The tableware of hospitality It is a significant investment.
It's the first contact your customers have with your food, and its condition can be the difference between impressing or disappointing.
But how can you ensure that your dishes are spotless and last longer?
Here I leave you some practical tips to keep your dishes in excellent condition and protect your investment.
1. Proper Cleaning: More Than Just Soap and Water
Cleaning is essential, but wiping with a damp cloth is not enough.
Follow these recommendations:
- Avoid the use of abrasive products. These can scratch and dull the surface of your dishes, especially if they are made of fine porcelain or ceramic.
- Use mild detergents. Products specifically for professional tableware are a better option than generic ones.
- Correct water temperature: Hot water is ideal for disinfecting, but do not use extreme temperatures that can cause cracks or warping.
2. Careful Handling: Avoid Bumps and Damage
In the fast-paced routine of a professional kitchen, accidents are easy to happen.
To reduce the risk of breakage:
- Transport heavy parts with care. Use both hands and non-slip trays if necessary.
- Stack correctly. Unstable stacks can cause falls; use rubber spacers to prevent pieces from sliding.
- Avoid sudden changes in temperature. Exchanging a piece of extremely cold material for hot water can cause cracking.
3. Smart Storage: The Key to Long Life
It is not enough to just put your dishes away in a cupboard and forget about them.
Proper storage prolongs shelf life:
- Use protectors between pieces. This prevents scratches between stacked plates or cups.
- Store in a dry place. Humidity can damage certain materials and encourage mold in dishes stored for long periods of time.
- Organization according to use. Keep the most used parts within reach, to reduce unnecessary wear and tear on those that are not used daily.
4. Periodic Inspections and Repairs
- Inspect regularly. Look for cracks, chips or minor damage. Timely repairs can prevent major problems.
- Change very worn parts. Although it may be tempting to keep them, worn-out dishes can give a bad image of your business.
5. Involve the whole team
Taking care of your dishes should not be the responsibility of just one person.
Make sure all your staff is trained:
- Train the team on proper handling.
- Establish clear cleaning and storage protocols.
FAQs
How long can well-maintained catering tableware last?
With proper care, it can last 5-10 years or more depending on use and material.
What materials are more resistant for catering tableware?
Heavy-duty porcelain and tempered glass are excellent choices for their durability.
What to do with dishes that are no longer used?
Consider donating or recycling it instead of throwing it away.
Taking care of your catering tableware is easier than it seems if you follow these steps.
Remember: well-maintained tableware not only reduces costs in the long run, but also enhances your customers' experience.
Start implementing these tips today and give your dishes the life they deserve!