How to Clean a Growing Tray? Quick Tips for Washing and Disinfecting Trays.

Growing trays are an essential tool for microgreens cultivation — durable and reusable, they support both eco-friendly farming and cost savings. But to truly benefit from them, proper care is key.

This guide walks you through the process of cleaning seed starting trays and explains exactly how to sterilize seedling trays to prevent the spread of mold, bacteria, and fungi. We’ll also introduce effective tray disinfection solutions, whether you’re using basic tools or a professional microgreen tray washer.
By following these tips for cleaning trays the right way, you’ll extend their lifespan and create a healthier growing environment — helping you achieve consistent, high-quality harvests. 🌱

In this article, we'll address the following inquiries:

Why is it necessary to clean your trays?
Can I reuse a cleaned growing tray?
How to clean growing trays?
What does tray disinfection entail?
Is disinfection necessary?
How to effectively disinfect trays?
Summary

1. Why is it necessary to clean your trays?

Cleaning your trays is a necessary task in the world of sprout or microgreens growing – you just can't skip it.🧹 Wondering why? Let's break it down.

Picture the leftover soil, water, and old seeds on the tray from the last batch of plants. Seems harmless, right? Not really. These leftovers can harm your new microgreens. If you don't clean them, mold, bacteria, or fungi might grow, causing problems for your fresh crop. Basically, cleaning your trays is like giving your microgreens a fresh start for the best growth, without the risks of unwanted intruders.

2. Can I reuse a cleaned growing tray?

Certainly! That's why it's crucial to look after your trays and clean them thoroughly. If the trays aren't cracked or badly damaged, you can use them multiple times.

At MP Seeds, we prioritize robust and top-notch equipment for growing microgreens. That's why we suggest the "10x20" Extra Strength Growing Tray – a durable choice that will last for a long time.

If you're unsure about which trays or pots to pick when restocking your supplies, check out our article, where we explain the different types of trays and their features.

📚►Top Trays for Microgreens : Your Guide to Growing Trays and Pots, FAQs, and Choosing the Best!👈

"10x20" Extra Strength Growing Tray⬇️

3. How to clean growing trays?

Now that you know you can reuse a clean tray, let's get into the details of cleaning grow trays.💦 But fear not, it's no complicated task. In fact, it's a simple process that just requires a bit of care. Treating tray cleaning as a regular to-do on your urban farm is as vital as watering seeds or any other activity linked to growing edible flowers, microgreens or sprouts.

Think of it as a routine, a little chore that ensures your trays are in tip-top shape for nurturing your greens. To make it even simpler, we've boiled down the whole process into four straightforward steps. So, let's break down these steps and see how you can effortlessly make tray cleaning a seamless part of your microgreens cultivation routine.

Step 1. Scrub

Start by giving those trays a good wipe-down to bid farewell to any lingering dirt. Grab a sponge, a paper towel, or a brush – your choice!🧹 Now, get into the nitty-gritty of it. Scrub the tray's surface thoroughly, leaving no trace of soil, seeds, or roots from the previous crop behind.

Step 2. Clean

Strive to eliminate as much dirt as possible. If you find the tray challenging to clean thoroughly, consider a good soak to loosen the stubborn dirt.🧼 At this stage, you can introduce the cleaning superheroes – soap or dishwashing liquid. These simple yet effective agents will help you banish the dirt, ensuring your tray gets the treatment it deserves for the upcoming planting session.

Step 3. Disinfect

Once you've cleared away the leftover seeds, soil clumps, and any lingering dirt, it's time to give your trays a germ-busting session. The trick? Let them take a dip in water mixed with disinfectant for roughly 20 minutes.🪣 This ensures not only a dirt-free zone but also kicks out any fungi or bacteria that might be lingering, posing a potential threat to your upcoming crop. It's like giving your trays a shield against unwanted guests, securing a clean slate for your fresh greens.✨

Step 4. Dry

Once you've finished disinfecting the growing trays, the final touch is to ensure they are thoroughly dried. If feasible, let them air-dry outdoors.🌞

The now cleaned and prepared growing trays are all set for the next cultivation cycle.

"10x20" Shallow Growing Tray⬇️

4. What does tray disinfection entail?

Is it a vital step? While washing with soap and a good scrubbing can tackle visible soil or old seeds, it doesn't guarantee a spotless tray. What might linger unseen are bacteria, germs, or fungi from previous crops – a potential threat to your current one.🦠 That's where step 3 comes in – disinfection.

Is disinfection necessary?

Absolutely. Successful microgreens and sprout cultivation demands a farmer armed with disinfected tools and a pristine workspace, including trays or pots.🪴 Sanitizing growing trays stands as a cornerstone for ensuring not just any harvest but a healthy and bountiful one. Every farmer dreams of such yields. Considering and adopting this simple step can significantly impact the quality of your harvest.

5. How to effectively disinfect trays?

Disinfecting grow trays can be done using specialized products designed for this type of activity or household items found in your kitchen. There are several ways to disinfect your trays. Let's explore them:

Boiling water💦

The simplest, though not entirely ideal, method involves immersing the trays in boiling water. However, practicality may be an issue, as maintaining a water temperature of 100 degrees Celsius for a minimum of 5 minutes can be challenging, especially with varying tray sizes or quantities.

Water and Vinegar🧴

Another simple approach is to use a solution of white vinegar and water. Simply mix them, pour the mixture into a sprayer, and thoroughly spray your trays. It's a natural and effective mixture that kills germs and disinfects.

Bleach🥼

While some recommend disinfecting with chlorine-containing bleach, it's important to be cautious. Remember that such products may contain various chemicals that may not be suitable for use in contact with plants meant for consumption. When deciding on a disinfection method, prioritize the safety of both your crops and the environment.

Hydrogen peroxide🧬

Hydrogen peroxide, or H2O2, is a popular and eco-friendly choice for keeping microgreens trays clean. It's a safe alternative to chlorine bleach, breaking down into oxygen and water. This versatile product not only sterilizes trays but also combats bacteria, treats fungal growth, and prevents mold and mildew. A 3% solution, easily found in pharmacies or online, is effective for tray use. Handle it with care: store it away from heat, wear gloves, and avoid contact with eyes.

6. Summary

Maintaining the cleanliness of your grow trays gives your plants a fresh, healthy start every time. Whether you’re cleaning seed starting trays by hand or using a microgreen tray washer, this simple process helps create a safe and nourishing environment for microgreens to thrive. A well-maintained cleaning tray setup directly translates to a better, more consistent harvest.

At MP Seeds, we understand the importance of using reliable tools for successful cultivation. That’s why we not only offer durable trays, but also essential accessories for every step of the growing process. If you're looking for more than just trays, check out our Supplies for Growing Microgreens section for everything you need.

To conclude: as you prep your trays for the next cycle, remember that a little care — including regular disinfection and knowing how to sterilize seedling trays with the right tray disinfection solutions — can make a big difference in your results. 🌱

Happy growing!🌱

7. FAQ, Frequently Asked Questions about cleaning a growing tray

Can I Reuse a Cleaned Growing Tray?

Yes! Reusing growing trays is safe and sustainable — but only if you clean them properly. A thoroughly cleaned and disinfected tray can be used multiple times without compromising plant health. Just make sure your tray is not cracked or damaged. At MP Seeds, we recommend our durable “10x20” Extra Strength Growing Tray for long-term use.

How to Clean Growing Trays?

Cleaning seed starting trays is simple and essential for healthy microgreens. Follow this 4-step process:

Removing Debris

Use a cleaning brush, sponge, or paper towel to remove leftover soil, roots, and seeds.

Washing with Mild Soap

Prepare warm water with a few drops of mild soap or dish detergent. Soak the trays and scrub thoroughly.

Sanitizing with Vinegar or Bleach Solution

Choose one of these tray disinfection solutions:

Vinegar solution: Mix equal parts water and white vinegar. Spray or soak trays and leave for at least 10 minutes.
Bleach solution: Mix 4 teaspoons of bleach per 1 gallon (3.8 L) of water. Soak trays for 10–20 minutes.
Remember bleach safety: wear protective gloves, ensure good ventilation, and never mix bleach with other cleaners.

Rinsing and Drying

After disinfecting, rinse trays thoroughly to remove any residue. Allow them to air dry completely before reuse.

Why Is Tray Disinfection Necessary?

Even if your trays look clean after washing, invisible pathogens like mold, bacteria, or fungi can still linger. Regular disinfection is key to growing strong, healthy microgreens and sprouts. Clean tools mean a cleaner harvest.

What Are the Best Tray Disinfection Solutions?

The most effective ways to sterilize seedling trays include:

Boiling water: Submerge trays in boiling water for at least 5 minutes (not always practical).
Vinegar solution: Mix 1:1 water and vinegar. A natural, safe option.
Bleach solution: 4 teaspoons bleach per 1 gallon of water. Effective but needs caution.
Hydrogen peroxide (3%): A safe and eco-friendly alternative to bleach. Breaks down into water and oxygen.

What Safety Precautions Should I Take When Using Bleach?

Bleach is effective but must be handled carefully:

Always wear protective gloves.
Ensure proper ventilation.
Never mix bleach with vinegar or other cleaners.
Stick to the correct ratio: 4 tsp bleach per 1 gallon water.
Let it work for at least 10 minutes.
Rinse trays thoroughly and allow air drying before use.

Is a Microgreen Tray Washer Necessary?

If you're cleaning trays in bulk, a microgreen tray washer can save time and effort. For smaller batches, manual cleaning with a sponge, brush, and disinfectant is just as effective.

What Tools Help with Cleaning Trays?

To clean trays properly, you’ll need:

A cleaning brush for scrubbing tough dirt
A sponge or cloth for detailed cleaning
Spray bottles for applying vinegar or hydrogen peroxide
Protective gloves for handling bleach
A bucket or tub for soaking and rinsing