Vinh’s Mug Cleaning
Are coffee and tea stains getting ahead of you? Is excessive time and money spent to resolve the issue?
This was the case at Pasqua Hospital in Regina until Vinh Han Luu a 10+ Food Service veteran and problem solver came up with a way to use vegetable or canola oil to get rid of those nasty stains.
Prior to adopting the “Vinh” way, soaking the cups twice a week in a destainer for 20 minutes was the practice. The problem with this was that the stains would not always be removed, the plastic finish on the cups were often compromised if left in the soaking solution too long. As well, because harsh chemicals were being used, staff had to use Personal Protective Equipment to complete the process increasing the time spent to complete the task.
Now cups are wiped with either a vegetable or canola oil soaked cloth or sponge prior to being washed in the dishwasher. Stains are removed easily and immediately and no oily residue remains. Instead of destaining the cups twice a week, the process is completed every two weeks.
This method has saved staff’s time and dollars spent on the harsh chemicals. As well, because of the natural qualities of the oil, the employee’s and environmental health has improved. Pasqua’s manager Vivian Hooper feels that Vinh way is sustainable as vegetable oil is always available, it is safe and easy to use, no protective ware is required and it is viewed by staff as natural and healthy alternative to the chemical cleaners.
“Yes, a little bit of elbow grease is required but in the long run you will have stain free cups and bowls!”
VINH CUP CLEANING METHOD
- Dispense a generous amount of oil onto a soft cloth or sponge. Do not use green scrubbies or other abrasive cloths or sponges.
- Firmly wipe the inside of the cup with the soft cloth
- Run cups through a normal dishwashing cycle
Procedure can be carried out once every 2 weeks.
