Keeping a tidy work environment is one thing. Keeping a clean work environment is quite another.
A clean work environment is essential. Essential because it creates a good first impression for your customers and keeps employees happy and more productive.
However, we know that keeping commercial premises clean is no small task. Not only do you need all the right and suitable equipment, but you also need the skills, experience, and knowledge to understand these pieces of equipment and, more importantly, the industrial cleaners that are used alongside them.
This post looks at the types of industrial cleaners for commercial premises, why you need them, their uses, and their benefits.

Cleaning Products and Solutions
For effective cleaning, you need to use the right cleaning agent. It’s that simple. Without it, you’re simply masking the real dirt and grime and, in some instances, making areas much worse and potentially damaging and weakening equipment.
Industrial cleaners are chemical solutions specifically formulated for industrial use, ensuring no dirt or grime is left anywhere, and premises are safe and hygienic spaces for all to use.
However, without proper due care and attention, cleaning products can lead to skin irritation, chemical poisoning, respiratory problems, etc. This means everyone using such products should be appropriately trained to understand the chemicals and how to handle them safely.
For industrial cleaning, we would always recommend working with a professional or, if you are carrying out cleaning in-house:
- Always store chemicals in a safe and dry place.
- Ensure the appropriate PPE is available and worn at all times.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and guidance on chemical use.
- Use the proper and most suitable equipment alongside the cleaning agents.
Industrial Cleaners and Degreasers
Water Based
Any cleaning solution with water as the primary ingredient will fall into the water-based cleaner category.
Typically, we analyse these cleaning solutions to identify their PH levels, allowing us to understand further which surfaces the solution will be most suitable for. For example, those with a PH level of between 0 and 7 are considered acidic, making them most suitable to remove rust and built-up stains. Acidic cleaning solutions can also be used on various surfaces; however, they must be diluted appropriately and per the manufacturer’s instructions. In comparison, industrial cleaners with a PH of between 7 and 14 are classified as alkaline. They will often be used to remove wax, oil, and grease – making them great for manufacturing warehouse floors, machinery, and even certain tools.
All Purpose Cleaning Agents
Also known as water-soluble solvent-based solutions, these types of industrial cleaning agents will clean various industrial surfaces and are thought to be essential in the cleaning arena.
Solvent Based
Solvent-based cleaners are those where chemicals are the main ingredient and will often be known as industrial cleaners and degreasers. Used to clean contaminants and when water-based solutions aren’t suitable.
Solvent-based cleaners can be quite generalised, where a cleaning solution will be suitable for all surfaces, or very specific, where the solution in question can only be used on the surface specified, i.e., wood, chrome, steel, etc.
Today’s businesses aim to use non-toxic degreasers and non-fumes to prevent chemical contamination.
Detergents
Detergents cover both acidic and alkaline cleaners that are mixed together under controlled conditions to produce a specific detergent to help achieve a specific cleaning result.
Detergents are often the most common type of cleaner as they help to break dirt up into smaller particles, making it easier for grime to be washed away.
Cleaners from this category can be in the form of powders, liquids, gels, or crystals.
Abrasives
These are harsh chemicals (use with care), and we use these when scrubbing is required, for example, within kitchen areas or across floor surfaces.
It’s also worth noting that abrasives are specifically formulated to avoid breaking or scratching tools and equipment but provide a clean that you can visibly see.
Benefits of Industrial Cleaning
- A happy and more productive workforce
- Increase in customer footfall
- Prevents pests and bugs
- Reduces the spread of germs/reduces contamination
- Reduces downtime
- Increases equipment lifespan
Make the Clear Choice
Depending on the item, piece of equipment, and space/area that needs cleaning, you will require different industrial cleaning chemicals. For example, a cleaning agent suitable for wood may not be strong enough to remove oil or grease; conversely, an acidic cleaning solution that works wonders in communal bathrooms will not be suitable for stainless steel handrails throughout the premises, etc.
You will also need to carry out regular cleaning and have a stable schedule to ensure your commercial premises are cleaned to a high standard.
At Clear Choice, we offer our customers all of this and more. Helping to keep on top of your cleaning needs with industrial cleaning services tailored to your commercial premises.
Call 01132 711 432 or email for further information at info@clearchoiceuk.com.
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