Brushes vs Pads, Which one will you go with?

DECISIONS, DECISIONS

Pads Vs. Brushes: What you need to know…

“For every brush, there’s an equal pad!” 

-Thomas Mitchell, Account Executive

It’s been some time, but the ongoing debate about the appropriate equipment for your machines remains; namely, what will be the best fit for your machine as well as the job at hand? While both tools have their advantages and disadvantages, and are sometimes a matter of personal preference depending on your machine, we’re diving into this to give you a better understanding of what is available for YOU to achieve more productive results when it comes to cleaning your floor and determining “ Which option is right for ME?”

Let’s look at pads first.  Pads are accessible and readily available at most janitorial supply houses. Denoted normally by color, pads are designed to be easily differentiated and simple to use. Pads can get the job done for things like polishing, grit removal, and stripping. As versatile as they are, pads will need to be replaced more frequently.  

Which brings us to brushes!  While they can be the more expensive option of the two, brushes offer some beneficial differences to make up for it.   Brushes are more durable than pads.   Basing themselves on a different scale than pads,  a brush’s “fill”, or what the brush is made of, determines how aggressive or passive the brush may be. Depending on the “fill”, brushes can then be rated for the surface they are cleaning.  Lighter jobs usually call for using a finer, softer brush, while for heavier jobs, the opposite may be true. The more specialized the brush, the more expensive it may be.  

(Pictured Above: Color Coded standard pads & their differences)

From the time of our last look into the industry; the janitorial pad and brush industry in the United States has experienced notable advancements, driven by efficiency, sustainability, & superior performance. The key to making an informed decision lies in understanding the unique benefits and use-cases of both pads and brushes.

Pads have maintained their position as the more versatile and budget-friendly option. They are widely available and color-coded for specific tasks such as polishing, grit removal, and stripping; easily bought in bulk and identifiable. They work best with small, specific jobs that can vary from day to day or need by need.  Despite needing frequent replacement, their ease of use and availability make them a reliable choice for most, if not all, cleaning needs.

Brushes, on the other hand, offer greater durability and longevity. Although they come at a higher initial cost, their ability to handle a heavier work load with less end user effort makes them a valuable investment. The advancements in bristle design, “fill” components, and grit technology by leading manufacturers like Tennant Company & Malish Corp. have also enhanced their appeal.

Ultimately, the decision between pads and brushes should be based on the specific requirements of your cleaning task and the type of floor cleaner you use. By staying informed about the latest industry developments and considering the unique advantages of each option, you can ensure that your floors remain in top condition, meeting professional standards with ease.

Have anymore questions? Give us a call at 800-440-6723 or visit us at www.southeasteasternequipent.net

About the Author:

Thomas Mitchell has been part of the sales force for Southeastern since 2006. With his years of experienced selling new and reconditioned equipment Thomas has positioned himself as one of the Nation's top sellers of commercial/industrial floor care equipment and a valuable resource for customers and the company alike.