You installed rubber flooring and stair treads in your gym, rec center, or daycare center since you needed something resilient that can stand up to heavy use.
Keeping these spaces clean is vital. Clean rubber flooring helps improve the look of your business, while also helping maintain the longevity of the floors.
So, what’s the best way to effectively and efficiently clean rubber flooring and stair treads? Read on to find out!
Prime vs Recycled Rubber Flooring
Before you can begin cleaning, you need to determine whether you’ve installed prime or recycled rubber flooring. The kind of floor you’re working with will determine how you clean it and how often.
Prime rubber flooring is made specifically for recreational activities, such as cardio spaces in gyms, play areas for children, and more. It provides additional comfort for activities in these spaces and is resistant to slips to decrease accidents.
Recycled rubber flooring is made from recycled tires, urethane, and prime chips. It’s a great way to get all the benefits of rubber flooring for your business while being environmentally friendly.
Sweep and Damp Mop Rubber Flooring and Stair Treads Daily
Whether you’ve installed prime or recycled rubber floors, always check the manufacturer’s recommended cleaning instructions before doing anything else. Here, we’ve included some general best practices.
Prime
Prime rubber flooring is one of the easiest surfaces to keep clean, as it doesn’t digest dirt. When mud or dirt is tracked inside on someone’s shoes, it’ll remain on the surface instead of mashing into the floor as more people walk on it.
Simply sweep it clean or use a damp mop at the end of the day. Note that using a mop that’s too wet can cause excess moisture to soak into the flooring.
Recycled
Recycled rubber flooring requires more frequent attention. It doesn’t repel dirt in the same way as prime rubber, since it only has a urethane layer protecting it. You may want to sweep or mop up throughout the day if your building uses recycled rubber floors.
Deep Clean Once per Quarter
Once a quarter, deep clean your gym’s rubber flooring, with a slow-speed scrubber and attachable pad. High-traffic areas, like a reception lobby or dance space, may require more frequent deep cleaning.
Again, before you begin, double-check the manufacturer’s specifications to ensure you have the proper tools and cleaning agents.
The brush’s color and the strength of the nylon the brush is made of must match the recommendations from the manufacturer, so be sure to review the instructions before you start scrubbing.
Deep cleaning is a 3-step process:
- Agitate the dirt
- Suspend it
- Rinse
Agitating the dirt helps release the dirt from the rubber flooring, making it easier to pick up on the pad.
To suspend the dirt, it’s recommended you use a cleaning agent mixed with water. This should allow you to use the attachable pad to collect the dirt.
After you’ve applied the cleaner, rinse the area with clean water. Do this by adding water to the pad and going over the space again.
Choosing the Right Cleaner for Rubber Flooring
Rubber flooring requires specific cleaning agents for proper cleaning and maintenance. A janitorial supply store will have wax and cleaner specifically made for rubber flooring. Wax can help prevent the buildup of dirt and keep the flooring and stair treads easy to clean.
Avoid standard cleaning wax, which can cause rubber flooring to crack. Your manufacturer’s manual will have information on the types of cleaner and wax that are right for your flooring and stair treads.
When cleaning rubber flooring, use a PH-7/neutral floor cleaner. Double-check your manufacturer’s instructions to confirm the type of floor cleaner you should use. In general, avoid bleach, harsh detergents, or anything that may bleed color.
Are You Ready To Start Cleaning?
Now that you know how to properly care for your rubber flooring and stair treads, grab your supplies!
When it comes time for your next flooring option, consider Landmark Interiors’ rubber flooring. In sheets and tile, Landmark Interiors’ rubber flooring is recycled, versatile, and can be customized to fit your business.
Visit your local Landmark Interiors flooring retailer to discuss your flooring options, today.