Clean enough to eat off of
How clean is your kitchen? Clean enough to eat off of? Would you bet on it? Even the CDC has kitchen appliances and we're betting they keep them pretty clean. Follow this quick checklist and make sure you're home would pass inspection.
The sink
From the raw meat you let thaw in it to the sponge you're not sure the last time it was changed, the sink is a hotbead of germs. First, thaw meat in the fridge- it's safer. Second, regularly change your sponges to make sure the things you clean with them are really clean. While you're at the sink, don't forget the garbage disposal! The intentional and accidental food that ends up there is a breeding ground for germs. Make sure to disinfect with bleach or these handy cleaners.
The counter
Which brings us to the kitchen counter. Drips from raw meat and eggs out of sight, out of mind- right? Make sure that when raw meat, fish, eggs and other germy contaminants drip or touch your counters you give them the royal treatment and disinfect with soap and water or antibacterial wipes. This helps avoid cross contamination and brings us to...
The cutting boards
Basic rules of avoiding cross contamination include not using the same cutting board for meats and veggies- even if they're going into the same pot. Disinfecting cutting boards thoroughly is important. Hot water goes a long way toward cleanining so if your boards are dishwasher safe take advantage of the heat a dishwasher provides. Take it a step further and snag an adorable set of cutting boards with one for every food group.
The fridge
Raw veggies rotting, meat and seafood thawing, dust and dirt from fresh produce- it's time to clean the fridge. At least once per month wipe down all of the shelves and drawers and weekly wipe down the exterior- especially the touchable parts like handles.
The dishwasher
If your dishwasher emits an awful smell while running- we have bad news, it's alive! Your dishwasher needs love, too. Make sure to wipe down the nooks and crannies with a vinegar and baking soda paste and run an empty dishwasher cycle with a cup of vinegar.
The trashcan
You know what you threw away in there, so why is it ok to touch it and NOT wash your hands? Make sure you're not spreading even more germs and smells by changing your bag regularly, using a quality bag to avoid spills, and spraying and wiping down with disinfectant once a week. Fan of bleach? Pour a solution of bleach and water in the bottom of your trash can, let sit, then rinse out to ensure signs of life are erased.
The little things
Easy to forget about the little guys- but you probably touch them the most! Make sure you get these disinfected, too:
- microwave touchpads
- stove and oven buttons
- fan and light switches
- door handles
- drawer handles/doors
- faucets
Keep clean and carry on!
