10 Types of Kitchen Equipment for Back to School
As summer comes to a close and the new school year approaches, it’s time to start thinking about getting your kitchen ready for the busy months ahead. Whether you’re a school cafeteria, college dining hall, or other institutional kitchen, having the right equipment is essential for smooth operations and happy students.
Here are 10 types of commercial kitchen equipment for back-to-school season.
1. Commercial Refrigerators and Freezers
SHOP REFRIGERATORS
A reliable refrigerator and freezer are essential for keeping food fresh and safe to eat. Commercial Reach-In Refrigerators are an ideal option for ample storage space and adjustable shelves for maximum storage flexibility. Make sure to look for Energy Star-certified refrigerators to keep costs down. If your school kitchen offers milk cartons, a milk cooler is ideal to for maximum storage and efficiency. If your cafeteria has pre-packaged options, your best option is an open-air merchandiser to showcase your products while making it easy for students to grab & go.
2. Cooking Equipment
SHOP COOKING EQUIPMENT
From stovetops to ovens to griddles, you need reliable cooking appliances to prepare a variety of dishes quickly and efficiently. If you have space, we have a variety of commercial ranges and ovens to choose from. If you're lacking enough space for the larger kitchen equipment, try commercial countertop cooking equipment. Countertop equipment performs as well as their full-sized counterparts without taking up large amounts of space. For those looking to quickly cook & serve food, consider investing in a combination oven that can bake, roast, and steam, for added versatility.
3. Food Preparation Equipment
SHOP FOOD PROCESSORS
Food preparation is a time-consuming task, but with the right equipment, you can speed up the process and ensure consistent results. Food processors can easily chop vegetables, shred cheese, puree soups, and some even knead dough. Mixers can prepare a large quantity of food with a more consistent quality. Slicers control portion sizes, prevent over-serving, and slice meat, cheese, and vegetables quickly and uniformly. Choppers ensure consistent and uniform cuts of ingredients and reduce the risk of injury for kitchen staff. We recommend Robot Coupe Food Processors.
4. Dishwashing Equipment
Cleaning up after meals is just as important as cooking them, and having the right dishwashing equipment can save you time and effort. Look for commercial-grade dishwashers that can handle large loads and have multiple wash cycles. If you need to save space, try undercounter dishwashers.
5. Storage and Shelving
SHOP SHELVING
Proper storage is essential for keeping ingredients organized and easily accessible. Invest in sturdy shelving units and storage containers that can withstand heavy use and frequent cleaning. We suggest Cambro shelving because it withstands heavy use and will never rust. Call (714) 665-2433 or email us at sales@chefstoys.com for shelving installation options!
6. Kitchen Utensils and Cookware
SHOP KITCHEN SUPPLIES
Having a range of high-quality kitchen utensils and cookware is essential for preparing dishes quickly and efficiently. Stock up on essential cookware for your school kitchen such as mixing bowls, saucepans, skillets, and baking sheets.
7. Serving Equipment
SHOP SERVING EQUIPMENT
Once your food is ready, you need to present it to your students. Essential serving equipment for your cafeteria includes trays, utensils, food warmers and chafing dishes to keep food at the right temperature.
8. Safety Equipment
SHOP SAFETY SUPPLIES
Kitchen safety is of utmost importance, and having the right safety equipment on hand can prevent accidents and injuries. This includes kitchen gloves, safety apparel, and food safety labels.
9. Cleaning Supplies
SHOP CLEANING SUPPLIES
Keeping your kitchen clean and sanitary is essential for preventing foodborne illnesses and maintaining a safe working environment. Stock up on cleaning supplies such as mop buckets, brooms, and safety signs.
10. Maintenance Tools
SHOP MAINTENANCE SUPPLIES
Regular maintenance is essential for keeping your kitchen equipment in good working order. Invest in lubricants and sprays to keep your equipment running smoothly. It's also important to have maintenance tools, like Ammonia Compound Test Strips, handy to make sure your staff performs at their best.
Having the right equipment is essential for running a successful institutional kitchen. By investing in Chefs' Toys' high-quality appliances, utensils, and safety equipment, you can ensure that your kitchen is well-equipped to handle the demands of the new school year. Contact us to help you make any necessary upgrades or replacements to ensure a smooth and successful start to the year.
