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Guide to Warewashing & Janitorial Equipment
Cleaning Solutions — Choosing the Right Product for the Right Job
There is no universal cleaner. Different surfaces and cleaning stages require different
chemistry:
• Degreasers: Used for food contact surfaces and floors exposed to oils
• Detergents: Formulated for dishmachines and manual soaking sinks
• Sanitizers: Typically chlorine-based or quaternary ammonium (quats), used after cleaning
to kill bacteria
• Descalers: Acidic solutions designed to remove mineral buildup from dishmachines and
steam equipment Glassware-specific detergents: Low-foaming and rinse-free for sparkle
without streaks
Select commercial-grade cleaning products that are NSF-certified for foodservice use and
compatible with your local wastewater regulations. Always follow manufacturer dilution
guidelines — overuse not only wastes product but can damage surfaces or create health
hazards.
Cleaning Tools — Mops, Brushes, Buckets & More
The physical tools your janitorial team uses are as important as the chemicals. Investing in high-
quality, task-specific cleaning equipment boosts productivity, minimizes cross-contamination, and
extends equipment lifespan.
Key tools include:
• Colour-coded microfiber cloths and mop heads to prevent cross-use between food contact and
waste zones
• Dual-compartment mop buckets with wringers to separate clean and dirty water
• Ergonomic squeegees for drying floors and reducing slip risks
• Nylon scrub brushes and deck brushes for grout lines, baseboards, and floor edges
• Long-handle utility brushes for cleaning undershelves, pipe chases, and dishmachine interiors
Consider establishing a colour-coded cleaning protocol (e.g., red = restroom, blue = general, green
= food contact) to enforce sanitation zones and meet HACCP best practices.
The unsung tools of sanitation — from mop buckets to thermometers — are what turn good
kitchen hygiene into great food safety. They may not be expensive or high-tech, but their role in
maintaining a clean, compliant, and professional operation is invaluable.
RED Dealers support operators by sourcing professional-grade janitorial tools, helping set up
WHMIS-compliant storage areas, and providing accessory kits that support kitchen cleanliness
and stad safety from day one.
Pro Tip: Household and residential cleaners, especially detergents, are formulated
differently - be sure to use chemicals for commercial foodservice applications,
including food-safe products when needed.