Is Technology Making the Cleaning Industry better or worse?
We are living in an era where technology is more advanced than it has ever been before. From the cars we drive to the way we communicate, everything has changed. The cleaning industry is no exception, the boom in innovations and scientific findings have changed its outlook almost completely.
Previously when you thought of cleaning tools you thought of repeatedly stroking a broom and cleaning brush. In the current age of microfibre cloths, touchless hand sanitizers, vacuums, enzyme cleaners and automatic hand soap dispensers; cleaners have specialized tools at their disposal.
Automation and robotics
Even though the good old cleaning brush still does an amazing job, automatic machines have set another standard altogether. Certain devices such as touchless sanitizer stands have provided an extra layer of protection compared to manual dispenser hand sanitizers making it easier to avoid cross infection and germs.
Many multitasking machines provide a more effective and environmentally friendly alternative reducing laborious processes.
This results in lower operating costs, better ergonomics for workers which helps Environmental and Housekeeping managers achieve optimum results with the least amount of effort.
Tech has improved Cleaning Operations
Developments in the cleaning industry are making it easier for service providers to deliver higher efficiency and experience to their customers.
Although there may have been fears about machines jobs for humans, the industry has evolved to incorporate innovation and employees have embraced technology to perform even better.
Software have helped managers eliminate manual errors in reporting and time management applications help the workers stay on schedule, with more transparency.
It is a great idea to embrace this change rather than go against the flow as companies that evolve to assimilate the latest advancements are likely to capture market opportunities that excite them and their customers.
Repetitive Strain Injuries
Repetitive strain injury (RSI) refers to different musculoskeletal and nervous system disorders that are caused by repetitive tasks, forceful exertions, vibrations, mechanical compression, or sustained or awkward positions.
One in every 10 Canadian adults has had a RSI serious enough to limit normal activities according to Statistics Canada, and 1.8 million people are afflicted by RSI’s every year in the United States according to Ergonomic Trends.
How Microfibre Flat Mops reduce strain
There are numerous examples of how tech has reduced injuries, but one type of RSI may occur from using string mops as the cleaning tool takes more effort to get the job done.
The technology to blend Nylon and Polymide forming a star-shaped strand created the microfibre cloth that saves time and effort but the microfibre mop takes it to whole another level, it might just save you the trouble of having to get down on all fours and using a cleaning brush.
As demonstrated in this video by our very own Greg Hewitt, the rotatable square shape of a microfibre mopping system makes for a more thorough clean and is three times easier to use, reducing fatigue and strain.
This system works especially good at corners as it does not splash dirty water right back up the wall, especially if you mop side to side walking backwards.
Less pollution and waste
Technology has also made machines much quieter, reducing noise pollution. Smartphone apps add to these improvements by showing diagnostics such as battery levels and other maintenance notifications.
Lesser waste means lower operating costs, more reliability and better functionality.
Improvements in safety
Before the internet, people relied on homemade cleaning solutions. No one was aware of the negative consequences the products posed. Safety and tips to maximize the experience from your cleaning products can easily be searched online on YouTube channels now.
Most people now know that mixing up cleaning chemicals can be a bad idea and the potential hazards that are attached to that. There is more awareness around the effects of dust and dust mites and how a clean space improves people’s productivity and psychological state.
Ease of doing business
Before the Digital Transformation, consumers would start by grabbing a large book and contacting many cleaning companies and have them quote their prices, this process consumed a lot of time.
Today, booking services like iRestify have eliminated most of the steps involved in hiring cleaners, strong web presence by cleaning supply providers that help cleaning professionals and consumers select the right products depending on their office, condo, house, or business.
Technology has had a multi-dimensional impact on the cleaning tools we use. From the chemicals we develop, materials that make fabrics, to the large-scale commercial-use tech improving efficiencies and safety for workers.
The cleaning industry has become safer, greener, and more efficient due to innovations that set the stage for consistent growth.
