If you’re in need of a kitchen sanitation guide to help your favorite room in the house stay clean and fresh, look no further than our list below! This kitchen sanitation guide is perfect for busy homeowners that are in need of a little extra help and guidance in cleaning. Read on to learn more about maintaining a clean, healthy home with food preparation areas you can trust.
Clean Your Drains
First on the kitchen sanitation guide list is to clean your kitchen drains. Many people often forget about this important step, but it’s essential for keeping the kitchen free of bacteria and germs. To clean your drains, you’ll want to use an all-purpose cleaner or a specialized drain cleaner that can eat away at tough grime and buildup in the pipes. Be sure to wear gloves when cleaning your drains and be mindful of the chemical ingredients in the cleaner you’re using.
Another way to clean your drains is to clean your garbage disposal. To do so, you’ll need to put some ice cubes and a few tablespoons of baking soda into the disposal and turn it on. This will help break down any hardened food and help to remove any unpleasant odors.
Scrub Down Counters
Next, it’s time to tackle your counters. Start by wiping down surfaces with a wet cloth or paper towel to remove any surface dirt, then move on to scrubbing them with an all-purpose cleaner or specialized kitchen sanitizer. For instance, if you have quartz or natural stone countertops, you’ll want to use a specialized cleaner that won’t damage the surface. Be sure to rinse and dry your counters after cleaning, as this will help prevent future buildup.
In addition, never use abrasive cleaners or sponges when cleaning your counters. These items can scratch the surface of your counters and weaken their protective sealant, which can ultimately lead to bacteria growth and other problems.
Clean Appliances
It’s also important to clean your kitchen appliances, as they can harbor a lot of germs and bacteria. Start by wiping down the outside of your appliances with an all-purpose cleaner or a specialized kitchen sanitizer. For this kitchen sanitation guide, we recommend using stainless steel cleaner for stainless steel appliances and glass cleaner for glass surfaces.
Then, move on to the inside of your appliances. For the stovetop, you can use an all-purpose cleaner and a scrubbing brush or sponge to get rid of any stubborn grease splatters. For the fridge and freezer, make sure to throw out any expired food, then clean off shelves and drawers with a damp cloth. Additionally, you’ll want to vacuum the condenser coils and clean the drip pan at least once a year. If your appliances aren’t working or are in disrepair, consider appliance repair services to keep your appliances looking like new.
Sanitize Cutting Boards
It’s also important to keep your cutting boards clean and sanitized. First, use hot soapy water and a scrubbing brush to remove any residue. Then, spray them with a sanitizing solution and let them air dry. Additionally, you can use a specialized wood cleaner or oil to keep them looking like new.
For instance, if you have a wood cutting board, you’ll want to use a food-safe mineral oil and rub it into the cutting board once a month. This will help keep moisture out of the wood, prevent bacteria growth, and add shine to your boards.
For plastic cutting boards, you can use a food-safe sanitizing solution to give them an extra clean.
Clean Your Sink
In addition to plumbing repair services, one of the best ways to keep your sink looking and working like new is to clean it thoroughly. Cleaning your sink and faucet is one of the most important items on this kitchen sanitation guide. To start, use a damp cloth or sponge and an all-purpose cleaner to wipe down the sink, faucet, and drain.
Then, take a toothbrush and scrub down the sink’s corners and tight spots. This will help remove any buildup and grime that may have been left behind from washing dishes. Then, rinse down your sink and faucet with a damp cloth or sponge to remove any remaining residue.
If you notice any issues with your water pressure, simply remove the aerator and give it a good scrub down with a toothbrush. This will help to remove any built-up sediment or lime scale that could be blocking your water flow.
Clean Under Your Sink
If you have plumbers visiting to offer plumbing repair services, one of the most important kitchen sanitation guide items is to keep the area under your sink clean. Start by removing all items from under the sink and wiping down surfaces with an all-purpose cleaner or a specialized kitchen sanitizer. Additionally, be sure to wear gloves when handling any detergents or cleaners, as this will help protect your hands from any harsh chemicals.
Then, inspect the pipes and connections for any signs of leakage or damage. If you notice anything that looks off, contact a licensed plumber immediately. Additionally, make sure to check for any signs of mold or mildew in the area.
Finally, when all surfaces are clean, you can start to organize under your cabinet to keep it clean. Storage bins and baskets are a great way to organize bottles, sponges, and cleaning supplies. This will help keep the area neat and tidy while also making it easier to access items when you need them, such as during new plumbing installation.
Inspect Your Water Systems
Having clean water is one of the most important parts of this kitchen sanitation guide. To keep your water safe and clean, be sure to inspect the water systems once a month. Check for any leaks or signs of clogs, as this could indicate a plumbing issue that needs to be addressed. Additionally, you’ll want to inspect the water heater for any dirt or debris buildup.
If you find any valves or pipes that appear to be in disrepair or are leaking, contact a plumber immediately. They will be able to make any necessary repairs and replace any valves or pipes that need to be replaced.
In addition, a septic pumping service may be necessary if you have a septic tank. This will help to remove any built-up sludge and waste from the tank, which can help keep your water systems running smoothly.
Wipe the Front of Your Cabinets
No matter what type of cabinet designs you have in your kitchen, one thing is for sure—they need to be wiped down as part of this kitchen sanitation guide. To start, use a damp cloth or sponge and an all-purpose cleaner to gently wipe down the surfaces of your cabinets.
Be sure to pay extra attention to areas with food or grease buildup. Additionally, be sure to check for any signs of mold or mildew on the front surfaces and in any corners.
In addition, if your cabinets are made of wood, you’ll need to make sure that you’re using a wood cleaner to protect the finish. This will help your cabinets stay looking their best for years to come.
If your cabinets are made of metal or plastic, you’ll want to use a specialized cleaner for those materials. This will help the cabinets stay in good condition and free from corrosion and rust.
If you notice any fading in your wood cabinets, consider adding some staining or refinishing to help protect the wood.
Sanitize Your Floors
One of the most vital items on this kitchen sanitation guide is to sanitize and finish your floors. There are lots of ways you can sanitize your kitchen floor, depending on the type of material you have. For instance, if your floors contain concrete polishing, you’ll want to mop with a concrete cleaner.
To begin sanitizing, start by sweeping the dirt and grime away from the surface. Then, make a solution of hot water and an all-purpose cleaner or floor sanitizer and mop the area until it is completely clean.
If you have hardwood floors, you can use a wood cleaner to help restore any dulled finishes. Additionally, be sure to check for any signs of water damage on your floors. If you notice any moisture or warping, contact a licensed contractor immediately to have the issue fixed.
Clean Out Your Refrigerator Filter
If you receive filtered water from your refrigerator, you’ll want to make sure that you’re changing the filter regularly. This will help keep the water clean and free of any dirt or debris. Most refrigerators have easy-to-install filters that only need to be replaced every six months or so.
Take the time to read the instructions and replace your filter as needed to keep your water fresh and clean. You can also subscribe to a service that delivers your filters directly to your door every five months. Additionally, you’ll want to inspect the walls of your refrigerator for any signs of mold or mildew growth. If you find any, use a specialized cleaner to treat the area.
Be sure to check for any clogs in the hose or broken parts as this could lead to a plumbing issue that needs to be addressed by a professional.
Conduct Pest Control
Pests can be a nuisance, especially when it comes to food preparation and storage. To prevent any pests from entering your kitchen, you’ll want to inspect the area for any signs of rodent or insect activity.
If pests are present, contact a pest control specialist immediately. They will be able to safely remove the pests and help prevent them from returning in the future. Additionally, they can provide you with a few tips on how to keep pests out of your kitchen in the future.
Finally, be sure to inspect the perimeter of your home for any holes or cracks that could be a potential entry point for pests. If needed, repair these areas to help ensure that no unwelcome guests make their way into your kitchen.
Dust Your Windows
Dusting your windows is a great item on this kitchen sanitation guide since it helps keep your windows clean and free of dust. Start by using a soft cloth to wipe the dirt and grime away from the glass.
If there are any areas that are difficult to reach, you can use an extendable duster or a telescopic rod with a feather duster attachment. Once you have thoroughly cleaned the panes, you can use a window cleaner to help remove any residue.
Finally, be sure to check for any broken seals or cracks in the windows that could lead to air leaks. If needed, contact a licensed contractor to have them repaired.
Clean Your Coffee Maker
While you might not think of your coffee maker as a kitchen sanitation item, it’s essential that you regularly clean and maintain this appliance. Start by unplugging the machine and removing any filters or pods.
Then, pour in a solution of water and white vinegar, which will help to remove any built-up sediment from the interior components. Let the machine run for a few minutes and then discard the solution.
If your coffee maker has removable carafes, be sure to wash them with warm water and dish soap before reassembling the machine. Finally, use a microfiber cloth to wipe down the exterior of the machine and remove any moisture or dirt that may have accumulated over time.
Disinfect Your Dishwasher
Your dishwasher is an often overlooked part of your kitchen sanitation process. Start by checking the filter for any food residue or build-up. If needed, use a scrub brush to help remove any stuck-on particles.
Once you have cleaned the filter, add a solution of white vinegar and water to the rinse cycle before running it on a hot cycle. This will help to disinfect the machine and remove any potential odors or bacteria.
Finally, regularly inspect the seals on your dishwasher for any signs of damage or wear. If needed, contact a professional to have them replaced.
Following these steps in this kitchen sanitation guide will help ensure that your kitchen is safe and clean for cooking healthy meals. With proper maintenance and sanitization, you can keep your kitchen looking and smelling its best. Additionally, these steps will help to prevent any bacteria or germs from taking up residence in your kitchen. By following this guide, you can maintain a clean, healthy home.