Method for cleaning containers and cleaning machine

A method for cleaning containers, in a cleaning machine, in which in several stations and process steps, at least one cleaning medium is allowed to act on the containers conveyed by the cleaning machine, comprising cleaning the containers in at least one station with at least one cleaning medium;

• and wherein in at least one pre-cleaning step, wetting each container with chemical-free water essentially on all sides, pre-soaking dirt accumulations present on each container for a predetermined period, pre-cleaning an exterior of each container by blasting with chemical-free compressed pure water, subsequently internally cleaning each container over at least one further predetermined period at least by pressure blasting an inner surface of the container with granular material and a carrier medium, subsequently rinsing each container with chemical-free water, and disinfecting each container, wherein disinfecting each container comprises, on at least an inside and in an opening of the container, application and combustion of gas or of a substance combustible without leaving any residue.