If you’re a sanitation worker, then you already know that you need to have the best tools and equipment to do your job efficiently. With so many janitorial supplies on the market, it can be difficult to narrow down the most essential things to buy. Rather than buying tons of items you might not even need, here is a checklist of the best tools and equipment that every janitor should have in their cart.
Mop, bucket, and wringer
An autoscrubber can scrub a floor clean of dust, oil, grease, debris, and floor marks, but there are still some things a mop is better for. For example, absorbing liquid spills. You will need a clean double bucket and wringer combination with microfiber mop heads that can be replaced after a number of uses.
Cleaning cloth
You should have several microfiber cloths to wipe up small spills or clean general surfaces. There should be enough pieces of cloth so that you won’t have to re-use one. Re-using a cloth could lead to cross-contamination.
Toilet cleaning brush
A long-handle toilet cleaning brush is best for cleaning toilets. The long handle ensures that you don’t have to get too close to the toilet bowl.
Broom and dustpan
You’ll definitely be sweeping up debris and dust from the floor along the way. A broom and dustpan with long handles will be easier on your back.
Duster
A duster is used on furniture surfaces or in places like air conditioners and vents to remove dust. An extendable handle will allow you to reach both high and low areas with ease.
Cleaning supplies
General liquid cleaning supplies include glass cleaner, all-purpose cleaner, toilet bowl cleaner, disinfectant, and polish. Your chemical containers should all be color-coded and properly labeled and numbered. You may also bring with you acid cleaners for mineral deposits, deodorizers, and mild abrasive cleaners.
Safety signs
You should carry a safety sign with you to alert people who walk by a slippery floor.
Janitor’s cart
Your cart is basically your work station. You should have a well-stocked cart that allows you to access products, tools, and supplies easily. You can also install shelves, hooks, and holders onto your cart to further organize your janitorial supplies. An orderly cart will save you a lot of time and effort when you’re cleaning.
Consumable products
This is mostly for those working within places like hotels. You should pack a sufficient amount of toilet tissue, paper towels, and hand soap to replace or restock the ones in hotel rooms.
Upright vacuum cleaner
A compact and portable vacuum cleaner can be used on carpet surfaces. You can also use it to get rid of dust and debris on just about any surface more efficiently than with your broom and dustpan.
This list is only a suggested inventory of items that a typical janitor cart should have. The items can vary based on the requirements of different locations. Since these are just the essentials, you can always adjust it according to your needs. For now, having these items with you on your cart is a good place to start.
