How do you keep your kitchen safe and clean?

1 Wash your hands

The first and most important step to keep your kitchen safe and clean is to wash your hands thoroughly before and after handling any food, utensils, or equipment. Use warm water and soap, and scrub for at least 20 seconds, covering all parts of your hands and wrists. Dry your hands with a clean towel or paper towel, and avoid touching anything else until you are ready to cook or eat.

2 Sanitize your surfaces

Another key step to keep your kitchen safe and clean is to sanitize your countertops, cutting boards, sinks, and faucets regularly. Use a disinfectant spray or wipe, or make your own solution with one tablespoon of bleach and one gallon of water. Wipe down all the surfaces before and after preparing any food, especially raw meat, poultry, eggs, or seafood. Rinse with water and let them air dry, or use a clean cloth to dry them.

3 Store your food properly

To keep your food fresh and safe, you need to store it properly in your refrigerator, freezer, pantry, or cabinets. Follow the guidelines for safe food storage, such as keeping raw meat, poultry, eggs, and seafood separate from other foods, using airtight containers or bags, labeling and dating your leftovers, and discarding any expired or spoiled food. Keep your refrigerator at 40°F or below, and your freezer at 0°F or below. Check the temperature regularly with a thermometer.

4 Use the right tools

Using the right tools for the right tasks can make your kitchen safer and cleaner, as well as more efficient and enjoyable. For example, use sharp knives for cutting, and avoid using the same knife for different foods without washing it. Use separate cutting boards for raw and cooked foods, and choose ones that are easy to clean and sanitize. Use wooden spoons or spatulas for stirring, and avoid using metal utensils on nonstick pans. Use oven mitts or pot holders for handling hot pots and pans, and avoid placing them on the stovetop or near the flame.

5 Clean as you go

One of the best ways to keep your kitchen safe and clean is to clean as you go, instead of leaving everything for later. This can prevent the accumulation of dirt, grease, and bacteria, as well as reduce the risk of fire or pest infestation. For example, wash your dishes, utensils, and equipment as soon as you finish using them, or place them in the dishwasher if you have one. Wipe up any spills or splatters immediately, and empty your trash can frequently. Sweep or vacuum your floor regularly, and mop it with a disinfectant solution.

6 Follow the rules

In order to keep your kitchen safe and clean, you must adhere to certain hygiene and safety rules. This includes washing fruits and vegetables before eating or cooking, cooking food to the recommended internal temperature, and refrigerating or freezing leftovers within two hours of cooking or serving. Additionally, it is important to keep pets, children, and other distractions away from the kitchen when you are cooking or cleaning. Never leave the stove, oven, or other appliances unattended and turn them off when you are done. It is also wise to have a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a phone nearby in case of emergency. By following these tips and best practices, you can ensure your kitchen is safe and clean while enjoying your culinary education and experience.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?