Build a hands-free washer for produce

By Marcia Miquelon, Outreach Specialist
UW Madison Healthy Farmers, Healthy Profits Project

Market gardeners have few inexpensive mechanical devices for washing produce by hand. They often wash produce at a spray table with a garden hose and hand held spray nozzle. Usually the dominant hand grasps the spray nozzle and directs it at the produce, and the other hand to turns the produce as it gets washed and moves it to a box for packing. This can cause hand, wrist and arm fatigue from gripping the nozzle and holding the hose, and awkward postures as you move your body to reach the produce. Most garden hose nozzles spray water at higher pressure than needed to wash vegetables. This wastes water, and may also damage produce, resulting in shorter shelf life and wasted effort.

For under $50, you can make a simple sprayer that does not need to be held or squeezed by hand. With both hands free, you can process produce faster and more efficiently with less strain on your body. Since you eliminate the need to hold, squeeze and direct the hose, your hands and arms are less likely to fatigue.

Using a hands-free washer can be nearly 40% faster than using a hose and nozzle. Faster washing means higher quality produce and savings in labor time. You can choose a nozzle with the right spray pattern for your job. For example, use a strong spray for roots and a gentle spray for leafy greens. There will be less damage to tender crops, and sturdier crops will clean up faster and better.

Total cost for parts to make a fixed sprayer ranges from $25-$70, depending on what type of nozzle you buy. This investment will be quickly made up in labor savings. You will also indirectly save money by improving product quality and preventing stress and strain on your body.

For more information or a construction diagram and parts list, contact the Healthy Farmers, Healthy Profits Project at (608) 262-1054 or visit www.bse.wisc.edu/hfhp/.

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