How to Choose the Best Floor Buffers: Buying Guide and Reviews

Introduction

Floor buffers are essential tools for maintaining the beauty and longevity of various flooring types, including hardwood, tile, and vinyl. They help in cleaning, polishing, and restoring floors, making them look new again. This guide will help you understand what to look for in a floor buffer and review some of the best options available in 2024.

What to Look for in a Floor Buffer

When selecting a floor buffer, consider the following factors:

Type of Floor: Different floor buffers are designed for specific types of flooring. Ensure the buffer you choose is suitable for the type of floor you have, whether it’s hardwood, tile, or vinyl.
Size and Coverage Area: Floor buffers come in various sizes, typically ranging from 12 inches to 20 inches in diameter. Smaller units are ideal for tight spaces, while larger units are better for covering extensive areas quickly.
Speed Options: Buffers come with different speed settings. Standard speed is around 175 RPM, suitable for basic stripping, scrubbing, and polishing. Dual-speed buffers offer more versatility, operating between 200 and 400 RPM for more aggressive cleaning.
Rotary vs. Orbital: Rotary buffers have a classic side-to-side motion, while orbital buffers move in straight lines. Rotary buffers are generally more common and versatile, but orbital buffers can be better for specific tasks like getting into corners.
Additional Features: Look for features like dual or single capacitors, optional weights, enclosed motors, and explosion-proof designs, depending on your specific needs and the environment in which you’ll be using the buffer.

Top Floor Buffers in 2024

1. Bissell BigGreen Commercial Easy Motion Floor Machine

Best for Hardwood Floors
Price: Varies
Features: Easy to use, versatile, effective on hardwood.
Why We Like It: This buffer is designed specifically for hardwood floors, offering gentle yet effective cleaning and polishing.

2. Prolux Core Heavy Duty Commercial Floor Buffer

Best for Tiles
Price: Varies
Features: Heavy-duty, suitable for tile floors, versatile.
Why We Like It: Ideal for tile floors, this buffer is robust and can handle heavy-duty cleaning tasks with ease.

3. Gladwell Cordless 3-in-1 Spinner, Scrubber, and Waxer

Best Cordless Option
Price: Varies
Features: Cordless, multi-functional, easy to maneuver.
Why We Like It: The cordless design offers great flexibility and ease of use, making it perfect for various cleaning tasks.

4. Oreck Orbiter Multi-Purpose Floor Cleaner

Best Multi-Purpose
Price: Varies
Features: Multi-purpose, easy to use, effective on various surfaces.
Why We Like It: This buffer is highly versatile, suitable for different types of floors and cleaning tasks.

5. Viper Venom Series High-Speed Floor Burnisher

Best High-Speed
Price: Varies
Features: High-speed, effective polishing, durable.
Why We Like It: This high-speed buffer is perfect for achieving a shiny, polished finish on your floors.

Infographic: Choosing the Right Floor Buffer

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right floor buffer can make a significant difference in maintaining the appearance and longevity of your floors. Whether you need a buffer for hardwood, tile, or a multi-purpose option, the choices listed above offer excellent performance and value. Consider your specific needs, the type of floor you have, and the features that will be most beneficial for your cleaning tasks.