Keep Your Facility’s Escalators Clean: Why It Matters and How to Do It Right

An escalator is one of the first things patrons see when entering a hotel, airport, or shopping center. No matter how spotless the rest of the building is, a dirty escalator can leave a negative first impression on visitors. But aesthetics aren’t the only concern—a dirty escalator can also pose safety risks to passengers. Accumulated dirt, grime, and debris can make escalator treads slippery, leading to potential accidents and injuries. This could result in costly lawsuits and medical bills that could have been avoided with regular maintenance.  So, what’s the best way to tackle escalator cleaning? While it may seem daunting, it doesn’t have to be a challenge if you have a solid plan and the right equipment.

Cleaning Challenges

Escalators aren’t flat surfaces like floors or countertops, so they require specific cleaning products and machines. The grooves in the tread area of the steps are magnets for impacted dirt, which is notoriously difficult to remove. This task becomes even more complex for facilities that have escalators of varying widths, presenting unique cleaning challenges for staff.

To overcome these issues, it’s essential to develop a comprehensive maintenance plan.

Creating a Maintenance Plan for Escalators

Start by establishing a cleaning schedule for your escalators, similar to how you would for other high-traffic areas. Most facility managers prefer to clean during non-peak hours, when the building is closed to visitors or has minimal foot traffic. This ensures the cleaning process doesn’t disrupt your business operations.

Next, consider cleaning frequency. The frequency largely depends on the amount of traffic your escalator sees. For instance, escalators in facilities with high daily usage will require more frequent cleanings to maintain safety and appearance. Always consult the manufacturer’s instructions and work with a professional escalator cleaning service when designing your cleaning schedule.

KCR’s Solution: Cleaning Made Easy

At KCR, we understand the hassle and downtime involved in traditional escalator cleaning methods, which often require dismantling the escalator and taking it out of service for extended periods. That’s why we offer a cost-effective alternative—our specialized escalator cleaning machine thoroughly cleans steps and risers simultaneously, allowing us to clean your escalator in just one shift, typically after hours. This means no downtime for your facility, so your operations can continue smoothly.

The Benefits of Regular Cleanings

If you’ve been avoiding escalator maintenance due to cost or inconvenience, now is the time to reconsider. Cleaning escalator steps and approach plates that patrons observe closely before stepping on can greatly improve the overall impression of your facility. Additionally, KCR’s solution can be a budget-friendly supplement to your existing building maintenance program.

Contact KCR today to get a free quote.