How to Clean a Popcorn Machine

The demand for freshly popped popcorn is constant in certain industries, making it a favorite among customers and ensuring steady sales. Because popcorn has a high profit margin and comes in many forms, it lends itself well to concession stands, snack bars, and movie theaters. Regular cleaning is essential to maintain the efficiency and quality of your popcorn machine, preventing grease buildup, food contamination, and other hazards. It also ensures your popcorn retains its taste. We'll outline the proper cleaning steps below to help you maintain your commercial popcorn machine.

Popcorn Machine Cleaning Instructions

Before you clean your popcorn machine, there are a few safety steps to follow to prevent injury and avoid damaging the machine. Unplug the unit and allow it to cool down for at least 30 minutes before cleaning to reduce the risk of burns and electrical hazards. Additionally, remove any leftover popcorn from the machine to prevent blockages and ensure the machine operates efficiently. This includes popped and unpopped kernels as well as any debris that may have accumulated during use. Once these actions are complete, you can begin cleaning the unit.

How to Clean the Kettle

Popcorn machines feature two distinct components: the kettle and the cabinet. Follow these steps to clean your popcorn kettle.

1. Prepare cleaning solution: Using popcorn kettle cleaner, prepare a cleaning solution according to the manufacturer's instructions.
2. Add solution: Pour your cleaning solution into the kettle.
3. Turn kettle on: Plug the machine back in and heat the kettle until the solution boils.
4. Let kettle cool: Once the solution comes to a boil, turn the kettle off and let it cool.
5. Remove kettle: Remove the popcorn kettle from its supports with the solution inside.
6. Dispose of solution: Pour the used cleaning solution out of the kettle and into a safe disposal location.
7. Wipe: Use a clean cloth to wipe down the rest of the kettle.
8. Repeat: If stubborn oils or debris aren't cleaned out on the first attempt, repeat steps as necessary until they are gone.

How to Clean the Cabinet

Adhere to the steps listed below to clean your popcorn cabinet:

1. Wipe down floor plating: With the kettle removed, wipe the floor plating inside the popcorn machine cabinet and remove the crumb tray.
2. Clean floor plating: Clean and sanitize the floor plating and crumb tray as needed with a metal-safe cleaning solution.
3. Wipe: Using a towel, wipe down the windows and kettle frame with a material-safe cleaner to remove splotches or stains.

When to Clean a Popcorn Machine

Your popcorn machine should be cleaned at the end of each day for the best results. Not only does this keep you in the clear in case of a health inspection, but it helps your machine run strong longer. Popcorn machine filters should be washed or replaced on a weekly basis or according to manufacturer instructions. Additionally, take special care to clean the exterior of your machine on a regular basis to keep up its appearance.

Popcorn Machine Cleaning Safety Tips

Since popcorn machines utilize hot oil and have several key components, you should prioritize safety as you clean. Keep the following tips in mind so you and your staff can stay safe and avoid workplace injury while cleaning your machine.

1. Follow age guidelines: Do not allow employees under 18 to clean the kettle. It operates at high temperatures and should only be cleaned by experienced operators.
2. Wear protective gloves: Use disposable gloves while cleaning to prevent bare hands from touching cleaning chemicals.
3. Use approved cleaning products: For best results, use a cleaner that does not contain ammonia. Ammonia causes lasting damage to several foodservice surfaces, including different plastics and metals. Adhere to your manufacturer's instructions to find the cleaner that best fits your needs.
4. Safely store cleaning chemicals: Keep your cleaner concentrate in a safe place. These chemicals can be hazardous, and you should only keep them out during cleaning.

If your business has a high demand for popcorn, you must ensure that your machines are always in good shape. Cleaning your machine will improve the flavor of your popcorn, pop the kernels more efficiently, and lengthen the lifespan of the machine. Adhere to the steps above to clean your machines correctly and keep them in optimal condition.