Kitchen/Breakroom Tips: Part 2

Keeping your break room clean can seem monumental, but breaking down this job into these daily, weekly, and monthly tasks can make things more manageable. Angie suggests creating a kitchen/breakroom cleaning checklist:

Daily Tasks

• Wipe the countertops. Use a disinfectant spray or wipes to clean countertops, tables, and other surfaces where food is prepared or eaten.
• Clean the appliances. Wipe down microwave interiors and handles of other kitchen appliances now and then. Empty and clean the coffee pot daily.
• Sweep and mop the floors. Crumbs and spills can cover your kitchen or breakroom floors quickly. Sweep crumbs and clean up spills immediately to keep them spotless and prevent pests like ants and cockroaches.
• Empty trash bins. Empty trash bins daily and replace liners, as necessary.
• Check for expired food. Encourage employees to label their food with dates and regularly check for and discard expired items.

Weekly Tasks

• Deep clean appliances. Thoroughly clean and sanitize appliances, including your microwave, refrigerator, and coffee machine.
• Clean and organize cabinets. Take items out of your cabinets, wipe the interior thoroughly, and organize the items as you return them to their places.
• Sanitize sinks and drains. Use a disinfectant to clean and disinfect the sink, faucet, and surrounding surfaces.
• Wash dishcloths and towels. Replace dishcloths and towels with fresh ones and wash used ones.
• Inspect pantry and supplies. Check the pantry for expired or stale items, and restock supplies as needed.

Monthly Tasks

• Deep clean storage areas. Remove all food items, discard expired ones, and clean shelves and drawers thoroughly before returning the items.
• Clean glass surfaces. Wipe down any glass surface in your break room, including windows and mirrors.
• Clean, inspect, and service appliances. Thoroughly clean your fridge and other appliances every month. Then, check for any maintenance needs or issues with them and arrange for repairs if necessary.
• Deep clean floors. Perform thorough floor cleaning, including mopping and waxing or polishing, as necessary.