The Sneeze Guard: What You Need to Know

Decisions are hard. The more options you have the harder it seems to choose between them. That's why it's important to make informed decisions. The following article will tell you everything you need to know before selecting a sneeze guard, including a brief history of how the sneeze guard came to be.

Sneeze guards, of course, started with a germophobe. Not any germophobe, but restaurateur and inventor Johnny Garneau, the owner of an American Style Smorgasbord restaurant chain. The idea came precisely from "smorgasbord," a traditional Swedish celebratory meal in buffet style, which started Garneau's restaurant chain. Garneau hated when people smelled or looked at the food from up close, so he filed the patent for the sneeze guard, then called the "Food Service Table," on March 10, 1959. Today, sneeze guards are required by law in retail, self-service food bars. So you can thank Johnny Garneau for protecting the hygiene of the salad bar.

Now, we will dive into the specifics of what you must know when selecting your sneeze guard.

When it comes to the installation of sneeze guards you must consider both functionality AND aesthetics, meaning concern yourself with the sneeze guards meeting their purpose and not blocking the view of the food. There are three basic tips when installing sneeze guards. First, make sure the height of any sneeze guard is tall enough for the average customers, who is between five and six feet tall. Second, the sneeze guard should blend in with the decoration of the restaurant. The sneeze guard should be aesthetically pleasing, just like the table and the chairs should be. Finally, no sneeze guard should be movable by the customer or staff, this just defeats the purpose of having the sneeze guard as it won't protect the food.

It's important to know when it's time to replace your sneeze guards. You didn't think this was a one time purchase, did you? We've got you covered with five signs that it's probably time to change your sneeze guards.

• Scratches, cracks or other damage to the glass compromises the sneeze guard's aesthetics
• The change of an operation from full-service to self-service changes the way sneeze guards are used and may require new units
• Significant wear and tear from years of use may compromise the aesthetics of the sneeze guard
• Changes in the theme or design of a restaurant might mean that the sneeze guards will not blend in with the new decoration
• Menu modifications may require new sneeze guards with features such as lighting for better visibility and heat for temperature consistency
  

Lastly, as with every single product you'll ever buy, maintenance is key. If you take care of them your sneeze guards will last you a long time. Here are three tips to keep your sneeze guards just like new.

• Use a food-safe glass cleaner or mild soap and water to clean sneeze guards daily. Don't use abrasive cleaners or cleaning pads.
• Check brackets regularly and tighten them when necessary.
• Check sneeze guards for cracks and scratches that may compromise their appearance.

To browse DK Hardware's selection of sneeze guards, visit our website here.

Now you are ready to face your decision. Which sneeze guard is best for you? When you figure it out, let us know in a comment below.