Kitchen floors in commercial kitchens get dirty very quickly because of constant cooking, spills, and heavy foot traffic. Grease and oil from fryers, stoves, and cooking surfaces settle on the floors and make them slippery and unsafe. Over time, this buildup can also cause stains, bad odors, and an unhygienic environment, which can put staff and food safety at risk. Regular cleaning is not enough to remove this stubborn grease, so a proper degreasing process is necessary.
Besides the main floor area, hidden or hard-to-reach spots like corners, under equipment, along edges, and behind appliances also collect grease and grime. These areas are often missed during normal mopping, allowing bacteria and dirt to accumulate. Degreasing these zones ensures the entire kitchen is clean, reduces the risk of slips or contamination, and helps commercial kitchens meet hygiene and food safety standards consistently.
What Is Degreasing Commercial Kitchen Floors and Hard-to-Reach Areas?
Degreasing commercial kitchen floors and hard-to-reach areas means removing layers of grease, oil, sticky residue, and food buildup that accumulate during daily cooking activities. In a busy commercial kitchen, these contaminants settle not only on open floor spaces but also in hidden areas such as corners, edges, and underneath heavy appliances. Degreasing uses specialised cleaning chemicals, heat, scrubbing tools, and proper cleaning techniques to dissolve and lift stubborn grime so the floor becomes clean, safe, and hygienic.
This process includes:
- Removing grease and oil from high-traffic zones
Areas like near fryers, stoves, and prep stations collect the most grease and require regular deep cleaning.
- Cleaning corners, baseboards, edges, and under equipment
These hidden spots trap grime that normal mopping can’t reach.
- Breaking down hardened stains or food residue
Built-up grease becomes sticky and hardens, needing stronger products to remove it.
- Sanitizing surfaces to prevent contamination
After degreasing, sanitizing kills bacteria and ensures food-safe hygiene, as emphasized in the FDA’s Food Code recommendations for sanitizing food-contact surfaces.
- Preventing slips, odors, and long-term floor damage
Removing grease reduces slip hazards, stops smells, and protects flooring materials from wearing out.
What You Need to Clean Commercial Kitchen Floors
Cleaning commercial kitchen floors properly requires more than just a mop and water. Heavy grease, food spills, and dirt need specialized tools and products that are strong enough to remove buildup but safe for food areas. Using the right equipment ensures floors are thoroughly cleaned, sanitized, and safe for staff to walk on without slipping.
Essential Tools and Products:
- Commercial kitchen degreaser – A powerful cleaner designed to break down stubborn grease and oil on floors, making it easier to remove buildup.
- Microfiber or flat mop – Efficiently spreads cleaning solution and lifts dirt and grease, leaving the surface streak-free and hygienic.
- Hot water and bucket – Activates the degreaser and helps rinse away loosened grime, ensuring no residue is left behind.
- Stiff-bristle brush – Ideal for textured or grooved floors, scrubbing away dirt and grease from surfaces that mops can’t fully clean.
- Edge/crevice brushes – Reach corners, edges, and under appliances where grease and grime often accumulate and are missed during regular mopping.
- Food-safe sanitiser – Kills bacteria and harmful microbes, ensuring the kitchen floor remains hygienic and safe for food preparation. The EPA’s list of approved disinfectants for food-contact surfaces includes options effective against common kitchen pathogens.
- Gloves and non-slip footwear – Protects your hands from chemicals and prevents accidents on wet or greasy floors.
Why It Is Important to Degrease Commercial Kitchen Floors and Hard-to-Reach Areas
Degreasing commercial kitchen floors and hard-to-reach areas is essential because grease buildup makes floors slippery and unsafe, increasing the risk of accidents, while hidden spots like corners and under appliances can harbor bacteria, odors, and pests. Regular degreasing not only improves traction and hygiene but also extends the life of flooring, prevents contamination, and ensures the kitchen meets health, safety, and food compliance standards.
Key Benefits of Degreasing:
- Prevents slip & fall accidents – Reduces slippery surfaces by removing grease and oil, keeping staff safe.
- Maintains hygiene and sanitation – Ensures floors are clean and safe for food preparation and handling.
- Stops bacteria and pest growth – Eliminates food residue in hidden areas that attract bacteria and pests.
- Increases floor durability – Protects flooring from long-term damage caused by grease buildup and stains.
- Meets health and safety regulations – Keeps your kitchen compliant with food safety and occupational health standards.
Step-by-Step Cleaning Process
Overview
Cleaning greasy kitchen floors requires a structured process to break down grease and remove hidden buildup.
Steps:
- Remove loose dirt
- Sweep or vacuum thoroughly
- Clear corners and under appliances
- Apply degreaser
- Use strong alkaline cleaner
- Allow proper dwell time
- Scrub the floor
- Use brushes for textured tiles
- Scrub edges and corners manually
- Rinse the entire surface
- Use hot water
- Repeat in greasy zones
- Sanitise the floor
- Use a food-grade sanitiser
- Cover moisture-prone areas
- Dry thoroughly
- Use microfiber or air movers
- Prevent slips and bacterial growth
Why Commercial Kitchen Floors Get Dirty So Quickly
Commercial kitchen floors become dirty faster than most other surfaces because of constant cooking, spills, and heavy movement of staff and equipment. Grease particles from frying, cooking, and steam travel through the air, settle on the floors, and combine with dust and dirt, forming sticky grime that is difficult to remove.
Main Causes:
- Oil splatter and grease vapours – Tiny droplets of oil and grease from cooking land on floors, creating a slick surface.
- High foot traffic spreading dirt – Staff moving around carry dust, crumbs, and spills across the kitchen.
- Food spills and moisture – Dropped ingredients and liquids mix with grease to form sticky residue.
- Dust & grease mixing into sticky buildup – Dust in the air combines with grease, creating hardened grime over time.
- Hidden zones trapping debris – Corners, edges, and under equipment collect dirt that is often missed during regular cleaning.
Should You Vacuum or Mop Kitchen Floors Daily?
Both vacuuming and mopping are important for maintaining clean kitchen floors. Vacuuming or sweeping removes dry debris like dust, crumbs, and dirt, preventing it from mixing with grease and forming sticky buildup. Mopping, on the other hand, tackles grease, spills, and stains, ensuring the floor remains hygienic and safe to walk on.
Daily Recommendations:
- Vacuum or sweep daily – Removes dust, crumbs, and loose debris before it combines with grease to form sticky buildup.
- Mop daily with a mild cleaner – Cleans surface spills and light grease without damaging the floor material.
- Use degreaser weekly – Breaks down heavy grease and stubborn stains that daily mopping cannot remove.
- Avoid wet mopping hardwood floors – Excess water can seep into wood and cause warping or damage over time.
- Clean edges and corners regularly – Hidden areas trap grease and dirt, which can lead to bacterial growth if neglected.
How to Clean Commercial Kitchen Greasy Floors with a Jetsteam / Duplex Machine
Jetsteam and Duplex machines are designed for deep cleaning commercial kitchen floors. They use high-temperature steam and scrubbing action to quickly dissolve grease and stuck-on grime, making them highly effective for areas that are difficult to clean with regular mopping.
Steps to Use Them:
- Sweep floor before steaming – Remove loose dirt and crumbs so the steam targets only grease and stubborn grime.
- Pre-treat heavy grease with degreaser – Softens thick grease buildup, making it easier for the machine to clean effectively.
- Glide the Jetsteam/Duplex slowly – Ensures steam and scrubbing action have enough time to dissolve and lift grease.
- Let steam loosen and lift grease – High-temperature steam breaks down sticky residue for easier removal.
- Wipe or vacuum residue – Removes dissolved grease completely, leaving the floor clean, safe, and ready for use.
How to Clean Different Types of Commercial Kitchen Hard Floors
Different types of hard floors—such as tile, stone, vinyl, or wood—react differently to water, chemicals, and scrubbing. Using the wrong products or techniques can damage the floor, cause staining, or reduce its lifespan. Cleaning methods should be adapted to the material to maintain durability and appearance.
General Rules:
- Use pH-appropriate cleaners – Select cleaners that match the floor type to avoid damaging finishes or coatings.
- Avoid acids on stone – Acidic solutions can etch or discolor natural stone surfaces, weakening their structure.
- Avoid water saturation on wood – Excess water can seep into seams, causing warping, swelling, or mold growth.
- Test cleaners on hidden spots – Always try new products in an inconspicuous area to check for adverse reactions.
- Rinse floors to prevent residue – Leftover chemicals can leave streaks, attract dirt, or degrade the floor over time.
How to Clean Commercial Kitchen Hardwood Floors
Hardwood floors in commercial kitchens require gentle cleaning because excess water or harsh chemicals can cause warping, discoloration, or damage to the finish. Proper care maintains the wood’s appearance, durability, and safety for staff.
Best Methods:
- Vacuum with soft-brush head – Removes dust and debris without scratching the wood surface.
- Use a hardwood-safe cleaner – Cleans grease and dirt effectively while protecting the floor finish.
- Damp mop only (not wet) – Uses minimal water to clean without causing warping or swelling.
- Wipe spills immediately – Prevents stains, water damage, and sticky residue from forming.
- Use wood polish occasionally – Restores shine, protects the finish, and prolongs the floor’s life.
How to Clean Commercial Kitchen Tile Floors
Tile floors are durable and can handle stronger cleaning agents, but the grout lines between tiles easily trap grease, dirt, and bacteria. Proper cleaning ensures both the tiles and grout remain hygienic, safe, and free from buildup.
Steps to Clean Tile Floors:
- Sweep away debris – Remove loose dirt, crumbs, and dust to prevent scratching and make degreasing more effective.
- Apply the degreaser and wait – Let the cleaner sit on greasy areas to break down tough residue before scrubbing.
- Scrub grout lines – Use a stiff brush to clean trapped dirt and grease in the grout for thorough sanitation.
- Rinse thoroughly – Wash away all degreaser and loosened grime to prevent sticky residue.
- Dry for a streak-free finish – Use a microfiber mop or towel to prevent water spots and maintain a clean look.
Commercial Cleaning of Kitchen Floors
Commercial kitchen floors require a mix of daily maintenance and weekly deep cleaning to remain safe, hygienic, and free from grease buildup. Following a structured cleaning process ensures all areas, including hidden corners and under appliances, are thoroughly cleaned.
General Cleaning Process:
- Sweep → Degrease → Scrub – Remove loose debris first, then apply a degreaser and scrub to break down grease and stuck-on food particles.
- Rinse → Sanitise → Dry – Wash away residue, disinfect surfaces to kill bacteria, and dry floors to prevent slips.
- Clean corners & edges weekly – Hidden areas accumulate grime that daily mopping can’t reach, so target these spots regularly.
- Move appliances monthly – Shift heavy equipment to clean underneath and prevent grease and dirt buildup in hard-to-reach zones.
How to Make Your Kitchen Floor Stay Clean by Itself
Using DIY or homemade cleaners is a practical way to maintain kitchen floors for light grease and regular home use. These solutions are gentle, cost-effective, and safe for routine cleaning, helping prevent buildup without harsh chemicals.
Homemade Cleaning Solutions:
- Vinegar + water (not for stone or wood) – A natural cleaner that cuts through light grease and leaves floors shining, but avoid acidic effects on stone or wood surfaces.
- Dish soap + warm water – Effective for removing small spills and light grease while being safe for most floor types.
- Baking soda paste for stains – Works as a gentle abrasive to lift tough spots and stubborn stains without scratching floors.
- Lemon + vinegar for deodorising – Eliminates odors naturally and leaves a fresh, clean scent in the kitchen.
How to Prevent Commercial Kitchen Floor Buildup
Preventing kitchen floor buildup is essential to save time and maintain a safe, hygienic environment. Cleaning spills immediately, using mats near stoves and sinks, and sweeping or vacuuming daily all help stop grease and dirt from accumulating. Weekly degreasing prevents stubborn grease from hardening, while maintaining appliances reduces splatters and keeps floors cleaner for longer. By following these simple preventive measures, kitchen floors stay safer, cleaner, and easier to maintain.
Tips to Prevent Floor Buildup:
- Clean spills immediately – Wipe up food, oil, and liquid spills as soon as they happen to prevent sticky residue and stains.
- Use mats near stoves & sinks – Mats catch splatters and moisture, reducing grease accumulation on the floor.
- Sweep or vacuum daily – Removing dust, crumbs, and debris daily prevents them from combining with grease and forming buildup.
- Degrease weekly – Regular deep cleaning stops grease from hardening and makes maintenance easier.
- Maintain appliances to reduce splatter – Regularly clean and service stoves, fryers, and ovens to minimize oil and food spills on the floor.
How to Clean Kitchen Hard Floors Inside the Home
Although home floors don’t accumulate heavy grease like commercial kitchens, they still require regular care to remain clean and in good condition. Proper cleaning prevents dirt buildup, protects floor finishes, and ensures a safe, hygienic living space.
Best Practices:
- Vacuum every 1–2 days – Removes dust, crumbs, and pet hair before it settles or scratches the floor.
- Use gentle cleaners for each floor type – Choose pH-appropriate products to protect wood, tile, or laminate surfaces.
- Avoid harsh scrubbers – Strong brushes or abrasive pads can scratch or damage floor finishes.
- Damp mop carefully on wood – Excess water can warp or damage hardwood floors, so mop lightly.
- Rinse & dry to avoid residue buildup – Ensures no cleaner or grime remains, keeping floors shiny and safe to walk on.
Tools & Products Required a Commercial Kitchen Floors and Hard-to-Reach
- Heavy-duty degreaser – Breaks down tough grease and oil buildup on kitchen floors for effective cleaning.
- Steam/Jet/Duplex machine – Uses high-temperature steam and scrubbing action to lift grease and sanitize surfaces quickly.
- Microfiber pads – Capture dirt and grease efficiently while preventing scratches on delicate floor surfaces.
- Scrub brushes – Ideal for scrubbing textured floors, grout lines, and hard-to-reach corners.
- Hot water – Activates cleaning products and helps rinse away loosened grime and residue.
- Food-safe disinfectant – Kills bacteria and ensures the floor remains hygienic and safe for food areas.
Why They Are Used:
- Degreasers break down oil – Dissolve tough grease and sticky residue for easier removal from floors.
- Steam lifts stuck-on grime – High-temperature steam loosens hardened dirt and sanitizes surfaces simultaneously.
- Brushes clean textured floors – Reach grooves, grout lines, and uneven surfaces that mops alone can’t clean.
- Microfiber absorbs residue – Picks up dirt, grease, and cleaning solution without leaving streaks or scratches.
Safety Notes
- Use gloves – Protects hands from harsh chemicals and hot water during cleaning.
- Keep area ventilated – Reduces inhalation of fumes from cleaners and ensures safer working conditions.
- Do not mix chemicals – Mixing cleaning products can create harmful reactions or toxic fumes.
- Post “Wet Floor” signs – Alerts staff and prevents slips or accidents on wet surfaces.
Common Mistakes to Avoid Commercial Kitchen Floors and Hard-to-Reach
Using the wrong techniques or cleaners when degreasing kitchen floors can lead to grease buildup, slippery surfaces, and unhygienic conditions. Paying attention to proper products, dwell time, and hidden areas ensures floors remain safe, clean, and well-maintained.
Avoid:
- Dish soap as a degreaser – It is not strong enough to break down heavy commercial grease and leaves residue.
- Over-wetting wood floors – Excess water can seep into seams and cause warping, swelling, or damage.
- Forgetting to rinse chemicals – Residue from cleaning agents can attract dirt and create slippery surfaces.
- Not cleaning under appliances – Hidden grease and debris build up over time, creating hygiene and safety risks.
- Using dirty mops that spread grease – Reusing unclean mops spreads grime rather than removing it effectively.
Conclusion
Degreasing kitchen floors and hard-to-reach areas is essential for maintaining hygiene, safety, and compliance in both commercial and home kitchens. With the right tools, products, and routine, you can prevent buildup, eliminate hidden grime, and keep floors spotless and safe.
FAQs Commercial Kitchen Floors and Hard-to-Reach
Can I use dish soap to remove grease?
No—dish soap spreads grease instead of breaking it down.
Why do my floors stay slippery after cleaning?
Residue from degreasers wasn’t rinsed off.
What is the best commercial degreaser?
A strong alkaline degreaser designed for kitchen use.
Can steam cleaning remove grease?
Yes, especially with Jetsteam or Duplex machines.
Should I vacuum or sweep first?
Vacuuming removes more fine debris.
Can vinegar damage floors?
Yes—avoid vinegar on stone and hardwood floors.
How do I clean under heavy appliances?
Use long-handle brushes or move equipment if safe.
How do I prevent grease buildup?
Daily cleaning, mats, and weekly deep degreasing.
How often should I deep-degrease kitchen floors?
Weekly for heavy-use kitchens.
Do commercial kitchens need professional cleaners?
Yes—periodic professional degreasing is recommended.
