Maintaining a clean and hygienic restaurant is crucial for ensuring the safety and satisfaction of your customers. A well-structured cleaning routine not only upholds health standards but also creates a welcoming space that enhances the overall dining experience.
In this blog, we'll provide comprehensive cleaning checklists for the front of house, back of house, and bar areas, along with essential tips and best practices to keep your establishment spotless. Plus, you'll find downloadable PDF checklists to help streamline your cleaning processes and ensure nothing is overlooked.
Front of House Cleaning Checklist
Supplies Needed
- All-purpose cleaner
- Glass cleaner
- Disinfectant wipes
- Microfiber cloths
- Broom and dustpan
- Mop and bucket
- Vacuum cleaner
- Trash bags
- Furniture polish
- Floor cleaner
- Sanitizing solution
- Paper towels
- Gloves
Daily Checklist
Entrance Area
- Sweep and mop the entrance floor.
- Clean and polish door handles.
- Wipe down the entrance door and windows.
- Empty and clean any trash receptacles.
Reception/Host Station
- Wipe down the host stand and telephone.
- Clean any menus or seating charts.
- Disinfect the card machine and pens.
- Organize and sanitize the waiting area.
Dining Area
- Wipe down tables and chairs after each use.
- Sanitize table condiments and holders.
- Sweep and mop the floor.
- Vacuum carpets or rugs.
- Check and refill napkins, straws, and condiments.
Restrooms
- Clean and disinfect toilets and urinals.
- Wipe down sinks and countertops.
- Refill soap dispensers, toilet paper, and paper towels.
- Empty trash cans and replace liners.
- Sweep and mop the floor.
- Check and restock hygiene products.
Windows and Glass
- Clean all windows and glass doors.
- Polish any glass display cases or mirrors.
Common Touchpoints
- Disinfect high-touch areas such as door handles, light switches, and railings.
- Clean and sanitize POS systems and tablets.
General Tidying
- Remove any clutter or misplaced items.
- Empty and clean trash bins.
- Ensure that all decorations and signage are clean and in place.
Weekly Checklist
Entrance Area
- Deep clean entrance mats or rugs.
- Wash and sanitize entrance doors and frames.
- Clean any exterior signage and fixtures.
Reception/Host Station
- Clean the host stand, including drawers and shelves.
- Sanitize and organize menus, seating charts, and reservation books.
- Wipe down and sanitize telephone and other electronic devices.
- Dust and clean any decorative items or plants.
Dining Area
- Deep clean and sanitize all tables and chairs, including legs.
- Vacuum carpets or rugs.
- Clean and sanitize condiment holders and dispensers.
- Check and clean upholstery on seating.
Restrooms
- Deep clean and disinfect all restroom surfaces, including walls and partitions.
- Clean and sanitize restroom fixtures such as soap dispensers, hand dryers, and light fixtures.
- Wash and sanitize restroom trash bins.
- Wash and sanitize restroom trash bins.
Windows and Glass
- Clean all windows and glass doors inside and out.
- Wipe down and sanitize window sills and frames.
Common Touchpoints
- Disinfect all high-touch surfaces such as door handles, railings, and light switches.
- Clean and sanitize POS systems and tablets.
General Tidying
- Organize and clean any storage areas or closets.
- Check for and repair any minor damages such as loose screws or wobbly tables.
- Ensure all decor items are clean and in good condition.
Floors
- Deep clean and sanitize all floors, including corners and edges.
- Apply floor polish or wax as needed to maintain shine and durability.
Air Vents and Lighting
- Clean and dust air vents and replace filters if necessary.
- Clean and dust all light fixtures, including chandeliers and lamps.
Monthly Checklist
Entrance Area
- Polish exterior hardware, such as door handles and handrails.
- Check and clean the exterior of windows and doors for any buildup of dirt or grime.
Reception/Host Station
- Deep clean and sanitize the entire host stand, including underneath and behind.
- Check and clean behind and underneath any furniture or fixtures.
Dining Area
- Deep clean all seating upholstery, including cushions and backs.
- Polish wooden furniture to maintain its appearance.
- Inspect and clean light fixtures, including replacing any burnt-out bulbs.
- Clean walls and baseboards to remove any scuff marks or stains.
- Reorganize and deep clean storage areas for tableware and linens.
Restrooms
- Clean all surfaces including tiles and grout.
- Inspect plumbing fixtures for any leaks or issues and clean thoroughly.
- Deep clean and sanitize trash bins, including lids and handles.
- Check and clean any ventilation fans or systems.
Windows and Glass
- Inspect window frames and sills for any signs of wear or damage and clean accordingly.
General Tidying
- Perform a detailed inspection of all areas for any maintenance issues, such as chipped paint or loose fixtures.
- Review and restock cleaning supplies as needed.
Floors
- Inspect and clean any floor mats or rugs, replacing if necessary.
Furniture and Fixtures
- Inspect and repair any furniture or fixtures that are damaged or worn.
- Clean and polish all metal fixtures to maintain their appearance.
- Deep clean and condition any leather furniture.
Downloadable PDF Restaurant Cleaning Checklist: Front of House
Click on the image below for a downloadable PDF front of house restaurant cleaning checklist.
Back of House Cleaning Checklist
Supplies Needed
- All-purpose cleaner
- Degreaser
- Disinfectant spray and wipes
- Microfiber cloths
- Broom and dustpan
- Mop and bucket
- Floor cleaner
- Trash bags
- Scrub brushes
- Oven cleaner
- Stainless steel cleaner
- Dish soap and sanitizer
- Cleaning gloves
- Paper towels
- Squeegee
- Grill cleaner
- Kitchen sanitizing solution
- Safety signs (e.g., Wet Floor)
- Sponges and scouring pads
Daily Checklist
Kitchen Stations
- Wipe down and sanitize all prep surfaces and countertops.
- Clean and sanitize cutting boards.
- Wipe down and sanitize kitchen equipment and appliances (such as mixers, slicers, and processors).
- Empty, clean, and sanitize all trash bins; replace liners.
- Sweep and mop floors, ensuring to clean under and around equipment.
Cooking Equipment
- Clean and sanitize stovetops, grills, and fryers.
- Empty and clean grease traps.
- Wipe down and sanitize oven exteriors; clean oven interiors if used heavily.
- Clean and sanitize microwave interiors and exteriors.
Refrigeration Units
- Wipe down, sanitize and organize the refrigerator and freezer.
- Check for and discard expired or spoiled food items.
- Ensure proper food labeling and storage practices.
Dishwashing Area
- Clean and sanitize sinks and dish racks.
- Wipe down and sanitize dishwasher exterior and controls.
- Empty and clean dishwasher filter.
- Organize and sanitize dish storage areas.
Floors
- Sweep and mop kitchen and storage area floors (use safety signs where necessary)
Storage Areas
- Organize and clean dry storage shelves and containers.
- Check for and discard expired or spoiled items in dry storage.
Waste Disposal
- Empty and clean all trash and recycling bins.
- Clean and sanitize waste storage area.
Handwashing Stations
- Clean and sanitize all handwashing sinks and dispensers.
- Refill soap, hand sanitizer, and paper towel dispensers.
General Maintenance
- Check and replace any burnt-out light bulbs in the kitchen and storage areas.
- Ensure all cleaning supplies are stocked and stored properly.
- Inspect kitchen equipment for any signs of wear or needed repairs.
Weekly Checklist
Kitchen Stations
- Deep clean and sanitize under and behind all kitchen equipment.
- Clean and sanitize shelves and drawers in kitchen prep areas.
- Inspect and deep clean any stationary equipment, including mixers and slicers.
Cooking Equipment
- Perform a deep clean of stovetops, grills, and fryers, including removal of grates and trays for thorough cleaning.
- Clean oven interiors thoroughly, including racks and trays.
- Remove and clean ventilation hoods and filters above cooking equipment.
- Clean and descale coffee machines and other similar appliances.
Refrigeration Units
- Deep clean all refrigerator and freezer shelves and drawers.
- Clean and sanitize refrigerator and freezer seals.
- Defrost freezers if necessary.
Dishwashing Area
- Deep clean and sanitize the interior of the dishwasher.
- Descale the dishwasher and run a cleaning cycle with a specialized cleaning solution.
- Clean and sanitize underneath and behind the dishwashing area.
Floors
- Perform a deep clean of floors, focusing on grout and hard-to-reach areas.
- Scrub and sanitize floor drains to prevent clogs and odors.
Storage Areas
- Remove all items from dry storage shelves and deep clean and sanitize the shelves.
- Inspect for and discard any items that are expired or compromised.
- Organize and rotate stock to ensure proper inventory management.
Waste Disposal
- Deep clean and sanitize all trash and recycling bins, including lids and bases.
Handwashing Stations
- Deep clean and sanitize all handwashing stations, including behind and around sinks.
- Inspect and clean plumbing fixtures for any signs of buildup or damage.
Walls and Ceilings
- Wash and sanitize walls in the kitchen and storage areas to remove grease and grime.
- Dust and clean ceiling fixtures, including vents and light fixtures.
General Maintenance
- Check and lubricate any moving parts of kitchen equipment to ensure smooth operation.
Monthly Checklist
Kitchen Stations
- Perform a deep clean of walls and backsplashes, including removing grease and stains.
- Check and clean kitchen drains, ensuring they are free from blockages and odors.
Cooking Equipment
- Deep clean and inspect all kitchen hoods and exhaust systems, including ductwork.
- Clean and inspect any deep fryers, including changing the oil and cleaning the fry baskets.
Refrigeration Units
- Check and clean refrigeration condenser coils and fan blades to ensure efficient operation.
Dishwashing Area
- Perform a thorough inspection and cleaning of the entire dishwashing system, including hoses and connections.
- Check and clean the dishwasher spray arms and nozzles to ensure proper water flow.
Floors
- Strip and reseal or wax kitchen floors to maintain durability and appearance.
- Perform a deep clean and sanitize floor mats, including anti-fatigue mats.
Storage Areas
- Perform a comprehensive inventory check and clean all storage areas, including removing all items and cleaning shelves and floors.
- Inspect and clean all food storage containers, replacing any that are damaged or worn.
- Check for and address any signs of moisture or mold in storage areas.
Waste Disposal
- Clean grease traps thoroughly to prevent buildup and odors.
- Inspect and clean any outdoor waste storage areas.
Walls and Ceilings
- Perform a thorough cleaning of all walls and ceilings in the kitchen and storage areas to remove accumulated grease and dust.
- Clean and dust all ceiling-mounted equipment, including light fixtures and fans.
General Maintenance
- Perform a detailed inspection and maintenance of all kitchen equipment, including tightening any loose parts and lubricating moving components.
- Check and replace any worn or damaged seals, gaskets, and filters on kitchen equipment.
- Conduct a thorough safety inspection, ensuring all fire extinguishers, first aid kits, and emergency exits are in good working order and properly marked.
Downloadable PDF Restaurant Cleaning Checklist: Back of House
Click on the image below for a downloadable PDF back of house restaurant cleaning checklist.
Bar Cleaning Checklist
Supplies Needed
- All-purpose cleaner
- Glass cleaner
- Disinfectant wipes
- Microfiber cloths
- Broom and dustpan
- Mop and bucket
- Floor cleaner
- Trash bags
- Bar towels
- Stainless steel cleaner
- Dish soap
- Sanitizing solution
- Sponges and scouring pads
- Straw and garnish containers
- Bottle brushes
- Beer line cleaner
- Ice machine cleaner
- Gloves
- Paper towels
- Safety signs (e.g., Wet Floor)
Daily Checklist
Bar Counter and Seating Area
- Wipe down and sanitize the bar counter and bar stools.
- Clean and sanitize any bar menus or drink lists.
- Sweep and mop the bar floor.
- Empty and clean trash bins; replace liners.
Glassware and Utensils
- Wash, sanitize, and polish all glassware.
- Clean and sanitize bar tools, such as shakers, stirrers, and jiggers.
- Ensure all glass racks and storage areas are clean and organized.
Beverage Stations
- Wipe down and sanitize beverage dispensers, including soda guns and coffee machines.
- Clean and refill garnish containers, ensuring fresh garnishes.
Beer and Wine Areas
- Clean and sanitize beer taps and handles.
- Wipe down and sanitize wine bottles and racks.
- Clean and sanitize wine openers and other related tools.
Ice Machines
- Clean and sanitize the exterior of ice machines.
- Ensure ice bins are clean and free of any debris.
Refrigeration Units
- Wipe down and sanitize refrigerator and cooler doors and handles.
- Check and clean refrigerator shelves and drawers.
- Discard expired or spoiled items.
Bar Sinks and Dishwashing Area
- Clean and sanitize all bar sinks and dishwashing areas.
- Ensure dishwashing area is organized and free of clutter.
- Replace dish soap and sanitizing solution as needed.
Weekly Checklist
Bar Counter and Seating Area
- Deep clean and sanitize the entire bar counter, including underneath and around the edges.
- Clean and polish bar stools, including legs and bases.
- Deep clean any decorative items or displays on the bar counter.
- Clean and sanitize walls and backsplashes behind the bar to remove any splashes or stains.
Glassware and Utensils
- Deep clean glass racks and storage areas.
- Inspect and clean bar tools thoroughly, ensuring no buildup in hard-to-reach areas.
- Check for and replace any chipped or damaged glassware.
Beverage Stations
- Deep clean beverage dispensers, including disassembling and cleaning soda guns.
- Clean and sanitize inside garnish containers and replace as needed.
Beer and Wine Areas
- Perform a deep clean of beer taps, including the tap lines with a beer line cleaner.
- Inspect and clean beer and wine refrigerators, ensuring they are free from any spills or buildup.
Ice Machines
- Deep clean the interior of the ice machine with a specialized ice machine cleaner.
- Sanitize ice bins and check for any signs of mold or contamination.
Refrigeration Units
- Perform a deep clean of the interiors of all refrigerators and coolers, including removing and cleaning shelves and drawers.
- Check and clean refrigerator condenser coils to ensure efficient operation.
- Inspect and clean gaskets and seals on refrigerator doors.
Bar Sinks and Dishwashing Area
- Deep clean and sanitize bar sinks, including drains and faucets.
- Clean and sanitize the dishwashing machine, including filters and spray arms.
- Inspect and clean behind and underneath the dishwashing area.
General Maintenance
- Inspect and clean air vents and filters in the bar area.
- Check and clean light fixtures, including replacing any burnt-out bulbs.
- Organize and clean all bar storage areas, including cabinets and drawers.
- Inspect and tighten any loose fixtures or hardware on the bar.
Floors
- Perform a deep clean of bar floors, focusing on grout lines and hard-to-reach areas.
- Strip and reseal or wax floors if applicable to maintain durability and appearance.
Monthly Checklist
Bar Counter and Seating Area
- Refinish or touch up any worn or damaged surfaces on the bar counter and stools.
Glassware and Utensils
- Conduct a comprehensive inventory of all glassware and bar tools, replacing any that are worn out or missing.
- Perform a deep clean of any rarely used glassware or bar tools.
Beverage Stations
- Deep clean and sanitize all beverage dispensers, including disassembling and cleaning internal components.
- Clean beverage hoses and connectors of any signs of buildup.
Beer and Wine Areas
- Conduct a thorough inspection and cleaning of the entire beer dispensing system, including checking for leaks and ensuring proper operation.
- Inspect and clean wine storage areas, including any temperature control systems.
Ice Machines
- Perform a detailed inspection of the ice machine, checking for any signs of wear or potential issues.
Refrigeration Units
- Perform a thorough inspection of all refrigeration units, ensuring they are operating at the correct temperature and efficiency.
Bar Sinks and Dishwashing Area
- Inspect all plumbing fixtures for leaks or signs of wear and schedule repairs if necessary.
- Perform a deep clean and sanitize of the entire dishwashing area, including walls and floors.
Floors
- Strip and reseal or wax bar floors to maintain durability and appearance.
Downloadable PDF Restaurant Cleaning Checklist: Bar
Click on the image below for a downloadable PDF bar restaurant cleaning checklist.
Restaurant Cleaning Tips and Best Practices
Here are some essential tips and best practices to help keep your restaurant spotless and well-organized:
- Develop a Cleaning Schedule: Create a comprehensive cleaning schedule that includes daily, weekly, and monthly tasks. Assign specific duties to staff members to ensure accountability and consistency.
- Use the Right Cleaning Supplies: Ensure you have the appropriate cleaning supplies for different surfaces and areas. Use food-safe cleaners for kitchen surfaces and high-grade disinfectants for restrooms and high-touch areas.
- Train Your Staff: Properly train your staff on cleaning procedures and the importance of maintaining hygiene standards. Regularly update training sessions to incorporate new cleaning techniques and protocols.
- Focus on High-Touch Areas: Pay extra attention to high-touch areas such as door handles, light switches, and POS systems. These should be disinfected multiple times throughout the day to prevent the spread of germs.
- Implement 'Clean As You Go' Policy: Encourage a 'clean as you go' policy where staff clean their work areas and equipment immediately after use. This helps maintain cleanliness throughout the day and reduces the workload during closing hours.
- Regularly Inspect and Maintain Equipment: Schedule regular inspections and maintenance for all kitchen and bar equipment. Clean and service appliances such as ovens, refrigerators, and dishwashers to ensure they operate efficiently and safely.
- Manage Waste Effectively: Implement proper waste management practices, including regular trash removal and recycling. Ensure waste bins are cleaned and sanitized to prevent odors and pest infestations.
- Monitor for Pests: Regularly inspect your restaurant for signs of pests and take preventive measures. Work with a professional pest control service to keep your establishment pest-free.
Benefits of Having a Restaurant Cleaning Checklist
Having a restaurant cleaning checklist ensures consistent cleaning standards, improves efficiency, and enhances accountability among staff. It helps maintain compliance with health regulations, reduces the risk of cross-contamination, and prolongs the lifespan of equipment. Additionally, a clean restaurant creates a positive customer experience, prevents pest infestations, and boosts staff morale, which ultimately contributes to a safe and welcoming dining environment.
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