Cleaning has come a long way since the days of using old rags and cloth pieces. In the modern world, we have access to more efficient and eco-friendly cleaning solutions that not only save time and money but also reduce waste. So, if you’re still clinging to the age-old tradition of using rag wipes to clean, it’s time to reconsider. 

In this blog, we’ll explore why you should make the switch to more efficient cleaning alternatives and how it can benefit you, especially in industrial sectors, including automotive and aerospace.

History of using rags to clean

Rags have a long history as cleaning tools. They were readily available, inexpensive, and could be repurposed from old clothing and materials. From cleaning floors to wiping down surfaces, rag wipes have been the go-to choice for centuries. However, as times have changed, so have our cleaning needs and environmental concerns.

The downside of using rags

While rags may seem like a cost-effective solution, they come with hidden costs and inefficiencies. Let’s break it down:

Costs: A bale of rag wipes may appear inexpensive at first, but when you consider that there are approximately 100-120 pieces per bale, the cost per piece still averages around 7p. This is considerably more expensive when compared to reusable non-woven cleaning materials in the long run.

Waste: Rags are difficult to dispose of due to their contact with hazardous chemicals. Not only can this be expensive, with hazardous waste disposal ranging between £300 to £500 per tonne, but it also means more CO2 as they are usually incinerated. 

Storage: Rag wipes take up a lot of space. Four 10kg bags of rag wipes can take up to 8 times more space than one large roll of non-woven cleaning material. This inefficient use of storage space can be a headache for businesses.

Weight: Saturated rags are heavy. In fact, a saturated rag can weigh ten times more than a saturated non-woven wipe. This added weight can make handling and disposal more challenging.

The solution: non-woven cleaning wipes

Benefits of using non-woven wipes

Now that we’ve highlighted the downsides of using rags, let’s explore the benefits of switching to non-woven cleaning wipes, especially those from our steadfast range (110). 

More efficient, more cost-effective

Firstly, non-woven cleaning wipes are more efficient and cost-effective than rag wipes. Non-woven wipes are designed for efficiency and are highly absorbent, meaning they can clean surfaces with ease, so you get the job done faster and with less effort. And, while the initial cost of non-woven wipes might seem slightly higher than rag wipes, the cost per use is significantly lower. These wipes are incredibly durable and can be used multiple times before disposal, making them a cost-effective choice in the long run.

Environmentally friendly

One of the most significant advantages of non-woven wipes is their environmental advantage over traditional rag wipes. Steadfast wipes generate significantly less waste compared to rag wipes, helping you reduce your carbon footprint. By making the switch, you can cut down on your waste by up to 80%, which is a significant contribution to environmental conservation. We recommend the Sontara EC Green plastic-free wipes.  

Easy storage and disposal

Non-woven wipes take up minimal storage space and are lightweight, even when saturated. What does this mean? A single large roll of non-woven material can replace several bags of rag wipes, freeing up valuable storage space in your facility – and, Steadfast Wipes can be handled and disposed of more easily due to their weight.

Rags are no longer the practical choice

In today’s world, where efficiency and environmental responsibility are paramount, using rag wipes to clean is no longer a practical choice. The benefits of switching to non-woven cleaning wipes, like our Steadfast range, are clear. They are more efficient, cost-effective, eco-friendly, and space-saving.

So, if you’re still using rags to clean, it’s time to make a change. By embracing modern cleaning solutions, you not only improve your cleaning process but also contribute to a cleaner and greener planet. Say goodbye to the old ways and hello to a more efficient and sustainable future in cleaning.

If you’re interested in trying non-woven wipes from our Steadfast Range to see the advantages for yourself, you can order a free sample here.

What wipes are FCC approved for HACCP processes?

When it comes to products that come into contact with food or are used in food processing and catering environments, certifications like FCC are crucial to following HACCP processes. But what do these approvals mean for the wipe industry, and which wipes ensure compliance? Let’s dive in and explore these important aspects of wipe production.

Understanding FCC approval

FCC stands for ‘food contact certified’, a standard designed to ensure that a product used in the food preparation industry has been tested and deemed safe to be used in environments where they may come into contact with food. 

So, what does FCC approval mean for wipes? Essentially, when a wipe product carries the FCC label, it signifies that the components and chemicals used in the wipes adhere to the strict requirements needed to become food contact certified. This is particularly crucial for wipes that might come into direct or indirect contact with food.

Why is FCC approval important?

Imagine you’re in a food processing plant, and you need to clean surfaces or equipment that are used in the production of food items. The last thing you want is for the wipes you’re using to introduce harmful contaminants into the food chain. FCC-approved wipes provide assurance that this won’t happen. They’ve undergone rigorous testing to confirm that they meet the requirements and safety standards.

Which wipes comply with FCC approval?

Wipes designed for use in the food industry often carry FCC approval. These wipes are specially formulated and manufactured to ensure they do not compromise food health and safety. They are essential in maintaining the cleanliness and hygiene of food processing environments.

Some examples of wipes that commonly carry FCC approval include:

JCL – Chicopee® J-Cloth® Compostable: The Chicopee® J-Cloth® Compostable wipe is incredibly versatile and can be used with a number of different cleaning agents and solvents and with four separate colour-coded options available, the Chicopee® J-Cloth® Compostable wipe is ideal if you need to create a sustainable segregated cleaning solution.

BAW – Bulky Apertured Wipes: available in 4 colour-coded options to prevent the risk of cross-contamination, these wipes ensure a segregated cleaning solution. When it comes to meeting HACCP hygiene standards, BAW cloths are essential.

Now, let’s shift our focus to the HACCP process.

Understanding the HACCP process

HACCP stands for Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points. It is a systematic and preventive approach to food preparation safety that identifies, evaluates, and controls potential hazards throughout the food production process. HACCP is widely used in the food and catering industry to ensure the safety and quality of food products.

When a wipe product is used within the HACCP process, it means that the manufacturer has implemented a HACCP system in their production process to prevent potential hazards associated with the use of wipes in food-related settings.

Why is the HACCP process important?

In food processing environments, maintaining a high level of hygiene is paramount. Contamination or the introduction of foreign substances can lead to foodborne illnesses and product recalls, both of which can have serious consequences for consumers and businesses. FCC-approved wipes are an essential tool in ensuring that food safety standards are met and maintained.

Which wipes comply with the HACCP process?

Wipes used in food processing facilities or environments where food safety is a top priority often must follow HACCP processes. Colour-coded wipes enable them to be used as they are specifically designed to be used in accordance with HACCP processes.

Examples of wipes that comply with HACCP processes include:

EDW – Everyday Cloths: Due to their colour coded designs, our Everyday Cloths are able to make sure HACCP hygiene standards are safely met and cross-contamination is prevented. They are also fully compatible with a range of cleaning agents so you can pair them with the right product to get the job done first-time.

APW – Harrison Hygiene All-Purpose Cloths:  Due to their incredibly versatile design, our all-purpose cloths are suitable for a variety of industries, from janitorial and catering to food service. They are also chemical compatible so you can use them with different cleaning agents, allowing you to get the job done safely and swiftly. Then after use, all you need to do is simply dispose of the cloth.

BAW – Bulky Apertured Wipes: The cloth is available in 4 colour-coded options to prevent the risk of cross-contamination and ensure a segregated cleaning solution. When it comes to meeting HACCP hygiene standards, these colour-coded cloths are essential.

FCC approval and HACCP processes are essential for your business

FCC approval and HACCP processes are vital for the wipe industry, especially in applications related to food and food processing. FCC approval ensures that wipe components meet rigorous purity and quality requirements, while HACCP processes signify that manufacturers have implemented systems to prevent potential hazards in food-related environments. 

When you see FCC approval on wipe products, you can be confident that they play a crucial role in maintaining the safety and cleanliness of the food industry within HACCP processes. So, the next time you reach for a wipe in a food-related setting, remember the importance of FCC approval and HACCP processes in keeping our food safe and our environments clean.

If you would like to learn more about our range of FCC approved, HACCP process wipes, get in touch with us today. 

Why do I need colour-coded wipes?

In the fast-paced world of hospitality, restaurants, cafes, and other HoReCa businesses, maintaining impeccable hygiene and preventing cross-contamination is non-negotiable. One crucial tool in achieving this is the use of colour-coded wipes. If you’ve ever wondered why colour-coded wipes are so essential in this industry, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive in and discover why they’re a must-have for any HoReCa business. 

The Importance of colour-coding

Imagine this scenario: You’re in the heart of a bustling kitchen, culinary artists are at work. Amidst this orchestrated chaos, a critical task looms – maintaining impeccable hygiene. In the past, similar coloured textile wipes were the workhorse for cleaning all surfaces, from cutting boards to countertops and even hands. However, pause for a moment and ponder – with these uniform wipes, can you be certain that you’re not unwittingly transferring harmful bacteria from one surface to another? This is precisely where colour-coded wipes step in.

Health and safety regulations aren’t mere suggestions; they are the lifeblood of the food preparation industry. A single oversight can have catastrophic consequences, leading to foodborne illnesses and tarnishing the hard-earned reputation of a HoReCa business. In a high-pressure environment where every second counts, the significance of preventing cross-contamination cannot be overstated. 

Colour-coded wipes are more than just a convenience; they’re a lifeline in a world where the line between safe and risky is often razor-thin. By assigning specific colours to different cleaning tasks, colour-coded wipes offer a clear visual cue. This simple yet ingenious system empowers staff to swiftly identify the right wipe for the job, significantly reducing the risk of cross-contamination and fortifying a HoReCa business’ commitment to food preparation safety.

Meeting HORECA Industry Hygiene Standards

In the HORECA industry, using colour-coded wipes is a crucial strategy for upholding hygiene and preventing cross-contamination. Although not legally mandated, colour-coding cleaning wipes according to accepted conventions is standard practice.

Traditionally, colour-coded cloths come in 4 main categories corresponding to distinct areas prone to cross-contamination risks:

BLUE – For general lower-risk areas

RED – For bathrooms, toilets, showers, basins

GREEN – For catering departments, food service, and food areas

YELLOW – For isolation areas/contaminated surfaces

Following this colour code system ensures cleaning equipment designated for restrooms or contaminated areas does not migrate to food areas, which could spread dangerous pathogens.

While adopting colour-coded wipes is voluntary, adhering to these industry norms demonstrates a commitment to safety. It enables staff to visually identify and select the proper wipes for each cleaning task. This prevents accidental cross-contamination through mix-ups.

Here’s a breakdown of our products that come with colour-coding:

JCL10 – Compostable wipe which is fully certified compostable and colour-coded. With an open-weave structure for superior pick-up of food, dirt, and debris, this innovative wipe offers high versatility for diverse cleaning needs. Available in four colour-coded options, Chicopee® J-Cloth® Compostable wipes enable creating segregated cleaning solutions. Both the wipe and outer packaging are certified compostable per DIN EN 13432 200-12 standards.

APW – All-Purpose Cloths suitable for various industries, including Janitorial, Catering, and Foodservice. Their unique material ensures effective dirt pick up, excellent absorbency, and compatibility with different cleaning agents.  They are also designed with colour coding to meet HACCP hygiene standards and prevent cross-contamination.

EDW – Everyday Cloths ideal for all cleaning needs, suitable for various industries and tasks, from food pickup to surface polishing. Compatible with a whole host of cleaning agents, they promote longer-lasting surface hygiene, whether rolled or folded.

BAW – Bulky Apertured Wipes quickly clear workstations and effectively handle various critical cleaning tasks. They are washable and reusable up to 15 times, and our eco-friendly packaging has reduced plastic waste by 2/3.

HWT – Heavyweight Cloths are ultra-strong, tear-resistant, and exceptionally absorbent, making them perfect for handling heavy-duty tasks like food, spillages, and dirt. 

All these products come in four colour-coded options to prevent cross-contamination and meet HACCP hygiene standards.

Compliance with Health and Safety Standards

As we’ve already mentioned in the HoReCa sector, adhering to health and safety standards is non-negotiable. Colour-coded wipes not only help your team follow best practices but also demonstrate your commitment to food preparation safety compliance to inspectors and customers alike.

When it comes to food preparation safety, precision and consistency are the cornerstones of success. A proactive approach not only safeguards the health of your patrons but also safeguards your business against potential liabilities and reputational damage.

Health safety standards extend beyond the kitchen to encompass the entire spectrum of hospitality operations. Colour-coded wipes play an instrumental role in maintaining the cleanliness and hygiene of guest accommodations, public spaces, and toilet facilities. By employing these wipes consistently, you not only create a pristine and inviting atmosphere but also safeguard the well-being of both employees and guests.

In addition to their practical benefits, colour-coded wipes also communicate a powerful message to both regulatory inspectors and discerning customers. Their presence signifies a dedicated commitment to upholding the highest standards of hygiene and safety. This commitment can prove invaluable during inspections and audits, where meticulous compliance is essential, and can enhance your establishment’s reputation, drawing health-conscious customers who seek assurance that their well-being is a top priority.

Improved cleaning efficiency and productivity 

In the world of HoReCa, it’s not just about providing exceptional service; it’s also about maintaining an impeccable environment behind the scenes. This is where the efficiency and productivity gains from colour-coded wipes become evident. In such a bustling environment as a restaurant kitchen, time is the most precious resource. Colour-coded wipes play a pivotal role in ensuring that not a second is wasted.

The beauty of colour-coded wipes lies in their simplicity. By assigning specific colours to different cleaning tasks, they offer an intuitive and quick visual reference. Your staff can swiftly identify the right wipe for the job at hand, whether it’s sanitising food preparation surfaces or cleaning dining areas. This eliminates the need for time-consuming checks and double-checks, reducing the margin for error. With colour-coded wipes, your team can efficiently tackle their cleaning duties, ensuring that the right wipe is used in the right place, at the right time. Every pound saved and every minute gained make a significant impact. 

What’s more, the streamlined cleaning processes facilitated by colour-coded translate into tangible cost savings. Reduced cleaning time means your staff can allocate their efforts elsewhere, improving overall productivity. Additionally, fewer mistakes due to using the wrong wipes mean fewer resources spent rectifying errors. When you add it all up, the adoption of colour-coded wipes becomes a smart investment that not only safeguards your business but also bolsters its efficiency and profitability.

So there you have it, our full rundown of the many benefits of using colour-coded wipes. If you would like to learn more about our range of colour-coded wipes and cleaning products, get in touch with us today to order a free sample. 

In the world of industrial cleaning and maintenance, precision and efficiency are paramount. Whether you’re working in a controlled environment like a laboratory or handling tasks like paint preparation and equipment degreasing, having the right tools can significantly impact the quality of your work. One such tool that often goes unnoticed but plays a crucial role is the low-linting wipe. 

In this blog post, we’ll delve into the reasons why low-linting wipes are essential for various applications, such as paint preparation and solvent reduction. We’ll also introduce you to our specialised low-linting range designed to meet your specific needs.

Why you need to avoid lint

When it comes to critical tasks like paint preparation and degreasing, even the tiniest particles can have a substantial impact on the final outcome. Standard wipes, though effective in many cases, can leave behind lint and fibres that might not be visible to the naked eye but can create imperfections or compromise the cleanliness of surfaces. This is where wipes that do not shed fibres come to the rescue.

Food processing is an area that requires wipes that do not leave fibres everywhere, since they could get into food. Wiping food preparation surfaces with wipes that leave lint will inevitably end up in someone’s food. They also do a poorer job of soaking up any dirt or grease, since loose fibres can absorb the dirt or grease, and still fall or break off from the wipe.

Low-linting wipes are manufactured using advanced processes that significantly reduce the shedding of fibres and particles. These wipes are made from materials that have undergone meticulous quality control to ensure they produce minimal lint. This feature is particularly valuable in environments where cleanliness and precision are non-negotiable, such as in automotive painting or aerospace manufacturing.

Small fibres compromise paint preparation

In paint preparation processes, the surface’s cleanliness and smoothness are vital to achieving a flawless finish. Low-lint wipes play a pivotal role in this phase by providing a clean, smooth surface for the paint. Standard wipes may leave behind lint and fibres that can get trapped in the paint or clear coat, resulting in an uneven texture or appearance. This not only compromises the aesthetic appeal but also the overall quality and longevity of the paint job.

This normally involves having to re-do the paint job, which is an expensive process and can eat into profits if it needs to be done repeatedly. It also saves money in the long run, by avoiding having to repaint a surface.

By using low-lint wipes, painters and technicians can ensure that the surface is free from contaminants that could mar the paint. Whether it’s removing dust particles, residual solvents, or other minute debris, these wipes offer a clean, lint-free surface that sets the stage for a professional-grade paint finish.

Lint can damage machinery

In industries that rely on precision machinery and equipment, proper maintenance often involves thorough degreasing. Low-lint wipes excel in this regard as well. When cleaning sensitive equipment or machinery, standard wipes can leave lint and fibres behind, potentially interfering with the machinery’s performance. Moreover, using standard wipes might require using more cleaning solvents due to their inability to effectively pick up debris, which can contribute to increased solvent usage.

Wipes that don’t shed fibres, on the other hand, require fewer passes to achieve the same level of cleanliness due to their reduced shedding of fibres. This not only saves time and effort but also promotes solvent reduction. With the right low-lint wipe, you can efficiently clean and degrease equipment without leaving behind unwanted particles or wasting excess solvents.

Our range of low-lint wipes

We have a wide range of low-linting products to match various uses and applications across different industries.

We recommend:

• SFC60 – Easi-Wipes® Steadfast Lite – A lightweight, low-linting cloth with added strength and absorption.
• SFC110 – Easi-Wipes® Steadfast Pro – A heavy-duty industrial wipe with extremely low-linting quality, ideal for technical wiping requirements.
• SFS – Easi-Wipes® Steadfast All Purpose – An all-purpose solution for any wiping requirement.
• CAR – Chicopee® VeraClean Cartex Solvent – Hard-wearing and highly resistant to solvents, these wipes are the ideal solution for all your degreasing and solvent-wiping needs in an automotive environment.

If you’re unsure about what wipes you need, speak to our team and we’ll help you secure the right product.

Invest in the right wipes today

In the world of industrial cleaning, every detail matters. The choice between standard wipes and low-linting wipes can be the difference between an immaculate finish and a compromised result. From creating smooth surfaces to paint on to the efficient removal of grease and solvent reduction, the advantages of low lint wipes are numerous and apply to many industries.

Investing in quality tools and materials is an investment in the success of your projects. With our specialised low-lint wipe range, you can elevate your work, ensuring precision, efficiency, and cleanliness in every task. 

If you’re unsure about the quality of low-linting wipes, speak to our team and they can arrange to have a free sample sent to your business.

Gone are the days when sustainability was a mere buzzword, generating an infectious hype among industries. Since 2019, when the UK Government announced their commitment to decarbonising all sectors and reaching net zero by 2050, it has become a primary focal point for businesses across the country.

The hygiene sector is no exception to this, with a number of environmentally friendly wiping innovations and manufacturing processes being developed over the past few years. And businesses that choose to use sustainable wipes are seeing some profound benefits beyond effective sanitisation. 

If your company isn’t already embracing sustainability in its cleaning practices, here are five irresistible benefits that will motivate you to start today.

1. Reduce your environmental impact

You can minimise your business’ carbon footprint and contribute to overall environmental conservation efforts by opting for sustainable wiping solutions. This is because, unlike conventional wipes — which often contain synthetic, leading to increased waste and damage to ecosystems — sustainable wipes are typically made from compostable fibres, significantly reducing their impact on the environment.

2. Optimise business costs

While the upfront cost of sustainable wipes may be slightly higher than conventional options, they often prove to be more cost-effective in the long run. Many of these eco-friendly wiping solutions are reusable, meaning you can get much more use out of them and, thus, reduce overall costs. 

What’s more, by replacing traditional textile rags with a non-woven cloth, you can reduce the amount that would typically be incinerated or put into landfill by up to 80%. That’s not to say that they are more delicate and, as such, ineffective. Quite the contrary, sustainable wipes are engineered to be fit for purpose and provide durability and versatility in any application, far more than a cut up t-shirt or sheet.

3. Manage your sustainability KPIs

Using wipes is inevitable for almost any business but the way you handle the waste removal process and the choices you make when deciding on a wiping solution can make a significant impact on your company’s KPIs and sustainability projects. Whether it’s choosing from compostable wipes or finding a robust solution that can be reused time and time again, it can all help support you in your journey towards sustainability.

4. Bolster your brand image 

By prioritising sustainability, you can demonstrate your company’s commitment to responsible practices, which works to enhance brand image and reputation — both powerful currencies in the world of business. Consumers, investors, and stakeholders alike increasingly value environmentally responsible actions, and using sustainable wipes is one way to showcase your commitment to protecting the planet.

5. Ensure regulatory compliance 

With the pressure to meet sustainability quotas ever increasing, adopting environmentally-friendly cleaning practices and the use of sustainable wipes is a great way to ensure regulatory compliance and safeguard your business operations against potential fines or penalties related to environmental non-compliance.

The use of conventional wipes can sometimes lead to regulatory challenges due to environmental concerns. In contrast, sustainable wipes are designed to meet eco-friendly guidelines and regulations, 

Building a greener future with Harrisons

Though our business is founded on family and tradition, we strive for innovation in our service offering and this enables us to develop, grow and improve our sustainability strategy. From product development to investing in new machinery, we are committed to providing our clients with cleaning solutions that not only ensure effective sanitisation but also help them build a greener, more sustainable future for their business. 

Ready to make sustainability a priority?

From bolstering environmental stewardship to fortifying your brand’s reputation, the merits of adopting sustainable wipes are undeniable. This simple yet transformative switch can unlock a number of benefits for your business — captivating eco-conscious consumers, elevating operational efficiency and contributing to a cleaner, safer future.

If you’d like to learn more about our range of wipes and how we can help support your sustainability goals, contact our friendly team today.