How to Create a Healthy Kitchen

By eHow Home & Garden Editor

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Of all the rooms in the house, the kitchen requires the most effort to keep clean, safe and healthy. With multiple surfaces to wash and food-related germs with which to contend, creating a safe and healthy kitchen is no simple task. However, there are a few things you can do to make the job a little easier.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Step1

Discourage germs from claiming residence on your cutting boards by cleaning them after each use. Use a separate cutting board for vegetables and meats, preferably one that has a non-porous surface. Replace your cutting board once it becomes worn and grooved.

Step2

Keep your kitchen well-lit. Not only is better lighting safer, research suggests that people are less likely to overeat in a brightly lit area. To encourage healthy eating habits, place a bowl of fruit in plain sight, where you will be more likely to reach for it instead of an unhealthy alternative.

Step3

Reduce your risk of fire by using proper tools for removing hot items from both the oven and stove top. When working around an open flame, be wary of dangling dishcloths and long sleeves.

Step4

Buy eco-friendly cleaners to reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals and irritants. You could also make your own homemade cleaners, as well.

Step5

Heat non-stick pans on low or medium heat to reduce the amount of toxic chemicals that is released when the pan gets too hot. When using the microwave, heat food in glass containers instead of plastic.

Step6

Wipe down counters and flat surfaces using several clean rags instead of a sponge, which can transfer germs from one area to another. Be sure to wipe clean any meat juices immediately.