Once utensils, tableware, and equipment have been cleaned and sanitized they must be stored in a way that will protect them from contamination follow these guidelines.
store tableware and utensils at least _ inches (__ centimeters) protect them from dirt and moisture.
clean and sanitize drawers and shelves before storing clean items.
store glasses and cups upside down on a clean and sanitized shelf or rack. Store flatware and utensils with handles up, as shown in the photo at left. Staff can then pick them up without touching food-contact surfaces.
Clean and sanitize trays and carts used to carry clean tableware and utensils. Check them daily, and clean as often as needed.
keep the food contact surfaces of stationary equipment covered until ready for use.
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Find information about cleaning and disinfecting at home to protect yourself during a coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak.
Cleaning and Sanitizing with Bleach after an Emergency
Cleaning and sanitizing your household after an emergency is important to help prevent the spread of illness and disease.
Using Cleaning & Sanitizing Products
First, wash surfaces with soap and warm, clean water to remove dirt and debris. Next, sanitize surfaces with household bleach.
It is critical to read and follow the safety instructions on any product you use. Below are the most important safety guidelines when using sanitizing products:
- Never mix bleach with ammonia or any other cleaner.
- Wear rubber or other non-porous boots, gloves, and eye protection.
- Try not to breathe in product fumes. If using products indoors, open windows and doors to allow fresh air to enter.
Use regular, unscented household bleach with a sodium hypochlorite concentration between 5% and 9% (this is the most common concentration in the United States) and follow the instructions in the chart below.
Recommendations for Cleaning and Sanitizing Food Cans and Surfaces
Recommendations for Cleaning and Sanitizing Food Cans and Surfaces
Food surfaces that may have touched flood water. Examples: Countertops, plates. Note: Throw away wooden cutting boards, baby bottle nipples, and pacifiers. | 1 tablespoon (0.5 ounces or ~15 mL) | 1 gallon (3.8 L) |
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Food cans that are not bulging, open, or damaged | 1 cup (8 ounces or 240 mL) | 5 gallons (18.9 L) |
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Recommendations for Cleaning and Sanitizing Household Surfaces and Items
Recommendations for Cleaning and Sanitizing Household Surfaces and Items
Non-food contact surfaces that do not soak up water and that may have touched floodwater. Examples: Floors, sinks, certain toys, and tools. | 1 cup (8 ounces or 240 milliliters) | 5 gallons (18.9 L) |
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Recommendations to Clean Mold Growth Off Hard Surfaces
Recommendations to Clean Mold Growth Off Hard Surfaces
Mold growth on hard surfaces. Examples: Floors, stoves, sinks, certain toys, countertops, flatware, plates, and tools. | 1 cup (8 ounces or 240 milliliters) | 1 gallon (3.8 L) |
For more information see: Mold Clean-Up After Disasters: When to Use Bleach |
Page last reviewed: February 3, 2021