How to Reduce Kitchen Germs

How to clean your kitchen

With increased reports on food contamination and more people cooking at home, reducing kitchen germs has moved even higher on the list of household safety concerns. Due diligence in cleaning food and the working environment will reduce health risks so check out these tips on how to reduce kitchen germs more effectively in your home.

Things You'll Need

• Microfiber towels
• Paper towels
• Broom
• Hot water
• Cleanser
• Disinfectant

Instructions

1. Reduce kitchen germs by minimizing and eliminating the germs that are brought into the household. Note that grocery bags may be carriers of the latest virus, especially if the cashier is a carrier. Throw away bags from suspect places and during cold and flu season rather than store them. At minimum, remove them from the main living area. In the interest of green living minimize plastic bag use or bring your own washable bag to carry goods.

2. Clean counters regularly to reduce kitchen germs effectively. Essential times to clean include when handling produce and raw meat or seafood and following trips to the grocery store. Repair counters that are scratched, cracked or worn to make kitchen cleanup more effective.

3. Wash fruits and vegetables well but note that this will not destroy certain viruses and bacteria. Raw foods should be kept separately to minimize cross contamination. Keep eggs in their carton and other foods sealed. If you're concerned about the safety of raw produce, sign up for food safety alerts via the USDA website and/or buy from trusted local vendors.

4. Clean the inside and outside of your refrigerator regularly with hot soap and water or an antibacterial spray. Pay attention to the door seals and keep on top of leftovers. Regular cleaning of the door handle and cupboards is good practice for reducing kitchen germs.

5. Sweep the floor daily, when food crumbs are evident, to reduce kitchen germs where they flourish. Note that kitchen floors may contain more viable germs than bathroom floors when food crumbs are left unattended. Mop floors regularly using cleaner that is designed for your floor but not prone to attracting more dirt.

6. Use paper towels instead of hand towels when there are excess contagions in the home due to illness. Additionally, choose paper over cloth when handling raw meat or seafood. In the interest of the environment there are many choices in paper products including half-sized sheets and recyclable paper. Replace cloth hand towels with fresh linens every day or two following use.

7. Replace sponges with microfiber towels and wash regularly. These may be washed in the dishwasher if desired. Allow wet materials to dry thoroughly during the night.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep trash clans cleaned and use disinfectant regularly to conquer kitchen germs.

• Never mix chemicals that you are unfamiliar with for cleaning. Bleach and ammonia combined may produce toxic fumes.