What is an industrial cleaner?

An industrial cleaner is a powerful chemical or solvent-based product formulated to handle extreme cleaning challenges in factories, warehouses, workshops, and processing facilities. They’re designed to break down grease, remove stubborn residues, disinfect high-risk areas, and maintain hygiene in environments where safety and compliance matter most.

Some are general-purpose. Others are tailored to very specific surfaces, materials, or contaminants.

Common uses of industrial cleaners

1. Degreasing machinery and equipment

In manufacturing, mining, and mechanical workshops, grease is everywhere. Industrial cleaners:

• Dissolve oil, lubricant, and hydraulic fluid residues

• Clean gears, bearings, and mechanical housings

• Help prevent equipment overheating or breakdowns

Heavy-duty degreasers are alkaline-based and often foaming to cling to vertical surfaces.

2. Cleaning industrial floors

Factory and warehouse floors take a pounding—from foot traffic to forklift grime.

Industrial floor cleaners:

• Break down rubber marks, oil spills, and dust build-up

• Prepare surfaces for sealing or repainting

• Work with auto-scrubbers or pressure washers

Some products are pH-neutral for delicate surfaces; others are acidic or alkaline for tougher grime.

3. Sanitising food or pharmaceutical areas

In sectors with strict hygiene requirements, industrial cleaners must also be:

• Food-safe (non-toxic and residue-free)

• TGA-approved for disinfection

• Capable of breaking down biofilms and microbial build-up

They’re used to clean benches, conveyor belts, drains, and processing equipment.

4. Descaling and rust removal

Metal parts and water systems often suffer from mineral build-up or corrosion.

Industrial descalers are:

• Acid-based (like citric or phosphoric acid)

• Used to clean kettles, boilers, pipes, and cooling systems

• Safe for metal surfaces when used properly

These products restore performance and prevent long-term damage.

5. Cleaning ventilation and ducts

Dust and debris can clog ventilation systems, reduce air quality, and pose fire risks.

Industrial cleaners:

• Remove dust, mould, and grease inside ducts

• Are used with fogging or misting systems for broad coverage

• Help meet WHS and air-quality standards

6. Handling hazardous or chemical spills

Some cleaners are used to neutralise or safely remove dangerous materials like solvents, fuels, or reactive agents.

They’re often used in combination with absorbents, PPE, and spill kits during emergency response.

Who uses industrial cleaners?

• Manufacturing plants

• Logistics warehouses

• Food and beverage processing facilities

• Chemical or pharmaceutical sites

• Mining and mechanical workshops

• Cold storage or refrigerated distribution centres

They’re typically applied by professionals trained in Industrial Cleaning to ensure safe handling, proper dilution, and surface compatibility.

FAQs

Are industrial cleaners safe to use?
Yes, when used correctly. Most require PPE, dilution, and adherence to SDS guidelines.

Can I use them at home?
Not recommended—many are too strong for domestic surfaces and may damage materials or pose health risks.

Do they harm the environment?
Some traditional products can—but eco-friendly industrial cleaners are now widely available, biodegradable, and low-toxicity.

Final thoughts

Industrial cleaners are used for far more than basic cleaning. They’re essential for keeping machinery efficient, spaces safe, and compliance boxes ticked—especially in Australia’s toughest workplaces.

And when these powerful products are used by trained Industrial Cleaning professionals, they don’t just clean—they protect your operations from downtime, hazards, and costly repairs.