Proper cleaning is the single most important factor in extending IBC tank life and ensuring safe reuse. Whether you are switching products, preparing a tank for resale, or reconditioning for food-grade certification, the cleaning process needs to match the application. Here is how to do it right.
Before You Start
Safety first. Always identify the previous contents before cleaning. Check labels, SDS sheets, and any documentation that came with the tank. Wear appropriate PPE — at minimum, chemical-resistant gloves, safety glasses, and a face shield. For tanks that held volatile or toxic substances, work in a well-ventilated area and consider a respirator.
Drain completely. Open the butterfly valve and allow the tank to drain fully. Tip the tank slightly toward the valve to remove residual liquid from the low point of the bottle. Dispose of residual contents according to local regulations — never dump chemicals down a storm drain.
Level 1: Basic Water Rinse
Suitable for tanks that held water, simple solutions, or non-staining water-soluble products.
- 1.Close the butterfly valve
- 2.Fill the tank with approximately 20-30 gallons of warm water (100-120 degrees Fahrenheit)
- 3.Seal the top cap
- 4.Rock or rotate the tank to slosh water across all interior surfaces
- 5.Open the valve and drain completely
- 6.Repeat 2-3 times until the rinse water runs clear
- 7.Allow to air dry with the cap removed
Time required: 30-45 minutes including drain time.
Level 2: Detergent Wash
Suitable for tanks that held oils, mild chemicals, adhesives, or products that leave residue.
- 1.Complete a basic water rinse first (Level 1)
- 2.Prepare a cleaning solution: warm water plus an alkaline detergent (trisodium phosphate, sodium carbonate, or a commercial IBC cleaner) at the recommended dilution
- 3.Fill with 30-40 gallons of cleaning solution
- 4.If available, use a rotary spray head inserted through the top opening for thorough coverage
- 5.Allow the solution to soak for 15-30 minutes, agitating periodically
- 6.Drain the cleaning solution through the valve
- 7.Rinse with clean warm water at least twice until no soap residue remains
- 8.Inspect the interior — if residue persists, repeat the detergent wash
Time required: 1-2 hours.
Level 3: Food-Grade Deep Clean (Triple Rinse)
Required for tanks that will hold food products, beverages, or pharmaceutical ingredients.
- 1.Complete Level 2 detergent wash
- 2.Sanitization step: Prepare a food-safe sanitizer solution (peracetic acid, chlorine dioxide, or sodium hypochlorite at FDA-approved concentrations)
- 3.Fill with sanitizer solution to contact all interior surfaces
- 4.Allow 15-20 minutes of contact time
- 5.Drain completely
- 6.Final rinse with potable hot water (minimum 160 degrees Fahrenheit)
- 7.UV light inspection of interior surfaces
- 8.Swab testing for residue verification
- 9.Document all steps, chemicals used, concentrations, temperatures, and contact times
Time required: 3-4 hours including testing and documentation.
Drying and Storage
After cleaning, allow the tank to air dry completely with the top cap removed. For food-grade tanks, dry in a clean, covered area to prevent airborne contamination. Once dry, replace the cap and install a new dust cap on the valve outlet. Store cleaned tanks in a covered area, off the ground, to maintain cleanliness until use.
When to Call a Professional
If the tank held hazardous materials, if residue persists after multiple cleaning attempts, if the interior has a strong chemical odor that will not dissipate, or if you need FDA-compliant certification documentation — it is time to bring in a professional cleaning service. Our facility handles all of these scenarios with proper equipment, waste handling, and documentation.