The dehydration device of hand-free mops (such as roller squeeze type or pedal squeeze type) is a concentrated area for stains and bacteria. If not cleaned for a long time, it can lead to unpleasant odors, clogging and even damage. The following are deep cleaning methods for different dehydration devices, combined with lever structure maintenance and hygiene management, to ensure the long-term efficient use of mops.
First, types of dehydration devices and key points for cleaning
Roller extrusion type dewatering device
Structural features: Double rollers + lever support, which dehydrates by squeezing the mop cloth through the rollers.
Cleaning difficulties: Hair and fibers are prone to entanglement in the gaps of the rollers, and dirt is likely to accumulate in the bearing areas.
Cleaning steps:
Disassemble the roller:
Press the clips on both sides of the roller and pull out the roller along the track (for some models, the fixing screws need to be loosened).
Clean the surface of the roller:
Use an old toothbrush dipped in neutral detergent (such as dishwashing liquid) to scrub the grooves of the rollers to remove the remaining fibers.
For stubborn stains, use a cotton swab dipped in alcohol to wipe the roller bearing area.
Rinsing and drying
Rinse the rollers with running water to ensure there is no cleaner residue. Let them dry naturally and then reinstall them.
2. Pedal squeezing type dewatering device
Structural features: Pedal + connecting rod lever, dehydration is achieved by pressing down the pedal.
Cleaning difficulties: The gaps between the pedals and the connecting rod joints are prone to dirt accumulation.
Cleaning steps:
Disassemble the pedal assembly:
Unscrew the pedal fixing screws (usually 2 to 3), and remove the pedal and the connecting rod.
Clean the pedal and connecting rod:
Wipe the surface of the pedal with a damp cloth and use a toothpick to pick out any debris from the gaps.
Spray WD-40 lubricant at the connecting rod joint and wipe off the excess oil stains with a paper towel.
Disinfection treatment
Soak the pedal in clean water containing 0.1% quaternary ammonium salt disinfectant solution for 5 minutes to kill bacteria.
3. Centrifugal dewatering device (Some high-end models)
Structural features: The mop is spun dry by high-speed rotation.
Cleaning difficulty: The inner wall of the dehydration basket is prone to accumulate dirt.
Cleaning steps:
Disassemble the dehydration basket:
Rotate the dehydration basket counterclockwise. After taking it out, turn it upside down and gently pat it to remove large particles of debris.
Deep cleaning
Soak the dehydration basket in a mixture of baking soda and white vinegar (in a ratio of 1:1) for 30 minutes to soften stubborn stains.
Scrub the inner wall with a soft-bristled brush, rinse it and then let it dry.
Second, maintenance of the leverage structure
The lever structure of the dehydration device (such as roller brackets and pedal connecting rods) is a blind spot for cleaning and requires regular maintenance:
Check the lever activity:
Manually push and pull the lever to feel if there is any lag or abnormal noise.
If it gets stuck, spray a small amount of lubricating oil (such as 3M anti-rust lubricant), and move the lever until the oil penetrates.
Tighten the screws
Check the screws at the lever connection every three months and tighten them to the recommended torque (usually 2-3N·m) with a torque wrench.
Anti-rust treatment
Apply anti-rust wax (such as Henkel anti-rust wax) to the metal lever components to extend their service life.
Third, storage suggestions after cleaning
Hang to dry
Hang the mop upside down to ensure the dehydration device is completely dry and prevent water accumulation from breeding bacteria.
Zoned storage:
Mops should be stored separately from cleaning tools to prevent cross-contamination.
Replace components regularly:
It is recommended that vulnerable parts such as rollers and pedals be replaced every 6 to 12 months to ensure the dehydration efficiency.
Summary
The cleaning of the dehydration device of the hand-free mop should follow the four-step method of "disassembly - cleaning - lubrication - disinfection", combined with the maintenance of the lever structure, which can significantly extend the service life of the mop and improve the cleaning effect. It is recommended to conduct a deep cleaning once a week and carry out lever maintenance once a month to ensure the floor cleaning quality in high-hygiene scenarios such as hotel lobbies.