1. Remove all customers from the bar and secure the building
This is an important step as it ensures that no one is still inside when the bar closes. All customers should be asked to leave at least 10 minutes before closing time, and staff should then inspect the premises to ensure that everyone has left. The building should be secured by locking any doors or windows and setting any alarm systems.
2. Clean up any spills, debris or broken glass around the premises
It is important to ensure that all areas of the bar are clean before closing for the night. Any spilled drinks, debris, or broken glass should be cleaned up promptly with paper towels and a cleaning solution such as an all-purpose cleaner.
3. Put away food items and utensils in their designated areas
To help keep your bar organized, it’s important to put away dishes, glasses, and other items used during the shift back into their designated storage spaces. This will help reduce clutter and make cleanup much easier when you open again later on.
4. Wipe down surfaces with a sanitizer solution
All surfaces that were used during the shift should be wiped down with a sanitizing solution to help reduce the risk of contamination. This includes tables, countertops, and all other frequently touched areas such as door handles and light switches.
5. Sweep floors, mop if necessary
Before closing up for the night, it’s important to sweep or vacuum any debris from the floor. If necessary, mopping may also be needed to ensure that all spills have been properly cleaned up.
6. Check for empty liquor bottles and discard them in designated containers
When closing for the night, it is important to check for any empty liquor bottles that may have been left behind. These should be discarded in the designated container for recycling.
7. Collect payment from patrons as applicable
If any patrons still owe payment, it is important to collect this before closing for the night. This will help avoid confusion when opening again.
8. Secure cash register drawers and prepare deposits
At the end of each shift, it is important to securely close all cash register drawers and count up the money inside them so that a deposit can be prepared if necessary.
9. Make sure that all staff members have clocked out for the night
To ensure accuracy with payroll records, it’s important to make sure that all staff members have clocked out before closing for the night. This will ensure that all staff members are properly paid for their time.
10. Turn off lights, AC/heat units and lock doors when leaving
Before leaving the premises it is important to turn off all lights and adjust any air conditioning or heating units as necessary. The building should also be securely locked with all alarms set if applicable. This will help protect against theft or vandalism while the bar is closed.