Opens in a new tab

What is wash-down?

By: Bradley Dunlap

December 4, 2017

packaging wash down

In the food and beverage industry, wash-down refers to the process of cleaning manufacturing and processing equipment using a high-pressure spray of water and/or chemicals. This is an important process because it kills bacteria and other contaminants to sanitize the surfaces that food products may come in contact with during packaging and shipping.

It is important to consider wash-down when investing in packaging equipment because your machinery needs to be able to withstand the corrosive nature of frequent wash-downs without becoming damaged. Equipment utilizing stainless steel resists corrosion and pitting caused by the water and cleaning agents often used in food manufacturing environments.

Related articles

5 Signs Your Facility Has Outgrown Semi-Automatic Box Assembly

September 22, 2026

Backed-up production, rising labor costs, inconsistent seals — see the 5 signs it’s time to upgrade to automated box assembly and sealing.

Read Article
Shurtape automatic case sealer used for carton sealing in packaging operations preparing a box for sealing

How Automated Case Sealers Improve Consistency and Product Protection

September 16, 2026

Manual case sealing leads to costly inconsistencies. See how Shurtape® automatic case sealers improve consistency, reduce waste and protect products.

Read Article
A Shurtape packaging machine appying tape to a white box.

Boost Your Production Line Efficiency with Shurtape® Packaging Machines

August 19, 2026

Efficiency isn’t just an operational goal in fast-paced manufacturing environments – it’s a competitive advantage.

Read Article