What to know before buying janitorial carts and caddies
Schools, offices, hospitals, and other establishments often employ skilled janitors to keep their premises clean and tidy. They mop the floor, sanitize the restrooms, wash windows and mirrors, take out the trash, and perform several maintenance tasks. Janitors are usually given janitorial carts and caddies to help them fulfill their duties efficiently. The equipment makes it much easier to hold, organize, and transport cleaning tools and supplies throughout the establishment.
Types of janitorial carts
Janitorial carts help store and organize cleaning tools, trash, and other items for easy access. However, different types are available in the market, and you must choose the right one. Here are the popular options:
- Foldable carts
Folding carts with rolling frames save space when not in use. - Heavy-duty carts
Heavy-duty carts have a solid frame that can withstand the weight of bulky cleaning supplies like mops and brooms. - Laundry carts
These have a strong canvas bag to store dirty linens and towels being taken to the laundry room.
Components of janitorial carts
Janitorial carts and caddies have a mobile-friendly design that makes maneuvering them through corridors and elevators easy. Here are some critical janitorial cart parts:
- Backstop
This raised panel on the rear edge prevents items from slipping off. - Fixed shelf
Most carts have a shelf permanently attached to the frame in a location that is easy to access. - Hook and loop fasteners
These fasteners, usually seen in canvas laundry bags, secure the bag to the frame. - Locking caster
Carts have lever-style locking brakes to avoid unwanted movement. - Swivel casters
These are 360-degree rotatable parts fixed to gain better control.
Factors that influence the price of janitorial carts
The price of janitorial carts and caddies can vary depending on various factors, such as those listed below:
- Construction materials
The material used to build the carts and caddies influence their final price. - Resistance
Equipment with anti-resistance features costs more. - Capacity
A cart’s weight-bearing capacity also impacts its price. Those with a higher capacity are expensive but ensure greater safety.
Features to look out for when buying or renting janitorial carts
If you need these carts for your establishment, you can contact janitorial cart rentals and discuss your needs. Here are a few features to look for when purchasing or hiring the equipment:
- Quiet movement
Look for janitorial carts and caddies with rubber wheels for quiet movement. - Ergonomics
The cart should be lightweight, compact, and ergonomic to reduce physical stress and work-related injuries. - Moisture block
Look for carts with separate wet and dry compartments to protect electrical items like vacuum cleaners and cleaning chemicals. - Zippered refuse bag
A zippered refuse bag will hide the trash and allow the janitor to empty it from the side without lifting it.
Must-have cleaning tools for janitorial carts
Janitorial carts and caddies are most useful when stocked with essential cleaning tools. Here is a list of what you will need:
- Tools for cleaning toilets
- Disposable wipes
- Cotton and microfiber cloths
- Containers of all-purpose cleaners, disinfectants, and glass cleaners
- Clean dusters with extension handles to reach vents at a height
- Angle brooms and dustpans
Remember, your cleaning staff’s cart reflects your organization’s personality and work ethic. When well-stocked and properly set, janitorial carts and caddies allow the staff to access cleaning tools easily, improving their productivity.