Sanitising Cabinets and Surfaces
In all industrial and non-industrial environments, a crucial part of daily operations involves the cleaning and sanitisation of equipment and work surfaces.
That’s why it’s essential to know exactly how to properly clean stainless-steel cabinets – to avoid damaging the product and to ensure it remains completely hygienic and safe for both operatives and customers.
To achieve effective sanitisation of both equipment and production processes, two main phases are required:
- Cleaning
- Disinfection
Both steps must be carried out using the correct tools and appropriate methods. Let’s take a closer look.
Surface Cleaning
Detergency is the first stage of cleaning. After this phase, the treated surface must appear free from visible dirt and any residue of cleaning agents. To achieve deep and effective cleaning, it is important to choose the most suitable detergent, based on several factors:
- Water hardness
- Application method
- Type of material to be cleaned
- Type and quantity of dirt to be removed
Additionally, a properly cleaned surface should be odourless and non-greasy. Visual inspection alone is not always sufficient: a simple and effective method is to wipe a white tissue across the surface: if it darkens, cleaning was not sufficiently thorough.
Another effective test is to pour water on the surface and check if it flows evenly without forming droplets. This confirms the absence of grease or oily residues.
Disinfection
Once thorough detergency is complete, the next essential step to achieve full cleaning and sanitisation is disinfection.
This process aims to destroy pathogenic bacteria that may settle on work surfaces and equipment. As with detergency, there are several methods for effective disinfection:
- Heat
- Ionising and UV radiation
- Chlorine-based chemicals
Another disinfection method, particularly suitable for open surfaces, is known as OPC – Open Plant Cleaning. Our stainless-steel cabinets fall into this category and can therefore be sanitised using this technique.
The OPC system uses mobile or fixed pressure systems that disinfect surfaces through direct contact. However, improper use, particularly incorrect concentrations of disinfectants, can lead to resistance phenomena, reducing effectiveness.
This is why careful selection and correct application of disinfectants is essential.
Cleaning Stainless Steel Cabinets
We have covered the general concept of surface sanitisation and how to perform it effectively. Now let’s focus specifically on how to properly clean stainless-steel cabinets. Although stainless steel is one of the best materials in terms of corrosion resistance, it’s essential to use non-abrasive cloths and cleaning products when maintaining your cabinets.
A highly effective solution is a mix of water and ethyl alcohol, the latter acting as a powerful degreaser with antibacterial and disinfectant properties. For a complete clean, every part of the cabinet surface (inside and out) must be treated thoroughly.
Equally as important as cleaning and disinfecting is the drying and ventilation phase.
Moist, closed environments create the ideal conditions for germs and bacteria to grow, which can pose serious hygiene risks. Always make sure to dry all surfaces thoroughly and allow the cabinets to air out in a dry, well-ventilated space before putting them back into use.
Facilitas stainless steel cabinets are made from the highest quality materials, designed to be easy to clean and sanitise. Discover all available models on our product page and contact us using the form below for more information.