Essential cleaning supplies for commercial kitchens

The Essential Cleaning Supplies For Commercial Kitchens

A commercial kitchen’s only as good as its gear. Just like any other workspace, a commercial kitchen’s equipment and supplies can become worn and dirty. What’s more, if your equipment isn’t cleaned right, you might not be meeting regulations and could be putting your staff at risk.

The Australian Food Standards code stipulates that all surfaces that come into contact with food must look, feel and smell clean and all visible food waste, dirt and grease must be removed. Keeping a commercial kitchen clean and sanitised requires the correct cleaning products and equipment. Here’s what you need to ensure your commercial kitchen stays up to code.

Essential commercial kitchen cleaning supplies

There’s a range of supplies to choose from when you’re tackling commercial kitchen cleaning. The products you use will depend on what you’re cleaning, how you’re cleaning, and how dirty the item, fixture or appliance is. Common kitchen cleaning agents include:

• Glass cleaners
• Detergents
• Degreasers
• Descalers
• Abrasives
• Acids

What to consider before cleaning your kitchen

Every commercial kitchen is different and may need different cleaning techniques and products at different times. It’s important to speak to the kitchen’s nominated OH&S team member and review the safety data sheets for safety hazard information and general guidance on how to handle the product safely.

Here’s what you might need to clean a commercial kitchen

Glass cleaner

Commercial kitchens are full of glassware, and keeping your glasses sparkling clean with Auto Glass Washing Liquid is a must-do. This cleaning product is highly concentrated and designed to suit all models and makes of dishwashers. It will effectively remove grime, dirt and smudges from your glassware, restoring that sparkle and shine you and your customers love. What’s more, this cleaner also helps eliminate odours lurking inside your dishwasher, giving your appliance a fantastic refresh.

Detergents

Detergents help break up dirt and grime on your crockery and cutlery, as well as on the benchtops and appliances that help your commercial kitchen function. These neutral chemicals contain surfactants, meaning that once food or dirt is dislodged by a detergent, it’s easy to wash away. You won’t need to worry about your detergent damaging your sensitive porcelain tiles, timber, vinyl, or natural stone either.

Degreasers

If your oven top, counter, or grill splashback is dirty, a degreaser can really come in handy. Methylated spirits or white spirits have long been used as degreasers, but many commercial kitchens are now trying to steer clear of these products in favour of non-fuming, non-toxic degreasers. These cleaners don’t contain any dangerous elements or chemicals, meaning food won’t be contaminated.

Sometimes known as solvent cleaners, degreasers are typically alkaline solutions that may require protective gear if they’re particularly strong. Once you apply your degreaser to your commercial kitchen space, you’ll likely need to use a neutral detergent to completely remove any lingering chemicals and prevent any alkaline effect on the surface. 

Descalers

A descaler removes mineral deposits and hard water from your heating element or dishwasher. Regular descaling of kitchen equipment helps to prolong its life and prevent spending more than you need on operations and repairs.

Abrasives

Abrasives rely on scrubbing or rubbing to lift dirt from your floor, pots or pans, and are a great asset to a busy commercial kitchen. They should, however, be used carefully as they may scratch plastics, stainless steel, and other materials used throughout your space. Some abrasive cleaners also come with disinfecting elements ideal for cleaning your surfaces, appliances and equipment.

Acids

Acids are the strongest cleaning substances in the business, and it’s crucial they’re used with the greatest care. If you don’t dilute your acid cleaner correctly, it can cause corrosion and even poisoning. You will likely need to wear protective equipment when using acids in your commercial kitchen. As with alkaline cleaners, a neutral detergent can help to remove lingering residue and prevent continuing acidic effects on your kitchen surfaces. These cleaners are typically used to descale dishwashers or remove rust and other minerals.

Need quality commercial kitchen cleaning products? Choose M & R Distributors

Using the right cleaning products is crucial for any commercial kitchen. Not only does it keep you, your employees and your customers safe, but it also ensures you stay compliant with food safety regulations.

At M & R Distributors, we take cleaning seriously. We’re an Australian-owned company backed by over 30 years in the business, so you know we come with experience and passion for quality products and professionalism. We love supporting independent companies to get the most out of their cleaning supplies, and our great range of products really speaks for itself. Get in touch with us today at (03) 5277 1107.

Disclaimer: The material and information contained on this website are for general informational purposes only. You should not rely on this information for making decisions and should always consult the safety information provided before using any cleaning products.