The kitchen is often considered the heart of the home, so keeping it clean and sanitary is a top priority for many people. Cleaning and sanitizing your kitchen regularly not only helps to prevent food-borne illnesses and cross contamination but can also help reduce allergens in your home. Here are some tips on how to best clean and sanitize your kitchen:
1. Remove any clutter
Start by removing any clutter from countertops, appliances, cabinets, drawers, and shelves. Wipe surfaces with an all-purpose cleaner or diluted bleach solution (one tablespoon of bleach per gallon of water).
2. Scrub surfaces
Next, scrub down hard surfaces like countertops, appliances, cabinets and drawer fronts using a disinfectant cleaner and a scrub brush. You can also use a toothbrush to get into crevices and harder-to-reach places.
3. Wash dishes
Once your surfaces and appliances are clean, fill the sink with soapy water and wash dishes, utensils and other kitchen items that come into contact with food like cutting boards or serving platters. Be sure to rinse these items in hot water before drying them off completely.
4. Sanitize all surfaces
Make sure to disinfect countertops, handles, and other high-touch surfaces with an approved sanitizing cleaner regularly. Be sure to read the label for proper dilution and contact times for the specific product you are using. Special attention should be paid to items such as cutting boards, as these can harbor bacteria even if they seem clean.
Also, sanitize all hard surfaces using a fresh solution of 1 part bleach to 10 parts water or an EPA-registered disinfectant cleaner (follow instructions on the label for proper application). Allow this solution to sit on the surface for five minutes before wiping dry with a clean cloth or paper towel.
To really get into those hard-to-reach areas of your kitchen, take a look here and learn how to use a steam cleaner to kill germs without harsh chemicals. A steam cleaner will also help remove grease and grime build up on appliances like stoves and ovens that regular cleaning may not reach.
5. Clean trash cans
Clean trash cans weekly to avoid odors and bacteria build up. Use a disinfectant cleaner or bleach solution to get rid of any potentially harmful germs lurking in the can’s nooks and crannies. If you need help, contact the Clean Queen in Arvada. Also, don’t forget to change out sponges and towels often to prevent the spread of germs.
6. Let fresh air in
To keep your kitchen smelling fresh, open windows whenever possible for ventilation, and use air fresheners if needed. Don’t forget to vacuum or sweep regularly as well! Doing this will help remove dust mites, dirt, pet hair and other debris from your floors. Lastly, make sure you empty the vacuum bag or container on a regular basis – otherwise it can become a breeding ground for bacteria itself!
By following the above guidelines, you can ensure that your kitchen is a clean and safe place to cook, eat and entertain. Regular cleaning and disinfection will also help to reduce allergens in your home and help prevent the spread of germs that can lead to food-borne illness or other health problems. So don’t forget to regularly clean and sanitize your kitchen—it’s an important part of keeping your family safe!
This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult with a licensed healthcare professional if you have questions about proper cleaning and sanitization techniques in your home.
