals. Not only impacting the environment but also harmful to human health and other life forms inhaling the pollutants. Unfortunately, most cleaning products do contain some kind of hazardous chemicals which are often essential to achieving the desired cleaning results and to ensure effective sanitisation.
Another aspect to consider is the use of water in cleaning. Heating water consumed significant amounts of energy and contributes to carbon emissions. Although, you must also consider the environmental impact before the water even reaches your taps! Ensuring we all have a clean steady water supply isn’t a straightforward process. Behind the scenes, water goes through several energy intensive steps such as pumping water from sources and treating it to make it safe for consumption and distributing it through the water supply network. According to the Global Water Forum, the water industry in the UK uses approximately 8% of the country’s total energy supply to complete these processes. This highlights the substantial use of energy just using regular tap water.
Benefits of Battery-Powered Floorcare Machines
There are several reasons why battery-powered floorcare machines are an eco-friendly floorcare solution if you’re mindful of saving energy. The cordless operation is time-saving, allowing you to move seamlessly from one area to another without having to stop to switch power outlets. Modern battery technology ensures consistent performance throughout the cleaning process, making your job easier and more efficient.
One of the main benefits is flexibility. You can use these machines in areas where access to power outlets is limited or non-existent. Whether you’re cleaning a large commercial space or a residential area, battery-powered floorcare machines can handle a variety of floor types and cleaning needs. This versatility makes them practical for different scenarios.
When it comes to sustainability, battery-powered machines tend to consume less energy than traditional corded machines, which contributes to lower electricity bills and a reduced carbon footprint. They also have a longer lifespan and create less maintenance waste, making them a more environmentally friendly option.
Of course, corded machines have their own advantages, like providing a continuous power supply and consistent power output. They can sometimes be the better choice, especially if you need to use the machine for extended periods. However, if your primary focus is sustainability and being environmentally conscious, battery-powered floorcare machines are a solid choice.
In conclusion, battery-powered floorcare machines offer efficiency, flexibility, and sustainability. Their ability to operate without power cords and their reduced environmental impact make them a forward-thinking solution for modern cleaning needs.
Battery Floorcare Solutions
Choosing the best eco-friendly floor cleaning solution can be challenging yet rewarding. It requires thoughtful consideration of sustainability, cost-effectiveness, and long-term environmental impact. At Victor, we produce a range of cordless solutions designed with longevity and sustainability in mind. Our machines are powered by advanced Lithium-ion batteries, which offer several advantages over traditional Lead-Acid batteries.
Lithium-ion batteries boast a higher energy density and a much longer life cycle, allowing them to be charged and discharged repeatedly without losing capacity. They charge more quickly and are generally lighter, contributing to overall machine efficiency and ease of use. Additionally, they are virtually maintenance-free, saving you time and reducing upkeep costs.
Lithium-ion batteries also provide a consistent power output, maintaining performance levels until nearly depleted. This results in more reliable and predictable operation. Moreover, at the end of their life cycle, Lithium-ion batteries are easier to recycle, as they do not contain hazardous materials such as lead and sulphuric acid. This makes them a safer and more environmentally friendly choice.
Overall, Lithium-ion batteries have higher efficiency, with less energy lost to heat during charging and discharging, meaning our machines use significantly less energy compared to those with other types of batteries. This enhances their eco-friendly credentials and makes them an ideal choice for sustainable floorcare solutions.
Victor Rotary machines are the staple of the Victor brand, earning a reputation for their exceptional durability and high quality results. With many customers using their Victor rotary machines for 30 plus years, just returning every so often for a simple machine service. Now with the introduction of battery machines providing additional benefits for enhanced manoeuvrability and productivity.
With its cordless design, this machine makes manoeuvring light work. Removing the time wasted on navigating around obstacles or dealing with cables. Cleaning staff can focus on the job, rather than fussing over power sockets or potential trip hazards.
Swappable Lithium-Ion Batteries
Need a longer runtime? No problem! Batteries can be swapped out in seconds, with our Victor Lithium Rotary Battery. Pair it with multiple batteries, and you’ve got continuous operation with zero downtime.
Mid-Cycle Charging
Charge the machine while you work without worrying about damaging the battery. This means your equipment is always ready when you need it, boosting operator efficiency and cutting down on downtime.
Super Quiet Operation
Victor’s cordless machines are very quiet, due to the advancements in battery technology and the quieter motors used in battery-powered devices. This makes them perfect for daytime cleaning in noise-sensitive spots like hospitals, libraries, or schools.
Lower Energy Costs
Battery-powered tech significantly reduces energy consumption compared to traditional corded machines. This leads to lower annual energy costs, making operations more sustainable and cost-effective.
The Ocelot 400 and Ocelot 400 Plus are available in both mains and cordless versions, designed for intense periodic cleaning tasks. They deliver immaculate results in a single pass, saving operators time and enabling quicker cleaning compared to other floor scrubbing machines, this also contributes towards energy savings.
Efficient Cleaning
The high-frequency, multi-directional movement of Ocelot machines agitates embedded dirt and debris, delivering 3,000 rounds of 7mm cleaning action per minute. This intense cleaning action dislodges even the most stubborn dirt and stains, making floor cleaning effortless and efficient.
Low-Moisture Cleaning
These machines are specifically designed for low-moisture cleaning, requiring only a neutral cleaning agent, if any at all. This reduces the use of water and cleaning chemicals, making the process more environmentally friendly.
High Performance
Equipped with high-performance, super-efficient Lithium-ion batteries, these machines provide exceptional cleaning results using just plain water. This level of cleanliness often surpasses that of wet-floor cleaning machines that rely on harsh chemicals.
Eco-Friendly
The minimal use of water and chemicals is a significant attribute for eco-friendly cleaning. The sustainable design of these machines ensures that they are not only effective but also kind to the environment.
Learn more about the Oscillating duo contribute to sustainable floorcare in the video below
Victor’s range of scrubber dryers offers a solution for every application, primarily powered by batteries for enhanced efficiency and eco-friendliness.
Hyperglide
The smallest in the range, the Hyperglide resembles an upright vacuum cleaner and is available in both mains and cordless versions. It has a one-hour run-time and a one-hour charge. The battery can be swapped for longer run-times, making it extremely versatile and easy to use with one hand.
SD12 This compact machine features a fold-away handle for simple storage and is perfect for tight spaces, such as corridors and retail environments. It can clean up to 1,600 m² on a single charge and operates quietly, generating just 66.7 decibels of sound.
SD40 One of the lightest and most slimline 40L scrubber dryers, the SD40 features quick-charge batteries offering two hours of battery life, cleaning up to 6,000 m² on a single charge. It provides stronger suction power to ensure floors are left dry, and its larger tanks allow for extended cleaning sessions without interruption.
SD50 Ideal for cleaning surfaces from 1,000–2,000 m², the SD50 can cover up to 8,400 m² on a single charge in Eco Mode. Its front-mounted brush head increases visibility during operation and allows for closer cleaning to corners and edges. The design simplifies maintenance, making routine tasks quick and easy.
SDR-80 The SDR-80 features a front-mounted brush head for improved visibility and edge cleaning. Its design simplifies maintenance and ensures fast and easy access to routine tasks. The slimline design and advanced power steering provide ultimate manoeuvrability and driving comfort for the operator
Conclusion
Sustainability in floorcare is now an essential aspect of modern cleaning practices. The impact of cleaning operations on the environment through the use of chemicals, energy, and water requires a thoughtful approach to the products and machines we use. At Victor Floorcare, we understand the importance of sustainable practices and have designed our machinery to be both efficient and eco-friendly.
Battery-powered floorcare machines offer numerous benefits that align with sustainability goals. They enhance productivity, reduce energy consumption, and minimise environmental impact. By choosing battery-powered solutions, businesses can enjoy the flexibility of cordless operation, lower energy costs, and a quieter, more efficient cleaning process.
Victor’s range of battery-powered machines, from rotary and oscillating to scrubber dryers, shows our commitment to innovation and environmental responsibility. These machines are designed to deliver exceptional cleaning results with minimal use of water and chemicals, ensuring that our operations are both effective and kind to the planet.
In a world where sustainability is paramount, choosing the right floorcare solutions is crucial. Victor Floorcare is dedicated to providing advanced, eco-friendly machines that help businesses meet their environmental objectives while maintaining high standards of cleanliness and efficiency. By embracing battery-powered technology, we can work together to create a cleaner, greener future.
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Six Nations Championship: Cleanest Stadium Revealed | Dating back to 1883, the Six Nations Championship is the oldest international rugby union tournament in Europe. With England holding the record for the most overall titles whilst Wales has the Grandest Slams. The Championship is a key highlight in the rugby calendar and known for its electric atmosphere and passionate fan base.
As the Six Nations Championship approaches, culminating in a head-to-head match between France and Wales at the largest stadium in France, Stade de France, we turn our attention to the cleanliness of these iconic stadiums.
Victor Floorcare, a leading manufacturer of commercial floorcare equipment, have analysed data to uncover which of the most well-known stadiums internationally, are the cleanest and which may benefit from a deep clean.
Before presenting the results of our research, we conducted a poll on LinkedIn, asking our followers to predict which stadium they thought was the dirtiest. Out of the six stadiums, we selected three for our followers to choose from, including both the dirtiest and cleanest stadiums. Interestingly, the stadium that received the fewest votes for the dirtiest was actually correct. It seems our followers are quite knowledgeable when it comes to Rugby because we can confirm that the Stade de France emerged as the cleanest stadium in the Six Nations.
Methodology:
Our team analysed all the reviews on Google Maps and TripAdvisor for the top six major stadiums in the Six Nations Championship. We focused on reviews containing negative keywords such as ‘filthy’, ‘disgusting’, ‘gross’, ‘dirty’, ‘unhygienic’, and ‘smelly’. This data was compiled to create an index, ranking the stadiums from ‘sparkling & spotless’ to ‘dirty & dingy’. Utilising this data, we worked out a percentage and overall cleanliness score.
Located just north of Paris, Stade de France opened in 1998 and was designed as a multi-functional venue capable of hosting football, rugby, athletics, and concerts. Among the Six Nations stadiums, Stade de France stands out for its exceptional cleanliness.
Many reviews praise the stadium’s facilities, particularly the cleanliness of its toilets and adequate capacity. One review mentioned, “Great stadium, lots of facilities so no massive queues for the bathrooms, which was nice.” and another visitor who attended during the Rugby World Cup claimed “The stadium design is extraordinary. Clean and immaculately maintained.”
Edward Blackledge, Managing Director of Victor Floorcare, commented on the findings, saying: ‘In places like rugby stadiums that host thousands of visitors during the Six Nations, cleanliness levels can sometimes slip if the right processes aren’t adhered to. A clean stadium can help to enhance the overall fan experience for those visiting. Clean facilities, including toilets and concession areas, contribute to a positive atmosphere for everyone – whether they’re loyal supporters or just attending for the day.'”
“A key observation that made an extensive impact on the cleanliness rating was the suitability, capacity, and effective management of facilities. Maintaining cleanliness in stadiums where there was less capacity meant that areas became unclean much more quickly and often didn’t have enough manpower to ensure smooth operation.”
As rugby fans gear up for another thrilling Six Nations Championship, the cleanliness of stadiums plays an essential yet often overlooked role in the overall experience. While the electric atmosphere, passionate supporters, and unforgettable matches take centre stage, our findings highlight the importance of maintaining high standards behind the scenes. Whether it’s ensuring spotless facilities or addressing areas in need of improvement, stadium cleanliness contributes to the comfort and enjoyment of all attendees. As the tournament unfolds, let’s hope that every venue—whether sparkling or in need of a scrub—rises to the occasion, creating memories both on and off the pitch.
The Hardest Areas to Keep Clean in a Stadium
(And how Victor Floorcare can help)
Maintaining cleanliness in a stadium is an enormous challenge, particularly in some of the high-traffic areas that are subjected to heavy use during every event. Some areas demand constant attention, and even with the best equipment, keeping them pristine can be a difficult task. Thanks to advanced commercial floorcare machines like Victor Floorcare’s Ocelots (oscillating machines) and scrubber dryers, cleaning teams can tackle these areas with efficiency and precision. Let’s explore the ten hardest areas to clean in a stadium and how modern equipment makes the job a bit easier.
Toilets and Restrooms
Toilets are often the most challenging areas to keep clean in any public venue, and stadiums are no exception. With thousands of people using the facilities throughout an event, these spaces can become dirty very quickly. Victor Floorcare’s scrubber dryers are an ideal solution for maintaining cleanliness, as they can efficiently clean large restroom areas, ensuring that floors remain hygienic and safe throughout the day. Regular use of these machines helps prevent the build-up of dirt and grime, keeping these essential facilities clean and fresh. In-between big events, these scrubber dryers can be switched to heavy duty Tynex brushes to give deep periodic cleans.
Concession Stands and Food Courts
Food and drink stations are a key part of the stadium experience, but they also generate a lot of waste. Spilled drinks, sticky food residues, and discarded wrappers can quickly accumulate, making these areas challenging to clean. Victor Floorcare’s scrubber dryer range is ideal for these types of spaces, offering deep cleaning action that can remove sticky residues without damaging the flooring, maintaining cleanliness throughout peak periods. A Victor SDR-80 is compact ride on scrubber dryer that can cover a large amount of ground quickly, whilst still being able to fit on service lifts for transportation around the stadium.
The Seating Areas
With thousands of spectators filling the stands, the seating areas are bound to suffer from spills, litter, and stains. After each match, these areas require extensive cleaning to ensure the next group of fans has a clean environment to enjoy. Ocelot machines are ideal for reaching the hard-to-clean spots in seating areas, while scrubber dryers are perfect for removing debris and stains from floors, keeping the entire stadium looking pristine.
Staircases and Walkways
Staircases and walkways often see the highest levels of foot traffic, and as a result, they can become dirty very quickly. People spill drinks, track dirt, and create messes, which can be difficult to clean. Using a portable deep cleaning machine, such as the Victor Mini Scrubber, cleaning teams can easily tackle dirt, sticky spills, and other debris that accumulates in these high-traffic areas. These machines can help keep stairs and walkways clean, safe, and welcoming.
VIP and Executive Areas
VIP and executive suites often feature extensive carpeted areas that require meticulous attention to maintain their luxurious appearance. Spills, dirt, and general wear can quickly accumulate in these spaces, making regular and effective cleaning essential. The Victor SX15 Carpet Cleaner is the ideal solution for large carpeted areas, delivering a deep and thorough clean with precision.
The SX15 combines powerful extraction with an ergonomic design, ensuring carpets are cleaned efficiently while maintaining their texture and quality. Its ability to tackle high-traffic zones and remove stubborn stains makes it an invaluable tool for maintaining the pristine condition expected in premium areas. With the SX15, cleaning teams can uphold the high standards that VIP guests expect, ensuring these spaces remain spotless and inviting.
Locker Rooms and Changing Areas
Locker rooms are often the first to get messy during an event, with athletes leaving behind dirt, sweat, and sports gear. Scrubber dryers are perfect for quickly cleaning these areas, leaving locker rooms fresh and hygienic for the next group of athletes.
Entrances and Exit Points
Entrances and exits are often the first and last points of contact for visitors, so keeping these areas clean is essential for creating a positive experience. With heavy foot traffic and exposure to the elements, these areas can quickly get dirty. These can be kept clean using high pressure washers ensuring that they stay welcoming and clean throughout the day.
Backstage Areas
Backstage areas, where performers and staff move through, can quickly accumulate dirt and clutter. These areas require constant upkeep, especially during high-profile events.
Field of Play and Pitch Surfaces
While groundskeepers typically focus on the pitch itself, surrounding areas—such as walkways, seating, and paths leading to the field—also need regular attention. Scrubber dryers are perfect for these surfaces, helping to remove dirt, grime, and any other debris that might have accumulated during the match.
The cleanliness of a stadium plays a crucial role in shaping the fan experience, and with the right tools, cleaning teams can maintain high standards across even the hardest-to-clean areas. Whether it’s the high-traffic restrooms, VIP suites, or walkways, Victor Floorcare’s commercial machines are essential for keeping stadiums clean, safe, and welcoming for all. With the Six Nations Championship on the horizon, let’s hope every venue rises to the occasion, creating an experience both on and off the pitch that fans will remember for years to come.
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How to achieve Sustainable Floorcare | Finding a cleaning machine that guarantees a thorough clean while adhering to sustainability standards can be quite challenging. But why is sustainability in cleaning important? And what steps can you take to achieve a sustainable cleaning operation?
Why is sustainable cleaning important?
As all industries rapidly embrace modern innovations & technologies, sustainability has become a critical focus with businesses facing immense pressure to operate with environmental considerations in mind. Ensuring minimal environmental impact through sustainable cleaning processes is no longer just a trend but a necessity driven by various factors. Consumer demand, regulatory requirements, and the pursuit of a competitive advantage all play crucial roles. Businesses that prioritise sustainability not only improve their public image but also avoid penalties and negative perceptions from customers & partners associated with neglecting eco-friendly practices.
How do some cleaning practices have an adverse impact on the environment?
The environment is significantly impacted by cleaning methods that utilise chemicals. Around 80% of phosphate pollution in UK waterways comes from urban wastewater, which includes cleaning products, posing a significant threat to aquatic life and ecosystems. Moreover, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can be released into the air. Cleaning chemicals can also contribute to air pollution. The UK’s Department for Environment has found that indoor air pollution can be up to five times higher than outdoor levels due to these cleaning products. And according to the Royal College of Physicians, around 15% of adult asthma cases are linked to exposure to these products.
Here are some more examples of common chemicals found in non-sustainable cleaning products include some of the following:
Ammonia: Commonly found in glass and surface cleaners, ammonia can cause respiratory irritation and is harmful to the environment.
Chlorine: Used in disinfectants and bleach, chlorine can produce toxic fumes and is harmful to aquatic life when it enters waterways.
Phthalates: These are often used in fragranced products and can disrupt hormones, affecting reproductive health.
Formaldehyde: Found in some cleaning products, formaldehyde is a known carcinogen and can cause respiratory issues
As well as cleaning chemicals having an adverse effect on the environment, the use of water alone can also have an adverse environmental impact. For example, heating water for cleaning purposes consumes significant amounts of energy which then contributes to carbon emissions. Even without heating water, treating, and transporting water requires significant amounts of energy. The process involves several energy- intensive steps, such as pumping water from sources and treating it to make it safe for consumption and distributing it through the water supply network.
Using excessive amounts of water increases the demand for these processes, which in turn contributes to higher cardon emissions and climate change. Therefore, if all businesses reduced the amount of water used in cleaning operations we can make significant movements towards a more sustainable future.
How can you make cleaning floors more sustainable?
Choosing the right tools and products can significantly reduce water consumption and eliminate the need for harmful chemicals. At Victor, we’ve introduced innovative and intensive floor cleaning machines: the Ocelot 400 and the Ocelot 400 Plus. These machines are specifically designed for low-moisture cleaning, requiring only a neutral cleaning agent, if any at all.
The Ocelot machines feature high-frequency, multi-directional movement that agitates embedded dirt and debris. This intense cleaning action delivers 3,000 rounds of 7mm cleaning action per minute, dislodging even the most stubborn dirt and stains. The quicker revolutions allow operators to easily clean floors. Thanks to their heavy-duty cleaning functionality, these machines provide incredible results using only plain water, achieving a level of cleanliness that other wet-floor cleaning machines with harsh chemicals cannot match.
HEPA for Infection Control Amid Potential Quad-demic
HEPA for Infection Control | As we’re moving into the Winter period, the NHS has reported to be under more pressure than ever with fears of a quad-demic. This refers to the simultaneous circulation of four common viral illnesses during the winter months: Flu, COVID-19, norovirus and respiratory syncytial virus (RVS). This combination of illnesses will apply immense pressure on healthcare systems and medical resources. The NHS usually experience additional pressure during the Winter months but this year we’ve seen astounding figures, with a 350% increase in flu cases and an 86% rise in Norovirus cases in hospitals compared to the same period last year. We’ve also seen the highest number of flu cases heading into Winter for at least three years.
This exponential increase has led to fears of a quad-demic with the NHS, private healthcare and care homes expected to introduce procedures similar to the Corona virus pandemic, such as mandatory face masks for patients, visitors and staff, especially where people are most vulnerable. But what other measures could be implemented to help ease the strain and improve infection control amid a potential quad-demic?
How can effective cleaning support infection control?
Another essential measure is increased cleaning in healthcare facilities and care & nursing homes. It’s already important to ensure exceptional standards of hygiene and cleanliness in these kinds of facilities but what else can you do to optimise cleaning efforts?
As advocates for floorcare, we proudly champion the benefits of high-performance cleaning with Victor products. But did you know that some of our products offer more than just exceptional floor cleaning? Much of the Victor range includes HEPA filter devices which are designed to capture small particles of dust, pollen, and pathogens from the air, reducing the risk of airborne transmission of infection and improving the air quality. A HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filter is a premium air filter that adheres to stringent standards. To qualify as a HEPA filter, it must remove at least 99.97% of airborne particles down to 0.3 microns in size.
One significant benefit of using HEPA filtration in cleaning machines is the prevention of dust and dirt particles settling on surfaces. By capturing these particles before they can settle, HEPA filters help maintain cleaner surfaces, reducing the need for frequent manual cleaning and ensuring a more hygienic environment. This is especially crucial in healthcare settings where reducing surface contamination is vital for infection control.
Why is it Beneficial to Use HEPA Filters in Cleaning Machines?
HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filters are integral to a variety of products aimed at improving air quality. These filters are found in air purifiers, heating, air conditioning, and ventilation systems, as well as in vehicles like cars and planes, where they ensure clean air in enclosed spaces.
Vacuums
Standard vacuum cleaners, while effective at picking up dust and debris, may not trap all fine particles. Without a HEPA filter, these tiny particles can be released back into the air through the vacuum’s exhaust. A HEPA filter significantly reduces the recirculation of dust and allergens, making the air expelled from the vacuum much cleaner and healthier.
Scrubber Dryers
Scrubber dryers are efficient at picking up fine particles due to their water and scrubbing action. However, without a HEPA filter, they can still re-release fine particles into the air. Like vacuums, scrubber dryers equipped with HEPA filters prevent this by capturing particles and ensuring that the air remains clean.
In essence, HEPA filters enhance the effectiveness of cleaning machines by ensuring that even the finest particles are captured, leading to better air quality and improved hygiene.
Are Victor Products Verified for Use in Healthcare and Care Home Facilities?
Absolutely! We have spent decades partnering with the NHS and Care home groups to provide the most effective cleaning solutions. Much of our product innovation has developed from working closely with our healthcare customers to meet their specific needs.
Victor is also an officially selected supplier of cleaning products for the NHS supply chain. This means our products meet the stringent standards and criteria set by the NHS to ensure high-quality and effective cleaning across NHS trusts. Additionally, individual trusts can easily order our products through a centralised system, streamlining procurement and ensuring consistency in quality across all NHS facilities.
With one of the most advanced HEPA filtration systems, this tub vacuum is lightweight and easy to use whilst also being powerful and robust.
The V-9 thrives in commercial environments where a high-performance motor, heavy-duty housing, and advanced HEPA filtration is required.
The V9 is a suitable solution for commercial environments such as the healthcare sector. Thanks to the functionality of the high visibility, detachable cord. The 5-castor design enables improved manoeuvrability compared to most tub vacuums which feature just 4 castors. It is also exceptionally low volume which means it will not cause disturbance to patients.
Enhanced Dust Control with HEPA & the Fitted Skirt
Practical Manoeuvrability with 5 castors
Low Noise Operation
The Victor Sprite 400 is equipped with another Victor product featuring a HEPA filtration system that captures 99.97% of airborne particles, ensuring a clean and safe environment. Its high-speed vacuum feature ensures thorough and efficient floorcare, making it ideal for commercial settings. The machine’s enhanced dust control prevents particles from being released back into the air, maintaining superior air quality. Designed for ease of use, this machine offers excellent manoeuvrability and is designed to be hard wearing. Additionally, it operates quietly at approximately 57 decibels, minimising disruption in busy environments. This is useful in healthcare environments where patients are resting & recovering.
The Victor SL8000 combines steam cleaning power with advanced HEPA filtration for a fully comprehensive cleaning solution. Using high-temperature steam (up to 145°C), it effectively sanitises surfaces while the HEPA filter captures dust, allergens, and pollutants, ensuring cleaner and healthier indoor air quality. Its versatile design handles a wide range of cleaning tasks, from floors to upholstery, making it ideal for commercial environments such as Healthcare, the SL800 excels in removing tough dirt and irradicating bacteria to contribute towards effective infection control.
Finally, ranging from compact walk behind to large ride-on, the Victor Scrubber Dryers include advanced HEPA filtration, that capture at least 99.995% of airborne particles, including dust, allergens, and pathogens. This is significantly higher than the HEPA13 healthcare standards, making them ideal for environments where cleanliness is paramount. As well as the benefit of HEPA filtration, these machines feature just 64 decibels of sound, making them quiet enough to use in healthcare environments where patients are resting and recovering.
Summary
In summary HEPA filtration combined with your cleaning machine can make substantial contributions towards effective infection control. If you’d like more information on the guidance and standards for application of HEPA filters in Healthcare settings, visit NHS England Website:
However, challenges remain, including evolving customer expectations, new health and safety regulations, and technological advancements. Businesses must continually adapt to stay competitive.
Clean Floors Boost Revenue in the Hospitality Sector | How does effective floorcare boost revenue?
One crucial aspect is cleanliness standards. In the UK, food and drink establishments must follow regulations to ensure cleanliness and food safety. Effective floor care can significantly boost revenue and overall business success. A 5-point increase in cleanliness scores can lead to a 1.3% boost in average monthly sales. For each additional star in a restaurant’s review related to cleanliness, revenue can grow by 5-9%. Cleaner locations consistently report higher customer satisfaction scores and significantly better sales.Now we’ve recognised the significance of cleanliness impactingrevenue, let’s delve into some methods and practices that will ensure excellent floorcare.
How do you ensure efficient floorcare in Hospitality?
Floor cleaning (during business hours)
Ensuring you can have a schedule for your cleaning routine is essential. Creating an orderly routine outlining which employee(s) are responsible for each task.
Often, floor cleaning takes place after business hours because employees aren’t occupied with customers and it’s more convenient when the seating or dining area is empty. But you should ensure your cleaning tasks are taking place throughout the day. Clearing tables frequently becomes the primary focus, ensuring the area is ready for the next guest. But most people acknowledge the floor directly below their feet. And if guests have bags, nobody wants to place them on a dirty floor. You should try and ensure that when each table is cleared, the floor beneath, and the surrounding area is clear of rubbish and debris.
Solutions
Quick Sweeping: Use a broom to swiftly sweep the floor, this is a cost-effective solution, but you will need to ensure you can effectively pick up the debris rather than moving it somewhere else. You should also brush gently to avoid dirt and dust becoming airborne which could settle on surfaces and reduce air quality.
Handheld Cordless Vacuum: Alternatively, opt for a small, handheld cordless vacuum for efficient floor cleaning such as the Victor Nimrod
Low Noise Level: Choose a vacuum with a low noise level to minimise disturbances to customers.
Battery Life: Ensure the vacuum has sufficient battery life to last through daily operations.
Swappable Batteries: Consider models with swappable batteries to double the available power.
Mounting Solution: Look for vacuums with compatible mounting solutions for organised storage and convenient charging while mounted.
Floor Cleaning (outside of business hours)
Cleaning floors outside of business hours, when there are no customers present, is the best time for handling the bulk of cleaning tasks. This is when you’ll need to address the cleaning schedule for maximum efficiency. Here are the steps for effective floor care.
Solutions
Remove or Clear Non-Fixed Furnishings: Start by stacking chairs or placing chairs on tables to clear the floor space. Don’t just clean around obstructions as you’ll miss areas but more than anything else, it is awkward and will take longer to clean the floor.
Broom or Commercial Vacuum You could use a broom, preferably a wide broom. But be cautious when sweeping as dust and dirt can become airborne, reducing air quality, and causing the dust to settle on other surfaces. Additionally, using a broom can be physically demanding, especially in a large environment. An excellent example of a commercial vacuum is the Victor V9, which boasts industrial-standard suction and a high-visibility cable.
Scrubber Dryer or Mop: After removing debris, use either a scrubber dryer or a mop. While using a mop is cost-effective, it can be laborious and time-consuming. You should also be careful not to leave the floor saturated as this could damage the floor and create a slipping hazard. Consider using a small scrubber dryer, such as the Victor Hyperglide, which resembles an upright vacuum cleaner, or the SD12 Scrubber Dryer, one of the most compact scrubber dryers on the market. Both machines are user-friendly and require basic maintenance. The benefit of using these machines is that they can easily pick up water after application, preventing saturation and reducing the slipping hazard. It also makes floor cleaning quicker and easier.
Inspect Edges and Corners:Finally, inspect the edges and corners of the floor space where dirt often gathers. Skirting boards are frequently knocked and scuffed in busy environments. To clean these areas, use a damp cloth. For increased efficiency, consider using a tool such as the Victor Mini Scrubber, which is easily adjustable for a variety of tasks and is the perfect solution for cleaning confined areas.
Reactive Cleaning
Cleaning floors is required immediately when items are dropped, causing spillage or breakages.
Glass Smashing
When glass is smashed, smaller fragments can travel surprisingly far. Immediate action is crucial because you may not only have a wet floor, creating a slip hazard, but also a risk of severe injury if customers are exposed to the glass, especially those wearing open-toe shoes. Such injuries could lead to serious consequences. As the business owner, you could be liable for any claims made against you for negligence, and in some cases, people can claim significant amounts.
Spillages
You should be vigilant when it comes to spillages, as they can create health and safety hazards. Particularly in bars and pubs, this is likely to be a regular occurrence. Customers may not always inform staff when drinks are spilt, especially if it’s only a minor spill. Therefore, staff should make regular inspections of the floor space.
Solutions
Glass Smashing
Wear Appropriate PPE: Always wear protective gloves to pick up larger pieces of glass.
Broom/Dustpan & Brush: Sweep up larger fragments using a broom and dustpan. Be gentle to avoid scattering the glass.
Commercial Vacuum: Alternatively, use a small handheld vacuum such as the Victor Nimrodwhich is a convenient solution for quick and effective pick-up of tiny shards that may be hard to see. However, be careful not to pick up large pieces, as they could damage the vacuum’s internal mechanisms.
Spillages
Immediate Response: Clean up spills immediately to prevent slip hazards. Use absorbent materials like paper towels or mops. If it’s a large spill, we’d suggest using a machine such as the Victor Hyperglide, this machine is exceptionally straightforward and available in a cordless version & it’s also the size & weight of an upright vacuum so you won’t cause disturbance to customers.
Signage: Place wet floor signs around the area until it is completely dry.
Regular Inspections: Staff should perform regular checks of the floor space to identify and address any spills promptly.
Employee Retention & Training
Employees should not be expected to intuitively know the requirements for cleaning floors, as basic as it may sound. Staff should receive comprehensive training to ensure compliance with regulations, understand health and safety risks, and enhance their operational efficiency.
Unfortunately, the hospitality industry tends to have high staff turnover, averaging 73.8% annually. Employers should strive to retain skilled staff by ensuring fair wages, maintaining good morale, and offering promotion opportunities where possible. These efforts will contribute to a more motivated and stable workforce, which will be reflected in higher standards throughout the establishment.
Clean Floors Boost Revenue in the Hospitality Sector | Summary
We’ve reviewed methods and solutions for optimising your cleaning routine, which will hopefully provide valuable insights. Maintaining excellent standards in floor care will significantly contribute to your business’s success. A staggering 75% of customers would avoid a restaurant with a low hygiene rating. Additionally, implementing cleaner practices can increase foot traffic by 8%, thereby boosting revenue.
If you have a business in the hospitality industry that needs support with cleaning operations, speak to our team today.
What is Oscillation in Cleaning? | Effectively maintaining floors requires a combination of cleaning methods. This includes regular vacuuming to remove dust and debris, thorough wet cleaning to address stains and grime, and for some floor materials, a final polish to enhance shine and protection.
The way we maintain floors has changed significantly over the years, particularly with advancements in machines, cleaning solutions, and other tools. Specifically for wet cleaning methods, scrubber dryers are most widely used today, thanks to their efficiency and cost-saving benefits. For example, cleaning a 16 sqm space with a mop and bucket could take around 40 minutes, while using a scrubber dryer can reduce this time to less than 5 minutes.
There are a wide range of scrubber dryers on the market, including walk-behind, ride-on or step-on. You’ve also got rotary machines that are used for scrubbing, offering the added benefit of being able to buff and polish floors. And most recently we have seen the introduction of Co-Botics, which enable completely autonomous cleaning.
Introducing the Ocelot range & what is oscillation?
Most recently, Victor has introduced the Ocelot range. Different from Scrubber dryers, that function with rotating brushes or pads that loosen the dirt on the floor surface. The Ocelot machines possess intense cleaning capabilities, by agitating the embedded dirt and debris using high frequency, multi directional movement. This movement helps to dislodge stubborn dirt and stains. Specifically offering 3000 rounds of 7mm cleaning action per minute. The quicker revolutions allow operatives to make light work of cleaning floors.
See the side profile of the Ocelot below
What is the difference between the Ocelot 400 & Ocelot 400 Plus?
These machines have minimal differences, both offering intense cleaning action and being applied in the same manner. However, the key difference lies in the additional features of the Ocelot 400 Plus, the integrated vacuum and squeegee, which enable wet pick-up.
When it comes to lifting embedded dirt, these machines can perform identically depending on how they are used. The original Ocelot was designed as a low-moisture machine, so wet pick-up isn’t necessary. However, to achieve a higher intensity of cleaning action, you can apply more water. But this won’t match the water application of the Ocelot 400 Plus, as excessive water could potentially damage the floor. Therefore, to match the capabilities of the Ocelot 400 Plus, you’d need a machine that can suction the water after application, such as the wet & dry vacuums WD30 or WD60.
Overall, while these machines are not exceptionally different and both are effective depending on the application required, the Ocelot 400 Plus can achieve a greater depth of cleaning potential.
Quicker & more efficient: If you are dealing with stubborn dirt that just will not shift using regular cleaning methods. The Ocelot range will make light work of the task at hand. Application on textured floor materials is where you will see the most benefit. Some machines may require application in the same area but with one-pass the Ocelot’s can achieve the desired cleanliness.
Eco-friendly: Originally designed as low-moisture machines, the Ocelot 400 & Ocelot 400 Plus can be used without any chemicals and provide a satisfactory standard of cleanliness. You can use neutral cleaning solutions if preferred, but it is not an essential requirement. This is not only beneficial to the environment, but also a cost saving.
Edge-to-edge cleaning: Often machines can be awkward in tight corners but the rectangular base of the Ocelot machines enables simple and effortless application in the edges and corners of a room.
Cordless: Both Ocelot’s are completely cordless and powered using powerful Lithium-ion batteries. The run-time of the machines is 1.5 hours but this does slightly differ for the Ocelot 400 Plus depending on whether you’ll use the vacuum feature as this may provide less cleaning time.
When would you choose an Oscillating machine?
Although scrubber dryers are excellent for regular cleaning, they may not be suitable for every floor type. Some floors require a gentler cleaning method, while others may need deeper cleaning. This is where oscillating machines come in handy.
For example, textured floors can pose a challenge when dirt becomes embedded in grooves and crevices. Textured flooring is a common choice in commercial environments due to its anti-slip properties. However, if not cleaned effectively, the embedded dirt can reduce slip resistance by making the floor smoother.
In such cases, an oscillating machine is the ideal choice. It’s gentle yet deep-cleaning action can effectively reach into the grooves and crevices, removing embedded dirt without damaging the floor’s texture. This helps maintain the anti-slip properties and overall cleanliness of textured flooring.
Here’s a diagram to show difficulties cleaning textured floors:
Can I use Ocelot’s to clean my floor?
Although the Ocelot 400 and Ocelot 400 Plus are designed for intense cleaning applications, they are compatible with a wide variety of hard floor materials. While some customers have used the Ocelot for cleaning carpets, we recommend using it primarily on hard floors for optimal performance. The cleaning pad used with the machine is the key factor in determining compatibility with your floor type.
Here’s a summary of the pads and their compatibility with various floors:
If you do not think these pads are appropriate for your floor, we may be able to provide alternative pads, so please speak to our team.
What is the difference between Oscillating and Orbital cleaning?
We’re beginning to see a variety of similar machines to the Ocelot arriving on the market and it can be confusing to recognise their differences and understand terminology. A key term often used is Orbital, this is different to oscillating but it can be confusing as companies sometimes use the term interchangeably. But here’s the difference:
Orbital Machines: Move in a circular or elliptical pattern, providing consistent, even cleaning. They’re often used for polishing and maintaining smooth surfaces.
Oscillating Machines: Move in a back-and-forth, multi-directional motion, making them ideal for deep cleaning textured surfaces and grout lines. Their movement is gentle yet effective at dislodging dirt from grooves and crevices.
In summary
Understanding the differences and applications of oscillating cleaning machines can help you choose the right tool for maintaining your floors effectively. Whether you need gentle cleaning for delicate surfaces or deep cleaning for textured floors, oscillating machines like the Ocelot range offer versatile and powerful cleaning solutions. If you’d like more information about oscillation in cleaning speak to our team today!
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