Keeping your fleet looking clean and professional is essential for safety and equipment longevity. Whether you operate a handful of vans or a full fleet of HGVs and construction machinery, the right vehicle cleaning products make all the difference. At HTS Spares, we were asked this week: “What’s the difference between TFR and Truck & Bus Wash - and which one should I use?”
This guide will help you choose the perfect solution for fleet cleaning and maintenance.
What Is TFR (Traffic Film Remover)?
TFR (Traffic Film Remover) is a highly concentrated, heavy-duty cleaner designed to remove grease, grime, diesel residue, and traffic film. It’s perfect for construction machinery, plant equipment, and HGVs that encounter tough working conditions.
Benefits of TFR for Construction Equipment
- Heavy-duty cleaning power: Removes mud, oil, cement dust, and diesel deposits.
- Versatile: Ideal for excavators, dumpers, loaders, trailers, and lorries.
- Time-efficient: Fast-acting formula saves cleaning time on busy sites.
- Cost-effective: Highly concentrated - ideal for fleets.
When to Use TFR
TFR is best for deep cleaning heavy machinery after long construction shifts or work in muddy, dusty, or oily environments.
💡 Our experts say: Always rinse thoroughly to protect paintwork and sensitive surfaces on plant equipment.
What Is Truck & Bus Wash?
Truck & Bus Wash is a more gentle, paint-friendly detergent that’s perfect for daily or weekly cleaning of construction vehicles with painted surfaces, signage, or aluminium panels. While TFR is more aggressive, Truck & Bus Wash is safe for frequent use.
Benefits for Construction Fleets
- Safe for painted surfaces and signage: Protects your company branding.
- Regular maintenance: Prevents buildup of road grime and dust.
- Foaming action: Covers large vehicles evenly for easier cleaning.
- Leaves a clean, professional finish: Perfect for fleet presentation.
When to Use Truck & Bus Wash
Use Truck & Bus Wash for routine cleaning of construction trucks, plant vehicles, and HGVs to maintain a professional and safe fleet appearance.
TFR vs Truck & Bus Wash - Key Differences for Construction Machinery
| Feature | TFR (Traffic Film Remover) | Truck & Bus Wash |
| Cleaning Strength | Heavy duty | Medium duty |
| Best For | Muddy, oily, cement-stained machinery | Painted HGVs, trailers, and vans |
| Paintwork Safety | Strong - caution required | Safe for all finishes |
| Frequency | Periodic deep cleaning | Weekly or regular washing |
| Application | Pressure washer, spray, or brush | Foam lance, hand wash, or brush |
Choosing the Right Cleaner for Your Construction Fleet
- TFR Cleaner: Use for heavy grime, grease, and cement residue on machinery and trailers.
- Truck & Bus Wash: Use for regular cleaning of painted vehicles to protect branding and surface finishes.
Most construction fleet operators combine both: TFR for site-cleaning days and Truck & Bus Wash for routine fleet maintenance.
HTS Spares: Cleaning Solutions for Construction Machinery & Fleets
At HTS Spares, we supply industrial cleaning chemicals and accessories for construction fleets, including:
- Traffic Film Removers (TFRs) for plant machinery, HGVs, and trailers
- Truck & Bus Wash solutions for daily fleet maintenance
- Degreasers, wheel cleaners, and detailing products for construction vehicles
- Pressure washer hoses, lances, and nozzles
All our products are trusted across the UK construction industry, helping fleets stay professional, safe, and operational.
Explore our full range of construction fleet cleaning products at HTS Spares - your trusted supplier of vehicle and machinery maintenance solutions.
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