A clean kitchen is comforting, inviting, and welcoming to everyone in the family, but it’s also necessary for family safety. According to experts, good kitchen hygiene protects your family from harmful bacteria and pests. But how often should you deep clean your kitchen, and when is it okay to give everything a quick wipe?
Let’s take a closer look at kitchen cleaning and kitchen cleaning supplies. We’ll learn how to make sure your kitchen is a welcome addition to your home and not home to harmful pests and pollutants.
Benefits of a Clean Kitchen
Some cooks swear they can only cook in a clean kitchen. Other people describe the feeling of relief and comfort when they walk into a clean and well-organized kitchen area. These are common and obvious benefits, but there are others you might not think about.
The act of cleaning a messy kitchen makes some people feel like they are in control, even when outside circumstances are chaotic. This contributes to better mental health and lowers stress.
There are health benefits associated with a clean kitchen, too. Germs, bacteria, and other harmful substances have less chance of populating our home when we keep the kitchen clean. People tend to overeat when their kitchen is messy but eat less when it is clean.
Let’s Make a Kitchen Cleaning Checklist
One of the best ways to make sure your kitchen is always clean, safe, and healthy is to use a cleaning checklist. That way, you can maintain the cleanliness of your kitchen from day to day, so deep cleaning days don’t take as long. It’s also easier to divide up the work among family members or as part of your children’s chore list.
Daily Kitchen Cleaning Checklist
Every day, make sure you do each of the following to keep your kitchen neat and orderly.
- Empty the dishwasher and load dirty dishes
- Wipe spills and grime from counters, floors, and appliances
- Clean counters with kitchen cleaner
- Wash out the sink with kitchen sink cleaner for your type of sink
- Sweep the floor
Weekly Kitchen Cleaning Checklist
Once a week, take the cleaning a step further. These tasks take a little more time but will help you keep appliances in working order and reduce the spread of germs, dirt, and bacteria.
- Throw out old items in your fridge or freezer
- Clean the outside of appliances
- Clean out the inside of your microwave
- Disinfect your sink and faucets
- Mop the floor
Know When to Deep Clean
Daily and weekly maintenance cleaning will keep your kitchen looking presentable for family and friends. It’s essential to give the kitchen a deep clean each month, or at least four times a year, depending on how much dirt and grime accumulates. Some of the items you should include on your deep clean list include:
- Sorting and cleaning kitchen cabinets
- Check your pantry for out of date items and to replace missing items
- Clean out the fridge and freezer and wipe down drawers and shelves
- Clean the inside of the dishwasher
- Spot clean tile grout
- Unplug the refrigerator and vacuum the refrigerator coils
- Clean the oven
- Sort through and organize your cooking utensils
- Inspect your glassware and dishes for cracks and replace any broken or chipped pieces
How to Clean Various Kitchen Areas
From floors to countertops, different parts of your kitchen require various tools and cleaners. Make sure you have the appropriate products at your disposal before you begin to clean.
Appliances
Appliances require some special attention. You can clean the inside of your microwave, for example, with a mixture of vinegar and water. Burnt food particles and built-up grease can be removed with baking soda. Baking soda is also great for eliminating foul odors in the microwave.
Wipe down the exterior of your refrigerator, freezer, dishwasher, and stove with a microfiber cloth. Many appliances have finishes that can scratch easily, so avoid harsh chemicals or textured fabrics.
Countertops and Sinks
You prepare food in your sink and on your countertops. Keeping these areas clean is essential for food safety.
Use eco-friendly cleaners on your countertop and in your sink. Let any cleaning agent sit on surfaces for five to ten minutes before wiping clean. Some countertop materials may require a specific type of cleaner, so check with your manufacturer.
Pantries and Cabinets
A well-stocked and well-organized pantry will make preparing meals fast and easy. When you clean the kitchen, set aside time to take out all the items in your cabinets and pantry. Toss anything that is expired and clean the shelves and doors before putting everything back.
Floors
Clean kitchen floors reduce the amount of dirt and debris you track through your home. Sweep the kitchen floor every day, and spot clean any stains or spills. Once a week, use warm water and mild soap to mop your floor.
Don’t forget about any rugs in your kitchen. Vacuum them weekly, and wash them each month.
Hiring a Cleaning Service
Many people have complicated family schedules with work, school, and kids’ activities. Deep cleaning your kitchen may not be something you have the time or energy to tackle. In that case, consider hiring a professional cleaning service.
From weekly maintenance cleaning to monthly deluxe deep clean, you can use the services of a professional home cleaner when you need them. Some people hire a service when they have a big party or event coming up. Whatever the reason, a home cleaning service can help ensure your kitchen is clean and healthy.
Keep It Sparkling
The kitchen is a central gathering spot in your home, and it can collect lots of dirt, grime, and bacteria. Kitchen cleaning is essential to the health and safety of your family, and it can help reduce stress and anxiety. Set up a cleaning schedule and checklist to tackle daily basic cleaning tasks and tackle deeper cleaning weekly and monthly.
If deep cleaning your kitchen requires more time than you can afford to give, consider hiring a professional cleaning service. Contact us today for a free consultation and quote.