Running a successful restaurant involves more than serving delicious food. You need to take a comprehensive and multi-faceted approach to make sure each and every guest has a wonderful experience in your establishment. From the moment your patrons enter your restaurant, every impression matters—and it all starts with cleanliness.
Effective cleaning is about more than a clean appearance; it’s about safety and preventing slips and falls. You need to make sure that you:
- Set high standards
- Remove clutter
- Be quick and consistent
- Watch the waxing
- Utilize mats where possible
- Remember the outside spaces
- Trust a professional team
1. Set High Standards
Before you enforce any cleaning regulations in your restaurant, you need to ensure that your standards are high and clear. Every employee should understand exactly what you expect in your business and why your standards are set this way.
It’s important to clarify that a clean environment isn’t just about appearances or guest reviews. It’s about promoting a safe and stable environment that offers your employees a place where they can be proud of the work they do.
Try to:
- Create a detailed cleaning schedule outlining daily, weekly, and monthly tasks
- Make duties clearly assigned
- Provide your team with any necessary cleaning supplies and tools
Monitor this process regularly, and make changes as you need. It can help to conduct routine inspections to make sure your establishment is up to your standards, or reach out to a professional cleaning service for a more thorough approach.
2. Remove Clutter
Clutter is a hazard in any work environment—especially in a busy restaurant. By keeping your floors free of unnecessary items, you reduce the risk of slips and falls. Keep an eye out for anything out of place, including:
- Food and beverage containers
- Cleaning supplies left unattended
- Menu boards or signage in walkways
- Chairs or tables not in their designated areas
- Equipment or utensils that are not in use
- Personal items belonging to staff
Encourage your team to clean as they go. Every walkway should be clear of any debris, so try to implement a regular decluttering routine. Have your team go through at the end of their shift and remove any potential hazards; you’ll quickly notice how much safer the environment becomes.
3. Be Quick & Consistent
Consistency is key when it comes to preventing slips and falls. If there’s a spill or breakage, your team needs to tackle the problem immediately. Make sure everybody knows where your cleaning supplies are stored—from the mops to any deep-cleaning mixtures—and are equipped with the knowledge they need to address the different hazards of a restaurant setting.
Taking prompt action shows how seriously you take the safety of your team and your guests. Remember—consistency is key. Make sure everybody understands their responsibilities and is held accountable for completing their tasks, as this can significantly reduce the risk of falls and slips in your establishment.
Your staff uniforms will play a crucial role here as well. Slip-resistant shoes with good traction can provide a better grip on wet or greasy surfaces while providing a consistent professional appearance. Remember—taking a comprehensive approach is key. It’s important to consider multiple factors.
4. Watch the Waxing
While waxing floors can give them a shiny, polished appearance, it can also create a slippery surface. When using wax or other floor finishes, choose products that provide slip resistance and are designed for high-traffic areas. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application and maintenance.
Make sure to avoid over-waxing your floors, as the buildup of wax can be counterproductive. It often helps to schedule regular stripping and re-waxing periods to maintain a safe and clean floor. If you’ve recently waxed or mopped, make sure to have caution signs clearly posted around the area. Even this small effort can make the area much safer for employees and guests alike.
5. Utilize Mats Where You Can
Sometimes, a simple approach is key—like using non-slip mats in areas prone to moisture or grease.
Make a point to place mats at any high-traffic area, including:
- Entryways
- Kitchen areas
- Bar areas
- Restrooms
- Staff break rooms
Choose mats with slip-resistant backing to keep them securely in place, and replace them regularly if they’re damaged. Don’t forget to clean them often, as dirty mats can be a hazard themselves. You can also incorporate anti-fatigue mats in workstations where your staff stand for long periods to offer support and comfort while reducing fatigue.
6. Remember the Outside Spaces
It’s important to remember that your business doesn’t stop at the front doors. The outside aesthetic plays a large role in drawing potential customers in, and if your establishment appears dirty or run-down, you may be missing out on potential customers.
Make sure that you regularly clean any outdoor spaces as well. Don’t forget to:
- Sweep and remove debris from sidewalks and entries
- Clean outdoor furniture regularly
- Ensure outdoor lighting is functional and adequate
- Clear ice and snow promptly in winter
- Designate a team member for outdoor space inspections
These are small steps, but they make a big difference. And don’t forget about proper lighting; it can prevent potential accidents and ensure a safe, hazard-free space for employees and guests alike.
7. Trust a Professional Team
While maintaining a clean and safe environment is essential, it can also be a significant task. So why not leave it to the professionals?At Calgary Trusted Cleaners, we take pride in offering a comprehensive cleaning service that keeps your restaurant in good hands. Our team can provide a thorough cleaning so you can continue offering top-quality service to every customer. Contact our team today for a quote!
