Abstract: An automatic cleaning machine for cleaning reusable foodstuff containers, such as bottles, cans or boxes, wherein the machine is of the type containing successive liquid cleaning and rinsing baths or stages, and is characterized by apparatus for supplying and circulating liquid in the machine which improves waste water composition. Steam derived from an evaporator holding soft water is passed through a heat exchanger to heat washing liquid in the machine. The condensate from the heat exchanger is supplied to a first rinse water tank or container for use as rinsing water immediately following the last cleaning solution stage and before the final fresh water rinse. Preferably the first rinse water container has two chambers, a second chamber receiving the condensate and storing the excess, and a first chamber receiving overflow from the second chamber.