Top Tech Innovations for Cleaning Professionals
People across many industries fear that robots are coming for their jobs, but for those in the janitorial business, robots automating previously manual processes can actually be a dream come true. Floor scrubbers that can sense messes and navigate around buildings by themselves, apparatuses that get rid of the need for ladders when washing windows, and smart facility management all make cleaning safer, faster, and less expensive. Cleaning companies can hire fewer staff and take on additional clients instead.
We've gathered some of our favorite cleaning industry technologies below.
Window Cleaning Technology
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is completely changing the window-washing game. There are now remote-controlled robots that can scale high-rises and do the task in half the time. These are pretty futuristic and expensive though, so if you can't afford your own window-washing robot, don't worry. Another innovation is making window-washing a cinch. Water-fed pole systems, which can reach up to six stories, pump pure water through a lightweight carbon fiber tube, forced through a brush or squeegee at the top, power washing hundreds of windows without a single ladder or scaffold in sight. Because they are so lightweight and there are no ladders or rigs involved, the rate of injury is much lower. Not only that, but cleaners with little to no experience can operate these poles, allowing for a more even distribution of labor within a cleaning company.
The first versions of these pole systems sold for $8,000 or more for those that included a 30-foot pole, but today, it costs only $1,000 or less. An easy access point for companies that want to add window cleaning to their services but don't have time to spend on tons of staff training.
Interior window cleaning has also undergone a technological revolution. Gone are the days of precariously perched ladders, spilled buckets of soapy water, or tweaked backs from reaching and turning all day. Janitors can use indoor extension poles as well, with up to a 36-foot reach. These systems also started out pricey, but they're now about half the cost they once were.
Smart Facility Management
Smart Facility Management Platforms like Zan Compute allows cleaners to remotely monitor supply levels, odors, spills, and more. In fact, you can track cleaning incidents in real-time. This is game-changing since cleaners could potentially switch from a fixed-route cleaning schedule to an on-demand service. Zan Compute's site claims it can result in labor savings of 20 to 30 percent. Sensors can measure and securely send data about almost anything, from toilet paper levels to water usage to material inventory. It even has a feedback feature that allows building occupants to share experiences and pain points. And it provides real-time notifications about spills or other issues.
Auto Scrubbers
Auto scrubbers can also be game-changing for cleaning companies since they increase speed and efficiency while driving down costs and the need for more staff. The price tag can be anywhere from $2,500 to $11,000, but many companies have determined them to be a worthy investment.
Auto scrubbers can be riding models, giving cleaners a break from walking and being on their feet all day. These machines sweep and scrub at the same time, drastically reducing the amount of time it takes to clean just one floor. They are automated to navigate around obstacles, use optimal amounts of cleaning products to reduce waste, and use energy as efficiently as possible. And with the advanced technology, much like the window washing systems, they're easy for novice cleaning workers to learn how to use. Yes, they're a big investment, but give it some thought and you may decide it's a good investment for your company.
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