Cleaning & Reconditioning
Professional IBC tank cleaning and reconditioning services that restore used containers to like-new condition. Extend the life of your tanks, meet regulatory requirements, and save money compared to buying new.
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Cleaning Methods
Different applications require different cleaning approaches. We select the optimal method -- or combination of methods -- based on what the tank previously contained and what it will be used for next. Each method has specific strengths that make it ideal for particular contaminant types.
Steam Cleaning
High-temperature steam cleaning uses pressurized steam at 250-300 degrees Fahrenheit to dissolve and remove organic residues, oils, adhesives, and biological contaminants. Steam cleaning is chemical-free and environmentally safe, making it ideal for food-grade reconditioning. The high temperature also provides effective sanitization.
Technical Specifications:
250-300 deg F
80-150 PSI
15-30 min/tank
None required
Best For:
Chemical Wash
Specialized chemical cleaning agents are selected based on the previous contents of the tank. Our chemical wash process uses industry-approved solvents and detergents to break down stubborn residues including industrial chemicals, adhesives, resins, and petroleum products. Agent selection is critical for both cleaning effectiveness and material compatibility.
Technical Specifications:
Ambient to 180 deg F
Varies by agent
20-60 min/tank
Application-specific
Best For:
High-Pressure Wash
Our high-pressure water jets deliver up to 3,000 PSI of cleaning force to remove surface contaminants, labels, markings, and loose debris. This mechanical cleaning method is effective for general cleaning and preparation before more specialized treatments. Adjustable pressure settings allow safe cleaning without damaging HDPE surfaces.
Technical Specifications:
Cold or heated water
Up to 3,000 PSI
10-20 min/tank
Optional detergent
Best For:
Triple Rinse
A thorough three-stage rinse process using clean water at progressively higher purity levels. The triple rinse meets EPA and DOT standards for container decontamination and is required for certain hazardous material containers before they can be reused or recycled. Each rinse cycle is documented for compliance records.
Technical Specifications:
Ambient to warm
Low-medium
30-45 min/tank
Clean water only
Best For:
Reconditioning Process
Our six-step reconditioning process takes used IBC tanks from worn condition to reliable, performance-ready containers. Each step is performed by trained technicians following standardized procedures. The process is documented for quality traceability.
Initial Inspection
Every tank undergoes a comprehensive visual and structural inspection upon arrival. We document the current condition, previous contents (from labels and documentation), damage points, and overall viability for reconditioning. Tanks that cannot be safely reconditioned are directed to our recycling program instead.
Cleaning
Based on the inspection findings, we select the appropriate cleaning method or combination of methods. The goal is to remove all residual contents, odors, stains, and contaminants to restore the interior and exterior to a clean, sanitary state suitable for reuse.
Structural Repair
Damaged components are repaired or replaced. This includes straightening bent cage tubes, welding cracked cage frames, replacing damaged pallet bases, and repairing or replacing the HDPE bottle if hairline cracks are found. We use only OEM-compatible replacement parts.
Valve & Gasket Replacement
All valves, gaskets, and seals are inspected and replaced if they show any signs of wear, degradation, or damage. New 2-inch butterfly valves, cam-lock fittings, and lid gaskets are installed as needed to ensure leak-free performance.
Pressure Testing
Reconditioned tanks are filled with water and pressurized to test for leaks. We check all seams, the valve connection, lid seal, and any repaired areas. Tanks must pass a sustained pressure test before moving to the next stage.
Final Inspection & Certification
A final quality control check verifies that the tank meets our reconditioning standards. Approved tanks receive a reconditioning label documenting the date, cleaning method, and certification status. Food-grade tanks receive additional documentation confirming compliance.
Before & After
The transformation from a used, worn IBC tank to a reconditioned unit ready for service is significant. Here is what you can expect at each stage.
Before Reconditioning
- Residual contents and odors from previous use
- Stained or discolored HDPE bottle walls
- Worn or degraded valve seals and gaskets
- Scratched, dented, or bent cage components
- Faded or peeling labels and markings
- Minor cracks or stress marks on the bottle
- Pallet base wear and forklift damage
- Unknown cleanliness and compliance status
After Reconditioning
- Completely clean interior free of residue and odor
- Clear, bright bottle walls restored to original appearance
- Brand-new valves, seals, and gaskets installed
- Cage straightened, repaired, and structurally sound
- Fresh reconditioning label with date and certification
- Pressure tested and verified leak-free
- Pallet base repaired or replaced as needed
- Full documentation of cleaning method and compliance status
Cleaning Pricing Factors
Cleaning and reconditioning costs vary based on several factors. We provide transparent quotes so you know exactly what to expect. Here is what influences pricing.
Previous Contents
HighThe material previously stored in the tank is the primary determinant of cleaning complexity and cost. Food-grade materials like water, juices, and oils are simplest. Industrial chemicals, adhesives, and petroleum products require more intensive cleaning methods.
Cleaning Method Required
HighSimple high-pressure wash is most affordable. Steam cleaning and chemical wash carry higher costs due to equipment, energy, and agent expenses. Multi-stage cleaning combining multiple methods is priced accordingly.
Tank Condition
Medium-HighTanks in good structural condition requiring only cleaning are most cost-effective. Tanks needing valve replacement, cage repair, pallet base work, or bottle repair have additional reconditioning costs based on the extent of work needed.
Certification Level
MediumStandard industrial reconditioning is most affordable. Food-grade FDA-compliant reconditioning requires additional cleaning steps, NSF-approved agents, and documentation, which adds to the cost. UN/DOT re-certification has additional testing requirements.
Quantity
MediumBulk cleaning orders receive discounted per-unit pricing. Processing multiple tanks of the same type and previous contents allows batch processing efficiencies that lower the per-unit cost. Volume tiers start at 10+ tanks.
Turnaround Time
Low-MediumStandard turnaround is 2-5 business days depending on the scope of work. Rush processing for 24-48 hour turnaround is available with a priority surcharge. For recurring accounts, we maintain a consistent processing schedule.
Industry-Specific Cleaning Solutions
Different industries require different cleaning approaches. We tailor our methods and documentation to meet the specific regulatory and quality standards of your sector.
Food & Beverage
Steam Cleaning + Triple RinseFDA-compliant food-grade cleaning using NSF-approved agents. Steam cleaning for organic residues. Full documentation for food safety audits.
Chemical Manufacturing
Chemical Wash + Triple RinseChemical-specific wash agents for complete residue removal. Material compatibility assessment for new contents. Decontamination documentation.
Agriculture
Chemical Wash or High-Pressure WashRemoval of fertilizer, pesticide, and herbicide residues. Preparation for different agricultural chemicals. Outdoor-ready reconditioning.
Pharmaceuticals
Steam Cleaning + Chemical WashSanitary-grade cleaning with full traceability documentation. Clean-room compatible preparation. Temperature-controlled rinsing for sensitive applications.
Automotive
Chemical Wash + High-Pressure WashRemoval of petroleum-based products including oils, coolants, and lubricants. Degreasing and residue elimination for cross-contamination prevention.
Printing & Coatings
Chemical Wash (specialized solvents)Ink, dye, and coating removal requiring specialized solvents. Color contamination prevention between batches. Interior surface restoration.
Quality Standards & Certifications
We adhere to rigorous industry standards to ensure every reconditioned tank meets or exceeds regulatory requirements for safe reuse. Our certifications provide the documentation your compliance team needs.
UN/DOT Compliance
Our reconditioning process meets United Nations and Department of Transportation standards for the reuse of intermediate bulk containers. Tanks are marked with the appropriate UN rating after reconditioning. This certification is required for DOT-regulated transport of many chemicals and materials.
FDA Food-Grade Standards
For food and beverage applications, our cleaning process meets FDA requirements for food-contact surfaces. Food-grade reconditioned tanks are cleaned with NSF-approved agents and documented accordingly. Complete traceability from intake through certified release.
EPA Environmental Compliance
All cleaning wastewater and chemical residues are disposed of in compliance with EPA regulations. Our facility operates under all required environmental permits for container reconditioning. SCAQMD air quality standards are maintained throughout all processing operations.
12-Point Quality Checklist
Every reconditioned tank passes our proprietary 12-point quality checklist covering structural integrity, cleanliness, valve function, seal integrity, labeling accuracy, and cosmetic condition. This checklist is documented and available to customers upon request.
Professional Cleaning vs. DIY Methods
Some businesses attempt to clean IBC tanks in-house. Here is how professional reconditioning compares to typical DIY approaches.
| Factor | Professional (IBC Santa Ana) | DIY In-House |
|---|---|---|
| Cleaning consistency | Standardized process | Variable quality |
| FDA food-grade certification | Available with documentation | Not typically achievable |
| Pressure testing | Standard on every tank | Rarely performed |
| Valve & gasket replacement | OEM parts included | Often overlooked |
| Environmental compliance | Fully permitted facility | Wastewater issues |
| Documentation | Complete traceability | Minimal or none |
| Turnaround time | 1-5 business days | Varies widely |
| Equipment investment | None (included in service) | $5,000-$25,000+ |
| Labor cost | Included in per-tank price | Your team time |
| Quality guarantee | 12-point inspection | No formal standard |
Cleaning Success Stories
See how businesses across Southern California use our cleaning and reconditioning services to extend tank life, reduce costs, and maintain compliance.
Challenge
A juice bottling facility needed to clean 40 food-grade IBC tanks per month between production batches of different juice flavors. Cross-contamination between flavors was unacceptable and required FDA-compliant cleaning documentation.
Solution
Established a weekly pickup-clean-return cycle. Each tank receives steam cleaning at 280 deg F followed by a triple rinse. Cleaning certificates are generated for each batch documenting compliance with FDA food-contact surface requirements.
Result
Zero cross-contamination incidents since program inception. FDA audit passed with the cleaning documentation serving as a key compliance element. Cost per tank is 70% less than buying new containers for each flavor change.
Challenge
A chemical manufacturer acquired 100+ used IBC tanks at auction but needed them decontaminated and reconditioned before use with their product line. Previous contents varied and included adhesives, solvents, and industrial coatings.
Solution
Performed content assessment on each tank. Sorted into cleaning groups by previous contents. Applied chemical wash with content-specific agents followed by pressure testing and full reconditioning including new valves and gaskets.
Result
92 of 100 tanks passed reconditioning standards and were returned to service. 8 tanks with structural issues were recycled. Total cost was less than half of purchasing new tanks. Full reconditioning documentation provided for their quality system.
Challenge
A growing craft brewery uses IBC tanks for ingredient storage (syrups, flavoring concentrates) but could not justify buying new food-grade tanks for their expanding product line. Needed a reliable cleaning partner who could certify tanks for food use.
Solution
Set up a quarterly reconditioning program for their fleet of 15 tanks. Each tank receives food-grade steam cleaning, new gaskets, and pressure testing. Tanks are rotated through our facility during planned production breaks.
Result
Extended the service life of their initial tank investment by 4x. Annual savings of over $15,000 compared to purchasing new food-grade containers. Cleaning certificates are maintained for their food safety management system.
Our Cleaning Facility
Our Santa Ana cleaning facility is purpose-built for IBC tank processing with specialized equipment, environmental controls, and the capacity to handle high volumes efficiently.
Environmental Controls
Our cleaning operations incorporate comprehensive environmental protection measures to prevent any negative impact from the cleaning process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about our IBC tank cleaning and reconditioning services. Email info@ibcsantaana.com for anything not covered here.
How much does IBC tank cleaning cost?
Cleaning costs vary based on previous contents, method required, and tank condition. Simple high-pressure wash for lightly used tanks is most affordable. Food-grade steam cleaning and chemical wash for industrial residues cost more due to the specialized process. Contact us with details about your tanks for a specific quote. Volume discounts are available for 10+ tanks.
How long does cleaning and reconditioning take?
Standard cleaning takes 1-2 business days per batch. Full reconditioning including structural repairs, valve replacement, and pressure testing takes 2-5 business days depending on the scope of work. Rush processing for 24-48 hour turnaround is available with advance arrangement.
Can you clean tanks that held hazardous materials?
Yes, we can clean tanks that previously contained many types of hazardous materials. However, the cleaning method, disposal requirements, and pricing differ from standard cleaning. Contact us with the SDS (Safety Data Sheet) for the previous contents so we can assess the requirements and provide an accurate quote.
Will my tank be food-grade after reconditioning?
Not all used tanks can be restored to food-grade status. It depends on what the tank previously held and the condition of the HDPE bottle. Tanks that previously held food-grade materials are the best candidates. We assess each tank individually and will not certify a tank as food-grade unless it meets all FDA requirements.
Do you offer on-site cleaning at my facility?
Our primary cleaning operations are conducted at our Santa Ana facility where we have specialized equipment, water treatment systems, and environmental controls. For large-volume customers with specific needs, we can discuss mobile cleaning options. Contact us to explore what works best for your situation.
What happens if a tank fails the quality inspection?
If a tank fails our 12-point quality inspection after reconditioning, we either perform additional repairs to bring it up to standard or direct it to our recycling program. You are never charged for a tank that does not pass quality standards. We will inform you of the outcome and recommend alternatives if needed.
Do you replace valves and gaskets during reconditioning?
Yes. As part of our standard reconditioning process, all valves, gaskets, and seals are inspected. Any component showing wear, degradation, or damage is replaced with new OEM-compatible parts. This includes the main butterfly valve, lid gasket, and any cam-lock or specialty fittings. Replacement parts are included in the reconditioning price.
Can I bring my tanks for cleaning without buying reconditioning?
Absolutely. We offer cleaning as a standalone service separate from full reconditioning. If your tanks are structurally sound but just need to be cleaned between uses or before a content change, we can perform the cleaning only. Standalone cleaning is faster and more affordable than full reconditioning.
How do I transport tanks to your facility for cleaning?
You can deliver tanks directly to our facility at 1020 S Linwood Ave, Santa Ana, CA 92705 during business hours. Alternatively, we can arrange pickup using our fleet. For 10+ tanks, pickup may be included in the cleaning price depending on your location. Contact us to coordinate.
Do you offer recurring cleaning contracts?
Yes. We offer recurring cleaning agreements for businesses that regularly cycle through IBC tanks. Options include weekly, bi-weekly, monthly, or custom schedules. Recurring customers receive preferred pricing, priority scheduling, and streamlined intake processing. This is ideal for food manufacturers and chemical distributors.
Ready to Recondition Your IBC Tanks?
Save up to 50% compared to buying new by reconditioning your existing tanks. Contact us for a quote on cleaning and reconditioning services.
Email: info@ibcsantaana.com | 1020 S Linwood Ave, Santa Ana, CA 92705