How To Clean Escalator Steps: The Ultimate Guide

With the hustle and bustle of today’s urban centers, escalators have become vital structures that facilitate smooth movement in multi-story establishments. These mechanical marvels, however, require consistent attention to ensure their longevity and user safety. Central to this attention is understanding how to clean escalator steps correctly. This article will provide a step-by-step guide to ensure your escalator remains both visually appealing and functionally optimal.

Gather the Necessary Supplies

Before you delve into the cleaning process, you’ll need:

• A high-quality, no-drip cleaning solution specifically designed for escalators.
• Specialized tread and riser cleaning brushes.
• Absorbent tread pads.
• A heavy-duty vacuum cleaner.

Dry Tread Brushing

Begin with the basics:

• Position the brush: Place your tread cleaning brush on the oncoming steps, ensuring it remains level.
• Collect dust and dirt: Allow the brush to traverse the steps for 3 to 5 rotations. The brush’s bristles will collect the majority of the superficial debris.
• Vacuum: Lift the brush and thoroughly vacuum the accumulated dust and dirt.

Application of Cleaning Solution

The essence of deep cleaning lies in a potent cleaning solution:

• Spray evenly: Apply your chosen no-drip escalator cleaning solution, like the RESTORE gel, directly onto the tread surface.
• Allow it to sit: Let the solution sit for a few minutes, allowing it to penetrate and break down entrenched grime.

Wet Tread Brushing

Once the solution has settled:

• Place the brush: Position the wet tread cleaning brush onto the moving escalator, applying slight downward pressure.
• Brush: Retain the brush in position for about 5 rotations. This action ensures the solution is effectively worked into the grime, converting it into a liquefied sludge.

Dry Tread Pad Cleaning

The final step in the cleaning process:

• Position the pad: Lay a dry tread pad on the escalator steps.
• Absorb: The pad will soak up the liquified dirt and cleaning solution residue.
• Repeat: Depending on the dirt’s extent, you might need to use multiple pads to achieve pristine cleanliness.

Attention to Risers

Risers, the vertical portions between steps, are often overlooked but are just as crucial:

• Brush off debris: Using a riser brush, dust off superficial dirt.
• Spray: Administer the no-drip cleaning solution.
• Brush and scrub: This ensures the loosening of embedded dirt.
• Wipe: Utilize specialized riser pads, designed to fit into the grooves, to absorb and lift away grime.

Proper escalator maintenance is crucial for its longevity, safety, and visual appeal. Understanding how to clean escalator steps involves a combination of specialized tools, dedicated cleaning solutions, and precise techniques. Implementing a regular and methodical cleaning routine can mitigate potential risks, reduce long-term costs, and maintain a polished appearance. For those in search of an all-in-one, effective solution for escalator maintenance, the REN™ system by Ren Clean is an industry-leading choice, ensuring escalators remain in optimal condition.