12 Often-Overlooked Items for Kitchen Cleaning
The kitchen, often referred to as the heart of the home, can harbor hidden bacteria, grease, and dust. Here's a guide to help you keep your kitchen clean and hygienic.
Dishwasher
The dishwasher has a filter that traps loose particles from dishes. Over time, this filter can get overloaded and cause bad odors. To prevent this, ensure you run the dishwasher regularly and clean the filter often.
Sink
Garbage disposals should be run every time dishes are washed or the dishwasher is run. The sink can get dirty with dried-on food splatters, so it's essential to clean it regularly. Heating a cup containing equal parts water and vinegar in the microwave can help loosen up food in the sink.
Pet Bowls
Pet bowls, used multiple times a day, should be washed regularly to prevent the build-up of bacteria.
Sponges
Sponges can harbor a wide range of harmful bacteria, making it essential they be cleaned regularly. Soaking a sponge and microwaving it for a minute is one way to clean it.
Small Appliances
Small appliances in the kitchen, like toasters and coffee makers, should be cleaned regularly to prevent the build-up of bacteria and grime. Cleaning the water reservoir of a coffee machine at least once a month is important, as yeast and mold were present in 50% of tested coffee reservoirs.
Kitchen Surfaces
Cabinet shelves can trap dust and other particles, and should be wiped down when dishes or cans are restocked. Kitchen drawers can accumulate dust, dirt, and food particles, requiring occasional cleaning.
Less Visible Surfaces
The organization recommending cleaning beyond obvious kitchen areas is not explicitly named in the available search results; however, commonly overlooked kitchen areas often include handles, light switches, and less visible surfaces such as backsplash, faucet bases, and cabinet edges. These are areas frequently missed during routine cleaning.
Vents and Trash Cans
Dust can settle on vents, and vent filters should be changed at least every three months. Trash cans can get gnarly, especially if the bag leaks, and should be rinsed and cleaned whenever a new bag is added.
Light Switches
Light switches can harbor traces of bacteria, and anti-bacterial cleaning wipes are effective for cleaning them.
Baseboards
Baseboards can trap dust, dirt, pet hair, and over time, need a quick clean with a damp rag or cleaner.
Oven
The oven can get messy quickly, with spills cooking onto the interior, leading to a burning smell. Regular cleaning is essential to prevent this.
Home Decor
Author Bonnie Ferrero, who has interests in hiking, cooking, gardening, and home decorating, reminds us that even kitchen appliances and the spice rack can contain more bacteria than a bathroom doorknob. Washing the exteriors of small appliances with a clean, soapy rag or sponge keeps them looking fresh.
By following this guide, you can maintain a clean and hygienic kitchen, ensuring a healthier home environment for you and your family.
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