Floor Care

Buffing

Buffing is a lower-speed floor-polishing process that smooths scuffs and restores shine to a finished floor using a machine running slower than a burnisher, often with a spray cleaner.

Written by CleanQuote Editorial TeamReviewed by Facilities Operations Review BoardLast reviewed June 2026

In Depth

Operating around 175–350 RPM, a buffer (or swing machine) removes light scuffs and refreshes gloss without the heat-driven, mirror finish of high-speed burnishing. "Spray buffing" adds a fine mist of restorer for added shine.

Why It Matters

Buffing is the routine, economical way to keep floors presentable between deeper services, distinguishing it from the higher-cost burnishing and stripping cycles.

Related Terms

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Frequently Asked

What is buffing in commercial cleaning?

Buffing is a lower-speed floor-polishing process that smooths scuffs and restores shine to a finished floor using a machine running slower than a burnisher, often with a spray cleaner.

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