Nexstep Materials

Natural Bristles

Broomcorn

Broomcorn is actually a form of sorghum, grown specifically for its ability to trap fine dust particles. The fiber comes from the tassel of the stalk. Broomcorn lasts longer and sweeps better because each fiber is covered with hair-like follicles that trap and hold dirt particles. It is water resistant and wears very well, making it the premium broom fiber. It is environmentally friendly because it grows in dry areas using only rain water. It is suitable for any floor surface.

Rattan

Similar to bamboo in appearance, rattan provides stiffness in a broom when placed inside with layers of quality broomcorn on the outside. Excellent for use in wet areas.

Yucca

Corn/yucca blend brooms are constructed of broomcorn and yucca fibers from the yucca plant. Yucca is a member of the agave plant family, which thrives in warm, arid regions such as Mexico. The stiff fibers are used to make the broom’s core, which is then wrapped with a layer of broomcorn. This makes a strong, economical broom suitable for sweeping on concrete. However, yucca has poor bristle bend recovery and has the tendency to break and shed. Does not pick up fine debris.

Synthetic Bristle

PET

Available in many colors, weights, and fiber diameters for different applications. Waterproof; dries quickly. Resistant to acids, oils, and bacterial growth. Ends are often flagged (Feather Tip®) to provide a soft brushing face that picks up fine dust particles. An excellent synthetic fiber for food service, and also perfect for industrial and commercial settings where sweeping or scrubbing take place on wet or dry surfaces.

PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)

Extremely durable synthetic. Ends are often flagged (Feather Tip®) to provide a soft brushing face. Oil and moisture resistant. Not for use with sweeping compounds.

Poly Corn

Made from polypropylene which gives good sweeping performance indoors or outdoors. The thicker fibers are long wearing, don’t absorb water, and are resistant to most chemicals, detergents, insects, and mildew. Especially good in damp environments and can even be used on low-pile carpet.

Flagged Bristles (Feather Tip®)

Each synthetic filament end is mechanically split, forming a soft tapered tip that picks up fine dust and dirt particles.

Unflagged Bristles

Each synthetic filament end is un-split, preventing ends from matting together from grease and grime. Unflagged bristles excel on rough surface floors.

Natural Bristles

Horsehair

Produced from the tail and the mane, the soft horsehair comes in black and gray. Horsehair is used in a variety of brushes due to being durable. Should not be used on wet or oily surfaces.

Palmyra

Natural medium stiff fibers from the palmyra palm. This plant is native to India. Extremely durable, brown in color, has good bristle bend recovery, is economical and tough, and is an excellent choice for general sweeping. Can be used wet or dry.

Palmyra Stalk

Also a product of the palmyra palm. Palmyra stalks are very coarse, stiff, and strong. Commonly made into street brooms and used for cleaning the heaviest debris. Excellent for wet or dry use on pavement, concrete, and driveways.

Tampico

Soft to medium stiff fiber from the agave plant found in northern Mexico. It has a natural white color, but is frequently dyed or bleached. Durable and retains shape after continual use. Highly resistant to heat, alkali, solvents, and acids. Has excellent water retention and will maintain stiffness while wet.

Synthetic Bristles

Nylon

A flexible, silky synthetic fiber that has a very high heat tolerance – up to 350° F. Very durable and excellent abrasion resistance. Will not stain, mat, discolor, or absorb odors. Excellent for food service.

Polyester

Excellent chemical resistance and bristle bend recovery. Very good abrasion resistance and tear/break strength. Sustains temperature up to 400° F.

Polypropylene

Available in many colors and weights for different applications. Resistant to acids, oils, fungi, and bacterial growth. Sustains temperatures up to 225° F. An excellent synthetic fiber for food service, and also perfect for industrial and commercial settings where sweeping or scrubbing take place on wet or dry surfaces.

Polystyrene

This fiber is highly resistant to acid and detergents. Polystyrene has excellent flexibility and wear durability. Should not be used with sweeping compounds.

PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)

Extremely durable synthetic. Ends are often flagged (Feather Tip®) to provide a soft brushing face. Oil and moisture resistant. Not for use with sweeping compounds.

Wire/Metal

Brass Wire

Rust resistant; provides a high degree of abrasion but is softer than stainless or carbon steel to prevent equipment damage. For use on ovens, griddles, and other metal equipment that is heavily soiled but cannot sustain heavy scratches.

Carbon Steel Wire

Provides a high degree of abrasion and wear resistance. Good bend recovery. Best choice for aggressively removing residue from metal parts or brick.

Stainless Steel

Provides a high degree of abrasion and wear resistance. Resists chemicals and rust. Excellent bend recovery. Best for aggressively removing residue from metal or other resilient materials.

Blocks

Hardwood Blocks

Quality natural lacquered hardwood blocks provide classic, traditional durability and dependability. Two threaded or tapered holes provide long product life.

Structural Foam Blocks

These non-absorbent plastic blocks are made with fine synthetic cellular core surrounded by a solid skin. Lighter in weight, these blocks will not crack, split, warp, or house bacteria.

Fill Design

Staggered hole patterns prevent gaps in fill material for better performance. Dense fill leads to longer life. Flagged tips pick up fine dust and debris. Flared ends allow access to corners.