Can dirt, moisture, or residues accumulate in seams or corners?

In environments where food safety is a priority, hygienic storage is crucial. A common question is whether dirt, moisture, or product residues can accumulate in the seams or corners of REA storage systems. This may seem like a minor concern, but it has a significant impact on cleaning, inspections, and demonstrably working in accordance with HACCP guidelines.

Hard-to-reach areas, increased hygiene risk

Seams, sharp inner corners, and open joints are areas where contamination occurs quickly. During cleaning, these zones are often the last to be addressed, simply because they are difficult to reach. In humid or refrigerated spaces, condensation adds to the problem, causing residues to accumulate faster and remain longer. This makes it more challenging to maintain a storage area hygienically and in compliance with HACCP guidelines.

Out of sight often means out of mind

Cleaning today needs to be quick and effective. Understandably, staff tend to focus on surfaces that are clearly visible. Seams at the back of racks, under shelves, or at joints receive less attention. The more complex the construction, the greater the chance that contamination is consistently overlooked.

The impact of material choice on hygiene and maintenance

In addition to design, wear and tear play an important role. Metal racks can show damage over time due to heavy use or aggressive cleaning agents. Once the coating is damaged, rough spots and small gaps appear. These areas retain moisture and remain a recurring concern during inspections.

Plastic storage systems behave differently. The material stays smooth even after repeated cleaning and has no coating that can peel. In REA systems, components fit tightly together, and joints are designed so that no open gaps form. This significantly reduces the risk of accumulation.

Condensation as a risk

In cold and frozen storage areas, condensation is a major factor. Warm air that comes into contact with cold surfaces produces moisture, especially on edges and in corners. When this moisture cannot drain or dry quickly, it remains between cleaning sessions. Smooth, closed surfaces without seams help channel condensation away quickly and make visual inspections easier.

Design that makes cleaning easier

During internal checks or external audits, the focus is not only on whether a space is clean, but also on whether it can be kept clean. Storage systems with visible seams or hard-to-reach corners raise questions, even when they are clean at the moment. A seamless design provides confidence and makes it easier to demonstrate that hygiene is consistently maintained.

Plastic racks available in three colors

Classic

Design

Grey

Conclusion

Can dirt, moisture, or residues accumulate in seams or corners? This risk exists primarily with storage systems that have open joints, sharp inner corners, or damaged surfaces. These are the areas where contamination and moisture tend to remain, resulting in extra cleaning work and additional points of attention during inspections.

Do REA storage systems prevent this risk?

Yes. REA’s plastic shelving units are designed to minimize this risk. By using smooth, closed components without open seams, dirt and moisture have little chance to accumulate. Rounded corners and tightly fitting joints ensure that all surfaces remain easily accessible for cleaning and visual inspection.

What does this mean in daily practice?