Cleaning and Sanitising Tables and Chairs

How to Properly Clean and Sanitise Tables and Chairs in a Restaurant

Cleaning and sanitising tables and chairs is an important task in any restaurant to keep the dining area safe and inviting for customers. It helps remove dirt, food spills, and germs that can cause illness. Doing this correctly also protects your restaurant’s reputation and ensures health regulations are met.

Start by clearing the tables and chairs of any leftover items such as plates, glasses, and cutlery. Remove all rubbish and food scraps to prepare the surface for cleaning. This step prevents spreading dirt while wiping.

Use a damp cloth or sponge with warm, soapy water to clean the surfaces. Carefully wipe down all areas, including chair seats, backs, legs, and table tops. Pay attention to corners and crevices where crumbs and stains can hide.

After washing, rinse the cloth or sponge and wipe the surfaces again with clean water. This removes any soap residue that could attract dirt or leave sticky marks.

Steps to Sanitise After Cleaning

1. Choose an approved sanitising solution, like a diluted bleach mix or a commercial food-safe sanitizer, suitable for surfaces.
2. Spray or apply the solution evenly on tables and chairs.
3. Allow the sanitizer to stay wet on the surface for the time recommended on the product label. This time is important to kill bacteria and viruses.
4. Do not rinse off the sanitizer, unless the instructions say to do so.
5. Let the surfaces air dry completely before allowing customers to sit or place items on the tables.

Cleaning and sanitising should be done regularly, especially between customers and at the end of each service. This helps reduce the risk of cross-contamination and maintains hygiene standards.

Use separate cloths or disposable wipes for tables and chairs if possible. This prevents germs from moving from one surface to another. Always wash reusable cloths in hot water after use.

Remember to check and refill cleaning and sanitising supplies daily. Keep all cleaning tools clean and stored properly to avoid contamination.

By following these clear steps, restaurant assistants help create a pleasant, clean dining experience for guests while supporting food safety and customer health.