Have you ever wondered what color floor pad you should use? This video cleaning tip shows you what the different colored pads are used for, how long you can use floor pads, how to clean floor pads and what to do with them once their life is over.

Video Recap:

Manufacturers have their own color codes for pads, so be sure to ask when purchasing floor pads. Typically, black pad are for stripping, as well as green. There are some high-productivity pads that have a more aggressive weave. Red, brown, and blue pads are used for scrubbing, depending on the type, surface, and soil load of the job. Always be sure to match the type of pad to the finish. White and pink pads are used for softer finishes, while hoghair and horsehair pads are used for harder finishes.

Be sure to match the correct size pad to the machine. High-speed buffers usually use 20" pads. Heavier machines with higher RPM's give quicker results.

Floor pads cost between $5 and $10 each. Don't throw out floor pads after just one use. A good way to clean the pads is to cut down a 55-gallon barrel, fill it halfway up with water and stripper and soak the pads overnight. Rinse the pads in the mop sink and hang them on a pole. As soon as they are dry, they are ready to use.

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