Routine maintenance of a clean and sanitary restaurant is not only essential for the health and safety of your customers but also crucial for adhering to the guidelines set by the Federal Health Department and CDC Guidance. Foodborne illnesses can be prevented through proper cleaning practices, which help control the growth of harmful bacteria that thrive in unsafe temperature conditions.
Additionally, maintaining a clean environment is a key aspect of preventing pest infestations. We have outlined the essential tasks for daily, weekly, and monthly maintenance that restaurant owners should follow to ensure the utmost cleanliness and compliance with health codes.
Front of the House Restaurant Cleaning
Let’s start with the front of the house, where your customers dine. Here are the supplies you’ll need to keep things tidy:
- Surface and glass spray cleaners: These will come in handy for wiping down tables, glass doors, and other surfaces to keep them shiny and germ-free.
- Sanitizer solution (bleach): Use this strong sanitizer to disinfect high-touch areas like door handles and railings to prevent the spread of germs.
- Clean cloths: Grab some lint-free cloths to avoid streaks when wiping down surfaces.
- Broom: Regularly sweep the dining area to keep it debris-free and looking neat.
- Mop and bucket of hot soapy water: For the floors, use a mop and hot soapy water to get rid of spills and dirt.
- Vacuum for carpeted areas and hard-to-reach nooks: Vacuum those hard-to-reach spots to keep dust and dirt at bay.
- Bathroom cleanser and toilet brush: Keep the restrooms sparkling clean with specialized bathroom cleansers and a trusty toilet brush.
- Paper supplies: Don’t forget to stock up on toilet paper, paper towels, and napkins to keep your customers comfortable.
Daily Checklist:
During the shift:
- Wipe down high-traffic surfaces like door handles, railings, and table tops regularly to keep germs in check.
- Don’t forget to clean condiment bottles like ketchup to maintain cleanliness and prevent sticky situations.
- Keep windows and glass doors spotless, so your restaurant looks inviting from the outside.
- Ensure each table has clean and fully-stocked settings for a pleasant dining experience.
- Periodically check the bathrooms to make sure they’re clean and well-stocked.
After closing:
- Get ready for the next shift by preparing silverware and napkins.
- Disinfect menus to prevent the spread of germs between guests.
- Thoroughly clean and sanitize bathroom surfaces to maintain hygiene standards.
- Sweep and mop the floors to leave no trace of the day’s activities.
- Vacuum up crumbs and debris from rugs to keep the dining area tidy.
Weekly Checklist:
- Vacuum those harder-to-reach areas and give them some love.
- Dust all fixtures and secondary surfaces to keep everything looking fresh.
- Wipe down all glass surfaces and mirrors to maintain a clear and bright environment.
- Sanitize and scrub the toilets to keep the restrooms in tip-top shape.
- Don’t forget to water and groom any live plants you have to keep them healthy and happy.
Monthly Checklist:
- Take some time to check carpets, curtains, chairs, and other upholstered items for damage.
- Deep clean the bathrooms to give them a thorough refresh.
- Get rid of cobwebs and dust ceiling fans to keep the entire restaurant clean and cozy.
For a comprehensive guide to restaurant cleaning, we provide in-depth tips and valuable insights to help you maintain a spotless and inviting environment for your customers.
Routine Maintence for Bar Cleaning
For those with a bar area, here are some extra tasks to tackle:
- Wipe down the bar frequently with sanitizing solutions to maintain a clean and safe area.
- Run glassware through the dishwasher to ensure they’re properly sanitized.
- Keep disposables like napkins, stirrers, and straws well-stocked.
- Regularly empty trash and recycling bins to keep the area tidy.
- At the end of the shift, clean and empty garnish trays, wipe down bottles and speed wells, and sanitize the soda guns and ice wells. Also, remember to remove floor mats for cleaning and give the floor a good sweep.
Cleanliness & Routine Maintenance
Maintaining a clean restaurant is essential for complying with Health Department guidelines, but to truly provide an exceptional dining experience for your guests, it’s crucial to put yourself in their shoes and ensure no cleaning aspect is overlooked. Paying attention to detail can make a significant difference in creating a welcoming and enjoyable atmosphere. Here are some key areas to consider:
Inviting Entryway: Make sure the restaurant’s entryway is tidy and welcoming. Keep the walkway free of litter and ensure the windows are clean and sparkling, creating a positive first impression for your customers.
Organized Host Stand: Keep the host stand uncluttered and presentable. Ensure the banquettes are free of dust, and the menus are clean, free from any smudges or stains.
Spotless Tables and Floors: Regularly wipe down tables and clean the floors after each seating. Check that napkins, condiments, and table arrangements are properly reset for the next guests.
Impeccable Restrooms: The cleanliness of the bathrooms is of utmost importance. Ensure they are clean, odor-free, and well-stocked with toilet paper, towels, and soap, to provide a comfortable experience for your customers. Learn more about the Top Methods For Keeping Your Restaurant Bathroom Sanitary here.
Hiring a Professional Cleaning Service
Discover the advantages of professional cleaning services adept at routine maintenance for your thriving restaurant. Our expert team uses specialized products and cutting-edge techniques, ensuring unmatched cleanliness standards. With deep disinfection services like steam sanitation and electrostatic fogging, we prioritize the well-being of your staff and customers by eliminating harmful germs and viruses.
Outsourcing your cleaning needs to Restaurant Cleaners allows you to focus on core business activities, boosting efficiency and productivity. Stay compliant with health regulations and avoid fines with our meticulous services. Experience cost-effective, efficient, and superior cleaning solutions for a safe and enjoyable dining environment. Contact us today and elevate your restaurant’s cleanliness to new heights with our dedicated team at Restaurant Cleaners.
