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Pro Tips to Keep Your Cleaning Tools in Top Condition

by Amy Sardone on Jun 23 2025

Why Cleaning Tool Maintenance Matters

For any professional cleaner, keeping your tools in excellent condition is essential. Well-maintained equipment boosts job performance, ensures safety, and saves money over time.

Whether you use manual or power tools, taking just a few minutes to inspect and clean them regularly can drastically improve their lifespan and performance.

5 Ways to Keep Your Tools in Tip-Top Shape

Here are five essential steps every cleaning pro should follow to keep their tools functioning at their best:

1. Clean Tools With Every Use

Remove dust, grime, and debris from brushes, mop heads, vacuums, and buckets.
Rinse and dry microfiber cloths and mop heads thoroughly to avoid odor and bacteria buildup.

2. Check for Damaged Handles

Cracks in broom or mop handles can cause injuries and reduce effectiveness.
Tighten loose components and replace damaged parts promptly to maintain tool safety and stability.

3. Repair or Replace Power Tools That Don't Turn On Easily

If a vacuum or buffer takes effort to start, it’s time for a professional check-up or a replacement.
Avoid forcing electrical tools to operate — it can worsen the damage and pose safety hazards.

4. Use Proper Storage

Hang brooms, mop heads, and dusters to preserve their shape.
Use wall-mounted racks or labeled bins to organize tools by task or area.

5. Store Them in a Dry Place

Moisture causes mold, rust, and deterioration of both manual and powered tools.
Avoid storing anything in damp closets, garages, or unventilated spaces.

Bonus Tips for Cleaning Pros: Go the Extra Mile

Maintain Vacuums and Electrical Equipment

Empty dust containers after every job.
Clean filters, hoses, and rotating brushes monthly.
Label maintenance dates to stay on schedule.

Sanitize Buckets and Bottles

Wash buckets after every use — especially when using harsh or acidic chemicals.
Disinfect spray bottles regularly to prevent buildup and clogging.

How to Properly Clean Microfiber Cloths

✅ Step 1: Shake and Rinse After Use

After every use:

Shake out loose dust, debris, or hair.
Rinse thoroughly under warm water (not hot, not cold).

This helps remove residues before washing and preserves the fibers.

Never do this:

❌ Don’t use boiling water — it can damage the fibers.
❌ Avoid fabric softeners or dryer sheets — they leave a residue that clogs the microfiber’s pores.

✅ Step 2: Machine Wash Correctly

To wash your microfiber cloths:

Set the machine to warm water and a gentle cycle.
Wash separately from cottons or linty fabrics to avoid fiber contamination.
Use a mild, fragrance-free detergent.

About bleach:

You can use non-chlorine bleach in small amounts if necessary.
For a safer, eco-friendly option, you can add some concentrated Red Juice to your laundry cycle. It helps eliminate bacteria, remove odors, and maintain softness.

✅ Step 3: Air Dry or Use Low Heat

After washing:

Best option: Hang to air dry.
If using a dryer, always select low heat only.
High heat can melt or warp the microfiber.

Final Thoughts: Maintenance Is a Mark of a Pro

Keeping your tools in tip-top shape isn’t just about saving money — it’s about upholding the standard of your service. Clean tools reflect professionalism, help you work more efficiently, and ensure a safer work environment.

💬 Pro Tip: Create a cleaning tool checklist for your team to follow weekly or monthly. Consistency = longevity!

Happy Cleaning,

Amy

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