Tips on How to Clean Your Walk In Freezer or Cooler
Tips To Keep Your Walk-in Clean
Maintaining a clean walk-in is crucial for preventing the buildup of dirt, germs, and bacteria, which can compromise health and safety. Regular cleaning not only preserves the quality of your product and the functionality of the walk-in but also saves time and money in the long run. Here are three essential tips for keeping your walk-in clean across various industries, including food service, medical, floral, commercial, warehouse, beverage, hospitality, and mortuary.
Tip 1: Use Food Storage Bins
Utilizing safe food storage bins is an effective way to keep your walk-in organized and hygienic. This practice helps prevent cross-contamination and simplifies cleaning. Opt for plastic storage bins with lids or tight-sealing plastic wrap to enhance clarity and easy labeling, which can reduce the risk of mold and bacteria growth.
- Easy Clean-Up: Storage bins facilitate quick clean-ups. For instance, if thawing meat leaks, having it contained prevents contamination of other items, saving you from discarding everything.
- Labels Prevent Spoilage: Clearly label any packaging that contacts food, noting relevant dates such as purchase, thawed, or “use by” dates. Refer to food storage time resources to ensure optimal freshness and safety.
Tip 2: Don’t Prop Open the Door
Keeping the door to the walk-in closed is vital. Minimize the time the door is open to maintain consistent temperature and prevent humidity build-up, which can promote mold growth.
- Temperature Control: An open door allows warm air to enter, causing the refrigeration unit to work harder, leading to potential maintenance issues and higher energy costs.
- Humidity Management: High humidity creates a conducive environment for mold. Keep the door shut to mitigate these risks.
Tip 3: Soap & Water Is All It Takes
Implementing a routine cleaning schedule is essential for maintaining hygiene. The following materials are recommended: plastic or rubber gloves, paper towels or rags, soap, and warm water.
- Regular Cleaning: Use regular soap, as harsh detergents may damage metal finishes. Regular cleaning of both internal and mechanical components (like the condensing coils) ensures optimal functionality and reduces contamination risks.
- Industry-Specific Considerations:
- Food Service: Use food-safe cleaners and sanitize surfaces to prevent cross-contamination.
- Medical: Follow strict cleaning protocols to prevent infection; use hospital-grade disinfectants.
- Floral: Keep floral coolers clean to extend the life of arrangements; use non-toxic cleaners.
- Commercial/Warehouse: Regularly check for spills and manage inventory to prevent contamination.
- Beverage: Clean brewing and storage equipment to maintain product quality.
- Hospitality: Ensure cleanliness in storage for perishable goods; prioritize customer safety.
- Mortuary: Follow specific cleaning guidelines to maintain hygiene in sensitive environments.
Guidelines for Cleaning Your Walk-In
| Walk-In Part | How to Clean | How Often |
|---|---|---|
| Shelves and Bins | Soap & water | After use/monthly |
| Floor | Sweep and mop with mild soap & warm water; dry thoroughly. Avoid pouring water on the floor. | Bimonthly |
| Evaporator & Condensing Coil | Coil cleaner with a stiff-bristled brush | Twice per year |
| Door Gaskets | Wash with warm water & baking soda mixture; dry with a soft cloth; inspect for cracks | Monthly |
| Door Handle | Sanitize with soap & water or disinfectant | Daily |
| Drain Lines | Contract professional to unclog lines | Once per year |
| Wall Panels | Clean periodically with warm water and mild soap; dry thoroughly; avoid using caustic cleaners | Monthly |
| Freezers | Use specific freezer cleaner products that are self-drying; avoid soap and water | Monthly |
A Clean Walk-in Is a Lasting Walk-in
The longevity of your walk-in greatly depends on how well you maintain it. Consistent cleaning not only helps you meet health codes but also preserves product quality. To ensure you’re starting with a quality unit, consider Arctic Industries’ customizable walk-ins that are easy to clean and maintain. For more information, visit our website or reach out to our support team at support@arcticwalkins.com.