From cold storage to cleanrooms: Hygienic PPE drying in the food industry with modern drying systems
In food processing, hygiene is the top priority. At the same time, however, it is also a daily challenge. Cold, humidity, and wildly fluctuating temperatures create ideal conditions for microbial contamination. This not only increases the risk of cross-contamination but also puts a strain on employees and budgets: cleaning, climate control, and compliance with regulations cost time, energy, and resources.
Modern drying systems offer a smart solution here: They hygienically dry workwear and PPE (personal protective equipment) after every shift. They also reduce odors, lower laundry and energy costs, and extend the lifespan of the equipment.
Why is proper drying crucial in the food industry?
The proper drying of workwear and PPE is a central component of hygiene management in food processing facilities—it protects products and employees, reduces costs, and supports sustainable operations.
- Hygiene & Product Safety: Damp textiles and shoes are a breeding ground for unwanted microorganisms. Careful and rapid drying after the shift reduces the risk of spreading germs.
- Employee Comfort & Safety: Dry, pre-warmed PPE enhances well-being – especially in cold storage or wet areas – and supports concentration and efficient work.
- Sustainability & Costs: Less industrial laundry means lower energy and chemical consumption. Washing the insides of shoes and boots poses a particular challenge. With Sterex, germs are eliminated in them as well, and odor formation is prevented. At the same time, wear and tear and the need for replacements are reduced.
What exactly do modern drying systems do?
Depending on the model, our drying cabinets and drying panels push recirculated air or warm air through nozzles and internally ventilated hangers to dry clothing and equipment from the inside and outside. Innovative Sterex plasma technology further neutralizes odors and helps reduce germs during the drying process. The result: Workwear dries faster, feels noticeably fresher, and is ready in time for the next shift.
Advantages at a glance:
Hygienic drying of PPE and workwear
Fewer wash cycles, lower energy and chemical consumption
Odor neutralization (e.g., sweat odor)
Longer lifespan of clothing & PPE
Greater comfort and motivation for teams
• Streamlined processes (PPE available as planned at the start of the shift)
WEINBERGMAIER GmbH increases satisfaction and efficiency
At the frozen food producer WEINBERGMAIER GmbH in Austria, employees work in demanding conditions – including in the cold storage facility. To improve hygiene and comfort, WINTERSTEIGER Dry & Protect drying panels from the Tantum series were installed. The panels not only dry clothing and footwear but also reduce germs and neutralize odors. Additionally, employees can preheat their gear – a noticeable improvement in comfort, especially in sub-zero temperatures.
Who are drying systems particularly suitable for?
- Food manufacturers & processors (meat, fish, dairy, baked goods, delicatessen, ready-to-eat meals)
- Refrigerated and frozen logistics, warehousing & distribution
- Cleanroom-like areas (e.g., sensitive processing steps)
- Facilities with multi-shift operations and rotating PPE sets
Learn more about the right solutions for food manufacturers and production facilities.
How do I choose the right drying system?
Various factors influence which drying unit is the right fit for your needs. Here are a few questions you should answer:
- PPE types & quantities: Jackets, pants, helmets, masks, gloves, boots – what needs to be dried and how many sets per shift?
- Drying time window: How many hours are there between shifts, or how quickly does the equipment need to be available again?
- Room conditions: What are the temperatures, humidity levels, available floor space, and power supply?
- Hygiene goals: What is particularly important to you – e.g., fast drying, odor reduction, or material protection?
- Ergonomics & usage: Should the units be open or lockable? Should teams share units, or do you want to provide individual solutions?
- Scalability: Can the solution be expanded modularly?
Ready to noticeably improve hygiene, comfort, and efficiency in your facility?
On the overview page for our drying cabinets and drying panels, you can learn more about the differences between our dryer models.
We’re also happy to offer advice. Contact our team for a tailored recommendation.