Reusable solutions made from bio-based bio-compound or polypropylene (PP) are increasingly being used at events as alternatives to disposable packaging. Overflowing trash cans and litter are significantly reduced as a result. Often, reusable system service providers are hired to handle the entire cleaning process and provide the dishes. However, flexibly deployable mobile dishwashing systems, dishwashing trailers, and mobile dishwashers also ensure the professional cleaning of one’s reusable dishes. Those looking to rent a mobile dishwasher can usually find a local provider quickly. This article explores the application possibilities for mobile dishwashing systems and mobile dishwashers at events and explains what to look for in the hygienic cleaning of reusable dishes.
1. What are Mobile Dishwashing Centers and Mobile Dishwashers?
Mobile dishwashing centers and mobile dishwashers are specially equipped vehicles or mobile units that contain the necessary facilities for cleaning and disinfecting dishes, cutlery, and other kitchen utensils. From inlet sinks to dishwashing tables and dishwashing centers to hand-washing sink combinations and a drying stage, the execution can vary depending on the model. Another advantage of rented mobile dishwashers and mobile dishwashing centers for rent is their flexibility, as they can be used at different locations, unlike large dishwashing lines, whether at major events, festivals, fairs, markets, town festivals, or private parties. A mobile dishwashing trailer can be conveniently parked with a car or van. Renting mobile dishwashing centers and mobile dishwashers is suitable for event planners, caterers, and food service businesses if they have their reusable dishes or borrow them for an event. Many associations, caterers, and municipalities store their reusable dishes and thus save costs for disposable packaging.
2. What are the Advantages of Mobile Dishwashers and Mobile Dishwashing Systems?
Sustainability
- As part of an event’s sustainability concept, water-saving practices should be implemented in the mobile dishwasher, and environmentally friendly cleaning agents should also be used. This saves money and helps the environment.
Flexibility and Mobility
- Mobile dishwashing systems can be used in almost any location, making them particularly attractive for outdoor events and temporary food service operations. They only require a water and power connection and are ready to operate in a short time.
Cost Savings
- The initially higher acquisition costs for mobile dishwashing systems and mobile dishwashers, as well as reusable dishes, can be amortized through rental options and the elimination of costs for disposable packaging. Those who do not want to buy a mobile dishwashing system can look for local providers and rent a mobile dishwasher.
3. At Which Events Can Mobile Dishwashing Centers for Reusable Dishes Be Used?
Green Events
- At sustainable events, known as Green Events, mobile dishwashing centers and dishwashing trailers are already indispensable because they practically support the use of reusable dishes.
Caterers and Food Service
- For caterers and food service businesses, it is particularly convenient to rent mobile dishwashing systems or a mobile dishwasher. This ensures the hygienic use of reusable dishes at temporary locations.
Major Events and Fairs
- At major events and fairs, there is often no space for regular dishwashing lines, but the demand for dishes and cutlery is high. Renting mobile dishwashers and mobile dishwashing stations ensures a continuous supply of clean dishes even when serving many people.
4. Which Mobile Dishwasher to Rent for Which Event?
At events, there is often no space for the large dishwashing lines used in cafeterias and canteens for the rapid cleaning of reusable dishes. Flexible dishwashing trailers and mobile dishwashing units are perfect for cleaning dishes at events. The mobile deployment is a major advantage, but rented mobile dishwashers have a limited capacity. Therefore, event organizers should rent the right mobile dishwasher for each event or rent multiple mobile dishwashing systems or large dishwashing centers if necessary. Personnel costs should also be factored in for cleaning. When using reusable dishes, it must also be checked whether certain conditions for cleaning must be met. This can involve the temperature, consistency of the cleaning agent, or the cleaning method itself. The guidelines for hygienic cleaning can vary depending on the material from which the reusable dishes are made. We provide cleaning instructions from its hygiene partner EcoLab for reusable dishes made from bio-based bio-compound. Which and how many mobile dishwashers are used depends on many factors. The Musikszene Bremen association also uses dishwashing trailers and practical reusable tableware for upcoming events featuring musicians and cultural creators from the Hanseatic city.
5. How is Reusable Dishware Hygienically Cleaned with Mobile Dishwashers?
With the right equipped mobile dishwasher or mobile dishwashing system, the hygienic cleaning of reusable dishes at events is straightforward, and a smooth process is ensured. Besides cleaning, there are other things to consider when handling reusable dishes.
Hygiene Standards and Regulations
- Maintaining hygiene is crucial when handling reusable dishes. Mobile dishwashing systems and modern dishwashing centers are equipped with professional dishwashers that meet the highest hygiene standards. They ensure that dishes and cutlery are thoroughly cleaned and disinfected before the next use.
Training and Handling
- The staff should be familiarized and trained with the equipment to ensure smooth and hygienic operation. This includes the correct handling of machines, adherence to hygiene regulations, and the use of cleaning agents.
Maintenance and Cleaning of the Mobile Dishwasher
- Regular maintenance and cleaning are essential. This includes cleaning the dishwashers, checking water quality, and regularly inspecting all equipment according to required standards.
Separation of Dishes and Cups
- For optimal cleaning, drink cups should be washed separately from dishes to ensure no food and oil residues remain.
Practical Considerations
- Cleaning multiple cups in transport or storage baskets is quick and easy, as they can be pushed into the dishwasher and cleaned as a whole. When using bio-based reusable dishes, cleaning rules based on the material should be followed.
Dishwasher Safe or Dishwasher Suitable
- When cleaning reusable dishes in dishwashers, it should be checked beforehand whether the containers are dishwasher suitable or dishwasher safe. “Dishwasher suitable” means that an item is suitable for cleaning in the dishwasher, but there is no guarantee that it will withstand the cleaning process without damage. Dishwasher-safe reusable dishes, on the other hand, are specifically designed for cleaning in the dishwasher. Dishes labeled as “dishwasher safe” are more resistant to heat, water, and cleaning agents.
6. Guidelines for Proper Cleaning of Reusable Containers with Dishwashers
Guidelines for the hygienic handling of reusable dishes are provided by the German Food Association in leaflets and instructional videos. There is a leaflet for handling customer-owned coffee to-go cups and another for handling customer-owned reusable containers as well as a guide for handling reusable dishes from deposit pool systems. There are also actors providing practical information for the area of commercial dishwashing and ensuring uniform guidelines for the hygienic cleaning of dishwashers. The Working Group on Commercial Dishwashing (AK GGS) published the German standard DIN 10544 for ‘Food Hygiene – Commercial Dishwashers – Supplementary Hygiene Requirements and Tests’ in July 2024. This standard applies to commercial dishwashers falling under the European hygiene regulation DIN EN 17735. It now considers the hygiene of glasses and reusable containers. Since spring 2023, DIN EN 17735 has provided an EU-wide standard for the hygiene requirements of commercial dishwashers, specifies the testing procedures for these machines, and serves as a guideline for hygienic practices as well as the care and maintenance of dishwashers.
7. Renting a Mobile Dishwasher – The Optimal Solution for Reusable Dishes at Events
The use of reusable solutions made from various materials such as bio-compound or PP contributes to waste reduction, meets the regulations of the reusable requirement for take-away service in effect since early 2023, and also responds to the call for more sustainability at events. Cleaning with rented mobile dishwashing systems, dishwashing trailers, and mobile dishwashers offers a flexible and sustainable solution for the hygienic handling of reusable dishes at events, in catering, and in the food service industry. Many communities and event organizers have already organized themselves in projects or associations and acquired mobile dishwashers and dishwashing systems, which can then be flexibly rented out among themselves. Renting to external organizers can be financially rewarding, as can the establishment of deposit systems for reusable dishes if they are not returned. Given the increasing importance of sustainability, mobile dishwashers and mobile dishwashing systems are becoming increasingly important due to the increased use of reusable dishes at events. Their use and possible acquisition are an investment in a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future.
