Kitchen Cleaning & Sanitizing

Jul 8, 2025

Overview

This lecture covers the proper cleaning and sanitizing of kitchen tools, equipment, and utensils, as well as effective dishwashing methods by hand and using a dishwasher.

Cleaning and Cleaning Agents

  • Cleaning removes unwanted smells, dust, dirt, or stains from surfaces.
  • Four categories of cleaning agents: detergents, solvent cleaners, acid cleaners, and abrasive cleaners.
  • Detergents wash tableware, surfaces, and equipment.
  • Solvent cleaners are for greasy or burned-on surfaces.
  • Acid cleaners remove mineral deposits and soils not removed by detergents.
  • Abrasive cleaners handle heavy, hard-to-remove soil.

Sanitizing and Methods

  • Sanitizing removes harmful bacteria using heat, water, chemicals, or a combination.
  • Heat sanitizing methods: steam, hot water, or hot air.
  • Chemical sanitizing relies on appropriate chemical products.

Dishwashing Methods

  • Remove leftover food from plates before washing.
  • Fill sink halfway with hot water and add one tablespoon (15 ml) dish soap.
  • Wash lightly soiled items first, using a sponge or dishcloth.
  • Rinse off soap with clean hot water.
  • Let dishes air-dry in a rack or on a clean towel.

Dishwasher Use

  • Remove leftover food before loading dishes.
  • Place cups, plastics, and bowls on the top dishwasher rack.
  • Load plates and cookware on the bottom rack.
  • Put silverware in the designated compartment.
  • Use detergent made for dishwashers in the correct compartment.
  • Select appropriate cycle: normal for regular wash, delicate for light soil or glassware, heavy duty for pots and pans.

Key Terms & Definitions

  • Cleaning โ€” Removing unwanted smell, dust, dirt, or stains from surfaces.
  • Sanitizing โ€” Eliminating harmful bacteria using heat, water, chemicals, or both.
  • Detergents โ€” Agents used to wash dishes, surfaces, and equipment.
  • Solvent Cleaners โ€” Products used for greasy or burned-on surfaces.
  • Acid Cleaners โ€” Used for mineral deposits and tough soils.
  • Abrasive Cleaners โ€” Used for heavy, hard-to-remove dirt.

Action Items / Next Steps

  • Practice both hand and machine dishwashing methods.
  • Review and identify cleaning agents and their uses.
  • Ensure kitchen sanitizing procedures are followed.