In industrial and commercial facilities, floor hygiene isn’t just about appearance it’s about safety, compliance, and efficiency. With constant traffic from forklifts, pallet trucks, staff, and machinery, floors must be kept clean to reduce slip risks, maintain standards, and extend their lifespan.
Steam cleaning has become a popular choice in these environments. It sanitises without chemicals, removes stubborn grease and dirt, and reduces downtime compared to traditional methods. But the key question is: is steam cleaning suitable for every industrial floor type?
Floors That Work Well with Steam Cleaning
Epoxy-Coated Concrete
A favourite in warehouses, production plants, and garages, epoxy floors stand up well to steam. It cuts through oil, grease, and chemical residues while protecting the surface finish.
Ceramic & Porcelain Tiles
Found in food production areas, commercial kitchens, and washrooms, tiled floors benefit from steam’s ability to lift grime from grout and provide high levels of sanitisation, a big plus for hygiene compliance.
Sealed Stone (Granite, Slate, Marble)
In reception areas or high-end facilities, sealed stone floors respond well to steam cleaning. It delivers deep cleaning without the dulling effects of harsh chemicals.
Floors Requiring Caution
Polished Concrete
Durable but sensitive, polished concrete needs care. Steam is possible if the surface is sealed properly, but use the right attachments and keep movement consistent to avoid streaks.
Vinyl & Safety Flooring
Common in healthcare, retail, and education, these floors can handle low-level steam cleaning. But too much heat or prolonged exposure can damage adhesives or wear layers, so always check supplier guidance.
Floors to Avoid with Steam Cleaning
Unsealed Concrete
Raw concrete absorbs moisture, which can lead to cracks or long-term damage. For these floors, scrubber dryers or traditional methods are more effective.
Hardwood or Timber Floors
Less common in industrial sites, but where present, untreated timber should be avoided. Steam can cause swelling, warping, and reduce its service life.
Why Steam Cleaning Works for Industry
- Chemical-Free Sanitisation: Reduces chemical costs and supports sustainability goals.
- Deep Cleaning Power: Tackles grease, oil, and bacteria effectively.
- Faster Drying Times: Minimises downtime and reduces slip hazards.
- Compliance Support: Helps meet strict hygiene and safety standards.
Steam cleaning is an excellent solution for many industrial floor types, particularly epoxy-coated, sealed concrete, tiles, and sealed stone. However, not all floors are suitable, and understanding your surfaces is key to choosing the right method.
At Motion Cleaning Machines, we supply and support industrial-grade steam solutions designed for the toughest environments. Whether you manage a warehouse, food facility, or manufacturing site, our team can help you find the safest and most effective cleaning system for your floors.
Interested in finding out if steam cleaning is right for your facility? Get in touch with Motion Cleaning Machines today for expert advice and tailored solutions.
