History Behind Cleaning & Janitorial Products
We’re spotlighting your business's unsung heroes: janitorial supplies. They don’t just mop messes, they build trust, boost productivity, and keep things running smoothly.
Commercial Cleaning. Serious Shine, Serious Business.
A recent Ipsos study for P&G Professional™ found something interesting. Nine out of ten Americans believe cleanliness is important when choosing a business. To celebrate National Cleaning Week, we’re digging into the history of some everyday cleaning essentials. Some were accidental inventions, others total breakthroughs, but all helped shape how we clean today.
Before it freshened breakrooms, Lysol had… other plans
Lysol first hit the scene in 1889 to combat a deadly cholera outbreak in Germany. But when it made its way to the U.S., marketers had a very different idea: they pitched it as a women’s hygiene product. Yes, really. Somewhere between "life-saving disinfectant" and "personal care item," Lysol took a wild branding detour. Let’s just say we’re all grateful it eventually found its true calling- cleaning floors and surfaces, not confusing people in the medicine cabinet.The mop bucket wringer saved janitors everywhere
In 1893, Thomas W. Stewart revolutionized floor cleaning by adding a wringer to the mop bucket. This simple invention spared janitors from bending and wringing by hand, saving time, energy, and a lot of sore backs worldwide.
Paper towels were a total accident
In 1907, Arthur Scott from the Scott Paper Company had an oops moment. An entire batch of toilet paper was too thick. Instead of throwing it away, he had a lightbulb moment: cut it up and sell it as disposable towels. What started as a mistake turned into one of the most essential janitorial supplies. Thanks, Arthur!
The first vacuum cleaner was a horse-drawn parade float
In 1901, Hubert Cecil Booth invented a vacuum so massive it had to be pulled by horses. It parked outside buildings while giant tubes snaked through the windows to suck up dust powered by a motor. Was it loud, clunky, and totally over-the-top? Absolutely. But it cleaned house and kicked off the vacuum revolution.
Green cleaning was cool before it was cool
In the 1960s, people started worrying about what was in their cleaning products. That’s when the first wave of eco-friendly formulas showed up. Now? Environmentally friendly cleaning supplies are a must-have for your health and the planet. Turns out, going green was always a smart choice.
Hand sanitizer took a while to catch on
Back in 1966, nursing student Lupe Hernandez had a smart idea: turn germ-killing alcohol into a portable gel. It was perfect for doctors without quick access to soap and water. But it wasn’t until Purell launched in 1988 that hand sanitizer went mainstream. Now? It’s as common in offices as coffee, Wi-Fi, and awkward small talk.
Degreasers were made for missiles, not messes.
In 1953, scientists developed WD-40 to prevent rust on Atlas missiles. It worked so well, people started sneaking it home for their garages and workbenches. Today, that same grease-busting power fuels commercial degreasers used in machine shops, factories, and, yes, even restaurant kitchens. Whether cleaning an engine or a fryer, degreasers are your go-to grime fighters.
Windex made spray bottles a household name
In the 1930s, Windex was launched as a glass cleaner, but it came in a metal can, not a spray bottle. You had to dilute it and pour it out by hand. Not exactly convenient. Fast-forward to the 1960s, and Windex switched to the now-familiar spray bottle, which helped it skyrocket in popularity. Today, spray bottles are a staple in every cleaning and janitorial routine, delivering quick, targeted, no-fuss cleaning.
Let’s hear it for the mop squad!
Your cleaning products may not be in the spotlight, but they are key players in your operation. From backroom to boardroom, your janitorial supplies protect your brand, your people, and your bottom line. Whether you run a cleaning service, a store, or a facility in the United States, your supplies are important. You need to stay stocked up. This includes everything from deep cleaning spills to wiping down frequently touched surfaces often with disinfecting wipes.
SupplyLand’s got your back with a wide range of essentials:
Eco-friendly cleaners include glass cleaners, all-purpose cleaners, degreasers, dish soap, and heavy-duty floor cleaning machines. Shop for cleaning wipes, trash cans, and recycled paper products and dispensers. These items help reduce your environmental impact and keep things fresh. National Cleaning Week is a great time to raise awareness and refresh your supplies. Remember the benefits of a good cleaner or stainless-steel spray.
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Cleaning & Janitorial Supplies for Businesses
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