Spülerinnen

Spülerinnen is the German term for women who perform dishwashing and related cleaning tasks, typically in professional kitchens, hospitals, schools, and hotels. The word is formed from the verb spülen, meaning “to rinse” or “to wash,” with the agent suffix -er and the feminine ending -in to designate a female worker. The plural form Spülerinnen specifically marks female dishwashers, while the masculine form is Spüler. In modern usage, gender-inclusive language often pairs terms or uses neutral alternatives.

Typical duties of Spülerinnen include loading and unloading dishwashing machines, pre-rinsing and scrubbing utensils, sorting and stacking clean dishes, and maintaining general hygiene in the kitchen area. They may also assist with manual cleaning of pots, pans, and equipment, dry and store items, and sometimes help with basic food-preparation areas or waste disposal. In larger operations, automated dishwashing is common, but staff still perform supervision, machine operation, and quality checks.

Working conditions and training are shaped by the hospitality and healthcare sectors. Spülerinnen often work in shifts, stand for extended periods, and handle hot water, strong detergents, and cleaning chemicals. Safety measures typically include gloves, aprons, and proper ventilation; training covers hygiene standards (such as HACCP), safe handling of chemicals, and procedural cleanliness.

Terminology and usage vary by region and institution. While Spülerinnen emphasizes gender, many workplaces prefer inclusive language like Spülerinnen und Spüler or Spülkräfte to refer to dishwashers of all genders. Regardless of terminology, the occupation remains a key support function in food service and institutional kitchens.