How to Clean and Store Baking Tools and Equipment
The toughest part about baking is the kitchen cleanup. Baking, which usually involves preparing and cooking breads, cakes and pastries, requires specific tools and accessories for measuring and mixing ingredients, as well as cooking and serving the baked treats. Then the process must ultimately wind down with the major task of cleaning and storing all the used tools and equipment. Here are some tips on cleaning up so you can ensure that your next baking session will be another tasteful experience. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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After measuring and mixing ingredients, soak all used mixing bowls, spatulas, measuring spoons and cups and mixer accessories in a tub of warm water (add a small amount of dishwasher detergent to help start the cleaning). Drop soiled items in the soak as soon as you are through using them. They will be easier to wash later on.
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Use a damp washcloth to wipe off all cake mix splatter from the mixer. While you're at it, wipe off any stray spatter from the countertops and nearby areas. If necessary, finish off with a dry dishcloth.
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Return electric mixers and other electronic equipment to their designated storage spaces.
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After baking, soak used cake pans and muffin tins in warm water with dishwashing solution to soften the baked-on or burnt food.
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Wash all used baking items and accessories by either handwashing or loading in a dishwasher (if dishwasher-safe).
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Dry all baking tools and equipment by air-drying on a drying rack or wiping with a dry dishcloth. Make sure all wooden spoons and accessories are dry before storing.
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Store all baking tools and equipment in their designated places. Put frequently used items in conveniently accessible locations. Gather and secure electrical cords to prevent entanglement or snagging.
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Tips & Warnings
Stainless steel baking equipment may need to be polished before storing. Use a microfiber cloth to polish.
Beaters need to be totally dry when mixing egg whites; otherwise the mixture won't be fluffy.
To prevent bacteria contamination, thoroughly wash and dry tools like kitchen shears, can openers and pastry cutters. Pastry brushes should be washed with hot water and completely dried before storing.
Use paper muffin liners and baking sheets (parchment paper) for easy cleanup.
When storing electrical equipment, take the time to check for frayed or broken cords. Repair or replace as needed.
Resources
Comments
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Debbie Lamb
Jan 21, 2010
Congratulations on being eHow Featured Member Of The DAY!!!!! I can't stand to not wash everything before it dries on. People tell me I cook in a "mad frenzy" but it is so much easier than waiting until full of dinner to clean it all up. Thanks! -
lynsuz12
Feb 09, 2009
Organizing in the kitchen really makes it easier and more enjoyable. 5* -
lynsuz12
Feb 09, 2009
Organizing in the kitchen really makes it easier and more enjoyable. 5*