Having a sparkling clean kitchen is more than just being prepared when your neighbor stops by for coffee. A germ-free home will help you and your family stay healthy. Getting to the nitty gritty of this area of your home may feel daunting if you’re unsure where to begin. Don’t worry. Our tips make cleaning the kitchen a breeze. You’ll learn how often to tackle specific areas, what products to use, and when to replenish your supplies.
Sink and Countertops
Sanitizing the sink is the first step when cleaning the kitchen. To keep microorganisms from starting a party near the drain, disinfect your sink at least once a week. First, put the dishes in the dishwasher, then use your sprayer to rinse the sink. Then, take a soapy sponge and scrub every nook and cranny. Once a month, pour one teaspoon of bleach and a quart of water down the drain.
Keeping your countertops spick and span will help reduce the risk of illness. Wipe down these surfaces with hot, soapy water every time you use them. Remember to keep household cleaners away from food prep areas, so you don’t risk spilling chemicals into tonight’s dinner. When things get really dirty in the kitchen, you might want to reach for the heavy artillery, like bleach and ammonia. While they are powerful germ fighters, they can also leave behind harmful residue. There are many available options for eco-friendly products that you can feel good about using in your kitchen.
Don’t forget that bacteria can also build up in your sponge. So before it crawls away, replace it with a fresh one. Aim to do this healthy habit every two weeks, or more often if the sponge starts to smell or fall apart.
Large Appliances
The refrigerator, range, and garbage disposal need attention weekly. First, clean out any spoiled food from the fridge, and wipe the inside with dish soap and water. Most soap products expire after two to three years, so if it’s been a while since you’ve invested in a set, it’s probably time.
Now, grab a box of baking soda from the pantry and a bottle of white vinegar. Sprinkle half a cup of powder down the disposal, followed by one cup of vinegar. Let it sit for 10 minutes, turn the blades on, and flush the disposal with hot water to keep it smelling fresh.
Make cleaning appliances like your microwave oven easier by zapping a bowl of water for two minutes. The steam will loosen stuck-on foods and make wiping down the inside quick work. Next, pay some attention to your range. You can dip a microfiber cloth into the hot water from the microwave and drape it over any hardened spills, then wipe clean.
Floors
Choosing the right way to clean your kitchen floors depends on the material, but always start with a thorough sweeping. Whether you use a classic broom or an electric version, get as many crumbs up as possible. Flooring like linoleum, vinyl, and ceramic tile can be mopped with 1 or 2 tablespoons of dish soap in a gallon of warm water.
Avoid putting too much soap and water on your hardwood floors. You don’t want them to stain or warp from excess moisture. Protect your investment, whether it’s oak, pine, or bamboo. A spray and mop product or disposable pads made for wood do well and won’t scratch or dull your floor’s surface. Don’t reach for the vinegar for this task either because it can also damage the finish. Finally, turn on a ceiling fan or dry the floor by hand with a microfiber cloth.
Trash
For many of us, taking out the trash is a daily occurrence, but how often should you clean out the can? Give your kitchen’s trash receptacle a good scrubbing at least once a month. Of course, if you eat out a lot or recycle, your trash bin might not see a lot of action, so you decide if that’s frequent enough for you.
Always start with a soapy microfiber cloth. Wash the outside of the can first to prevent smearing once you delve inside. Next, use the same cloth to clean the inside, or get a fresh one if necessary. Follow some good habits to help the bin stay clean for weeks. Don’t throw anything away unless there’s a liner installed, and avoid trashing wet or runny foods. Put those items down your disposal or contain them in a plastic press-and-seal bag first.
Don’t hesitate to ask for a helping hand from other family members, either. Chores are good for kids, and with the right approach, they enjoy pitching in. Children can start doing simple tasks around the house, like taking out the trash, as young as 3 years old.
If you’re short on time or need a few extra hands, let us help out. We’ll ensure cleaning the kitchen doesn’t get in the way of fun activities. Contact us today and see why we’re different.
