Ewbank EP170 Floor Cleaner Review Powerful 3 in 1 Scrubber and Polisher

Description

Positive Features of the Ewbank EP170 Multi-Use Floor Machine

Using the Ewbank EP170 Complete Cleaner, Washer, Scrubber, Scourer, and Polisher has been quite the experience. This device really shines with its 3-in-1 functionality, allowing me to clean, scrub, and polish floors all with one tool. The contra-rotating discs spinning at 2,200 RPM make quick work of dirt, grime, and dull finishes, covering more than 10 square feet in a minute. Its lightweight design, at just under 8 pounds, makes it easy to maneuver around tight corners or awkward spaces without tiring out my arms.

The variety of interchangeable brushes and pads is impressive. I tested the nylon bristle scrubbing brushes on stubborn kitchen spills, while the microfiber cleaning pads worked wonders on laminate flooring in the living room. The polishing pads gave a lovely sheen to the hardwood floors, making them look professionally maintained. The 9.5-inch cleaning path hits a sweet spot between efficiency and control, meaning I don’t have to make endless passes on larger rooms.

• Versatile 3-in-1 use: cleaning, scrubbing, polishing
• Powerful 2,200 RPM contra-rotating discs
• Lightweight and maneuverable design
• Wide 9.5-inch cleaning path for efficient coverage

Drawbacks to Keep in Mind

Despite the many perks, a few limitations stood out during my use. The power cable is 23 feet long, which is generally helpful, but occasionally it gets tangled or caught on furniture legs, which can be annoying during longer cleaning sessions. Also, though the machine is lightweight, the handle design might not be the most ergonomic for everyone; the butterfly grip feels slightly awkward after extended use.

Another point is that the 160-watt motor, while efficient, sometimes struggles with very tough, ingrained stains on textured stone or heavily soiled grout lines. For those who want a deep clean on rough surfaces, this might require a second pass or more aggressive scrubbing with other equipment. The machine is best suited for regular maintenance rather than heavy-duty restoration tasks.

• Power cable can tangle around furniture
• Handle grip not ideal for prolonged use
• Motor power might be insufficient for very tough stains
• Best for maintenance, not heavy restoration

Adaptability Across Floor Types

One aspect that impressed me throughout testing was how well this machine adapts to different floor materials. It works well on laminate, wood, vinyl, marble, and granite surfaces, offering a gentle but effective clean without damage. The non-damaging design reassured me when using it on delicate floors, especially in bedrooms and bathrooms where scratches are a concern.

I swapped between scrubbing and polishing pads depending on the surface, which was straightforward thanks to the hook and loop attachment system. The machine’s versatility made it a go-to for various rooms in the house, from the high-traffic kitchen to the more delicate hardwood hallway. For anyone with mixed flooring types, this all-in-one tool saves a lot of hassle.

Ease of Use and Handling

The compact size and lightweight build make this floor polisher quite user-friendly. I could easily carry it up and down the stairs and switch rooms without feeling weighed down. The telescopic handle with butterfly grip adds to the control, though as mentioned, it could be more ergonomic. The integrated cable storage hook on the handle was a nice touch, keeping the power cord tidy when not in use.

Operating the machine was simple: plug it in, attach the desired pad or brush, and turn it on. The contra-rotating discs provide stability and prevent the machine from pulling to one side, which can happen with single-rotation tools. This helped me feel more confident during use, especially around edges and corners.

Competitors and How This Machine Stacks Up

Comparing this multi-use floor machine to other popular models like the Bissell SpinWave or the Hoover FloorMate reveals some interesting points. The Ewbank EP170 excels in its lightweight portability and multi-function versatility, which many competitors lack as they focus only on mopping or polishing. The speed of 2,200 RPM is quite competitive, often faster than models designed solely for scrubbing or polishing.

However, the power output is lower than some heavier-duty machines, which can handle deep cleaning more effectively. Brands like Bissell offer integrated water tanks and steam functions that make them better for wet cleaning, whereas this model sticks to dry or lightly damp cleaning with pads. If your priority is a tool that covers multiple functions with decent power and excellent floor safety, this machine fits the bill, but it’s not a full replacement for professional or industrial cleaning devices.

Value Proposition and Price Worthiness

Looking at the price point relative to features, this floor machine offers solid value for money. You get a multi-functional device with several accessories included, covering scrubbing, cleaning, and polishing needs without purchasing multiple machines. The durable build and reputable brand with 125 years in cleaning solutions add confidence to the investment.

Considering its lightweight design, powerful rotation, and adaptability, it stands out as a budget-friendly option for homeowners who want to maintain a polished floor appearance without spending a fortune. While it doesn’t replace high-end steam cleaners, it’s a smart buy for regular upkeep and quick touch-ups that keep floors looking fresh.

Maintenance and Longevity Insights

The machine’s materials feel sturdy, and the high-impact durable housing gives me hope for long-term use. Changing pads is quick and hassle-free, and cleaning the brushes after use is straightforward as well. I appreciated that the instruction manual is clear and easy to follow, ensuring I didn’t misuse any of the settings.

The 1-year warranty offers additional peace of mind, especially if something were to fail prematurely. For a household tool that sees regular use, this kind of support is important. I noticed no significant wear or motor noise increase after several uses, which hints at reliable engineering under the hood.

Pluses of the Ewbank EP170 Multi-Use Floor Cleaner

• Multi-functionality covers cleaning, scrubbing, and polishing
• Lightweight design promotes ease of use and mobility
• Effective for a wide range of floor types without damage
• Powerful contra-rotating discs ensure efficient performance

Limitations to Consider

• Power cord management could be improved to avoid tangling
• Handle grip might be uncomfortable during long sessions
• May need additional effort on very stubborn stains or textured surfaces
• Not suitable for heavy-duty deep cleaning or restoration work

In my experience, this floor machine strikes a good balance between versatility and practicality, making it a reliable choice for everyday floor maintenance. While it has some quirks, such as the cable management and handle ergonomics, its performance across different surfaces and tasks is solid enough to recommend for anyone wanting to keep floors shiny without fuss.

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