10.2 Cleaning the Slush Machine

# 10.2 Cleaning the Slush Machine

**Version:** V2
**Last Updated:** October 2025
**Document Type:** Standard Operating Procedure (SOP)

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## Purpose

To establish consistent cleaning and maintenance procedures for slush machines, ensuring food safety compliance, hygiene standards, and optimal machine performance across all Little Coffee Bean Co locations.

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## Scope

This procedure applies to all staff responsible for operating and maintaining slush machines at mobile Tuk Tuk units and fixed shop locations. Cleaning must be performed daily, weekly, and during deep maintenance cycles.

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## Equipment Required

### Daily Cleaning

– Warm water (40–50°C)
– Food-safe cleaning solution (approved by FSA)
– Soft-bristled brushes (non-abrasive)
– Clean lint-free cloths or paper towels
– Disposable gloves (food-grade)
– Sanitiser spray (approved for food contact surfaces)
– Bucket or sink

### Weekly & Deep Cleaning

– All items from Daily Cleaning, plus:
– Descaling solution (commercial food-grade)
– Pipe cleaning brush or flexible brush
– Gasket removal tool (if applicable)
– Replacement seals/gaskets (if worn)
– Distilled water (for rinsing)

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## Daily Cleaning Procedure

### Step 1: Drain Remaining Slush Mix

1. Turn off slush machine at end of service
2. Allow mixture to cool to room temperature (approximately 30 minutes)
3. Open drain valve at base of machine
4. Place bucket underneath to catch remaining slush mix
5. Allow complete drainage (minimum 5 minutes)
6. Close drain valve securely

### Step 2: Rinse Reservoir

1. Remove any large debris from reservoir opening
2. Fill reservoir with warm water (40–50°C)
3. Turn machine on for 30 seconds to circulate water through internal pipes
4. Turn machine off
5. Open drain valve and allow water to drain completely
6. Repeat rinse cycle 2–3 times until water runs clear

### Step 3: Clean Dispensing Nozzle

1. Remove dispensing nozzle (if removable) according to equipment manual
2. Soak nozzle in warm water with food-safe cleaning solution for 5 minutes
3. Use soft-bristled brush to gently scrub interior and exterior
4. Rinse thoroughly under warm running water
5. Dry with lint-free cloth
6. Reattach nozzle securely

### Step 4: Wipe External Surfaces

1. Dampen soft cloth with warm water and cleaning solution
2. Wipe all external surfaces including:
– Machine body
– Control panel
– Drain valve area
– Base and feet
3. Pay special attention to areas where syrup residue may accumulate
4. Dry all surfaces with clean cloth
5. Sanitise external surfaces with approved sanitiser spray

### Step 5: Final Inspection

1. Check for any remaining syrup residue or sticky spots
2. Inspect drain valve for leaks or blockages
3. Verify nozzle is securely attached
4. Check power cord for damage
5. Document cleaning completion on daily log

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## Weekly Deep Cleaning Procedure

### Step 1: Perform Daily Cleaning (Full Cycle)

1. Complete all steps from Daily Cleaning Procedure above
2. Allow extra time for thorough drying between steps

### Step 2: Descale Internal Pipes

1. Prepare descaling solution according to manufacturer instructions
2. Fill reservoir with descaling solution
3. Turn machine on and allow solution to circulate for 10 minutes
4. Turn machine off and let solution sit for 15–20 minutes
5. Turn machine back on for 5 minutes to flush descaling solution
6. Turn off machine

### Step 3: Flush with Distilled Water

1. Empty reservoir completely
2. Fill reservoir with distilled water
3. Turn machine on and circulate for 2 minutes
4. Turn off and drain completely
5. Repeat flush cycle 3 times to remove all descaling solution residue
6. Final drain should be clear with no chemical smell

### Step 4: Clean Internal Reservoir

1. If accessible, remove reservoir according to equipment manual
2. Use pipe cleaning brush to scrub interior walls
3. Pay attention to corners and seams where residue accumulates
4. Rinse thoroughly with warm water
5. Dry completely before reinstalling
6. Reattach reservoir securely

### Step 5: Inspect Seals and Gaskets

1. Visually inspect all rubber seals and gaskets
2. Check for cracks, hardening, or discolouration
3. Look for signs of leaking or deterioration
4. If seals appear worn or damaged, note for replacement
5. Clean seals with damp cloth and dry thoroughly
6. Do not use abrasive materials on seals

### Step 6: Document Deep Cleaning

1. Record date and time of deep cleaning
2. Note any issues or damage observed
3. List any replacement parts needed
4. Sign off on completion

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## Monthly Maintenance Check

### Step 1: Operational Test

1. Prepare a small batch of slush mix (500ml syrup + 2.5–3.5 litres water, depending on ratio)
2. Pour into reservoir
3. Turn on machine and allow full freezing cycle (15–20 minutes)
4. Check consistency and texture
5. Verify temperature reaches 4–8°C
6. Test dispensing nozzle for smooth operation
7. Drain machine completely after test

### Step 2: Visual Inspection

1. Check all visible components for wear or damage
2. Inspect power cord for cuts or fraying
3. Verify all bolts and fasteners are tight
4. Check drain valve for proper sealing
5. Look for any signs of leaking or water damage
6. Inspect control panel buttons for sticking

### Step 3: Performance Documentation

1. Record machine performance notes
2. Document any issues requiring attention
3. Note if professional servicing is needed
4. Schedule repairs if necessary with equipment supplier

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## Seasonal Deep Maintenance (Quarterly)

### Step 1: Complete Disassembly (If Qualified)

1. **Note:** Only perform if trained and authorised
2. Turn off and unplug machine
3. Allow 1 hour cooling time
4. Remove all removable parts according to equipment manual
5. Inspect each component for wear

### Step 2: Component Cleaning

1. Soak removable parts in descaling solution for 30 minutes
2. Use soft brushes to clean all surfaces
3. Rinse thoroughly with distilled water
4. Dry completely before reassembly
5. Replace any worn gaskets or seals

### Step 3: Reassembly

1. Follow equipment manual instructions carefully
2. Ensure all components are dry before reassembly
3. Tighten all fasteners securely but do not over-tighten
4. Verify all seals are properly seated

### Step 4: Post-Maintenance Test

1. Plug in machine and turn on
2. Prepare test batch of slush mix
3. Run full cycle and verify operation
4. Check for leaks or unusual sounds
5. Test all controls and functions
6. Drain machine completely

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## Troubleshooting & Common Issues

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## Safety Notes

– **Always turn off and unplug machine before cleaning**
– Allow machine to cool for minimum 30 minutes after use
– Never use abrasive cleaners or scouring pads on machine surfaces
– Do not immerse electrical components in water
– Wear food-grade gloves during all cleaning procedures
– Ensure proper ventilation when using cleaning solutions
– Report any electrical faults or damage immediately
– Keep cleaning solutions away from children and unauthorised personnel
– Follow COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health) guidelines for all chemicals
– Never attempt repairs beyond your training level—contact qualified technician

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## Cleaning Schedule Summary

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## Documentation & Records

All cleaning activities must be recorded on the **Slush Machine Cleaning Log**, including:

– Date and time of cleaning
– Cleaning type (daily/weekly/monthly/quarterly)
– Staff member name
– Any issues or damage noted
– Replacement parts needed
– Signature/initials

Logs must be retained for minimum 12 months for food safety audit purposes.

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## References

– UK Food Standards Agency (FSA) Food Safety Guidelines
– COSHH Regulations (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health)
– Little Coffee Bean Co Equipment Manual – Slush Machine
– Little Coffee Bean Co Slush Mix Calculations SOP (Section 10.1)
– Manufacturer’s Maintenance Guidelines (specific to machine model)

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**Document Owner:** Little Coffee Bean Co Operations
**Review Frequency:** Annually or as required
**Next Review Date:** October 2026