Yuck: The Hidden Places Where Germs Lurk in the Kitchen
Knowledge is Power:
Germs are found everywhere. Unfortunately, we often cannot see them and may not realize they hide in unexpected places in the kitchen.
A study by NSF International (a public health and safety company) conducted in twenty kitchens shows the eight places where germs are most likely to be hidden. They looked for salmonella, E. coli, mold, and listeria. They were shocked that 25% of the swab samples they had taken were positive for salmonella and E. coli; plus, every swab had mold and yeast.
Here are eight places that can harbor germs and bacteria in the kitchen:
- Maintaining Hygiene for Stored Food Containers:
- Food storage containers can be effectively cleaned in the dishwasher.
- When handwashing these containers, pay special attention to the grooves where the lid meets the bowl.
- Knife Block Cleaning Instructions:
- To begin, remove the knives from the block and turn the block upside down to shake out any loose crumbs.
- Then, wash the block in hot, soapy water, using a small brush to clean the slots thoroughly.
- Soak the block in a mixture of hot water and one tablespoon of 5.25% bleach.
- After that, air-dry the block completely.
- Finally, wash and dry the knives.
- Refrigerator ice dispenser: Turn off the ice maker, remove the bin, and clean it every three months using hot, soapy water. Rinse thoroughly and ensure it is completely dry.
- Refrigerator water dispenser – Refer to your manual for authoritative cleaning instructions, as different dispensers may require specific care plans.
- Rubber spatulas: Remove the spatula head from the handle and wash the area where they connect thoroughly. This can be a moment of realization! Use lukewarm water and dish soap to clean thoroughly. Dry both parts. Also, it is advisable to follow this cleaning process using a disinfecting and sanitizing wipe.[Ask Cindy and Amazon]
Don’t forget the small appliances
- Can Openers: Every type should often be washed with hot, soapy water. Afterward, I like to follow up on this cleaning process with a disinfecting and sanitizing pop-up wipe. [Ask Cindy and Amazon]
- Blenders and Gasket Part: Clean the blender and gasket using hot, soapy water. Rinse all parts thoroughly and dry.
- [A] Refrigerator meat compartment – Clean with a mild detergent and warm water. Then, rinse with a mixture of water and baking soda. [B] Refrigerator vegetable compartment – Clean with a mild detergent and warm water. Rinse with a mixture of water and baking soda. Finally, I like to follow up on the cleaning process using disinfecting and sanitizing pop-up wipes.[Ask Cindy and Amazon]
In summary, cleaning kitchen surfaces and the tools and accessories used for cooking is crucial to ensuring safe food storage and meal preparation. By adopting simple cleaning habits, you can create a healthy kitchen environment and enjoy preparing meals.
“Enjoy, Bon Appétit!”
Do you still have questions? Contact Cindy. Need supplies? Visit askcindyshop.com for all your general cleaning needs. You can also review some related posts for additional cleaning tips.
