Unseen and Unclean: 7 Commonly Missed Spots in Restaurants

A clean restaurant is a happy restaurant! As much as we strive to keep our establishments clean and hygienic, there are always spots that slip through the cracks. These overlooked areas may seem insignificant, but they can actually harbor a significant amount of bacteria and germs if not properly cleaned. In this article, we’ll look at seven commonly missed spots in restaurants that require special attention. Now roll up your sleeves and let’s get scrubbing!

Underneath Countertops and Tables

Sure, you wipe down your countertops and tables after every use. But have you ever thought about what’s lurking underneath? Food particles, spills, and other debris can easily get trapped in the crevices under these surfaces. This creates a breeding ground for bacteria and pests. Make sure to regularly move and clean underneath countertops and tables to keep them sanitary.

Ice Machines

Ice machines are an essential component of any restaurant, but they can also be a hotbed for bacteria if not cleaned properly. The constant moisture and frigid temperatures create an ideal environment for harmful microorganisms to thrive. You’ll want to regularly empty, sanitize, and deep clean your ice machine to prevent contamination.

To properly clean an ice machine, start by turning off the power and emptying out all of the ice. Then, use a mixture of warm water and mild detergent to scrub down all surfaces, including the inside walls and bin. Pay special attention to any nooks or crevices where buildup may occur. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and allow to air dry before restarting the machine.

Door Handles and Knobs

Think about how many people touch the door handles and knobs in your restaurant on a daily basis. Now think about how often they are actually cleaned. These high-touch surfaces can easily spread germs if not regularly disinfected. Make sure to add door handles and knobs to your regular cleaning checklist to keep them germ-free.

Menu Covers

Menus are constantly being touched by customers and staff, yet they often go overlooked when it comes to cleaning. This oversight can lead to the spread of germs and bacteria among your guests. To prevent this, make sure to clean and disinfect menu covers at least once a day. For added protection, consider using plastic or laminated menus that can easily be wiped down and sanitized.

Condiment Bottles

Ketchup, mustard, hot sauce—these condiment bottles are used by nearly every customer in your restaurant. While it may seem insignificant, the handles and lids of these bottles can harbor a lot of bacteria if not properly cleaned. Make sure to regularly wipe down all surfaces of condiment bottles after each use to keep them sanitary.

Not only can dirty condiment bottles be a health hazard, but they can also negatively impact the appearance of your restaurant. Customers expect a clean and inviting atmosphere when dining out, and seeing dirty bottles on their table can be off-putting. Be sure to regularly clean and replace condiment bottles to maintain a professional and hygienic image for your establishment. This attention to detail will not go unnoticed by customers and can contribute to their overall satisfaction with their dining experience.

Faucets and Sink Handles

Just like door handles, faucets, and sink handles are touched by multiple people throughout the day. This makes them a prime spot for germs to spread. In addition to regular handwashing, it’s important to regularly disinfect these high-touch surfaces to prevent the spread of illness.

In addition to the faucets and sink handles in the main dining area, be sure not to forget about the ones in the bathrooms and kitchen. These areas see a lot of traffic and can easily become breeding grounds for bacteria if not properly cleaned. Make sure to regularly scrub and disinfect these surfaces, paying special attention to any buildup or grime that may accumulate around the faucet handles. This will not only help prevent the spread of illness but also ensure a clean and hygienic environment for both employees and customers.

Exhaust Hood Filters

The exhaust hood is an integral part of any restaurant kitchen, as it helps remove smoke, heat, and grease from the air. However, the filters in these hoods can quickly become clogged with grease and other debris if not cleaned regularly. This not only affects their efficiency but can also create a fire hazard. Make sure to clean or replace your exhaust hood filters on a regular basis to keep your kitchen safe and clean.

We understand that keeping up with all these cleaning tasks can be daunting, especially for busy restaurant owners and staff. As such, it may be beneficial to hire a professional cleaning service to take care of the more labor-intensive tasks, such as cleaning exhaust hood filters. These experts, such as a team at FilterShine, have the knowledge and equipment to thoroughly clean and maintain your kitchen’s ventilation system, ensuring a safe and hygienic environment for both your staff and customers. With their help, you can focus on other important aspects of running your restaurant while still maintaining a high standard of cleanliness.

When it comes to restaurant cleanliness, every surface counts. By paying special attention to these commonly missed spots, you can ensure that your establishment is not only visually appealing but also hygienic for both staff and customers. So next time you’re cleaning your restaurant, don’t forget about these hidden areas—your guests (and health inspector) will thank you. Keep up the good work in keeping your restaurant clean and inviting for all who visit. Happy cleaning!

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