When you are maintaining your forklift, you are most likely checking things such as the tyres or replacing the brake fluid. Forklift cleaning is often missed out, but it is an important part of maintenance.
Cleaning your forklift can extend its lifespan, boost performance and enhance workplace safety. By following our top tips, you can keep your forklift in perfect condition.
How to Clean a Forklift
When it comes to cleaning a forklift, it is important to take care of how you are cleaning and what products you are using. The process of cleaning your forklift can vary depending if it’s gas, diesel or electric powered.
Safety
- Turn off your forklift: Ensure your forklift is turned off and the key has been removed. For an electric forklift, disconnect the battery to avoid electrical hazards.
- Allow time to cool down: Make sure before you start cleaning when your forklift has cooled down completely.
- Wear the appropriate safety gear: When you are cleaning a forklift, make sure you are wearing the right PPE to protect yourself from debris or cleaning products. Your safety gear should include items such as gloves and face masks.
Pre-Cleaning
- Remove loose debris: By using a brush or compressed air, remove any loose dirt from your forklift. This will help reduce any build-up and make cleaning easier.
Exterior Cleaning
- Pressure wash: Cleaning your forklift can be done easily by using a pressure washer. However, it is important to note, it is not advised to pressure wash most electric forklifts as it could damage internal components.
- Hand washing: Hand washing when cleaning a forklift is a great way to clean hard-to-reach areas. As well as this, using a sponge and soapy water is a good way to remove dirt from areas that need extra care.
Interior Cleaning
- Make sure to clean the cabin: By using a damp cloth, you can clean your forklift’s seat, controls and dashboard. Cleaning your forklift regularly will lower the chance of dirt and debris going into the mechanics.
Drying Time
- Allow your forklift to dry fully: Before using your forklift again, make sure it has fully dried. You can use a clean cloth to remove the excess water. This will help prevent moisture damaging your machine.
Top Tips for Forklift Cleaning
1) Cover any electrical components with plastic or a protective cover to prevent water damage
2) Use the top-down cleaning method. This ensures that you are cleaning in the most efficient way. From cleaning from the top-first, gravity will help remove the dirt.
3) The undercarriage of your forklift is just as important. Make sure you remove any debris from the underside when forklift cleaning.
4) Always follow your forklift’s manufacturers’ guide for cleaning and maintenance recommendations.
Forklift Cleaning Checklist
A checklist helps ensure that no part of your forklift is overlooked when you are cleaning. Using a checklist can also be a good way to track when your forklift was last cleaned and if any further maintenance is required. Some things to have on your forklift cleaning checklist are:
Reliable Forklifts at Trucks Direct
Are you looking for a well-maintained and clean forklift? Here at Trucks Direct, we have a range of new and used forklifts to suit your needs. For more information, get in touch with our friendly team.