You’ve just unpacked your new shipping container and you’re ready to start using it for storage but you’ve discovered it is looking a little worse for wear. Before you start filling it up again, you need to make sure that the container is clean.
But how exactly do you effectively clean a shipping container? We get it, it’s not your usual clean-up. At Shipping Containers Melbourne, we’ve got all the tips you need to get your container properly cleaned and prepared for its next important job.
Cleaning Your Container In 3 Simple Steps
So the good news when it comes to getting your container spick and span, is that it’s not a complex process by any stretch. With some basic detergent, water and a little elbow grease you’ll soon have your container back at its best.
Here are three easy ways to clean the exterior of your shipping container:
1. Use A Pressure Washer
A pressure washer is a great way to remove any dirt or grime that may be on the outside of your shipping container. Able to remove the significant build-up of dirt, grime, lichen or similar, a pressure washer simply uses water at high pressure to quickly and efficiently clean the steel exterior of your container.
Just make sure that you don’t use too much pressure, as this could also remove some of the paintwork covering the steel. If you’re planning to repaint the container, then this is one way to speed up removing the old paint first.
As an aside, a pressure washer can also make it easier to see if your container has any leaks that need addressing.
2. Use A Garden Hose
What if you don’t have access to a pressure washer? If you don’t have a pressure washer, you can use a garden hose to rinse off the outside of your shipping container. If there are some stubborn stains or it needs a little more than the garden hose can give, combine step two with step three.
3. Use A Mild Detergent
To aid in the removal of any stubborn dirt and grime on the exterior of your shipping container, you can use mild detergent to help remove them. We recommend using a soft-bristled broom with detergent and water from the garden hose to gently scrub the stains away.
Just make sure that you rinse the detergent off completely afterwards so it doesn’t leave any new marks behind.
Treating Any Signs Of Rust
Once cleaned, let the container dry fully before treating any rusted areas. You should use a wire brush to properly remove any loose rust, followed by light sanding. You can then treat the affected area with white vinegar. When completely dry, we recommend painting over the rusted area with direct-to-metal paint to prevent the rust from reoccurring.
What About The Inside Of My Container?
The air environment inside your container and the cleanliness of the walls and floor are equally as important as the exterior. You can clean the inside of the container by sweeping any dust, debris and cobwebs out and then gently scrubbing the timber floor with a mild soap and water solution as needed.
Always wear a mask when sweeping out your container to protect yourself from inhaling anything harmful. Should you notice signs of mould or mildew, scrub these away, allow the area to dry and treat with white vinegar to kill the spores. If possible leave the doors of the container open to allow fresh air to circulate.
Once you’ve cleaned the outside and inside of your shipping container, you’re ready to start using it for storage. By taking the time to keep it clean inside and out your belongings will stay in good condition while they’re in storage.
Need Further Help?
At Shipping Containers Melbourne, we have years of experience with containers in all states of repair. If you feel your container is beyond help or need assistance with its disposal or purchase of a new one, we can help.
To learn more, call our office today on 03 7018 7555.