Cleaning machines – an overview of the possibilities on the market


Cleaning machines – an overview of the possibilities on the market


Cleaning machines play a central role in professional cleaning, where efficiency, ergonomics and hygiene are crucial. Whether it concerns offices, institutions or production environments, the right machine can make a noticeable difference in both results and time consumption. The market offers many types and models – from compact floor scrubbers to large ride-on machines – and it can be a challenge to find the solution that best suits the company's needs.
In this article, you will get a comprehensive overview of the most important considerations you should make before investing in a cleaning machine, as well as an introduction to the most common types and manufacturers on the market.
The article presents a wide selection of cleaning machines that cover different needs, sizes and areas of use. The aim is to provide an informative overview of functions, features and price ranges so that you can more easily assess which type of machine best suits your company. The information about the products is based on publicly available descriptions from manufacturers and retailers and has been summarised to provide a neutral and clear picture of the market.
Factors to consider when buying a cleaning machine
When choosing a cleaning machine, it is important to take into account practical, economic and operational factors. Here are some of the most important aspects to consider.
1. Area of use and capacity
Consider where the machine will be used – small office spaces, large warehouses or institutions with many corridors place different demands. The capacity, measured in tank size and working width, should match the area so that cleaning can be carried out efficiently without unnecessary stops.
2. User-friendliness and ergonomics
A machine that is easy to use and manoeuvre increases efficiency and reduces the risk of errors and strain injuries. Look for intuitive control panels, adjustable handles and good balance in weight distribution.
3. Power supply and operating time
Cleaning machines are available with cord, battery and petrol-powered models. Battery-powered machines provide greater flexibility and fewer cables but require planned charging. Choose battery type and capacity according to the duration of the cleaning tasks.
4. Maintenance and service
Regular maintenance extends the machine's lifespan and ensures consistent cleaning results. Consider how easy it is to clean tanks, change brushes and access spare parts. A good service organisation from the supplier can be an important factor in the overall operating economy.
5. Price and total economy
The price of cleaning machines varies considerably depending on size, technology and brand. It may be worthwhile to look at the total economy – including energy consumption, maintenance and lifespan – instead of focusing solely on the purchase price.
Products in focus

Kärcher COMPACT SCRUBBER BR 30/1 C Bp Pack 18/25 is a compact cleaning and drying machine developed to handle smaller floor areas with high efficiency. The machine has a maximum performance of 200 m² per hour and is suitable for quick cleaning of hard floors.
The battery-powered design provides great freedom of movement without the need for a power connection, and it uses an 18 V lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 2.5 Ah, providing up to 45 minutes of runtime per charge.
The machine is equipped with a brush that rotates between 500 and 650 revolutions per minute, ensuring thorough cleaning. It has separate tanks for clean and dirty water with capacities of 1 litre and 0.7 litres respectively.
With a noise level of only 55 dB, it is suitable for use in noise-sensitive environments. The compact size and low weight of 6.1 kg make it easy to transport and store, while the ergonomic design contributes to a comfortable working posture during use.
- Compact design: Easy to manoeuvre and store, ideal for smaller areas.
- Battery operation: 18 V lithium-ion battery provides up to 45 minutes of runtime.
- Efficient cleaning: Brush speed of 500–650 rpm and contact pressure up to 40 g/cm².
- Low noise level: Only 55 dB, suitable for noise-sensitive areas.
- Separate water management: 1 L fresh water tank and 0.7 L waste water tank for efficient cleaning.
Pros and cons
- Compact and lightweight design
- Cordless operation with lithium-ion battery
- Low noise level during use
- Easy handling and transport
- Efficient cleaning of smaller floor areas
- Limited tank capacity suitable for smaller areas
- The 45-minute runtime may require recharging for larger tasks
Pros and cons
Pros
- Compact and lightweight design
- Cordless operation with lithium-ion battery
- Low noise level during use
- Easy handling and transport
- Efficient cleaning of smaller floor areas
Cons
- Limited tank capacity suitable for smaller areas
- The 45-minute runtime may require recharging for larger tasks
Pros
- Compact and lightweight design
- Cordless operation with lithium-ion battery
- Low noise level during use
- Easy handling and transport
- Efficient cleaning of smaller floor areas
Cons
- Limited tank capacity suitable for smaller areas
- The 45-minute runtime may require recharging for larger tasks
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Kärcher
- Model: 1.783-055.0
- EAN: 4054278834504
- Machine type: Step-on
- Product colour: Grey, White
- Maximum performance: 200 m²/h
- Waste water tank volume: 0.7 L
- Fresh water tank capacity: 1 L
- Brush rotation speed (min.): 500 rpm
- Brush rotation speed (max.): 650 rpm
- Brush contact pressure (max.): 40 g/cm²
- Noise level: 55 dB
- Power source: Battery
- AC input voltage: 100–240 V
- AC input frequency: 50–60 Hz
- Battery technology: Lithium-ion (Li-Ion)
- Battery voltage: 18 V
- Battery capacity: 2.5 Ah
- Runtime: 45 min.
- Width: 305 mm
- Depth: 340 mm
- Height: 1200 mm
- Weight: 6.1 kg
- Package weight: 11 kg
Product descriptions

Kärcher COMPACT SCRUBBER BR 30/1 C Bp Pack 18/25 is a compact cleaning and drying machine developed to handle smaller floor areas with high efficiency. The machine has a maximum performance of 200 m² per hour and is suitable for quick cleaning of hard floors.
The battery-powered design provides great freedom of movement without the need for a power connection, and it uses an 18 V lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 2.5 Ah, providing up to 45 minutes of runtime per charge.
The machine is equipped with a brush that rotates between 500 and 650 revolutions per minute, ensuring thorough cleaning. It has separate tanks for clean and dirty water with capacities of 1 litre and 0.7 litres respectively.
With a noise level of only 55 dB, it is suitable for use in noise-sensitive environments. The compact size and low weight of 6.1 kg make it easy to transport and store, while the ergonomic design contributes to a comfortable working posture during use.
- Compact design: Easy to manoeuvre and store, ideal for smaller areas.
- Battery operation: 18 V lithium-ion battery provides up to 45 minutes of runtime.
- Efficient cleaning: Brush speed of 500–650 rpm and contact pressure up to 40 g/cm².
- Low noise level: Only 55 dB, suitable for noise-sensitive areas.
- Separate water management: 1 L fresh water tank and 0.7 L waste water tank for efficient cleaning.
Pros and cons
- Compact and lightweight design
- Cordless operation with lithium-ion battery
- Low noise level during use
- Easy handling and transport
- Efficient cleaning of smaller floor areas
- Limited tank capacity suitable for smaller areas
- The 45-minute runtime may require recharging for larger tasks
Pros and cons
Pros
- Compact and lightweight design
- Cordless operation with lithium-ion battery
- Low noise level during use
- Easy handling and transport
- Efficient cleaning of smaller floor areas
Cons
- Limited tank capacity suitable for smaller areas
- The 45-minute runtime may require recharging for larger tasks
Pros
- Compact and lightweight design
- Cordless operation with lithium-ion battery
- Low noise level during use
- Easy handling and transport
- Efficient cleaning of smaller floor areas
Cons
- Limited tank capacity suitable for smaller areas
- The 45-minute runtime may require recharging for larger tasks
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Kärcher
- Model: 1.783-055.0
- EAN: 4054278834504
- Machine type: Step-on
- Product colour: Grey, White
- Maximum performance: 200 m²/h
- Waste water tank volume: 0.7 L
- Fresh water tank capacity: 1 L
- Brush rotation speed (min.): 500 rpm
- Brush rotation speed (max.): 650 rpm
- Brush contact pressure (max.): 40 g/cm²
- Noise level: 55 dB
- Power source: Battery
- AC input voltage: 100–240 V
- AC input frequency: 50–60 Hz
- Battery technology: Lithium-ion (Li-Ion)
- Battery voltage: 18 V
- Battery capacity: 2.5 Ah
- Runtime: 45 min.
- Width: 305 mm
- Depth: 340 mm
- Height: 1200 mm
- Weight: 6.1 kg
- Package weight: 11 kg
Different types of cleaning machines
Cleaning machines come in many variants, each developed for specific tasks and environments. Here is an overview of the most commonly used types.
1. Floor scrubbers
Floor scrubbers combine washing, brushing and suction in one operation and are ideal for hard floors in offices, shops and institutions. They are available as walk-behind machines and ride-on models for larger areas.
2. Sweepers
Sweepers are used to remove dust, sand and small particles from both indoor and outdoor surfaces. They come in manual, battery-powered and motorised versions and are suitable for everything from car parks to production halls.
3. Carpet cleaners
For textile floor coverings, carpet cleaners are an effective choice. They spray cleaning solution into the carpet and then suck up the dirty water again, providing deep cleaning and fresher surfaces.
4. Pressure washers
Pressure washers are used for outdoor cleaning of facades, machines and vehicles. They can be electric or petrol-powered and deliver high water pressure to remove stubborn dirt.
5. Steam cleaners
Steam cleaners use hot steam pressure to disinfect and clean without chemicals. They are particularly suitable for areas with high hygiene requirements, such as kitchens, hospitals and laboratories.
Different brands of cleaning machines
The market for cleaning machines includes many well-known manufacturers, each specialising in different segments and technologies.
Nilfisk
Nilfisk is one of the most recognised manufacturers in professional cleaning. The brand offers a wide range of machines – from compact floor scrubbers to large industrial models – with a focus on reliability and user-friendliness.
Kärcher
Kärcher is known for its innovative solutions and wide range of cleaning machines for both businesses and private individuals. The products combine high performance with ergonomic design and energy efficiency.
Tennant
Tennant focuses on sustainable cleaning solutions and advanced technology, including machines with reduced water consumption and environmentally friendly cleaning systems. The brand is popular with large companies and public institutions.
Taski
Taski, part of Diversey, specialises in professional floor scrubbers and sweepers. The products are known for high quality, long lifespan and focus on ergonomics and safety.
Viper
Viper offers affordable cleaning machines for commercial use that combine ease of use with solid performance. The range covers both small and medium-sized cleaning tasks.
Frequently asked questions
Which type of cleaning machine is best suited to my needs?
It depends on the type of surface, area and cleaning frequency. For hard floors, a floor scrubber is often the best choice, while carpets require a carpet cleaner. Larger areas can advantageously be handled with ride-on models.
How often should a cleaning machine be maintained?
After each use, tanks should be emptied and brushes cleaned. Weekly inspection of filters, hoses and batteries is recommended. Always follow the manufacturer's service plan to ensure optimal operation and lifespan.
Can cleaning machines be used with all types of cleaning agents?
No, it is important to use cleaning agents that are approved for the machine type. Incorrect agents can damage components or impair cleaning performance. The manufacturer's instructions should always be followed.
What are the advantages of battery-powered cleaning machines?
They provide greater freedom of movement, reduce the risk of tripping over cables and can be used in areas without access to power outlets. However, they require planned charging and proper battery maintenance.
How do you choose the most economical solution?
Consider the total cost instead of just the purchase price. A more expensive machine with lower energy consumption, longer lifespan and less maintenance may prove to be the most economical solution in the long run.










