A black, sticky residue created by spilt sugary drinks, Blacktop tends to be quite pronounced on natural stone floors. The residue cannot be removed with regular cleaning products and creates a tell-tale blackened appearance.  The greater the residue, the more difficult cleaning becomes, creating a vicious circle.  Heavy footfall and wear compound the issue and tiles quickly look tired and dull.  Using the correct products and methods, floors can be completely renovated. In the case of the Cheltenham wedding and entertainment venue, a regular Green Man commercial deep clean restores the appearance and practical features of the flagstones.

At the venue, the cleaning process began with the flagstones being swept to remove loose debris and soiling.  A rotary agitation machine was then used to apply LTP Grimex intensive cleaner – a heavy-duty grime remover that’s formulated to react with and remove oil, grease, wax and ingrained dirt. Brushes on the bottom of the machine gently breakdown the blacktopand the cleaning solution is then given time to dwell and to work on any stubborn soiling, to ensure maximum results are achieved.

Green Man technicians then manually scrubbed the grout lines - the most effective way to get into the joints – before removing the resulting slurry using a wet vac and thoroughly rinsing the surface.

After deep cleaning, LTP Mattstone H2O was then applied to the flagstones.  A water-based impregnating sealer, Mattstone helps protect natural and engineered stone surfaces from staining, without changing appearance or compromising the floor’s breathability.  

“The finished results here were truly great! The flagstones look so much cleaner and brighter and are all ready to stage more celebrations throughout the year!” explained Green Man’s Jon Gardner.

For more information about the project and specification, please contact the LTP team on tel. 01823 666213, email info@ltp-online.co.uk or visit https://www.ltp-online.co.uk.

To find out more about the Green Man project, visit https://greenmancleaning.co.uk

Tel: 01823 666213

CLEANING PLAYS a crucial role in optimising business facilities for sustainable efficiency. Compared to other maintenance tasks, cleaning occurs most frequently. It's fundamental to maintaining a clean, organised and productive working environment. Maintaining cleanliness in a workplace is essential for health and safety and achieving regulatory compliance. There’salso a social impact, pristine, well-maintained environments can boost employee morale, which contributes to increased professionalism, productivity and overall satisfaction. 

Why is sustainable cleaning important?

Sustainability in cleaning is driven by factors such as consumer demand, regulatory requirements, and the pursuit of a competitive advantage, with concern for preserving the environment being the most critical. Businesses prioritising sustainability not only enhance their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) profile but also avoid penalties and negative perceptions from customers and partners. 

How do cleaning chemicals impact the environment?

Cleaning chemicals can significantly impact the environment by polluting water sources, harming ecosystems, and contributing to air pollution. Approximately 80% of phosphate pollution in UK waterways comes from urban wastewater, including cleaning products which poses a serious threat to aquatic life. Additionally, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) released by cleaning chemicals contribute to air pollution, with indoor levels being up to five times higher than outdoor levels. 

Traditional cleaning methods often utilise harsh chemicals such as ammonia, chlorine, phthalates, and formaldehyde, which can cause respiratory issues, environmental harm, and other health concerns. Alternative cleaning methods without the use of harsh cleaning chemicals can be easily achieved. The demand for sustainable solutions has led to multiple innovations in the cleaning sector in terms of machines and chemicals.  But there are also natural cleaning agents such as white vinegar, lemon juice and baking soda which canprovide excellent results. Specifically, when cleaning floors, water combined with equal-partswhite vinegar is excellent for disinfecting hard floors. Gently scrubbing with a blend of baking soda and water is excellent for removing tougher stains and grime & particularly useful on tiled & other textured surfaces.

Water consumption and carbon emissions

Water usage in cleaning also has significant environmental impact. Heating water for cleaning purposes consumes energy which would come from fossil fuels and then contributes to carbon dioxide emissions. The water we use in our taps involves multiple energy intensive steps. Extracting, treating, and distributing before the water is safe for using and consuming. All these steps require exceptional amounts of energy. The water industry is among the mostenergy intensive sectors in the UK, accounting for almost 1% of the average daily electricity consumption of England and Wales. To reduce the amount of water used when cleaning it’simportant to invest in the right cleaning machines. 

Sustainable floorcare with low-moisture cleaning machines

The Managing Director of Victor Floorcare, Edward Blackledge commented on the value of sustainable cleaning practices, “Reducing water consumption and eliminating harmful chemicals from cleaning routines can make significant strides toward a more environmentally friendly operation. There is a common misconception that dirt and bacteria cannot be effectively removed without harsh cleaning chemicals. While this may be true in some instances, innovative solutions, such as oscillating machines, demonstrate that exceptional cleaning results can be achieved without compromising on sustainability.

The Ocelot range by Victor Floorcare exemplifies this innovative approach to sustainable cleaning. The Oscillating machines are designed for low-moisture cleaning, for applications requiring an intense deep-clean without excessive water and chemicals.

Since 1946, Victor Floorcare has been helping customers with their floorcare needs. The Victor name is synonymous with high-performance, reliable, and easy-to-use commercial cleaning machines. Products include oscillating floor cleaners, rotary machines, battery machines, and scrubber dryers. Operating across multiple sectors including education, healthcare, hospitality, local authorities, manufacturing, retail, facilities management, and construction, Victor Floorcare products are manufactured in the UK with locally sourced parts and suppliers. Guided by its heritage, Victor Floorcare is committed to delivering engineering excellence by investing in cutting-edge technologies and embracing eco-friendly practices.

Chris Dew is marketing manager at Victor Floorcare.

For more information, visit victorfloorcare.com 

Tel: 0121 706 5771 

Engineered for the most demanding Critically Controlled Environments (CCEs), the RPM system is designed to support compliance with USP 797/800 and a range of rigorous industry standards.

The RPM Product Line includes 10 purpose-built tools and accessories, offering unmatched performance in settings that require the highest levels of contamination control. These include hospital compounding pharmacies, vivariums, food processing facilities, as well as unattended death restoration and Fentanyl/methamphetamine remediation.

“RPM is not just a new product - it's a complete system designed to simplify and elevate the standard of clean in high-risk environments,” said George Clarke, CEO at UMF Corporation. “From our patented lint-free applicators to our recyclable, single-use frame, every aspect of RPM is built to reduce bio-load, minimise risk, and improve outcomes.”

Key Features of the RPM Product Line:

• Ridged Performance Material (RPM): Effectively removes and absorbs all contaminants that can be physically extracted from environmental surfaces.
• 10 Unique Items: Including flat mops, wipers, applicators, and accessories – all engineered for maximum lint-free performance.
• O.T.U. Hook & Loop Frame: A one-time-use, 100% polypropylene frame that is recyclable and delivers substantial cost savings compared to stainless steel or traditional mop frames.
• Dual-Use Flexibility: Designed for both One-Time-Use (O.T.U.) in highly sensitive areas and validated reprocessing when required.
• Chemical Compatibility: Safe for use with a wide range of disinfectants and cleaning solutions.
• Ergonomic Hardware: Simplifies cleaning protocols and reduces application time, transforming heavy-duty tasks into light duty processes.
   

Enterprise-Wide Infection Prevention

In combination with UMF Corporation’s PerfectCLEAN colour-coded infection prevention system and ONEperROOM training methodology, RPM products contribute to a holistic, enterprise-wide solution for healthcare, hospitality, food safety, and biosafety markets.

For more information, visit www.perfectclean.com

Although your bath mat may not seem like a priority, it has actually been found to harbour even more bacteria than a toilet seat!

You may be shocked to find out that almost 1 million Brits(845,000) have NEVER washed their bath mat and a further 6.29 million Brits go 2 Months or longer before washing their bath mat! 

Key Findings:

• 1.25% of respondents have NEVER washed their bath mat, equating to 845,000 people 

• 10.68 million Brits (15.78%) only wash their bath mat if they have guests visiting

• Plymouth, Edinburgh and Brighton residents are most likely to go the longest without washing their bath mat

• Divorced individuals are the most likely to let their mats fester for a shocking 3-5 months before washing, with 5.43% owning up to it - equivalent to 3.67 million Brits

The cities going the longest before washing their bath mats:

City	Percentage of people washing their bath mats every 1-2 months or longer
Plymouth	35.85%
Edinburgh	25.64%
Brighton	25.00%
London	22.74%
Bristol	22.68%
Nottingham	21.78%
Newcastle	21.62%
Southampton	21.18%
Manchester	20.24%
Leeds	20.18%
Norwich	19.44%
Birmingham	18.32%
Sheffield	17.95%
Cardiff	17.39%
Glasgow	15.22%
Belfast	14.29%
Liverpool	9.41%

Shower enclosures retailer Showers to You can reveal that those in Plymouth and Edinburgh are most likely to go the longest without washing their bathroom mat, with over 35% and 25% from both cities admitting to only washing their mats once a month or longer. 

This is despite the fact that bath mats have been found to harbour even more bacteria than a toilet seat. In a recent study, bath mats had the highest bacterial count of all items tested. Gram-positive rods dominated these flooring coverings, accounting for 85% of their total 31.7 million colony forming units (CFUs).1

However, it’s not all bad news for the nation’s bathroom hygiene, with almost one in four (24%) stating that they wash their bath mat once a week, which is the recommended amount. Liverpool is the most hygienic city and washing their bath mats the most, with just 9.41% washing their mat once a month or more.

Dr. Sham Singh, health expert from Winit Clinic, comments on the research:

“The daily moistening of bathroom mats serves as a perfect medium for breeding bacteria, such as Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Staphylococcus aureus, as well as fungi like Trichophyton which can also cause athlete's foot (tinea pedis). A person who steps onto a contaminated mat after just a small cut or scrape on the skin is highly susceptible to infections such as cellulitis and fungal overgrowth. 

From a hygiene as well as health perspective, bathroom mats should preferably be washed weekly, and of course this is even more important if the mat is damp for long periods. Rubber-backed mats can retain moisture even longer, and therefore increase this risk. Ideally, hot water(about 60ºC or more) coupled with disinfecting detergent should kill bacteria and fungal spores. Besides cleaning frequency, well-ventilated bathrooms also reduce bacterial and fungal colonies as they dry the mats quickly.”

Visual cleanliness is the most common factor that causes people to wash their bathroom mats (39%), followed by time elapsed since the last wash (24.5%) and number of uses (22.7%). Worryingly, 15.8% of respondents only wash their bath mat when they have guest visits, that’s equivalent to 10.68 million UK residents. 

Shockingly, the study found that 1 in 6 Brits (15.1%) are not concerned by bacteria or hygiene-related issues stemming from not washing their bathroom mats, despite the high level of bacteria prevalent compared to other bathroom items. 

Interestingly, 1 in 4 of those aged between 45-54 (25%) go one month or more without washing their bathroom mat, compared to 1 in 6 (15%) of those aged 25-34. As for men, 1.75% have NEVER washed their bath mat - that’s equivalent to 1.2 millionmen, compared to 0.78% of females never washing their mat (equivalent to just over half a million). 

The survey found that almost 1 in 3 (29.5%) of those that are divorced go one month or more without washing their mat, compared to just over 1 in 6 of those in a relationship (17.6%). Divorced individuals are also the most likely to let their mats fester for a shocking 3-5 months, with 5.43% owning up to it—equivalent to 3.67 million Brits. 

This suggests that those who are divorced may be more likely to neglect their cleaning routines, potentially due to a lack of accountability, motivation, or household standards compared to those in a relationship.

Martin Smith, founder of shower enclosures retailer Showers to You, shared their thoughts on the findings:

“Although fabric bath mats may not look dirty, they are secretly one of the most bacteria-ridden items in your home. Constantly absorbing moisture, they become a magnet for dead skin, hair, dust, dirt, bacteria, and even fecal particles. This creates the perfect breeding ground for fungi and yeast, increasing the risk of infections like athlete’s foot, toenail fungus, and respiratory issues triggered by mold lurking in your bathroom.

Shockingly, our survey found that 10.84% of UK residents don’t own a bath mat at all. This isn’t just an oversight—it’s a serious hygiene and safety concern. Without a bath mat to soak up excess water, moisture seeps into floors, leading to mold, mildew, and even structural water damage over time. The result? A damp, bacteria-filled environment that puts both your health and your home at risk.”

Dr. Sham Singh reveals more:

“Hygienic neglect of a bathroom mat can further lead to shoe odor-accompanied symptoms that include persistent dermatological medical problems, such as the plantar warts caused by human papillomaviruses (HPV) that thrive in warm, moist environments. In cases of shared accommodation, concerns grow drastically because multiple occupants share the bathroom. Besides putting on slippers inside the bathroom and washing feet thoroughly, preventive measures can also reduce the probability of direct exposure to contaminants.”

Photo credit: New Africa / Shutterstock.com

For more information, visit https://www.showerstoyou.co.uk/shower-enclosuresdoors/

ACID-BASED cleaners are a vital part of many cleaning professionals’ toolkits, providing the strength needed to tackle tough blockages, limescale build-ups and industrial-scale cleaning tasks. But with their power comes a significant level of responsibility. The handling, sale, and use of certain high-concentration chemicals are now subject to stringent controls in the UK, and it’s essential that cleaning professionals understand their obligations under the law.

The Poisons and Explosives Precursors Act 2023 has placed clear legal requirements on anyone involved in the supply or use of regulated chemicals. For those working in the cleaning and facilities management sectors, this means being fully aware of which products are affected, what documentation is needed when purchasing, and how to ensure safe and compliant use once they are in the workplace.

The regulations are designed to prevent misuse of potentially hazardous substances, particularly in light of their possible use in illegal activities. However, for legitimate professional users, complying with the law is straightforward—as long as the right steps are followed.

Purchasing regulated chemicals

First and foremost, if you are purchasing regulated chemicals for use in your business, you must be able to provide verified information to the supplier. This includes your trade or business name and address, photographic identification (such as a driving licence, passport or recognised trade ID), confirmation of the profession or business type, and, where applicable, a VAT registration number. It is also important that the quantities purchased make sense in relation to your business needs. Suppliers have a duty to record this information and retain those records securely for a minimum of 18 months.

It is worth emphasising that these products cannot be sold to individual consumers without a valid Explosives Precursors and Poisons (EPP) licence. For cleaning professionals, this is rarely an issue, but ensuring clarity around your professional status is key. Regular customers may find that they only need to reconfirm their details periodically, provided their purchasing patterns remain consistent and there are no significant changes.

In addition to meeting the regulatory requirements during purchase, the safe handling and storage of acid-based products is crucial. These are powerful chemicals that demand respect. Appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) should always be worn—gloves, eye protection, and suitable clothing are the minimum. Storage should also follow strict safety guidelines, ensuring that products are kept securely and out of reach of unauthorised personnel.

It’s also important to be mindful of the role professional users play in supporting compliance across the supply chain. Suppliers are obligated to remain vigilant for any suspicious behaviour or unusual purchasing activity. This might include reluctance to provide ID, unfamiliarity with how to use the product, or purchasing volumes that don’t align with the stated business. If any concerns arise, the supplier must refuse the sale and report the incident to the relevant authorities. From a professional customer’s perspective, being cooperative and transparent during transactions not only makes the process smoother but reinforces the professional standards of the cleaning industry.

Lower-strength alternatives

For businesses or individuals who do not require high-concentration chemicals, or who prefer to avoid the additional regulatory steps, there are often lower-strength alternatives available which can provide effective results without the same level of control. These options can be well-suited to less demanding tasks, while ensuring compliance remains straightforward.

At Hilton Banks, we work closely with our distribution partners and customers to ensure these requirements are clearly understood. We have always championed responsible product use, and the current regulatory framework reinforces the importance of maintaining the highest standards of safety and compliance. For professionals who need industrial-strength solutions, our HB Trade range includes products like Bullitt and Spirits of Salt, which are formulated to deliver the performance cleaning professionals rely on—but are only available under the correct verification processes. For those needing alternatives, lower-strength versions are available that offer cleaning power without the additional restrictions.

Ultimately, compliance isn’t about creating barriers—it’s about safeguarding the industry and the public while ensuring that cleaning professionals can continue to do their job effectively. By staying informed and following the correct procedures, the cleaning sector can continue to access the solutions it needs while operating safely and within the law.

For further guidance on regulated chemicals and safe purchasing, visit the UK government’s resource on supplying explosives precursors and poisons at www.gov.uk.

Scarlet McAleese-Banks is joint managing director of Hilton Banks.

For more information on Hilton Banks’ range of compliant professional products, visit https://www.hiltonbanks.com/bullitt/

From industrial settings to commercial spaces, these products streamline cleaning processes and improve overall hygiene standards. 

The Importance of High-Quality Disposable Paper Products 

When it comes to professional cleaning products, disposable paper solutions offer several advantages over reusable materials. Here’s why they are crucial: 

• Improved Hygiene: Single-use products minimise the risk of spreading bacteria and viruses. Unlike reusable clothes or sponges, which can harbour germs, disposable paper products help maintain a germ-free environment. 

• Better Efficiency: Professional cleaners need fast, reliable solutions. High-quality paper cleaning products absorb spills quickly and reduce drying times, making cleaning more effective. 

• Cost-Effectiveness: While disposable products require regular replenishment, their efficiency often leads to reduced usage per task, saving costs in the long run. 

• Eco-Friendly Options: Many manufacturers now offer biodegradable or recycled disposable paper products, helping businesses maintain sustainability efforts without compromising cleanliness. 

Types of Disposable Paper Products for Professional Cleaning 

Professional cleaning relies on a variety of paper cleaning products, each designed for specific tasks. Here’s a breakdown of the commonly used ones: 

Paper Towels 

One of the most versatile disposable paper products, paper towels are essential in kitchens, restrooms and janitorial services. They help with: 

• Cleaning up spills 

• Drying hands quickly 

• Wiping down surfaces 

 

High-quality paper towels offer superior absorbency and durability, ensuring a thorough cleaning without excessive waste.

Toilet Paper 

In any commercial or public restroom, high-quality toilet paper ensures comfort and hygiene for users. Businesses must prioritise: 

• Soft yet durable materials 

• Sufficient supply to prevent shortages 

• Options that reduce paper waste, such as jumbo rolls 

Facial Tissues 

Often overlooked in professional cleaning, facial tissues contribute to personal hygiene and workspace cleanliness. They help prevent the spread of germs by encouraging people to catch sneezes and coughs. 

What are the Benefits of Using High-Quality Paper Cleaning Products? 

Businesses that invest in high-quality paper cleaning products experience several benefits, including: 

1. Increased Cleaning Efficiency

Disposable products reduce the time needed for cleaning tasks. Whether drying surfaces or absorbing spills, superior materials improve workflow and reduce effort. 

2. Reduced Cross-Contamination 

Single-use disposable paper products prevent bacteria from spreading between surfaces, unlike reusable cloths that require frequent washing. This is especially important in: 

• Healthcare environments 

• Food service industries 

• High-traffic public spaces  

3. Cost Savings Over Time 

Although high-quality professional cleaning products may have a slightly higher upfront cost, they often require fewer sheets per task, leading to long-term savings. 

4. Compliance with Hygiene Regulations 

Many industries must adhere to strict sanitation standards. Using premium disposable paper products helps businesses meet these regulations and maintain a clean, compliant environment. 

Choosing the Best Disposable Paper Products for Your Business 

Choosing the right paper cleaning products depends on factors such as usage frequency, absorbancy needs and environmental concerns, Here’s what to consider: 

• Absorbancy and Strength: Look for products that perform well under pressure, reducing waste and improving efficiency

• Softness vs, Durability: In restrooms, softness matters, while in industrial settings, durability is key 

• Eco-Friendliness: Opt for recycled or biodegradable disposable paper products to reduce environmental impact 

• Bulk Purchasing: Businesses can save costs by ordering in bulk from reliable suppliers such as Galleon Supplies

How to Implement Disposable Paper Products

To maximise efficiency, businesses should integrate professional cleaning products into their standard procedures, Here’s how: 

1. Train Staff on Proper Usage: Educate employees on the correct application of paper cleaning products to minimise waste and maximise effectiveness

2. Stock Strategically: Keep ample cleaning supplies in high-traffic areas to prevent shortages 

3. Use the Right Dispensers: Controlled dispensers reduce overuse and improve hygiene 

4. Evaluate Supplier Quality: Partner with a trusted supplier such as Galleon Supplies to ensure consistent product quality

Where Can You Buy Disposable Paper Products? 

High-quality disposable paper products play a vital role in professional cleaning, offering superior hygiene, efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Whether it’s paper cleaning supplies for industrial use or the hospitality sector, investing in top-tier solutions ensures optimal cleanliness. 

 

For businesses looking for reliable professional cleaning products, Galleon Supplies offers a comprehensive selection of premium options. Upgrade your cleaning routine with the best disposable paper products. 

 

As a trusted manufacturer, Hydrachem’s expertise spans drinking water treatment, food hygiene, and healthcare sanitation, ensuring safety and compliance for businesses and consumers alike.

Beyond Water Treatment: Comprehensive Hygiene Solutions

While water purification remains a core focus, Hydrachem has expanded its expertise into surface disinfection with products like Cert. Cert is an easy-to-use solution in food production, medical facilities, and commercial environments. Designed for maximum efficacy, Hydrachem’s hygiene solutions meet ISO 9001 and GMP standards, ensuring quality, safety, and environmental responsibility. 

A Trusted Partner for Global Industries

Hydrachem works closely with governments, NGOs, and major brands to provide tailored sanitation and hygiene solutions that meet the highest regulatory standards. 

With a reputation built on reliability, compliance, and scientific innovation, Hydrachem UK continues to set the standard for water purification and hygiene worldwide.

🔹 For more information, visit Hydrachem at www.hydrachem.com or www.certcleaning.co.uk

The London Cleaning Show 2025 - Stand I54

The experts at London rubbish removal company Clear it Waste analysed search volumes to identify the UK cities most frequently searching for toilet blockage-related terms - revealing which areas are experiencing the most clogged toilets. In addition, the experts share commentary on the factors most contributing to the problem and how to fix it.

Key findings: 

• Norwich is the city experiencing the most clogged toilets, with an average of 5,742 yearly searches per 100,000 residents

• Despite having the largest population, England’s capital London ranks fourth with an average of 3,686 yearly searches per 100,000 residents

• Peterborough rounds off the top 10, with an average of2,865 searches annually

• Spring cleaning season and dietary changes among common factors contributing to clogged toilets

• Josh Clark, spokesperson from London rubbish removal company reveals that cooking oils, grease and food leftovers are some of the worst substances to flush.

The UK Cities most searching for toilet blockage-related terms online

Rank	City	2024 Population*	Total Average monthly searches	Total yearly searches	Total yearly searches per 100,000 people
1	Norwich	213,166	1,020	12,240	5,742
2	Newcastle upon Tyne	192,382	870	10,440	5,426
3	Manchester	395,515	1,450	17,400	4,399
4	London	7,556,900	23,210	278,520	3,686
5	Birmingham	984,333	2,930	35,160	3,572
6	Bournemouth	163,600	480	57,60	3,521
7	Glasgow	591,620	1,570	18,840	3,185
8	Edinburgh	464,990	1,170	14,040	3,019
9	Leeds	455,123	1,130	13,560	2,979
10	Peterborough	163,379	390	46,80	2,865

Instead of ranking by the total yearly searches, the experts have adjusted the number based on population size per 100,000 residents to make fair comparisons between cities of different sizes.

Norwich is the UK city experiencing the most blocked toilets

London rubbish removal company Clear it Waste can reveal that Norwich is the UK city searching for the most toilet-blockage related terms, with an average of 5,742 annual searches per 100,000 residents. The most commonly searched toilet blocking term in Norwich over the past 12 months was "plumber near me" amassing 8,640 searches.

Newcastle Upon Tyne comes in second with an average of5,426 yearly searches per 100,000 residents. Newcastle’s most commonly searched term was also “plumber near me” totalling 7,080 searches annually. Despite Newcastle having a far lower population than England’s capital London, (192,382) it still managed to rank highly for toilet blocking online searches.

Manchester ranks third with an average of 4,399 yearlysearches per 100,000 residents. Manchester residents search for “Toilet unblockers” on average 3,120 times a year, indicating their initiative to unblock toilets themselves without a plumber.

London comes in fourth place with an average of 3,686 annualsearches per 100,000 residents. London has the highest total yearly searches due to being the most populated city in the UK - a total of 278,520 for toilet blockage related terms. An average of 145,200 yearly searches came from searches for “plumber near me" followed by “toilet unblockers" with 28,800 searches annually.

The most common factors that contribute to increased toilet blockages:

Spring cleaning:

As spring approaches, more people will be carrying out their spring cleaning. However, it is important to be wary of the items that are being flushed down the toilet. Toilet paper is the only cleaning item that should be flushed, all other items such as cleaning wipes, sanitary pads or paper towels should be disposed safely in the bin. These items, unlike toilet paper, do not disintegrate in water, leading to clogs that can obstruct pipes and cause significant problems. 

Increase of toilet users:

Despite toilet paper typically flushing with ease, increased usage during periods of high household occupancy such as summertime BBQ gatherings can contribute to blockages – overwhelming the robust plumbing systems, particularly in older homes with narrower pipes. In addition to this, the accumulation of limescale from hard water creates mineral deposits that restrict water flow. In older homes, deteriorating pipes present additional challenges as older low flow toilets, while water saving, sometimes lack the power to properly clear necessary waste.

Dietary Changes:

As summer approaches, people tend to increase their fiber intake such as more whole grains, beans and vegetables - which can increase bowel movements and cause blockages in the pipes. In addition, diets that are high in protein can sometimes lead to harder stools, and need for more flushing attempts. Also, those with IBS and constipation can often experience dense stools which are much harder to break down, increasing the risk of blockages.

Josh Clark, spokesperson from London rubbish removal company Clear it Waste comments on one of the worst possible things to flush down the toilet.

“Not many people are aware, but flushing grease, cooking oils or even food leftovers down the toilet can lead to major pipe blockages. Whilst these substances are liquid and may seem easily flushable, they actually cling to pipe walls, trapping other debris and progressively narrowing the pipe’s diameter. This can not only result in toilet clogging, but will contribute to significant sewer line backups, affecting local neighbours. 

The best way to dispose of such substances is to let them cool down and transfer them to a sealed container. They can then be securely thrown away in the bin.”

Photo: New Africa / Shutterstock.com

https://www.clearitwaste.co.uk/

In response to the UK's Poisons Licence, Wiseman's R&D team has developed a unique formulation, a revolutionary organic drain clearer that combines professional-grade strength with environmental responsibility that does not require hazard labelling yet delivers an unparalled powerful performance.

Everfree Organic Drain Clearer’s innovative formula and professional strength rapidly breaks down a wide range of common blockage materials, including organic matter and washing powder residues. Its quick-acting nature, means that drains can be cleared in minutes, without the need for rodding, saving time and effort on the job for plumbing professionals.  

Everfree Organic Drain Clearer sets a new standard in the plumbing industry. Unlike many traditional drain cleaners that use harsh chemicals, Wiseman's re-formulation ensures that all plumbers can tackle even the toughest blockages without compromising on legal compliance or environmental safety. Unlike many traditional drain cleaners, Everfree is 100% biodegradable and septic tank friendly.

Harvey Wiseman, CEO and managing director says: “Combining our cutting-edge chemistry and practical industry knowledge, we’ve developed the maximum strength product for plumbers to tackle even the toughest blockages effectively. Without the need for a licence, our re-formulated product combines professional grade strength and versatile performance with environmental responsibility that delivers the best results on the market.”

Everfree Organic Drain Clearer can be used both internally and externally making it suitable for most scenarios. Additionally, it can be used as part of a planned maintenance system to prevent blockages and keep drains flowing smoothly. These unique features position Everfree as a professional-grade drain cleaner that balances powerful performance with environmental responsibility, setting it apart in the market of drain cleaning solutions.

Aligning with the growing demand for sustainable plumbing practices, the versatility and speed make of dissolving obstructions make Everfree Organic Drain Clearer an indispensable tool in every professional plumber's arsenal. A superior prduct that delivers an effective sustainable drain clearing solution. Available in 1ltre & 2.5litres

For more information contact; sales@wisemanind.com or visit wisemanind.com

Tel: 0844 567 1212
 

While micro-firms have until 2027 to comply, this legislation marks a long-overdue shift towards more responsible waste management. But will businesses embrace this change as an opportunity, or will they treat it as another bureaucratic hurdle?

Businesses have operated with little accountability for their waste disposal. The new law compels offices, retailers, hospitality venues, schools, healthcare facilities, and even places of worship to take responsibility for their environmental impact. This is not just about compliance - it’s about shifting our culture towards sustainability.

Predictably, some businesses will resist, citing the cost and logistical challenges of implementing separate waste collections. But let’s be clear: waste separation is not an undue burden - it is a necessary evolution. Businesses already make operational decisions based on costs and efficiency; applying that same logic to waste disposal is simply smart practice. Moreover, waste collectors, whether private firms or local authorities, are legally obligated to provide services that facilitate compliance.

The financial implications, often a sticking point in discussions about sustainability, should not be exaggerated. Businesses pay for waste collection already, and smarter waste management can reduce overall costs by increasing efficiency and minimising waste sent to landfill or incineration. The Waste and Resources Action Programme (WRAP), funded by Defra, is providing guidance and even a waste calculator to help businesses optimise their waste streams. Instead of resisting, businesses should leverage these resources to improve both their environmental impact and their bottom line.

Perhaps the most striking aspect of this reform is the introduction of public accountability. From April 2025, citizens will be able to report non-compliant businesses to the Environment Agency - a bold measure. If businesses refuse to voluntarily participate in responsible waste management, they'll be held accountable by the communities they serve.

Failure to comply can result in compliance notices and, ultimately, enforcement action. Some might argue this is too punitive, but why should businesses be allowed to externalize the cost of their waste onto society? We already see the consequences of poor waste management in overflowing landfills, environmental degradation, and the ever-growing issue of plastic pollution. If enforcement measures push businesses to act responsibly, then they are entirely justified.

Businesses that implement these changes proactively can position themselves as leaders in corporate responsibility. Customers and employees alike are increasingly drawn to companies that demonstrate environmental stewardship. Sustainable waste management should be seen as an investment in a company’s reputation rather than an inconvenience.

The upcoming workplace recycling laws are not merely red tape; they are a necessary step in addressing a global environmental crisis.

Rather than resisting change, businesses should embrace it, recognising that their role in sustainability extends far beyond profit margins. The time for turning a blind eye is over.