Top Tips for Winter Floor Care

Winter weather brings unique challenges for floor care. With wet, snowy, and icy conditions outside, floors are more susceptible to dirt, moisture, and abrasive salt, which can cause damage if not handled properly. To help you keep your floors looking their best this season, here are our top tips for winter floor care:

Choose the Right Entrance Mats

Entrance mats are your first line of defense against winter debris. Opt for heavy-duty mats that are designed to trap dirt, moisture, and salt before it gets onto your floors. Consider using a combination of scraper mats outside and water-absorbent mats indoors to ensure maximum protection. Be sure to clean and vacuum mats regularly to maintain their effectiveness.

Pro Tip: For high-traffic areas, use longer mats (8-12 feet) to ensure enough space for dirt and moisture to be removed from shoes.

Increase Daily Floor Maintenance

Winter requires a more rigorous floor maintenance routine. Dust and mop regularly to remove salt, grime, and melted snow, which can lead to slippery conditions and damage floor finishes. Consider using a microfiber mop for daily cleaning as it can effectively capture fine particles and doesn’t require as much water, which can be an issue in winter.

Use Specialized Winter Cleaning Chemicals

Not all cleaning products are suited for winter’s unique demands. Look for products that are neutral pH or formulated to counteract the alkaline nature of salt, as high-alkaline cleaners can damage floor finishes and lead to a dull appearance.

JaniSource Recommends: Our Bunk's Cleaner provides the cleaning power needed to dissolve salt and prevent buildup without damaging your floors.

Invest in a Quality Auto Scrubber

For larger spaces, an auto scrubber is an efficient solution for winter floor care. JaniSource’s range of auto scrubbers can help you quickly clean and dry floors, reducing the risk of slips and keeping your facility safe. Auto scrubbers remove the need for excessive water usage and are highly effective in handling salt, grime, and debris that come with winter foot traffic.

Why Auto Scrubbers Are Ideal: Auto scrubbers clean thoroughly while leaving the floor dry, which is particularly important in winter to avoid puddles that can cause slips and damage floor finishes.

Use Floor Protectors and Mats in High-Traffic Areas

In areas with high foot traffic, consider using protective floor mats. They are especially useful in spots where employees or visitors frequently stop or congregate, such as reception areas, break rooms, and near entryways. These mats can help minimize wear on the floor’s finish and reduce the need for refinishing or deep cleaning.

Tip: Look for mats that are durable, absorbent, and easy to clean, so they can handle the winter workload.

Schedule Regular Deep Cleaning Sessions

While daily maintenance is essential, schedule deeper cleaning sessions as well to keep floors in top shape. Use a floor buffer or burnisher to remove embedded dirt and restore shine. A deep clean once or twice a month during winter can help combat the effects of salt and grime, extending the life of your floors.

Suggested Products: For best results, use a high-quality neutral cleaner like JaniSource’s NeutraMax. Avoid abrasive chemicals and high-alkaline solutions, which can strip floor finishes and cause premature wear.

Apply a Durable Floor Finish or Sealant

A strong floor finish or sealant adds an extra layer of protection against winter elements. A durable finish can help prevent damage from water and salt, making it easier to maintain your floors daily. Choose finishes that provide slip resistance and shine, as they not only protect but also improve the floor’s appearance.

Pro Tip: Work with a professional to choose the best sealant for your floor type. Apply finishes during warmer months if possible, but if necessary, touch up worn areas during winter to maintain protection.

Place Signage and Ensure Safety for Everyone

Winter floors can be slippery, especially when transitioning between outdoor and indoor spaces. Use “Wet Floor” signs and other safety indicators near entrances and high-traffic zones to remind visitors to take extra caution. Having a proactive winter floor care strategy reduces hazards and keeps your facility safe for everyone.

Conclusion

Winter floor care can be challenging, but with the right strategies and products, you can keep your floors clean, safe, and protected all season long. JaniSource offers a full range of products, from durable entrance mats to high-quality cleaning chemicals and auto scrubbers, to meet the unique demands of winter. Implement these tips to maintain pristine floors and ensure a safe, welcoming environment for everyone who walks through your doors.

For more tips and product recommendations, contact the JaniSource team or visit our website to find everything you need to tackle the season’s toughest cleaning challenges.