Chewing gum has plagued streets, pavements, and public spaces for decades. From city centres to transport systems, gum-stained surfaces remain a persistent issue for councils, businesses, and cleaning teams alike. While countries like Singapore have resorted to banning chewing gum altogether, in the UK, the challenge lies in finding effective and sustainable cleaning solutions.
One proven method for tackling this sticky problem is using industrial pressure washers, which combine high power and efficiency to remove chewing gum and restore surfaces to their original condition. Whether you’re managing a commercial property, public area, or retail space, professional cleaning solutions such as pressure washer hire can help.
The Cost of Chewing Gum Cleanup in the UK
Chewing gum litter remains a costly and persistent problem for towns and cities across the UK. According to Keep Britain Tidy, around 87% of England’s streets are stained with gum, creating an unsightly blight on public spaces and costing millions of pounds to clean up each year.
In response, major chewing gum manufacturers in 2021, including Mars Wrigley, GlaxoSmithKline, and Perfetti Van Melle, have partnered with the government in a £10 million initiative announced by Environment Minister Rebecca Pow. This scheme, managed by Keep Britain Tidy, aims to address gum littering over the next five years by funding clean-up efforts and launching behavioural campaigns to encourage responsible disposal.
The clean-up cost for gum litter is staggering, with an estimated £7 million spent annually by councils and local authorities to tackle the problem. This investment will focus on removing historic gum stains and implementing strategies that have already proven successful—previous pilots have reduced gum littering by up to 64%.
This partnership represents a significant step forward in tackling a long-standing issue, easing the burden on taxpayers while creating cleaner, more inviting public spaces across the UK.
The Role of Industrial Pressure Washers in Chewing Gum Removal
Industrial pressure washers are the cleaning machines of choice for dealing with stubborn gum deposits. The combination of high-pressure water jets and, in some cases, heated water, effectively breaks down the gum, lifting it off surfaces without causing damage. This makes pressure washers ideal for cleaning chewing gum from pavements, public seating areas, and even delicate structures like metro systems and historical monuments.
Hot pressure washers deliver outstanding results. The heat loosens the bond between the gum and the surface, significantly reducing the time and effort required for removal. In fact, hot pressure washers have been used for large-scale projects, such as cleaning Mount Rushmore and the London Eye, proving their versatility and effectiveness.
Why Pressure Washer Hire is a Smart Solution
Investing in a high-quality pressure washer can be expensive, especially for one-off or occasional use. For this reason, local pressure washer hire has become an increasingly popular option. Hiring provides access to cutting-edge equipment without the upfront costs or ongoing maintenance requirements of ownership.
Benefits of Pressure Washer Hire:
- Cost-Effective: Avoid the significant capital outlay of purchasing a machine and only pay for the time you need it.
- Access to Advanced Equipment: From hot water pressure washers to heavy-duty models, hire options ensure you get the best tools for the job.
- Maintenance-Free: Most hire agreements include full maintenance and servicing, ensuring the equipment remains in top condition.
- Expert Advice and Training: Hire providers often offer guidance on selecting the right machine and training for operatives to ensure safe and efficient operation.
Applications for Industrial Pressure Washers
While chewing gum removal is a key use case, industrial pressure washers have far-reaching applications across various industries. Here are some examples where industrial pressure washer hire excels:
- Public Spaces: Clean pavements, parks, and transport hubs of gum, graffiti, and dirt.
- Retail and Commercial Properties: Maintain pristine entrances and walkways to enhance customer impressions.
- Construction and Manufacturing Sites: Remove grime, oil, and debris from machinery and surfaces.
- Food and Hospitality: Ensure hygiene and cleanliness in outdoor dining areas, kitchens, and walkways.
The Environmental Impact of Hot Pressure Washers
Modern pressure washers, particularly hot water models like the Kärcher HDS series, have been designed to be environmentally friendly. These machines can often clean effectively without the use of harsh chemicals, relying on high-pressure water and heat to achieve superior results. This not only reduces the environmental footprint but also cuts down on costs associated with detergents and cleaning agents.
Transform Your Cleaning Efforts with Kärcher Hire UK
We specialise in providing top-of-the-line pressure washers and industrial cleaning machines to meet your needs. From heavy-duty pressure washer hire for industrial use to compact models for commercial spaces, we offer the right tools for every job.
Our hire service delivers flexibility and affordability, with short- and long-term hire options available. Plus, we offer next-day delivery across the UK, so you can tackle your cleaning challenges without delay.
Browse our full range of commercial cleaning equipment hire solutions online or speak to our experts on 0345 222 8000 for advice and a free quote. Let us help you restore surfaces, save time, and achieve professional cleaning results.
By leveraging the right tools, you can combat chewing gum vandalism, maintain cleaner streets, and enhance the appeal of your spaces – all without breaking the bank.
