The Power of Enzymes in Cleaning and Deodorizing: Nature’s Microscopic Workers

The cleaning industry constantly innovates to find more effective and environmentally friendly solutions for workplaces and public spaces. One of the most significant advancements in recent years is using enzymes in cleaning and deodorizing products. Harnessing the power of nature, enzymes offer a safe, efficient, and eco-friendly alternative to traditional cleaning chemicals.

In this article, we'll examine enzymes and their revolutionizing effects on cleaning. We'll also explore Hillyard's biological cleaners, each with a special formulation designed to address specific cleaning situations.

Understanding Enzymes

Enzymes are proteins produced by living organisms. They act as biological catalysts, speeding up chemical reactions that break down complex molecules into simpler substances. In cleaning, enzymes target specific types of organic matter, such as grease, proteins, carbohydrates, and even urine, effectively breaking them down for easy removal.

Types of Enzymes Used in Cleaning

Different enzymes have specific roles, making them highly effective against dirt and stains. The most common enzymes used in cleaning products include:

• Protease: Breaks down proteins, making it ideal for removing food stains and bodily fluids.

• Amylase: Targets carbohydrates, effectively tackling starchy stains from foods like pasta and potatoes.

• Lipase: Degrades fats and grease, perfect for kitchen and industrial cleaning.

• Urease: Breaks down urea, commonly found in urine, making it valuable for deodorizing and cleaning bathrooms.

• Xylanase: Decomposes plant-based materials, useful for cleaning outdoor spaces and certain types of indoor stains.

How Enzymes Clean

Enzyme cleaners work by binding to the specific molecules they are designed to break down. This process can be likened to a lock and key mechanism, where the enzyme (key) fits perfectly into the substrate (lock). Once bound, the enzyme catalyzes the breakdown of the substrate into smaller, more manageable pieces. These smaller pieces can then be easily washed away, leaving surfaces clean and free from stains.

For example, when a protease enzyme encounters a protein stain on your carpet, it breaks down the protein molecules into smaller components. These smaller molecules are then either consumed by the bacteria present in some enzymatic cleaners or easily rinsed away during the cleaning process.

Continuous Cleaning Action

One of the unique benefits of enzymatic cleaners is their ability to provide continuous cleaning action. Unlike traditional chemical cleaners that stop working once dried, enzymatic cleaners remain active as long as there is moisture and a food source (the organic matter being cleaned). This continuous action ensures prolonged cleaning and deodorizing effects, making it particularly effective for areas that require long-lasting odor control, such as bathrooms and kitchens.

Environmental and Safety Benefits

Enzymatic cleaners are not only effective but also environmentally responsible. Here are some key benefits:

• Biodegradable: Enzymes and the bacteria that produce them are naturally occurring and biodegradable, reducing the environmental impact.

• Non-Toxic: These cleaners are generally free from harsh chemicals, making them safer for employees.

• Reduced Chemical Use: By breaking down organic matter naturally, enzymatic cleaners reduce the need for synthetic chemicals.

Practical Applications

Enzymatic cleaners are versatile and can be used in various settings:

• Hospitality Cleaning: From kitchens to bathrooms, enzymatic cleaners effectively handle grease, food stains, and odors.

• Commercial Cleaning: Ideal for restaurants, hotels, and office buildings where grease and odors can be prevalent.

• Industrial Use: Factories and workshops benefit from the powerful degreasing action of enzymatic cleaners.

• Pet Care: Enzymatic cleaners are perfect for eliminating pet stains and odors, ensuring a clean and fresh-smelling home.

Hillyard’s Enzymatic Cleaning Solutions

Hillyard has harnessed the power of enzymes to create a range of innovative cleaning products. Our solutions, such as Liquid Enzyme II and Britenz-It®, exemplify the effectiveness and versatility of enzymatic cleaning. These products are designed to tackle everything from greasy floors to clogged drains, providing a comprehensive approach to cleaning and deodorizing.

General Purpose

Liquid Enzyme II - A live, bacterial suspension that contains a minimum of 200 billion active bacteria per gallon that dissolve grease, fats, proteins, and carbohydrates. It is ideal for treating sink drains, wash basins, shower stalls, and refuse containers. Eliminates odors associated with pet urine. Neutralizes odors without leaving a heavily scented fragrance. Liquid Enzyme II can be safely used in various applications including restrooms, floors, carpets, garbage containers, cigarette urns, and anywhere foul odors are a problem.

Drain Maintenance

Liquid Trapshooter - The latest advance in bacterial-based products. It uses nature’s cleaning agents to rid grease traps and plumbing of grease and waste accumulation. Liquid Trap Shooter can begin working in as little as 30 minutes. Traditional bacterial products can take six to eight hours to start working. Daily use lets Liquid Trap Shooter free grease traps from excessive buildup while reducing odor, clogs, and expensive pump-outs.

Odor Control

Take Down - Works naturally to destroy odors at their source. Unlike many products that mask odors, Take Down uses safe, natural bacteria and enzymes to eliminate stubborn odors. Plus, there are no harsh chemicals to worry about. The bacteria die when their job is done and convert to carbon dioxide and water. Take Down can be safely used in various applications, including restrooms, floors, carpets, garbage containers, cigarette urns, and anywhere foul odors are a problem. Available in four fragrances: Fresh Linen, Green Apple, Fresh & Clean, Cherry.

Floor and Grout Cleaning

Britenz-It - Tackle greasy floors with a daily, no-rinse floor cleaner fortified with grease-eliminating enzymes. The biotechnology in Britenz-It keeps the good bacteria producing billions of grease-busting enzymes around the clock, 24/7. As long as there is a food source (grease) and moisture in the air, Britenz-It will be at work consuming grease and making future cleaning easier!

Let Hillyard Help You Harness the Power of Enzymes

Enzymatic cleaners represent a significant advancement in the cleaning industry, combining effectiveness with environmental responsibility. By harnessing nature’s own microscopic cleaners, we can maintain cleaner, safer, and more pleasant environments. Whether for commercial or industrial use, enzymatic cleaners offer a powerful solution that meets the demands of modern cleaning.

Hillyard has a network of knowledgeable representatives located throughout the United States, ready to assist you in incorporating enzymatic cleaning solutions into your cleaning program. Whether you're looking to improve the efficiency of your janitorial staff or seeking more environmentally responsible cleaning options, our experts are here to help. To get started, simply fill out the "I'm Interested" form below, and one of our representatives will contact you to discuss your needs and how our enzyme-based products can benefit your facility. Let us help you harness the power of nature for a cleaner, safer environment.