Rubbermaid Commercial Products has unveiled an innovative update to its widely acclaimed HYGEN™ launderable microfibre mop pads and cloths by incorporating Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) technology.

This advancement offers a high-tech solution to common operational challenges faced by facilities, enhancing inventory tracking, loss prevention and product lifecycle management. While these microfibre products have long been known for their exceptional cleaning performance, the integration of RFID adds a new dimension, streamlining operations without compromising on quality.

“We’re very excited to get this off the ground,” Newell Brands Asia Pacific senior marketing manager Praj Perera said. “What this means is that all microfibre can start utilising RFID technology, so you can actually track a product from its origin to [its] batch and further track the lifetime of the product.”

Functioning as a smart labelling system, RFID technology stores essential product details like identification codes and descriptions into HYGEN™ microfibre pads and cloths. These RFID chips serve as unique identifiers for each item, empowering facilities to maintain precise control over their cleaning supplies while ensuring greater efficiency in managing and monitoring inventories. “It also extends to new applications such as commercial laundries, healthcare, hospitality, facility management or whichever organisation uses RFID,” Perera says.

TRANSFORMING INVENTORY MANAGEMENT AND LOSS PREVENTION

One of the most significant benefits of RFID-enabled HYGEN™ microfibre products is the improved accuracy and ease of inventory management. Facilities that rely on outsourced laundry services or handle large volumes of cleaning supplies can now track every item in real time. By scanning the RFID tags, managers gain instant insights into stock levels, helping to eliminate manual counting processes and reduce the risk of shortages.

Loss prevention also becomes far more manageable with this technology. Misplacing cleaning supplies during laundering or transport has long been a challenge, but RFID provides precise identification for each microfibre item, making it easier to locate misplaced products and prevent unnecessary replacement costs. This tracking capability extends to usage patterns, enabling facilities to maintain accountability and reduce waste.

ENHANCING PRODUCT LIFECYCLE MANAGEMENT WITH RFID

Another advantage of RFID integration is its role in monitoring the lifecycle of HYGEN™ durable microfibre products. Facility managers can now access real-time data on how often each mop pad or cloth has been used and laundered, providing valuable insights into wear and tear. This information helps managers decide when it’s time to replace products to maintain optimal cleaning performance.

Furthermore, RFID tags facilitate better stock management by offering a clear picture of usage rates and inventory turnover. This not only prevents overstocking or running out of supplies but also helps optimise purchasing decisions. With this advanced level of control, facilities can ensure they are always prepared for their cleaning needs while maintaining cost efficiency.

STREAMLINING LAUNDRY OPERATIONS FOR MAXIMUM EFFICIENCY

RFID technology simplifies and enhances laundry operations, reducing manual errors and ensuring accurate tracking throughout the cleaning and redistribution process. The automated system eliminates the need for time-consuming manual checks, allowing staff to focus on other critical tasks such as quality control.

With real-time updates provided by RFID, managers can monitor items as they move through various stages of laundering and redistribution, ensuring no product is misplaced or mixed up. Additionally, the system offers an added layer of accountability, highlighting any issues with lost or unused items before they escalate into larger problems.

This streamlined workflow not only reduces the likelihood of errors but also creates opportunities for facilities to identify inefficiencies in their processes. Whether it’s spotting patterns in mishandled inventory or addressing bottlenecks in laundry handling, RFI  technology enables facilities to respond proactively, keeping operations running smoothly.

A SMART UPGRADE FOR MODERN FACILITIES

Rubbermaid Commercial Products’ HYGEN™ microfibre mop pads and cloths have long been a trusted choice for cleaning professionals and the addition of RFID technology takes them to the next level. “There are three types of RFID chips: low frequency, high frequency and ultra-high frequency,” Perera explains. “Rubbermaid Commercial use the ultra-high, called UHF technology, which communicates at a much higher speed, and this particular chip has the capability of data retention for a minimum of 50 years.”

With improved tracking, enhanced inventory management and efficient loss prevention, these updated products are designed to meet the high demands of modern facilities.

This integration of advanced technology with superior cleaning performance offers a glimpse into the future of smart cleaning solutions, where efficiency and innovation go hand in hand. Facilities looking to elevate their operational capabilities can explore these RFID-enabled products, set to launch soon.