From dirt and mud to corrosive materials, forklifts are often exposed to a variety of substances. Not only do dirty forklifts look bad, there’s also a risk they’ll run less effectively that they would if they were clean.

Here are our top tips to help you keep your forklift at its best:

Clean from the top to the bottom

Whether you’re cleaning the forklift by hand or using specialist equipment, start from the top of the forklift and work your way down. Since dirt will move downwards when disturbed, this is the best way to clean the forklift quickly and effectively without having to cover the same parts more than once.

Use a pressure washer

A pressure washer can be a really effective way of cleaning your forklift with as little effort as possible. The sheer power of the water will blast away any dirt while also getting in those narrow and hard to reach places.

Soaps, detergents and chemicals

A pressure washer alone is unlikely to leave your forklift looking pristine. Depending on the type of washer you’re using, you may also need to introduce specialist soaps, detergents or chemicals. Be sure to read the instructions to ensure you’re using the right tools for the job.

Protect yourself

When cleaning your forklift, take a few precautions to protect yourself from any hazardous materials. If using a pressure washer, keep a safe distance from the forklift and wear protective clothing, goggles and gloves if necessary. You may also choose to wear a mask to protect yourself from breathing in any hazardous materials. If the floor is wet, be sure to wear anti-slip footwear to prevent any accidents.

H&F can offer a free forklift survey, just contact us today for more information.