If you‘re responsible for maintaining a large area of hard flooring, you know that traditional mops and buckets can only do so much. For truly deep cleaning, a floor scrubber is an indispensable tool. These machines use a combination of high-speed brushes or pads, cleaning solution, and strong suction to lift away built-up dirt, oil, and grime.
Floor scrubbers, also known as auto scrubbers, are commonly used in commercial settings like retail stores, schools, hospitals, and warehouses. But they can also be a game-changer for deep cleaning your home‘s hard floors. According to a survey by the American Cleaning Institute, 82% of households report having at least one type of hard flooring that requires regular upkeep.
The problem is, high-quality floor scrubbers can cost anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. For occasional use, renting a floor scrubber is often more economical than buying one outright. Many retailers, equipment rental companies, and cleaning supply stores offer short-term floor scrubber rentals.
One of the first places many cost-conscious consumers turn for rentals is Walmart. The retail giant is known for its competitive prices and wide selection. But does Walmart actually rent floor scrubbers? I did the research to bring you the definitive answer.
Does Walmart Rent Floor Scrubbers?
The short answer is no, Walmart does not currently offer floor scrubber rentals at any of its locations. I checked with multiple Walmart stores across the country and scoured the company‘s website, and there is no mention of a floor scrubber rental program.
This may come as a surprise, given that Walmart does rent other types of specialty cleaning equipment, namely carpet cleaning machines. Many Walmart locations partner with Rug Doctor to provide in-store carpet cleaner rentals. However, this rental program does not extend to floor scrubbers.
So if you‘re hoping to snag a cheap floor scrubber rental while you‘re picking up paper towels and laundry detergent at Walmart, you‘re unfortunately out of luck. But don‘t worry, you still have plenty of other options for getting your hands on a floor scrubber without breaking the bank. More on that in a bit.
First, let‘s take a closer look at the floor scrubbers Walmart does sell for those who are interested in purchasing instead of renting.
Walmart‘s Selection of Floor Scrubbers for Purchase
While Walmart may not rent floor scrubbers, they do sell a wide variety of these machines both in-store and online. From compact cordless models to heavy-duty ride-on scrubbers, Walmart carries options for just about every budget and floor cleaning need.
Here‘s a breakdown of the types of floor scrubbers available at Walmart and their typical price ranges:
| Type of Floor Scrubber | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Compact, cordless scrubbers | $30 – $150 |
| Upright, corded scrubbers | $50 – $300 |
| Walk-behind scrubbers | $500 – $3,500 |
| Ride-on scrubbers | $2,500 – $10,000+ |
As you can see, there‘s a huge range in price and features. For small homes with minimal hard flooring, a basic cordless or upright model will likely suffice. These lightweight scrubbers are easy to maneuver and store, and they‘re perfect for quick touch-ups in between deep cleans.
For larger homes or commercial spaces, a walk-behind or ride-on scrubber is a more efficient choice. These machines cover more ground in less time and often have more powerful motors and larger solution tanks. Some even have self-propelling capabilities to take the strain off the operator.
No matter your needs, Walmart likely has a floor scrubber to fit the bill. Some of the most popular and highly-rated models among Walmart customers include:
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Hoover FloorMate Deluxe Hard Floor Cleaner: This versatile upright model transitions seamlessly from vacuuming to washing to drying. Reviewers love its maneuverability and ease of use on various hard floor types.
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Oreck Commercial ORB550MC Orbiter Floor Machine: A favorite among professional cleaners, this powerful walk-behind scrubber features a unique orbital drive for deep scouring action. It‘s pricey at around $1,200 but built to withstand daily commercial use.
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Viper Fang 20HD Automatic Scrubber: For the ultimate in heavy-duty floor cleaning, this ride-on scrubber has a 20-gallon solution tank and cleans a 34-inch wide path in one pass. It‘s an investment at nearly $6,000, but it can pay for itself in time and labor savings for large commercial applications.
Of course, buying a floor scrubber outright isn‘t always feasible or practical. That‘s where rentals come in handy. And while Walmart may not offer them, plenty of other places do.
Where to Rent a Floor Scrubber Besides Walmart
Just because you can‘t rent a floor scrubber at Walmart doesn‘t mean you‘re out of options. Here are some of the best places to find floor scrubber rentals:
1. Home Depot
With over 2,200 locations across North America, chances are there‘s a Home Depot near you that rents floor scrubbers. Rates start at around $35 for a 4-hour rental of a compact walk-behind model. Larger scrubbers and longer rental periods are also available.
2. Lowe‘s
Another major home improvement chain, Lowe‘s offers a variety of floor scrubber rentals through its partnership with Sunbelt Rentals. Prices vary by location and model but expect to pay around $40 for a 4-hour rental of a small walk-behind unit.
3. Sunbelt Rentals
If you don‘t have a Lowe‘s nearby, you can also rent directly from Sunbelt Rentals. With over 900 locations, they‘re one of the largest equipment rental companies in the U.S. Floor scrubber rentals start at around $100 per day.
4. United Rentals
Another nationwide equipment rental chain, United Rentals offers both walk-behind and ride-on floor scrubbers for rent. Daily rates range from about $150 to $500+, depending on the size and features of the machine.
5. Local cleaning supply stores
Many locally-owned janitorial and cleaning supply shops offer floor scrubber rentals to the public. Rates are often very competitive with the big box stores, so it‘s worth calling around to see what‘s available in your area.
When renting a floor scrubber, be sure to ask about the following:
- Minimum rental period and incremental costs for additional time
- Included accessories like brushes, pads, and cleaning solutions
- Damage waiver and insurance options
- Training and safety instructions
- Cleaning and maintenance requirements
Taking the time to understand the rental terms upfront can help you avoid any unexpected fees or issues down the road.
Why Doesn‘t Walmart Rent Floor Scrubbers?
You might be wondering why a retailer as large and diverse as Walmart doesn‘t offer floor scrubber rentals. After all, they rent out carpet cleaners and sell just about everything else under the sun.
The likely reason is that floor scrubber rentals simply don‘t align with Walmart‘s core business model. Walmart is primarily a retailer, not a rental company. Their goal is to sell products, not lend them out.
Offering rentals requires a significant investment in inventory, maintenance, and staff training. For a company as large as Walmart, the potential profits from floor scrubber rentals may not be worth the added complexity and liability.
Plus, by not offering rentals, Walmart can encourage customers to buy floor scrubbers outright. And with their wide selection and competitive prices, many consumers may opt to do just that.
Renting vs. Buying a Floor Scrubber: Pros and Cons
So should you rent or buy a floor scrubber? The answer depends on your specific needs and circumstances. Here are some pros and cons to consider:
Renting a Floor Scrubber
Pros:
- Lower upfront cost
- Ideal for one-time or infrequent use
- Access to high-end models that may be too expensive to purchase
- No maintenance or storage responsibilities
Cons:
- Higher cost per use compared to owning
- Less convenient than having a machine on hand
- Limited rental periods may not be sufficient for large jobs
- Potential for additional fees (damage waiver, late return, etc.)
Buying a Floor Scrubber
Pros:
- More cost-effective for frequent use
- Always available when you need it
- Can be used for multiple properties or loaned to others
- Potential to recoup investment by selling later
Cons:
- High upfront cost
- Requires regular maintenance and storage space
- May become outdated as newer models are released
- Risky investment if usage needs change
Ultimately, the choice between renting and buying comes down to your budget, cleaning frequency, and long-term needs. If you only need a floor scrubber once or twice a year, renting is probably the way to go. But if you‘ll be using it regularly, investing in your own machine may be more economical in the long run.
How to Choose the Right Floor Scrubber
Whether you decide to rent or buy, it‘s important to select a floor scrubber that‘s well-suited to your specific application. Here are some key factors to consider:
1. Floor Type
Different floor scrubbers are designed for different floor surfaces. For example, a scrubber with soft brushes may be ideal for polished wood, while a machine with tough bristles is better for textured concrete. Always check the manufacturer‘s recommendations to ensure the scrubber is safe and effective for your floor type.
2. Size of Area
The size of the space you need to clean will dictate the size and power of the floor scrubber you need. For small rooms, a compact walk-behind model may suffice. But for large commercial spaces, a ride-on scrubber with a wide cleaning path will be much more efficient.
3. Soil Level
Consider the type and amount of dirt and grime you need to remove. For light everyday cleaning, a basic scrubber with minimal features may do the trick. But for heavy-duty jobs like construction cleanup or industrial degreasing, you‘ll need a machine with serious scrubbing power and specialized brushes or pads.
4. Runtime and Battery Life
If you opt for a cordless floor scrubber, pay close attention to the machine‘s runtime and battery life. Some models may only run for 30-45 minutes on a single charge, while others can go for several hours. Consider how long it will take you to clean your space and choose a machine with sufficient battery capacity.
5. Noise Level
Floor scrubbers can be quite loud, especially in enclosed spaces. If noise is a concern, look for models with sound-dampening features or low dBA ratings. Some manufacturers even offer "quiet mode" settings for nighttime or daytime cleaning in sensitive environments.
6. Ease of Use and Maintenance
Consider who will be operating the floor scrubber and how often. Look for models with intuitive controls, easy-to-clean tanks and filters, and minimal maintenance requirements. The simpler the machine is to use and care for, the more likely it will be used regularly and properly.
Environmental Impact of Floor Scrubbers
While floor scrubbers are highly effective at cleaning hard surfaces, they can also have an environmental impact. Many traditional floor scrubbers use harsh chemicals and large amounts of water, which can contribute to pollution and waste.
Fortunately, there are now many eco-friendly floor scrubber options available. Look for machines that use biodegradable cleaning solutions, have water-saving features, and are energy-efficient. Some models even have on-board water recycling systems that can reduce water usage by up to 70%.
When using any floor scrubber, be sure to follow the manufacturer‘s guidelines for proper dilution and disposal of cleaning solutions. Avoid overusing chemicals and always dispose of wastewater properly to minimize environmental impact.
How to Use a Floor Scrubber
Using a floor scrubber is relatively simple, but it‘s important to follow the manufacturer‘s instructions and safety guidelines. Here‘s a general step-by-step guide:
- Clear the area of any obstacles or debris.
- Fill the machine‘s solution tank with water and the appropriate cleaning chemical.
- Adjust the brush pressure and solution flow settings according to the manufacturer‘s recommendations for your floor type.
- Turn on the machine and begin scrubbing the floor in a systematic pattern, overlapping each pass slightly.
- For heavily soiled areas, make multiple passes or let the solution dwell for a few minutes before scrubbing.
- Once the entire area is clean, use the machine‘s squeegee or vacuum function to remove the dirty water and allow the floor to dry completely.
- Empty and rinse the recovery tank, and wipe down the machine‘s exterior.
- Store the machine in a clean, dry place until its next use.
By following these simple steps and maintaining your floor scrubber properly, you can ensure optimal cleaning performance and long machine life.
Final Thoughts
While Walmart may not rent floor scrubbers, they do offer a wide selection of these machines for purchase at competitive prices. And if renting is a better fit for your needs, there are plenty of other options available from home improvement stores, equipment rental companies, and local cleaning supply shops.
No matter where you choose to rent or buy your floor scrubber, taking the time to select the right machine for your specific application is key. Consider factors like floor type, area size, soil level, and ease of use to ensure you get the best results with minimal hassle.
With the right floor scrubber and a little elbow grease, you can keep your hard floors looking like new for years to come. Happy scrubbing!
Sarah Johnson is a freelance writer and cleaning expert with over 15 years of experience in the janitorial and sanitation industry. She has written extensively about floor care, equipment selection, and green cleaning solutions for a variety of publications and corporate clients. In her free time, Sarah enjoys hiking, gardening, and experimenting with new eco-friendly cleaning products.
