How to choose storage shelves for restaurants

One of the most challenging tasks for a business is creating and maintaining a storage area, especially when you have access to restricted areas. As a retail storage provider, we know that steel shelving units and storage racks can take any business’s storage to the next level.

Viet POS Rack is one of the steel rack manufacturers in Vietnam, and we are also aware that many people choose ready-made shelves for a business when it comes to shelving. From materials, components to accessories, there is a lot to decide when buying shelving. In this article, we delve into suitable storage solutions for restaurants or commercial kitchens.

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Choosing shelf material

Step into any manufacturer, and you’ll find a variety of materials in the racks. The right material for your restaurant depends on where the rack is placed. Is it kept in a humid environment like a freezer? Is the rack only for dry storage? The environment determines the material of your shelves and racks.

You should also know more: How to choose the right industrial shelving?

Chrome-plated wire units

For dry or hot environments, chrome wire shelving units are ideal. They are designed to provide maximum ventilation and visibility. Chrome-plated racks can have a clear epoxy coating, but most are prone to rust. Therefore, they cannot be used in humid places. Besides restaurants, these racks are ideal for any retail application.

Epoxy-coated shelves

For wet areas of the restaurant, choose epoxy-coated wire storage units. The epoxy coating will protect the racks from corrosion. While there are many epoxy paint colors on the market, the most common are black and green. Black is most commonly used in the retail industry and green is chosen by the food and beverage industry. Regardless of color, all epoxy-coated shelves are suitable for walk-in freezers and dishwashing areas.

Anti-microbial storage units

Storage racks are made from any material, but they must be coated with an additional anti-microbial agent called an anti-microbial additive. This additional layer protects the equipment from:
– Mold
– Mildew
– Fungal growth
– Bacteria
All of these can not only contaminate food in the kitchen but also cause unpleasant odors.

Stainless steel shelving

The most versatile shelving unit is the stainless steel shelving. Because they are manufactured from naturally corrosion-resistant material, these units can withstand the harshest and most demanding environments. Stainless steel shelving is highly durable in both dry and wet conditions. As the highest quality storage solution, they can be installed in freezers or restaurant dishwashing areas.

What are the types of restaurant shelving?

Slotted Warehouse Shelving

Solid shelves have no gaps or openings on their surfaces. They can be used to store any items in a restaurant; without the risk of damage or spillage onto items stored below. These shelves are also:
– Easier to clean
– Long-lasting
This is because dust, debris, and crumbs do not settle between the gaps. They are best used for storing dry goods as solid shelves do not have ventilation holes to breathe.

Perforated Shelf

Perforated shelves are designed to extend the shelf life of items by promoting better air circulation and ventilation. This makes them ideal for cold storage. Because they have gaps on the shelf, they also increase the visibility of stored items. That said, ventilated shelves are harder to maintain because dirt can get trapped between the holes. Furthermore, there’s a risk of items on higher shelves dripping onto lower ones.