Cleaning the kitchen can be such a drag! Unfortunately, getting bugs or a food-borne illness is a bigger drag, so keeping the heart of the home clean and tidy is a must. Regular cleaning is an effectie way to keep your family healthy and your home feeling like home.
Check out these 10 tips to get your kitchen even cleaner.
1. Clean cutting boards the right wayKeep your tummy safe from germs by properly cleaning cutting boards. You can safely wash plastic, glass and acrylic cutting boards in the dishwasher. Use a damp sponge with soap to scrub food remnants off a wooden cutting board. Run under water to rinse. Rinse all boards with bleach or white vinegar and wipe them dry with a cloth completely.
2. Natural cleaner for the floorClean kitchen floors with 1 cups of white vinegar in a gallon of water. The vinegar helps disinfect floors without the harsh chemicals (plus kiddos can safely help scrub). The odor will evaporate and the floors will shine. You can also pour 1/2 cup of baking soda into two gallons of water and scrub the floor.
3. Clean stovetop efficientlyIf the stovetop is filthy, try Bar Keepers Friend. The
Non-Consumer Advocate recommends this bleach-free cleaner. Sprinkle on the stove and scrub away in just a few minutes. Note: Although environmentally friendly, Bar Keepers Friend may agitate the skin, so wear gloves.
4. Clean the microwave in a snapIt's a small space, and it's a pain to clean – not. Place a few wet paper towels in the microwave and run it on high for up to five minutes. Let the towels cool down, and use them to wipe away the grime with ease.
5. Scrub the vent hoodGet rid of sticky dust on the stove vent hood with a bit of cooking or mineral oil. Just pour a few drops on a towel and wipe the hood clean, and use soap and water to wash away the leftover oil. Get the full tutorial
here.
6. Scrub the oven racksMake scrubbing the oven racks a ton easier by putting them in the tub. Layer dryer sheets on the bottom of the tub and place the racks on top. Fill the tub with warm water to cover the racks. Add 1/2 cup of dish soap and allow them to soak overnight. In the morning, drain the tub and use the dryer sheets to wipe them clean.
7. Wash the dishwasher rackWhen you're washing the dishwasher, don't forget to pull out the shelves and give them a good scrub down with soap and water every once in a while. You can use this time to get between the crevices inside the dishwasher too.
8. Really clean the disposalThe garbage disposal can get nasty fast! Make sure you really clean it out by tackling the undersides of the rubber covering with a toothbrush and soap. Toss in ice and lemon rinds and run the disposal to sharpen the blades and kill odor.
9. Clean George Foreman grill like a proThe George Foreman grill has saved many a last-minute meal with its quick-cooking features, but this appliance can be a pain to clean. If the grill does not have removable plates, try placing moist paper towels onto the grill while it's still warm and close it. (Make sure to shut it off and unplug it.) After a bit, wipe away most of the grease. You can use a damp rag and soap to get rid of any residue.
10. Remove odors from the fridgeFreshen up the refrigerator by placing brewed coffee grounds on a plate and placing it inside. The coffee will soak up the odors. Thoroughly clean the inside with baking soda and vinegar every few weeks to keep germs (and odors) away.
If you thought these tips were helpful, make sure to share them with your friends on Facebook!
