The kitchen may be the heart of the home, where meals are prepared, and families gather, but it’s also an area filled with germs. The hustle and bustle of life often overshadow the numerous nooks, crannies, and surfaces that are teeming with invisible, unwanted microbes. Maintaining cleanliness is crucial not only for aesthetic purposes but also for our health.

Let’s explore the dirtiest places in your kitchen and how to keep them clean.

Kitchen Sink

Believe it or not, your kitchen sink can harbor more germs than your trash can. Scrubbing it daily with a high-quality disinfectant can keep harmful bacteria at bay. Keeping your sink clean is especially important after rinsing raw meat.

Dish Sponge

The sponge you use when washing dishes is a breeding ground for bacteria. Sanitize your sponge daily by wetting it and microwaving it for a couple of minutes. It’s best to replace your sponge every two weeks or sooner, especially if it smells.

Cutting Boards

Cutting boards, especially wooden ones, can accumulate bacteria in the grooves created by knives. Wash your cutting boards thoroughly after each use. Take it a step further by using separate boards for fruits/vegetables and raw meat.

Coffee Maker

The reservoir in your coffee maker is a breeding ground for mold and yeast to grow. Regularly clean all removable parts and run a mixture of water and white vinegar through the machine monthly.

Refrigerator Drawers

Vegetable and meat drawers can harbor salmonella, listeria, and other harmful germs. Keep drawers clean by removing them and washing them in warm, soapy water monthly. Regularly maintain drawers by immediately cleaning up spills.

Kitchen Counters

Kitchen counters can accumulate a lot of unseen germs, crumbs, and residue. Clean them daily with a disinfectant, especially after preparing food.

Oven Knobs

Oven knobs are often overlooked during cleaning but can be filled with grease and grime. Remove the knobs if possible and soak them in soapy water to clean them thoroughly.

Garbage Disposal

The disposal can host a variety of bacteria due to the accumulation of food particles. Clean your garbage disposal by grinding ice cubes with lemon or orange peels and rinsing with cold water.