Commercial cleaning solutions, advice and best practices.
We are one of Australia’s leading suppliers of commercial and industrial cleaning equipment. In this article, we share practical cleaning tips, maintenance advice and expert guidance to help you create cleaner, safer and more productive workplaces. Make sure you check back regularly as we continue to add more tips, solutions and advice.
On this page
- Our top commercial cleaning tips »
- The importance of preventative maintenance »
- Sustainable cleaning practices »
- Choosing the right equipment for the job »
- Selecting the best commercial cleaning product »
- Cleaning solutions for your industry »
- Why choose Hako Australia?
- Questions? Contact our helpful team »
1. Our top commercial cleaning tips
Choosing the right cleaning equipment
Selecting the correct machine from the start is one of the biggest factors influencing cleaning performance. From compact walk-behind scrubbers to large ride-on sweepers and multifunctional outdoor machines, choosing equipment that suits your environment can dramatically improve productivity while reducing operating costs.
Why sweeping before scrubbing matters
Sweeping removes loose dust and debris before wet cleaning begins. This allows floor scrubbers to work more effectively, improves cleaning results, reduces brush wear and helps extend the life of your equipment.
Reducing dust in warehouses
Dust accumulation creates safety hazards, damages products and reduces air quality. Using an industrial sweeper with advanced dust filtration helps minimise airborne particles while improving workplace cleanliness.
Improving cleaning productivity
Replacing manual cleaning methods with commercial floor cleaning equipment can significantly reduce labour while delivering more consistent results across larger areas.
Choosing between walk-behind and ride-on machines
The size of your facility, cleaning frequency and available labour all influence which machine will deliver the greatest return on investment.
How often should commercial floors be cleaned?
The ideal cleaning schedule depends on the type of facility, the amount of foot or vehicle traffic and the industry.
High-traffic environments such as shopping centres, warehouses, hospitals, schools and transport hubs often require daily cleaning, while lower-traffic facilities may only require scheduled maintenance several times each week.
Regular cleaning prevents dirt from becoming embedded in floor surfaces, maintains a professional appearance, improves workplace safety and extends the lifespan of flooring. In many cases, frequent mechanised cleaning is more efficient and cost-effective than relying on occasional deep cleans.
Clean floors regularly rather than waiting until they become heavily soiled
Regular maintenance cleaning prevents dirt and debris from building up, making floors easier to maintain while extending the life of floor finishes. Cleaning little and often is generally more efficient than relying on infrequent deep cleans.
How can I improve cleaning productivity without increasing labour?
Improving productivity is not always about cleaning faster, it is about cleaning smarter.
Using equipment that sweeps, scrubs and dries in a single pass, selecting the correct machine size for your facility and reducing time spent emptying tanks or changing attachments can significantly improve efficiency. Machines with larger tank capacities, advanced dust control and ergonomic designs also help operators clean larger areas with less effort.
Investing in the right commercial cleaning equipment often reduces labour costs while delivering more consistent cleaning results.
Why is dust control important when sweeping?
Sweeping can stir fine dust and airborne particles into the environment if the correct equipment is not used.
Hako commercial sweepers with advanced dust suppression systems or HEPA filtration help capture dust before it becomes airborne. This improves indoor air quality, creates a cleaner working environment and reduces the amount of dust settling back onto surrounding surfaces.
Effective dust control is particularly important in warehouses, manufacturing facilities, healthcare environments, food processing facilities and other workplaces where airborne dust can affect safety, cleanliness or product quality.
Why is cleaning efficiency important?
Cleaning efficiency is about much more than simply cleaning faster. Efficient commercial cleaning equipment allows operators to cover larger areas using less water, fewer chemicals and less energy while maintaining consistent cleaning performance.
Features such as larger solution tanks, intelligent water management systems and efficient brush technology help reduce downtime by minimising refilling, improving productivity and lowering operating costs.
Why is antibacterial tank technology important in commercial floor scrubbers?
Some Hako floor scrubbers feature Hako-AntiBac® antibacterial tank technology, which helps inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi inside both the solution and recovery tanks. This improves hygiene, reduces unpleasant odours, extends the service life of the tanks and reduces the need for tank-cleaning disinfectants, helping lower maintenance costs while supporting more sustainable cleaning practices.
This technology is particularly beneficial in hygiene-sensitive environments such as hospitals, aged care facilities, food processing plants, supermarkets, hospitality venues, schools and other public facilities, where maintaining high cleaning standards is essential. By helping reduce bacterial growth within the machine itself, Hako-AntiBac® supports cleaner, healthier workplaces while making routine machine maintenance faster and easier.
2. The importance of preventative maintenance
Regular preventative maintenance keeps your commercial cleaning equipment operating at peak performance while reducing downtime, lowering repair costs and extending the life of your investment. A few simple daily checks can help prevent unexpected breakdowns and ensure your machine continues to deliver consistent cleaning results.
Inspect brushes and pads regularly
Brushes and pads naturally wear over time. Regularly inspecting them ensures they continue to clean effectively while protecting your floors from unnecessary wear. Replacing worn brushes or pads at the right time also improves cleaning performance and reduces strain on the machine.
Empty and rinse recovery tanks after every use
Dirty recovery tanks can lead to unpleasant odours, bacterial growth and reduced machine performance. Emptying, rinsing and allowing tanks to dry after each use helps maintain hygiene, extends the life of the machine and reduces ongoing maintenance.
Keep filters clean
Clean filters are essential for maintaining strong airflow and effective dust collection. Regularly cleaning or replacing filters helps improve suction performance, protects internal components and reduces airborne dust, creating cleaner and healthier workplaces.
Charge batteries correctly
Battery-powered cleaning machines perform best when batteries are charged according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Avoid allowing batteries to fully discharge where possible, and ensure charging systems are properly maintained. Correct battery care helps maximise operating time, extend battery life and reduce replacement costs.
Check squeegees for wear
The squeegee plays a vital role in leaving floors clean and dry. Regularly inspect squeegee blades for wear, damage or debris and replace them when required. Well-maintained squeegees improve water recovery, reduce streaking and help minimise slip hazards.
Report small problems early
Minor issues such as unusual noises, leaks, worn hoses or damaged brushes can quickly develop into more expensive repairs if left unattended. Reporting and addressing small faults early helps minimise downtime, reduce repair costs and keep your cleaning equipment operating reliably.
Follow the recommended service schedule
Routine servicing by qualified technicians helps identify potential issues before they become major problems. Using genuine spare parts and following the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule helps maximise reliability, protect your investment and ensure your equipment continues to perform at its best for many years.
Train operators properly
Even the most advanced commercial cleaning equipment relies on correct operation. Providing operators with training on machine use, daily inspections, chemical handling and basic maintenance helps improve cleaning results, reduce unnecessary wear and extend the life of the equipment. Well-trained operators also work more safely and efficiently, helping organisations maximise their return on investment.
3. Sustainable cleaning practices
Sustainable cleaning is about achieving exceptional cleaning results while reducing water, energy, chemical consumption and waste. Modern commercial cleaning equipment can play a significant role in helping organisations lower their environmental impact without compromising productivity or cleanliness.
At Hako, sustainability is embedded throughout the entire product lifecycle. From environmentally responsible manufacturing and energy-efficient operation to durable machine design, refurbishment and end-of-life recycling, Hako develops cleaning solutions that help businesses achieve their environmental goals while delivering outstanding cleaning performance. Through ongoing innovation, including reduced water and chemical consumption, lower energy use and increased recyclability, Hako is committed to supporting a cleaner, more sustainable future.
Use only the water and chemicals you need
Hako’s floor scrubbers use intelligent water management systems and precise chemical dosing to reduce waste while maintaining excellent cleaning performance.
Additionally, using the correct amount of water and detergent helps reduce operating costs and environmental impact.
Choose energy-efficient equipment
Selecting commercial cleaning equipment with energy-saving features, such as Eco Mode, can significantly reduce electricity consumption.
Many Hako machines reduce power usage while maintaining excellent cleaning performance and operating more quietly.
Reduce dust and improve indoor air quality
Fine dust particles affect both employee health and workplace cleanliness.
Hako’s industrial sweepers with advanced dust control technology capture airborne particles before they spread throughout the facility, creating cleaner and healthier working environments.
Maintain your equipment
Regular servicing and preventative maintenance keep cleaning equipment operating efficiently.
Well-maintained machines consume less energy, use resources more effectively and have a longer service life, reducing waste and replacement costs.
Invest in durable, long-lasting machines
High-quality commercial cleaning equipment that is built to last reduces the need for frequent replacement and minimises waste.
Choosing machines that can be serviced, refurbished and recycled supports a more sustainable approach throughout their lifecycle.
Consider electric cleaning equipment
Battery-powered and fully electric cleaning machines produce zero on-site emissions and lower noise levels, making them ideal for indoor environments and organisations working towards sustainability goals.
Select environmentally responsible cleaning products
Use biodegradable cleaning solutions and detergents that are compatible with your equipment and avoid unnecessary chemical use.
Modern cleaning agents, combined with accurate dosing systems, deliver outstanding results while minimising environmental impact.
Operator training and eduction
Even the best commercial cleaning equipment will not deliver optimum results if it isn’t used correctly. Ensure all operators receive proper training on machine operation, daily maintenance, chemical handling and safe cleaning practices. Well-trained operators achieve better cleaning results, reduce equipment wear and help extend the life of the machine.
Many Hako machines include QR code access to operating guides and training videos, making it easy for operators to access information whenever they need it.
4. Choosing the right equipment for the job
What types of floors can be cleaned with a floor scrubber machine?
Hako floor scrubbers can clean most hard floor surfaces, including concrete, epoxy, vinyl, linoleum, ceramic and porcelain tiles, terrazzo, rubber, textured safety flooring and some sealed timber and natural stone. Selecting the correct machine, brush or pad and operating settings is essential to achieve an effective clean without damaging the surface. Learn more about the types of floors Hako scrubber floor machines can clean and how to choose the right solution.
Are electric outdoor cleaning machines as powerful as diesel models?
Yes. Modern electric outdoor cleaning machines are designed to deliver comparable cleaning performance to conventional diesel-powered machines while producing zero tailpipe emissions and significantly lower noise levels. Advances in battery technology and electric drive systems allow machines such as the Hako Citymaster 1650 ZE to deliver outstanding productivity without compromising performance.
Should I choose a walk-behind or ride-on commercial cleaning machine?
The best choice depends on the size of the area being cleaned, the layout of the facility and how often cleaning is required.
Walk-behind machines are ideal for smaller areas, narrow aisles, congested spaces and facilities with multiple rooms. They are easy to manoeuvre, require minimal storage space and are often the most economical option for smaller cleaning tasks.
Ride-on machines are better suited to large warehouses, shopping centres, airports, manufacturing plants, distribution centres and other expansive facilities. They cover significantly more floor area in less time, reducing labour costs while improving cleaning productivity.
If you’re unsure which option is best for your business, the Hako team can recommend the most suitable solution based on your environment, cleaning frequency and budget.
Can one commercial cleaning machine perform multiple tasks?
Yes. Many modern commercial cleaning machines are designed to perform multiple tasks using interchangeable attachments and accessories.
Depending on the machine, a single unit may be capable of sweeping, scrubbing, pressure washing, outdoor cleaning, grounds maintenance, weed control or seasonal maintenance.
Using one multifunctional machine instead of several dedicated machines can reduce capital costs, simplify operator training and improve equipment utilisation throughout the year.
Hako’s multifunctional Citymaster range is a good example, allowing operators to quickly change attachments so one machine can perform a wide variety of outdoor maintenance tasks.
What features should I look for in a commercial cleaning machine?
The best commercial cleaning equipment should deliver high productivity while being easy to operate and maintain.
When comparing machines, consider factors such as cleaning performance, water efficiency, battery run time, manoeuvrability, dust control, operator comfort, noise levels and ease of maintenance. Features that reduce water and chemical consumption or allow multiple cleaning tasks to be completed in a single pass can also significantly improve productivity and reduce operating costs.
Choosing a reliable machine with strong local service and spare parts support is equally important to minimise downtime and maximise the return on your investment.
Why is low-noise cleaning equipment important?
Hotels, restaurants and hospitality venues often need to be cleaned while guests are present. Low-noise commercial cleaning equipment helps minimise disruption, allowing cleaning staff to maintain high standards of cleanliness without disturbing customers, guests or staff. This improves the customer experience while allowing cleaning to be completed during normal operating hours.
Why is selecting the right brush important?
Choosing the correct brush or pad can significantly improve cleaning performance while reducing water and detergent consumption. Different floor surfaces and types of dirt require different brush types, and selecting the right combination can improve productivity, reduce operating costs and achieve better cleaning results.
Commercial floor sweepers
How do I choose the right commercial floor sweeper?
The best commercial floor sweeper depends on the size of the area to be cleaned, the type of debris, whether the machine will be used indoors or outdoors, and the level of dust control required.
Manual sweepers are ideal for smaller areas and quick clean-ups, while battery-powered and ride-on sweepers provide higher productivity for warehouses, factories, shopping centres, car parks and large commercial facilities.
What is the difference between a push sweeper and a vacuum sweeper?
Push sweepers use rotating brushes to collect larger debris such as dust, leaves, sand and litter into a collection hopper. Vacuum sweepers combine sweeping with powerful dust extraction, capturing fine airborne particles while cleaning.
For environments where dust control and indoor air quality are important, vacuum sweepers provide cleaner, healthier working conditions.
Are manual floor sweepers still worthwhile?
Yes. Manual floor sweepers provide a fast, quiet and cost-effective way to clean workshops, warehouses, retail stores, garages and outdoor hard surfaces. They require no electricity or fuel, have minimal maintenance requirements and are ideal for smaller areas where powered equipment is unnecessary.
Can commercial floor sweepers be used indoors and outdoors?
Yes. Hako commercial floor sweepers are designed for both indoor and outdoor applications. Depending on the model, they can be used in warehouses, manufacturing facilities, workshops, shopping centres, loading docks, car parks, footpaths and other commercial or industrial environments.
Can commercial floor sweepers clean carpet?
Some Hako commercial sweepers can effectively clean both hard floors and commercial carpet, making them ideal for offices, retail stores, schools, exhibition centres and other mixed-floor environments.
Why is dust-free sweeping important?
Dust-free sweeping captures fine dust before it becomes airborne, improving indoor air quality while reducing contamination of products, machinery and stock. It also creates a healthier working environment for employees and visitors and reduces the amount of dust that settles back onto cleaned surfaces.
Why is filter cleaning important on a commercial sweeper?
A clean filter maintains strong airflow and efficient dust collection. Many Hako sweepers feature easy-access filter systems and filter-cleaning mechanisms that help maintain consistent cleaning performance while extending filter life and reducing maintenance requirements.
Why is a large debris hopper useful?
A larger debris hopper allows operators to work for longer before stopping to empty collected waste. This improves productivity, particularly when cleaning large warehouses, factories, outdoor areas and industrial sites where significant amounts of debris are collected.
Can commercial floor sweepers clean right up to walls and corners?
Yes. Many Hako sweepers feature side brushes that extend beyond the machine body, allowing operators to effectively collect dirt and debris from walls, shelving, kerbs, corners and other difficult-to-reach areas while reducing the need for manual sweeping.
Do commercial floor sweepers reduce labour costs?
Yes. Commercial floor sweepers clean significantly faster than manual sweeping while delivering more consistent results. They allow larger areas to be cleaned by a single operator, reducing labour costs and improving overall cleaning productivity.
What industries are commercial floor sweepers best suited to?
Commercial floor sweepers are used across a wide range of industries, including warehouses, logistics centres, manufacturing facilities, workshops, shopping centres, schools, hospitals, airports, car parks, retail centres and municipal environments.
If you’re unsure which commercial floor sweeper is best suited to your facility, contact the Hako Australia team for expert advice and tailored recommendations.
Ride-on floor scrubbers
How do I choose the right ride-on floor scrubber?
The right machine depends on:
- Area to be cleaned
- Amount of debris
- Floor type
- Available storage
- Operator experience
- Required productivity
If your environment regularly contains loose debris, consider a machine with an integrated sweeping function to complete more work in a single pass.
What size ride-on floor scrubber do I need?
The ideal machine size depends on the size and layout of your facility. Compact ride-on scrubbers are well suited to retail stores, schools, healthcare facilities and smaller commercial buildings where manoeuvrability is important. Larger industrial models are designed for warehouses, airports, logistics centres and manufacturing facilities where maximum cleaning productivity is required.
Can ride-on floor scrubbers clean close to walls and shelving?
Yes. Many ride-on scrubbers are designed with brush decks that extend beyond the machine body, allowing operators to clean close to walls, shelving and fixed obstacles while reducing the need for manual edge cleaning.
Can ride-on scrubbers clean narrow aisles?
Many compact ride-on scrubbers feature tight turning circles and highly manoeuvrable steering systems, allowing them to clean narrow aisles, corridors and congested areas that would normally require smaller cleaning equipment.
What are the benefits of a scrubber-sweeper combination machine?
Combination scrubber-sweeper machines collect loose debris before scrubbing the floor, allowing sweeping and scrubbing to be completed in a single pass. This improves productivity, reduces labour, shortens cleaning times and eliminates the need for separate pre-sweeping in many commercial and industrial environments.
Why would I choose a high-dump scrubber?
High-dump machines allow collected debris to be emptied directly into commercial waste bins without manual handling, improving productivity, hygiene and operator safety.
Do ride-on floor scrubbers reduce labour costs?
Yes. Ride-on scrubbers clean significantly faster than manual mopping or walk-behind machines, allowing a single operator to clean much larger areas in less time while delivering more consistent cleaning results.
How does automatic detergent dosing work?
An onboard dosing system automatically mixes the correct amount of detergent with water based on the water flow, reducing chemical waste, lowering operating costs and ensuring consistent cleaning performance.
How can I reduce water usage when scrubbing floors?
Some commercial scrubbers use intelligent water management systems that automatically regulate water flow, reducing water consumption by up to 50% while maintaining excellent cleaning performance.
What is wastewater recycling on a floor scrubber?
Wastewater treatment systems allow water to be reused for longer periods, reducing refill frequency, conserving water and extending cleaning time between tank changes.
Why are antibacterial solution tanks useful?
Antibacterial tank technology helps reduce bacterial growth inside solution and recovery tanks, improving hygiene, reducing odours and making machines ideal for healthcare, food processing and other hygiene-sensitive environments.
Why is low-dust sweeping important?
Reducing airborne dust improves indoor air quality, protects products and equipment from contamination, and creates a healthier environment for employees and visitors.
Can ride-on scrubbers work on ramps?
Many industrial ride-on scrubbers can be fitted with enhanced drive systems that maintain performance on ramps and gradients of up to approximately 15%, making them ideal for multi-storey car parks, warehouses and loading facilities.
Why do some floor scrubbers have rear-view cameras and BlueSpot lights?
These safety features improve operator awareness in busy warehouses, manufacturing facilities and logistics centres. Rear-view cameras improve visibility behind the machine, while BlueSpot warning lights alert nearby pedestrians to an approaching vehicle.
Why do some scrubbers include a high-pressure washer?
An onboard high-pressure washer allows operators to clean machinery, corners, loading docks and other difficult-to-reach areas without requiring separate cleaning equipment.
Why is a self-cleaning squeegee useful?
Automatic squeegee rinsing improves hygiene, reduces manual cleaning time and helps maintain optimum water recovery performance while making daily maintenance quicker and easier.
Why is battery changing important?
Quick battery replacement minimises downtime and allows machines to continue operating over extended shifts, making them ideal for facilities with demanding cleaning schedules.
What industries are ride-on floor scrubbers best suited to?
Ride-on floor scrubbers are ideal for cleaning large commercial and industrial floor areas. Choosing the right machine depends on the size of your facility, floor type, cleaning frequency and operational requirements.
If you’re unsure which model is right for your business, contact our experienced team for expert advice and tailored recommendations.
How much maintenance does a ride-on floor scrubber require?
Routine maintenance is straightforward and typically includes emptying and rinsing the recovery tank, cleaning the squeegee and brushes, checking batteries and inspecting wear items. Many commercial ride-on scrubbers are designed with easy-access service points, tool-free brush changes and automatic cleaning functions to minimise downtime and simplify daily maintenance.
Can ride-on floor scrubbers clean while businesses remain open?
Yes. Many ride-on floor scrubbers are designed for low-noise operation, allowing cleaning to be carried out during business hours with minimal disruption. This makes them ideal for shopping centres, hospitals, airports, schools, office buildings and other facilities where cleaning often needs to occur while people are present.
Are ride-on floor scrubbers environmentally friendly?
Many modern ride-on floor scrubbers are designed to reduce water, detergent and energy consumption. Features such as automatic water control, chemical dosing systems and chemical-free cleaning technologies help lower operating costs while reducing environmental impact.
Can ride-on floor scrubbers be customised?
Many commercial ride-on scrubbers can be configured with different brush types, battery capacities, safety lighting, pre-sweeping systems, chemical dosing systems and other optional accessories to suit specific industries, floor types and cleaning requirements.
Why is ergonomic design important on a ride-on scrubber?
Operators often spend several hours each day using ride-on floor scrubbers. Ergonomic seating, adjustable steering, intuitive controls and excellent visibility help reduce operator fatigue, improve comfort and support consistent cleaning productivity throughout long shifts. Hako also places a strong emphasis on ergonomic operator design across its ride-on range.
Can Hako ride-on floor scrubbers be used both indoors and outdoors?
Yes. Hako ride-on floor scrubbers are designed to clean a wide variety of indoor and outdoor hard surfaces.
With a range of machine sizes, brush configurations and optional pre-sweeping capabilities, Hako offers ride-on scrubbers suited to everything from narrow warehouse aisles to large distribution centres and expansive public facilities, delivering efficient, high-productivity cleaning across diverse applications.
Outdoor cleaning equipment
What is an outdoor cleaning machine?
An outdoor cleaning machine is a purpose-built vehicle designed to maintain roads, footpaths, plazas, car parks, parks and other external public spaces.
Unlike traditional indoor cleaning equipment, dedicated outdoor cleaning machines are engineered to operate in varying weather conditions while handling tasks such as sweeping, scrubbing, pressure washing, weed removal and grounds maintenance.
Modern outdoor cleaning machines like the Hako Citymaster range are multifunctional platforms that can be fitted with a variety of attachments, allowing a single machine to perform numerous maintenance tasks throughout the year.
What is the difference between an outdoor cleaning machine and a street sweeper?
A conventional street sweeper is designed primarily for sweeping roads and collecting debris.
A multifunctional outdoor cleaning machine goes much further. In addition to sweeping, it can be equipped to pressure wash hard surfaces, scrub outdoor pavements, remove weeds, mow grass, collect leaves, transport materials and perform winter maintenance. This allows councils, contractors and facility managers to maximise the utilisation of a single machine rather than purchasing multiple specialised vehicles.
What tasks can a multifunctional outdoor cleaning machine perform?
What tasks can a multifunctional outdoor cleaning machine perform?
Depending on the attachments fitted, an outdoor cleaning machine can perform a wide range of maintenance tasks, including:
- Street and footpath sweeping
- Outdoor scrubbing
- Pressure washing
- Weed removal
- Grass mowing and slashing
- Leaf collection
- Hedge trimming
- Verge and roadside vegetation maintenance
- Transporting tools, equipment and materials
- Snow clearing
- Grit and salt spreading (where required)
- Water spraying and dust suppression
The ability to quickly switch between attachments makes these machines ideal for year-round municipal and commercial maintenance.
Why choose a multifunctional outdoor cleaning machine instead of several dedicated machines?
Investing in a multifunctional outdoor cleaning machine can significantly reduce equipment costs while increasing productivity.
Instead of purchasing separate sweepers, scrubbers, mowers, pressure washers and winter maintenance vehicles, organisations can utilise a single machine with interchangeable attachments. This reduces capital expenditure, lowers servicing and storage requirements, improves fleet utilisation and keeps operators productive throughout the year.
How quickly can attachments be changed?
The Hako Citymaster range is designed with a quick-change attachment system that allows a single operator to change implements quickly without requiring specialised tools or a workshop.
This minimises downtime between tasks and enables operators to move efficiently from sweeping to pressure washing, mowing or other maintenance activities throughout the working day.
Are outdoor cleaning machines suitable for councils?
Yes. Outdoor cleaning machines are widely used by local councils for maintaining roads, footpaths, parks, civic spaces, transport hubs, sporting facilities and public amenities.
Because they can perform multiple maintenance tasks from a single platform, they help councils improve productivity while reducing fleet size and operating costs.
Can outdoor cleaning machines be used by commercial businesses?
Absolutely. Outdoor cleaning machines are widely used across a broad range of commercial environments, including shopping centres, universities, airports, hospitals, business parks, industrial estates, warehouses, manufacturing facilities, resorts, stadiums and large commercial developments. Any organisation responsible for maintaining extensive outdoor areas can benefit from a multifunctional machine that can sweep, scrub, pressure wash, maintain landscaped areas and perform a variety of other outdoor maintenance tasks throughout the year.
Can outdoor cleaning machines pressure wash hard surfaces?
Yes. With the appropriate attachment, outdoor cleaning machines can deliver high-pressure cleaning for paved areas, plazas, footpaths and other hard surfaces.
Pressure washing attachments are ideal for removing built-up dirt, grime and contaminants while restoring the appearance of heavily trafficked public spaces.
Can outdoor cleaning machines scrub outdoor pavements?
Yes. Outdoor scrub decks allow operators to deep clean sealed concrete, pavers, plazas and other hard surfaces where sweeping alone is insufficient.
Outdoor scrubbing is particularly effective for removing stubborn dirt, stains and grime while using water efficiently through recirculating cleaning systems.
Can outdoor cleaning machines remove weeds without chemicals?
Yes. Mechanical weed removal attachments enable operators to remove weeds from kerbs, footpaths and paved surfaces without relying on chemical herbicides.
This provides an environmentally responsible option for councils and organisations seeking to reduce chemical use in public spaces.
Can outdoor cleaning machines maintain parks and gardens?
Yes. Outdoor cleaning machines can be fitted with mowing decks, flail mowers, hedge trimmers and other vegetation management attachments.
This allows a single machine to maintain parks, roadside verges, sporting fields and landscaped public spaces throughout the year.
Are outdoor cleaning machines suitable for all seasons?
Yes. One of the major advantages of the Hako Citymaster range is its ability to operate all year round.
During warmer months the machine can sweep, scrub, pressure wash and maintain green spaces. During winter it can be equipped with snow ploughs, sweepers, blowers and gritting equipment, ensuring the machine remains productive regardless of the season.
Are outdoor cleaning machines easy to operate?
Modern outdoor cleaning machines are designed with operator comfort and ease of use in mind. Features such as ergonomic controls, comfortable cabins, excellent visibility, intuitive operating systems and quick-change attachments help reduce operator fatigue and improve productivity.
The Hako Citymaster 1650 has even received independent ergonomic certification for its operator-focused design.
Can outdoor cleaning machines work in confined spaces?
Yes. Compact outdoor cleaning machines are specifically designed for environments where larger municipal sweepers cannot operate.
Features such as articulated steering, tight turning circles and compact dimensions make them ideal for footpaths, pedestrian areas, plazas, car parks and narrow streets while still delivering high cleaning productivity.
Are outdoor cleaning machines environmentally friendly?
Many modern outdoor cleaning machines are designed to minimise environmental impact through efficient engines, low emissions, reduced fuel consumption and advanced dust suppression systems.
Features such as recirculating water systems, mechanical weed removal and low-noise operation also help improve sustainability in urban environments.
What should I consider when choosing an outdoor cleaning machine?
When choosing an outdoor cleaning machine, it’s important to consider the size and type of the areas you need to maintain, as well as whether you require a machine dedicated to sweeping or a multifunctional solution capable of performing a range of outdoor maintenance tasks. You should also evaluate the range of available attachments, how quickly they can be changed, the machine’s manoeuvrability, operator comfort and safety, whole-of-life operating costs, local service and parts support, and ongoing maintenance requirements.
Hako’s Citymaster range has been developed to provide maximum versatility, allowing a single machine to perform tasks including sweeping, outdoor scrubbing, pressure washing, weed removal, grounds maintenance and seasonal work such as snow clearing. With compact articulated steering, quick-change attachments, ergonomic operator cabins and a choice of diesel and fully electric models, the Citymaster range delivers exceptional productivity across a wide variety of municipal and commercial applications.
For many organisations, investing in a multifunctional outdoor cleaning machine offers the best long-term value by replacing several dedicated machines with a single versatile platform. This can reduce capital expenditure, lower servicing and storage costs, improve equipment utilisation and maximise productivity throughout the year.
Autonomous robot machines
How do robotic floor scrubbers avoid people and obstacles?
Modern autonomous robot scrubbers use multiple vision-based sensors and AI technology to continuously detect people, objects and changes in their environment. They automatically adjust their path and stop when necessary.
Can an autonomous scrubber still be driven manually?
Yes. Robotic floor scrubbers can switch between autonomous cleaning and manual operation whenever required.
How does a robotic scrubber learn a cleaning route?
An operator first drives the cleaning route manually. The robot records the route and can then repeat the same cleaning pattern autonomously.
Are autonomous floor scrubbers safe to use around people?
Yes. Modern autonomous machines use overlapping sensors, emergency stop functions and audible warnings to safely operate in busy workplaces.
Can robotic scrubbers send maintenance alerts?
Yes. They can notify operators when they require fresh cleaning solution, battery charging or assistance with obstacles.
Carpet extractors
Can carpet extractors clean without chemicals?
Some carpet extractors use ozone technology to sanitise, deodorise and clean carpets without traditional detergents or disinfectants.
How does ozone help clean carpets?
Ozone helps destroy many odour-causing compounds and sanitises carpets without relying on conventional cleaning chemicals.
Can commercial carpet extractors clean upholstery?
Many models offer optional upholstery, stair and hand tools for cleaning furniture, stairs and hard-to-reach areas.
How do carpet extractors leave carpets dry?
High-powered vacuum motors recover dirty solution immediately after cleaning, reducing drying times.
5. Selecting the best commercial detergent
Using the right detergent is just as important as choosing the right cleaning machine. The wrong product can reduce cleaning performance, damage floor surfaces and increase chemical consumption, while the correct detergent improves results, protects your equipment and lowers operating costs.
Choose a detergent designed for your floor type
Different floor surfaces require different cleaning solutions. Timber, vinyl, polished concrete, natural stone, anti-slip flooring and industrial concrete all have unique cleaning requirements.
Always select a detergent that is recommended for your specific floor type to maximise cleaning performance and protect the surface.
Match the detergent to the contamination
General dirt, grease, oils, food residues and tyre marks all require different cleaning solutions.
Using a heavy-duty degreaser for light daily cleaning wastes chemicals, while using a mild cleaner on heavily soiled floors may produce poor results.
Avoid overdosing
Using more detergent does not necessarily result in cleaner floors.
Excess detergent can leave sticky residues, attract more dirt, increase costs and require additional rinsing.
Always follow the manufacturer’s recommended dilution rates or use automatic dosing systems where available.
Use low-foaming detergents
Commercial floor scrubbers are designed to operate with low-foaming cleaning solutions. Excessive foam can reduce vacuum performance, affect water recovery and potentially damage the machine.
Always use detergents specifically formulated for scrubber-driers.
Consider environmentally friendly detergents
Concentrated, biodegradable cleaning products reduce packaging waste, lower transport emissions and minimise chemical use without compromising cleaning performance.
Eco-certified detergents can also help organisations meet their sustainability objectives.
Store cleaning chemicals correctly
Keep detergents in their original containers, store them in a cool, dry location and follow the manufacturer’s handling and safety recommendations.
Proper storage helps maintain product effectiveness and ensures a safer workplace.
Let technology do the work
Modern cleaning machines with automatic chemical dosing systems help deliver the correct amount of detergent every time. This improves cleaning consistency, reduces waste and helps lower operating costs.
Regularly review your cleaning products
As your facility changes, your cleaning requirements may also change.
Periodically reviewing your detergents and cleaning processes ensures you’re using the most effective products for your environment while maximising productivity and minimising environmental impact.
6. Cleaning solutions for your industry
Keeping commercial and industrial environments clean isn’t just about appearance. Effective cleaning improves workplace safety, protects valuable assets, extends the life of flooring and equipment, reduces maintenance costs, and creates healthier environments for employees, customers and visitors.
Every industry has its own cleaning challenges, whether you’re responsible for a adopting the right cleaning methods can significantly improve efficiency while reducing labour, water and chemical consumption.
With decades of experience working across a diverse range of industries, Hako Australia understands the unique requirements of different environments. Explore the links below to discover cleaning solutions, equipment recommendations and expert advice tailored to your industry.
How can warehouses improve cleaning efficiency?
Warehouses, distribution centres and logistics facilities each have unique cleaning requirements depending on the size of the facility, floor type, aisle widths, the amount and type of debris, cleaning frequency and the products being stored. For example, a food warehouse requires different cleaning equipment and hygiene standards to a manufacturing or logistics facility.
Selecting commercial cleaning equipment that is matched to your environment improves cleaning efficiency, reduces operating costs and helps create a safer, more productive workplace. Regular sweeping and scrubbing removes dust and debris, improves forklift and pedestrian safety, protects products from contamination and enhances the overall presentation of the facility. A clean warehouse also encourages better housekeeping practices, helping to prevent dirt from accumulating and supporting more efficient day-to-day operations.
If you’re unsure which cleaning solution is right for your warehouse, Hako Australia offers a comprehensive range of industrial sweepers, ride-on and walk-behind floor scrubbers, commercial vacuum cleaners and autonomous floor cleaning robots to suit facilities of every size.
What are the cleaning challenges in hospitality venues?
Cleanliness is one of the most important factors influencing the guest experience. Clean hotels, restaurants, clubs and hospitality venues help protect customer health, support food safety, create a positive first impression and encourage repeat business. Maintaining high cleaning standards also helps preserve the appearance and lifespan of flooring, furnishings and public areas.
When selecting commercial cleaning equipment for hotels, restaurants and hospitality venues, consider the size of the facility, floor surfaces, cleaning frequency, operating hours and the level of noise generated by the machine. Compact, manoeuvrable equipment that delivers efficient cleaning with minimal water, chemicals and disruption is often the best choice for hospitality environments.
How can schools maintain cleaner, healthier learning environments?
Schools, universities and other education facilities require a tailored approach to cleaning due to the variety of environments they contain. Classrooms, corridors, libraries, gymnasiums, cafeterias, toilet blocks and outdoor walkways each have different cleaning requirements and levels of daily foot traffic.
Choosing the right commercial cleaning equipment for each area improves cleaning efficiency while helping maintain high standards of hygiene and safety. Compact walk-behind floor scrubbers are ideal for classrooms, toilet blocks and other confined spaces, while larger scrubbers and sweepers are better suited to long corridors, assembly halls, gymnasiums and outdoor areas.
Features such as low-noise operation, excellent manoeuvrability and edge-cleaning capabilities enable cleaning staff to work efficiently with minimal disruption to students and staff.
Compared with traditional mopping, mechanised cleaning delivers a deeper, more consistent clean while significantly reducing cleaning time and labour. By selecting equipment that matches the size and layout of the facility, schools can create cleaner, healthier learning environments while improving productivity and reducing long-term operating costs.
How can manufacturers improve workplace cleanliness and safety?
Manufacturing facilities require cleaning solutions that manage dust, dirt, metal shavings, packaging waste and production residues while supporting safe and efficient operations. The right equipment depends on the size of the facility, floor type, production processes and the type of debris generated. Commercial sweepers, floor scrubbers, industrial vacuum cleaners and pressure washers all play an important role in maintaining cleaner, safer production environments and protecting valuable machinery and equipment.
How can agricultural businesses maintain cleaner, safer operations?
Agricultural businesses, food producers, wineries, packing sheds, grain facilities and other primary production operations all have unique cleaning requirements. Dirt, dust, mud, crop residues and organic material can quickly accumulate in processing areas, storage facilities, workshops and loading zones, creating safety risks, affecting product quality and increasing equipment wear.
Choosing commercial cleaning equipment that is suited to the environment helps maintain high standards of hygiene while supporting efficient day-to-day operations. Industrial sweepers are ideal for removing dust, dirt and loose debris from sheds, workshops and storage areas, while commercial floor scrubbers provide effective cleaning of sealed floors in processing facilities, packing areas and food production environments.
By implementing a regular cleaning program and selecting equipment matched to the application, agricultural businesses can improve workplace safety, protect valuable equipment, reduce contamination risks and create cleaner, more productive working environments.
How can aged care facilities maintain cleaner, safer environments?
Aged care facilities and nursing homes require exceptionally high standards of cleanliness to help protect residents, staff and visitors. Regular cleaning of bedrooms, bathrooms, dining areas, corridors and shared spaces plays an important role in reducing the spread of germs, improving hygiene and creating a safe, comfortable environment for vulnerable residents.
Commercial cleaning equipment helps aged care providers clean more efficiently while delivering consistent results across large facilities. Walk-behind floor scrubbers are ideal for bedrooms, bathrooms and common areas, while compact ride-on machines can improve productivity in long corridors and larger communal spaces. Commercial vacuum cleaners also assist with maintaining carpets and soft furnishings, helping to improve indoor air quality and overall cleanliness.
By implementing a structured cleaning program and selecting equipment suited to the facility, aged care providers can improve hygiene standards, reduce cleaning time, support infection prevention and create a healthier environment for residents, staff and visitors.
7. Why choose Hako Australia?
Choosing the right commercial cleaning equipment is about more than simply comparing machine specifications. It’s about partnering with a company that understands your industry, provides reliable support and delivers solutions that continue to perform for years to come.
For decades, Hako Australia has supplied commercial, industrial and municipal cleaning equipment to businesses, councils and organisations throughout Australia. Backed by German engineering, Hako machines are recognised worldwide for their durability, innovation, productivity and whole-of-life value.
Our comprehensive range includes commercial floor scrubbers, industrial sweepers, commercial vacuum cleaners, autonomous floor cleaning robots, outdoor cleaning equipment and professional floor cleaning supplies (detergents), providing complete cleaning solutions for virtually every industry and application.
With experienced sales and service teams located across Australia, genuine spare parts, preventative maintenance programs and expert technical support, we’re committed to keeping your equipment operating at peak performance.
Combined with ongoing investment in sustainable technologies that reduce water, energy and chemical consumption, Hako continues to help organisations create cleaner, safer and more productive workplaces.
8. Questions? Contact our expert team
Choosing the right commercial cleaning equipment and cleaning methods can significantly improve productivity, reduce operating costs and create cleaner, safer workplaces. Whether you’re looking for advice on selecting the right machine, improving your cleaning processes or maintaining your equipment for maximum performance, Hako Australia is here to help.
Our experienced team works with businesses, councils and organisations across Australia to recommend tailored cleaning solutions for commercial, industrial and municipal environments. From commercial floor scrubbers, industrial sweepers and vacuum cleaners to autonomous floor cleaning robots, road sweepers and outdoor maintenance equipment, we provide expert advice backed by industry-leading products, servicing and ongoing support.
Contact Hako Australia to discuss your cleaning requirements, arrange a free onsite demonstration or speak with one of our specialists about the best solution for your organisation.
For Australia-wide sales, service and support, get in touch with our expert team today.