8 things to consider when choosing janitorial carts and caddies
The janitorial team of any facility cannot function efficiently without carts and caddies. These arrangements provide the staff with simple and convenient access to cleaning tools and supplies. But the problem is that the market has different types of janitorial carts, which makes the selection process overwhelming. So, if you wish to invest in janitorial carts and caddies, here are a few factors to consider for picking the best ones.
Floor surface
A simple online search will display different types of janitorial carts, including models with multiple shelves, a larger waste bin, and extra compartments for mops and brooms. However, besides looking for these features, you must check whether the cart is suitable for the flooring in your building. Will you be maneuvering the cart on carpeted areas or tiles? You must ensure the wheels on the carts you pick are engineered to go over the kind of surface in your building. If confused, opt for a trolley that can move around on smooth and hard surfaces.
Sound
Some carts are relatively quieter than others, making them suitable for places with noise restrictions. For example, a hospital’s neonatal hall will benefit from noise-free carts or caddies that ensure babies are comfortable and rested. Nobody wants a noisy cleaning cart in such places. The same applies to places like libraries and exam halls. Choose carts that produce minimum sound to ensure it does not disturb anyone using these facilities.
Space it passes through
Will you maneuver the cart through small elevators and tight hallways? If yes, opt for a narrow cart with a compact body frame that fits into cramped areas. The cart’s size you need can also vary depending on where you wish to put this cart after use. If you do not have ample space to accommodate the cart, opt for thinner but taller options that can still carry all your cleaning tools. You can find janitorial carts in different sizes. Get one big enough to carry cleaning items but still compact enough to maneuver through elevators and doorways.
Environment
Before buying janitorial carts and caddies, consider where you will use them most. If you use the cart outdoors, you must carefully assess its quality. The cart should be made of durable materials capable of withstanding extreme environmental conditions and temperature changes. Remember that janitorial carts have tiny parts like wheels, handles, hooks, and trays that can get worn out with time if not used correctly. Durable carts may be costly, but they last longer.
Storage
The trolley should have adequate space to accommodate all your cleaning tools, such as mops, paper towels, buckets, dusters, dustpans, and spray bottles. But that’s not all. You must also check the trash container size and the kind of things that can be pre-loaded onto the trolley. These factors can help you find the right option. When buying or browsing through the different carts, look for ones that can accommodate most items lying in your cleaning cupboard.
Aesthetics
The janitorial cart will be moved around the entire building, which means it will catch the eye of other people. So, always go for aesthetically appealing options. And do not forget that the cleaning staff will use it throughout their shift, so consider their tastes and preferences.
Waste disposal
Do you wish to collect all the waste and carry it with you for disposal at a later stage? If yes, you must opt for a trolley with a large in-built waste container. These containers store the waste correctly until it is time to empty the trash into the main dustbin. The mechanism can save you a lot of mess and time. Waste disposal containers also help guard passers-by against potentially hazardous textile and chemical waste.
Cost
The price of janitorial carts and caddies varies according to their features, size, and brand. You can find a basic trolley between $100 and $300. More advanced or larger carts can cost upwards of $500! Consider renting them if you have a limited budget and need the arrangement only temporarily. You may find a few janitorial cart rentals online that bill you daily or weekly.
Picking a multi-purpose trolley for your business can save time and money and ensure cleaning efficiency. Versatile models are especially suitable for larger spaces like hospitals, big offices, and hotels. If you cannot decide which cart works best for you, invest in modular carts that you can customize to cater to different environments. They come with interchangeable parts, making them ideal for numerous cleaning tasks.