Commercial kitchen cleaning involves the thorough cleaning of all areas and equipment within a commercial kitchen which is often done by cleaning professionals. This type of cleaning aims to remove grease, grime, food residue, and other contaminants found inside the kitchen.
The main purpose of this cleaning activity is to maintain a clean and safe environment for food preparation and service, which helps prevent the risk of foodborne illnesses, maintain compliance with health and safety regulations, and ensure the overall hygiene and efficiency of the place. Many elements in a kitchen are covered in this type of cleaning. These elements include countertops, sinks, floors, hoods, exhaust systems, equipment, and appliances.
If you are currently managing a commercial kitchen, you must make sure it will be grease-free throughout its operations. Here is a checklist you can follow to keep your kitchen grease-free.
Carry Out Daily Cleaning Tasks
One of the things that should be done to keep your commercial kitchen clean and grease-free is to carry out daily cleaning. Keeping up with daily cleaning tasks is essential in preventing the build-up of grease and maintaining a tidy working environment. Some of these tasks include wiping down and sanitising countertops, cutting boards, and prep tables, cleaning sinks, sweeping and mopping the kitchen floor, emptying and cleaning grease traps, and cleaning and sanitising kitchen utensils, pots, pans, and cooking equipment after each use. Doing all these things can eliminate food debris, spills, and bacteria as well as ensure food safety.
Clean Hood and Exhaust
Another thing that must be carried out to ensure a grease-free commercial kitchen is to clean your hood and exhaust system. This system is often prone to grease build-up due to continuous cooking activities. Cleaning its vital areas can help maintain a safe and functional kitchen environment. Some things that should be done to keep it clean include degreasing the kitchen hood and exhaust system, removing and cleaning the system filters, and cleaning the exhaust fan blades and motor.
Sanitise Equipment and Appliances
Clean and well-maintained equipment and appliances can contribute to a grease-free kitchen environment. Their lifespan is likewise expected to extend once they are cleaned and sanitised optimally. Some cooking appliances that should be cleaned and sanitised are ovens, grills, and fryers. Coffee makers, toasters, and other small appliances should also be cleaned and descaled to prevent the accumulation of residue and maintain optimal performance. Even the refrigerators and freezers must be cleaned to avoid operational issues and cross-contamination.
Schedule Deep Cleaning Sessions
One more thing that should be done to keep your commercial kitchen grease-free is to schedule deep cleaning sessions. This type of cleaning activity is essential in tackling hard-to-reach areas and removing stubborn grease build-up. Some areas where deep cleaning is necessary include kitchen vents, ductwork, behind and underneath appliances, walls, floors, ceiling surfaces, dishwashing stations, storage areas, and employee break rooms.
Following this comprehensive commercial kitchen cleaning checklist can help you guarantee a kitchen that remains grease-free, safe, and in compliance with health and safety regulations. Regular cleaning and maintenance not only enhance the appearance of your commercial kitchen but also contribute to a healthier and more efficient working environment.