In the professional cleaning field there is a “tool” that allows you to obtain optimal cleaning results through the correct combination of the factors that make it up. For professionals in the sector it’s a well-known concept. But since we all use it unconsciously in our everyday life, we have decided to reveal the secret for perfect floor cleaning: the Sinner’s Circle.
What is the Sinner’s Circle?
We have already talked about it in the post dedicated to the 8 key terms to know about floor scrubbers. But now the time has come to delve into the topic and to understand how cleaning professionals take advantage of the Sinner’s Circle to obtain perfect floor cleaning.
So, let’s start by defining what the Sinner’s Circle is: a proven and reliable method that allows to obtain optimal cleaning results. In 1959, Dr. Herbert Sinner, a German chemical engineer who worked for Henkel, defined cleaning as a process that involves the interaction of 4 factors:
The four factors are variable but are still present in every cleaning operation. For example, when we wash our hands we use hot water (temperature), we use soap (chemical action) and we rub our hands (mechanical action) for a few seconds (time). We apply the same factors in our everyday lives, for example when we use a washing machine or dishwasher.
Only the balanced combination of these elements (which must be evaluated by examining the surface, the type and the degree of dirt) allows to obtain the optimal cleaning result. Indeed, in case one of the four factors is lacking, the others must be reinforced. Let’s take into consideration a washing machine: you will surely have noticed that, in general, longer programs use less water or lower temperatures. Whereas ecological programs usually last longer. This is because the combination of the 4 factors that determine the removal of stains changes. Again, the Sinner’s Circle is applied.
Before continuing the analysis of the Sinner’s Circle, it is worth remembering that for surface cleaning also the 4 factors are influenced by:
- Surface typer
- Dirt type: which can be sticky, greasy, calcareous…
- Water hardness
With regard to the dirt type, the monthly publication dedicated to professional cleaning operators Dimensione Pulito made an in-depth analysis connected to the Sinner’s Circle, here is the link to read it.
Temperature
According to the Sinner’s Circle, the first determining factor for ideal detergency is temperature. In fact, it affects both the effectiveness of cleaning products and that of the cleaning process. For example, depending on the type of surface to be cleaned and the detergent chosen, it is possible to fill floor scrubbers’ tanks with hot water (maximum 50 °C). In this case you will influence the temperature factor of the Sinner’s Circle. In addition, depending on the dirt type, water (especially if hot) has its own cleaning power and may be enough for its removal. This is the case of scrubbing machines that use orbital technology.
Chemical Action
In Sinner’s Circle, the factor related to the chemical action entails the correct choice of the detergent and its correct dosage. Using a detergent that is suitable for both the type of surface and the cleaning equipment can really make a difference on the result. For this reason, we suggest you to seek advice from cleaning specialists in order to find the perfect one. Moreover, we recommend that you always follow the manufacturers’ dosage instructions.
Time
The time factor is essential in the cleaning process and its influence with respect to Sinner’s Circle must be evaluated in two ways:
- The reaction time of the cleaning product, i.e. the amount of time it should remain in contact with the dirt to be able to effectively remove it. Regarding this aspect, it is worth remembering that when using a floor scrubber it is possible to adopt the indirect method, which includes the pre-wash phase to give the detergent more reaction time.
- The total time required for cleaning, which obviously is influenced by the surface type, the contamination level and the cleaning equipment type. If you compare the mechanized floor cleaning with the manual one, the processing times guaranteed by a floor scrubbing machine are shorter than those of a mop.
Mechanical Action
Last but not least for the Sinner’s Circle, we have the factor linked to the mechanical action, also called abrasive action. This is the force exerted on the cleaning unit and therefore the friction that is developed to eliminate dirt. The mechanical action can be manual, as in the case of manual cleaning with a mop, or mechanical if you use professional equipment such as a floor scrubber. An element that for sure affects the mechanical action is the operator fatigue. You can solve this issue using an automatic floor scrubbing machine which exerts a constant action on the brushes.
With regard to this factor, the choice of the right cleaning equipment plays a fundamental role in obtaining optimal results. For example, if you choose to use a floor scrubber, it is important to evaluate the suitable brush base type. Is it better to choose for a disc brush deck, the cylindrical or with orbital pad? We have a list, that you can read here, to answer this and other questions on how to choose the professional scrubbing machine that best suits your needs.
Why is the Sinner’s Circle the secret to perfect floor cleaning?
So, what is the secret that allows you to obtain optimal floor cleaning? The Sinner’s Circle, and the balanced combination of the 4 factors that compose it. In fact, after understanding and evaluating the elements of the circle, it is important to keep in mind that they are all closely related to each other. Every time a cleaning operation is performed, all the factors are present, and therefore it will be only the experience and the know-how of those who perform the operations that allow for the right combination.
So, let’s reveal this “secret” by quoting what is written in the Afidamp Professional Cleaning Vademecum with regard to the Sinner’s Circle:
“The optimal combination and the weighted average with percentage of the 4 factors allows the achievement of targeted, effective and quality cleaning, as it respects the environment”.
Still have questions? A worldwide network of Comac authorized dealers is waiting to help you. Contact us for further advice and support on choosing the best professional cleaning solution.
And don’t forget to download the infographic:
This post is also available in: Italian