In this post:
- Keeping your restaurant clean and sanitary benefits customers and employees
- How a clean facility helps maintain a good reputation
- Stay on track with commercial cleaning supplies and equipment and a proper cleaning schedule
The Importance of Commercial Restaurant Cleaning
Running a restaurant is no easy feat. There are countless tasks that need to be done on a daily basis to ensure the smooth operation of your business. One of the most important tasks is maintaining a clean and hygienic environment for both your customers and employees.
In this article, we will discuss why restaurant cleanliness is so important and the benefits of keeping your establishment clean, healthy, and ready for your patrons.
Download our Cleaning Checklist for Restaurants
Health and Safety Regulations
Restaurants are subject to strict health and safety regulations, which mandate the use of commercial-grade cleaning supplies and an effective cleaning routine to prevent the spread of diseases and food contamination. These regulations are put in place to protect the health of your customers and employees. Failing to comply with these regulations can lead to fines and even closure of your business. While regulations vary by state, all states do have a regulatory agency that provides food codes and establishment cleanliness guidelines businesses must adhere to.
By maintaining a clean and hygienic environment, you can prevent the spread of harmful bacteria and viruses. This is especially important in the food service industry, where the risk of contamination is high. Regular cleaning and sanitizing of surfaces, utensils, and equipment can help prevent food-borne illnesses and keep your customers and employees healthy.
75% of consumers will not visit a restaurant if it has negative reviews of its cleanliness. (Businesswire)
Customer Satisfaction and Reputation
When it comes to running a successful restaurant, customer satisfaction is key. A clean and well-maintained food establishment creates an inviting atmosphere that encourages customers to return and recommend your business to others. On the other hand, an unkempt and dirty restaurant can drive away customers, damage your reputation, and harm your business.
By keeping your restaurant clean and tidy, you are showing your customers that you care about their experience. A clean restaurant not only looks better, but it also smells better. No one wants to eat in a place that smells like old food or dirty dishes. By creating a welcoming environment, you are more likely to attract and retain loyal customers.
Restaurants are the most negatively affected business by negative reviews about cleanliness, even above hotels and doctor’s offices. (Businesswire)
Employee Well-Being
Working in a clean and healthy restaurant is crucial to the physical and mental well-being of your employees. They are more likely to be productive, motivated, and satisfied with their job when they feel safe and comfortable.
By maintaining a clean and organized kitchen, you can reduce the risk of accidents and injuries. Slippery floors, cluttered countertops and workspaces, and malfunctioning equipment can all lead to accidents. Also, when you keep your kitchen clean and well-maintained, you are providing a safe working environment for your employees.
In addition to physical well-being, a clean and organized eatery can also have a positive impact on mental health. Cluttered and disorganized spaces can lead to stress and anxiety. By providing a clean and organized restaurant for your staff, you are promoting a positive work culture and showing your employees that you value their well-being.
Choosing the Right Commercial Cleaning Supplies
Keeping an eatery clean and hygienic is essential for the health and safety of employees and customers. Choosing the right commercial cleaning supplies can make a significant difference in the effectiveness of your cleaning routine. Here are some things to consider when selecting the right cleaning supplies for your restaurant.
Types of Cleaning Supplies
There are a variety of commercial cleaning supplies available on the market, each with its unique properties and designed to tackle specific cleaning challenges. For instance, cleaners and detergents remove dirt and stains from surfaces, while disinfectants kill germs and viruses on high-touch areas such as faucets, handles, and tables. Degreasers are used to remove grease and grime from cooking equipment and surfaces, making them a must-have for restaurants and commercial kitchens. Sanitizers, on the other hand, are used to reduce the number of bacteria on surfaces, making them a great option for areas that come into contact with food.
Our must-have cleaning supplies for restaurants:
- All-purpose cleaner
- Disinfectant
- Glass cleaner
- Floor cleaner
- Toilet bowl cleaner
- Trash cans
- Garbage bags
- Vacuum
- Floor scrubber
- Personal hygiene products
- Paper towels
- Toilet paper
- Air fresheners & dispensers
- Toilet bowl fresheners
- Urinal screens
- Oven cleaner
- Degreaser
- Microfiber cleaning rags
- Broom
- Mop
- Sponges
- Dustpan
Eco-friendly Options
Many businesses are adopting eco-friendly cleaning practices to reduce their environmental impact and promote sustainability. Look for products labeled as "green" or "environmentally friendly," and avoid those containing harmful chemicals such as chlorine, ammonia, and phosphates. Eco-friendly cleaning supplies not only benefit the environment but can also improve indoor air quality and reduce the risk of chemical exposure for employees and customers. Even better, noting that you use environmentally-friendly cleaning supplies can be a trust-building marketing tool for your restaurant.
Comparing Costs and Effectiveness
When selecting cleaning supplies, it's essential to consider both their effectiveness and their cost. Cheaper products may be less effective or require more applications, which can ultimately be more costly in the long run. However, expensive products don't always mean better quality or results. Research and compare the prices and reviews of different brands and products before making a purchase. It's also important to consider the concentration of the product, as some cleaning supplies may require dilution, which can affect the overall cost-effectiveness.
Choosing the right commercial cleaning supplies is crucial for maintaining a clean and hygienic space. Consider the type of cleaning supplies needed for your specific cleaning challenges, opt for eco-friendly options when possible, and compare the costs and effectiveness of different products before making a purchase. With the right cleaning supplies and routine, you can create a safe and healthy environment for your employees and customers.
Creating a Cleaning Schedule for Your Restaurant
Running a restaurant is no easy task. With a multitude of responsibilities, it can be challenging to keep everything organized and clean. However, maintaining a clean and sanitary environment is crucial to the success of any restaurant. Not only does it protect the health and safety of your customers and employees, but it also helps to maintain a positive reputation and attract new customers.
Daily Cleaning Tips
It's essential to establish a routine and checklist for daily cleaning tasks to ensure that everything is done correctly and consistently. Assign specific employees to these jobs and make sure they understand their responsibilities. Some of the daily cleaning duties include:
- Wiping down tables, chairs, and counters
- Sweeping and mopping floors
- Cleaning restrooms
- Sanitizing high-touch areas, such as door handles and light switches
By completing these daily, you'll maintain a clean and inviting atmosphere for your customers and employees.
Weekly Cleaning Tasks
In addition to daily tasks, certain areas of the restaurant require deep cleaning every week. The frequency may vary depending on the size of the restaurant and the amount of traffic it receives. Some of the weekly cleaning duties include:
- Deep cleaning kitchen equipment
- Cleaning walls and ceilings
- Sanitizing food storage areas
- Washing windows and mirrors
Consider hiring a professional cleaning company to handle these tasks, especially if they require specialized equipment or expertise. By doing so, you'll ensure that these tasks are done correctly and efficiently.
Monthly Cleaning Needs
Less frequently, some areas of the restaurant require a more thorough cleaning. These tasks can be done once a month or as needed, depending on their level of use and build-up, and include:
- Cleaning exhaust hoods and vents
- Cleaning air ducts
- Deep cleaning carpets and upholstery
- Sanitizing refrigerators and freezers
Again, consider hiring a professional to ensure that these tasks are done correctly and safely. By doing so, you'll avoid potential health hazards and ensure that your restaurant remains clean and sanitary.
Seasonal Deep Cleaning
It's essential to schedule a seasonal deep cleaning to tackle any potential issues that may arise from seasonal changes. For example, during the summer months, you may need to address pest control issues, while in the winter, you may need to address humidity and ventilation issues, including HVAC filter replacement. Deep cleaning is also an opportunity to inspect and repair any damaged or worn-out equipment or surfaces.
By following a regular cleaning schedule, you'll maintain a clean and sanitary environment for your customers and employees. Not only will this ensure their health and safety, but it will also help to maintain a positive reputation and attract new customers.
Properly Using Commercial Cleaning Equipment
Training Staff on Equipment Usage
It's essential to train your staff on the proper usage of commercial cleaning equipment to ensure their safety and effectiveness. Make sure that they understand how to operate the equipment, store it properly, and follow the manufacturer's instructions and safety guidelines.
When training your staff on equipment usage, emphasize the importance of understanding the different types of equipment and their specific uses. For example, a floor buffer should not be used on carpets, and a pressure washer should not be used on delicate surfaces. Proper usage of the equipment will not only ensure safety but also prevent damage to the equipment and surfaces being cleaned.
You can also provide hands-on training sessions where your staff can practice using the equipment under supervision. This will allow them to ask questions and receive feedback on their technique.
Maintaining and Servicing Equipment
Regular maintenance and servicing of the cleaning equipment are necessary to keep them in proper working condition and extend their lifespan. Follow the manufacturer's guide for maintenance and schedule regular servicing by a professional if needed.
Some common maintenance tasks include cleaning the equipment after each use, checking for any damage or wear and tear, and replacing any worn-out parts. Regular maintenance will not only ensure that the equipment is functioning correctly but also prevent costly repairs or replacements in the future.
When servicing the equipment, make sure to use a professional who is trained and experienced in working with the specific type of equipment. They will be able to identify any potential issues and provide the necessary repairs or replacements.
Safety Precautions and Guidelines
When using commercial cleaning tools, it's crucial to follow safety guidelines and procedures to avoid injuries or accidents. Train your staff on how to use protective gear, how to handle chemicals and equipment safely, and what to do in case of an emergency.
Some common safety precautions include wearing protective gear such as gloves and goggles, ensuring proper ventilation when using chemicals, and turning off the equipment when not in use. You can also provide your staff with a safety checklist that they can refer to before starting any cleaning task.
It's also essential to have an emergency plan in place in case of accidents or injuries. Make sure that your staff knows how to respond in case of an emergency, such as calling for medical assistance or evacuating the area.
Cleaning and sanitizing your restaurant with commercial supplies and equipment requires planning, effort, and resources. However, it's a critical investment that pays off in terms of health, safety, customer satisfaction, and reputation. By following the tips and guidelines outlined in this article, and downloading our handy checklist, you can ensure that your restaurant is clean, healthy, and inviting for all those who enter its doors.
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