How to deep clean prep table

Prep/salad table refrigerators are essential for keeping ingredients cold and easily accessible during food preparation. Over time, these units can accumulate spills, food particles, and bacteria, making deep cleaning necessary to maintain food safety standards and ensure the unit operates efficiently. Here's a detailed guide on deep cleaning your prep/salad table refrigerator.

Steps for Deep Cleaning a Prep/Salad Table Refrigerator

1. Empty the Refrigerator and Transfer Ingredients

• Step 1: Remove all ingredients, pans, and containers from the table. Transfer perishable items to a temporary cold storage or backup refrigerator.
• Step 2: Remove all cutting boards, bins, and food trays for separate cleaning.
• Reason: Emptying the unit allows for thorough cleaning and prevents contamination during the cleaning process.
• Best Practice: Check expiration dates and discard any spoiled or expired food during this process to maintain food safety.

2. Turn Off and Unplug the Unit

• Step 1: Power off the prep table refrigerator to prevent electrical hazards during cleaning.
• Step 2: Allow the unit to reach room temperature before cleaning.
• Reason: Turning off the unit ensures safety and prevents cold air from circulating, which can interfere with the cleaning process.
• Best Practice: If defrosting is necessary, allow any built-up frost to melt before proceeding with the cleaning steps.

3. Remove and Soak Pans, Bins, and Cutting Boards

• Step 1: Remove all pans, bins, and cutting boards from the table and soak them in warm, soapy water.
• Step 2: Use a mild degreasing solution for greasy surfaces, especially on cutting boards that come into direct contact with food.
• Step 3: Scrub with a non-abrasive sponge or brush, then rinse thoroughly and allow them to air dry.
• Reason: These items are in direct contact with food and need thorough cleaning to prevent cross-contamination.
• Best Practice: Ensure all components are fully dry before returning them to the refrigerator to prevent mold or mildew growth.

4. Clean the Interior of the Refrigerator

• Step 1: Clean the interior walls, shelves, and compartments with a solution of warm water and mild detergent or a food-safe sanitizer.
• Step 2: Scrub with a soft sponge or microfiber cloth, paying special attention to areas where spills, crumbs, or grease have accumulated.
• Step 3: Rinse with clean water and wipe dry with a clean towel.
• Reason: Food spills and debris inside the refrigerator can harbor bacteria, leading to cross-contamination and food spoilage.
• Best Practice: Use a non-abrasive sponge to avoid scratching the surfaces, and avoid using harsh chemicals that may leave residues or odors.

5. Clean Door Seals and Gaskets

• Step 1: Inspect the door seals and gaskets for cracks, food particles, or mold growth.
• Step 2: Use a mild soapy solution and a small brush (like a toothbrush) to scrub the gaskets thoroughly.
• Step 3: Rinse and dry completely to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to mold or mildew.
• Reason: Dirty or damaged door seals can lead to poor temperature control, allowing cold air to escape and making the refrigerator work harder.
• Best Practice: Check for gasket cracks and replace them if worn out to maintain an airtight seal.

6. Clean the Exterior of the Prep Table

• Step 1: Wipe down the exterior of the refrigerator, including handles, door surfaces, and sides, using a damp cloth and mild detergent.
• Step 2: Pay attention to the countertop and cutting board areas frequently in contact with food and hands.
• Reason: The exterior can collect grease, dust, and grime, which can affect the appearance and hygiene of your prep station.
• Best Practice: Use a stainless steel cleaner for the exterior (if applicable) to maintain shine and prevent fingerprint marks.

7. Clean the Condenser Coils

• Step 1: Locate the condenser coils (usually at the back or underneath the unit) and use a soft brush or vacuum to remove dust and debris.
• Reason: Dust and dirt on the coils reduce the refrigerator's cooling efficiency, making it work harder and increasing energy consumption.
• Best Practice: Clean the coils every 2-3 months to maintain optimal performance and prevent system failure.

8. Check and Clean the Drain

• Step 1: Check the drainage system and clean any debris or food particles that may have accumulated.
• Step 2: Use a mixture of warm water, vinegar, or a mild bleach solution to flush the drain and prevent mold or bacterial growth.
• Reason: A clogged drain can cause water to pool inside the unit, leading to unsanitary conditions and foul odors.
• Best Practice: Regularly inspect and clean the drain to ensure proper water flow and prevent blockages.

9. Dry All Surfaces and Replace Components

• Step 1: After cleaning, use a clean microfiber cloth to dry all surfaces thoroughly, including the interior, shelves, and compartments.
• Step 2: Replace the cutting boards, food trays, pans, and bins once fully dry to avoid mold growth.
• Reason: Moisture left inside the refrigerator can promote bacteria and mold growth, affecting food quality.
• Best Practice: Before turning the refrigerator back on, ensure it is dry and free of cleaning product residue.

10. Turn On the Unit and Restock Food

• Step 1: Turn the power back on and allow the refrigerator to reach the appropriate temperature before restocking the ingredients.
• Step 2: Organize food items, ensuring proper air circulation and food rotation (first-in, first-out method).
• Reason: Restocking the unit before it reaches the correct temperature can compromise food safety.
• Best Practice: Ensure that food items are organized neatly to allow air to circulate properly and maintain even cooling.

Reasons for Deep Cleaning:

Prep/salad table refrigerators store ingredients directly used in food preparation. Food spills, grease, and condensation can accumulate over time, leading to bacterial growth, cross-contamination, and inefficient cooling. Regular deep cleaning not only ensures a clean food preparation environment but also helps the refrigerator function properly, maintaining consistent temperatures and food safety standards.

Best Practices:

• Before Cleaning: Always turn off and unplug the unit to ensure safety. Remove all food and clean any spills or spoiled items before beginning.
• After Cleaning: Ensure all components are dry before putting them back in place. Check the unit’s temperature before restocking food. Clean the condenser coils regularly to maintain efficiency.
• Maintenance Tip: Set a cleaning schedule for the unit and include daily checks for spills, grime, or frost buildup.

How to Keep the Prep/Salad Table Refrigerator Clean Regularly:

To maintain cleanliness regularly, wipe down the surfaces and cutting boards at the end of every shift to remove spills and food debris—empty and clean food pans or bins weekly to prevent food from sticking or leaving residue. Regularly check and clean the gaskets and ensure the unit’s temperature is consistent. Daily cleaning helps prevent major buildup, reduces the frequency of deep cleanings, and ensures a more hygienic food preparation environment.