5 Kitchen Cleaning Strategies to Prevent Foodborne Illness

1. Sanitize Cutting Boards & Counters

Why it matters: Raw meats, poultry, and seafood can harbour pathogens like Salmonella and E. coli. Leftover juices on cutting boards or countertops can cross-contaminate other foods.

What to do:

• Use separate boards for meats and produce (colour-coded if possible).

• After each use, wash in hot soapy water, then sanitize with a solution of 1 tablespoon of bleach per gallon of water (or a no-rinse sanitizer spray).

• Dry thoroughly before storing to prevent bacterial growth.

2. Deep-Clean Your Sink & Drain

Why it matters: Kitchen sinks and drains collect food particles, grease, and bacteria over time, creating a breeding ground for germs.

What to do:

• Once a week, scrub the sink basin and faucet handles with an eco-friendly cleaner.

• Pour baking soda down the drain, followed by white vinegar. Let it fizz for 5 minutes, then flush with hot water to clear the buildup.

• Wipe sink edges and drain stoppers daily to keep surfaces fresh.

3. Disinfect High-Touch Surfaces

Why it matters: Light switches, appliance handles, refrigerator doors, and cabinet knobs are touched constantly, transferring germs from hands to surfaces.

What to do:

• Keep a non-toxic disinfectant spray or wipes handy.

• Wipe high-touch areas daily, especially after handling raw ingredients.

• Let surfaces air-dry to maximize contact time for the disinfectant.

4. Refresh & Replace Sponges and Dishcloths

Why it matters: Sponges and cloths trap moisture and food residue, providing a perfect environment for bacterial growth.

What to do:

• Replace kitchen sponges every 1–2 weeks; sanitize between by microwaving (damp) for one minute or dishwasher run.

• Launder dishcloths and towels in hot water at least twice weekly.

• Consider using microfiber cloths, which dry faster and harbor fewer bacteria.

5. Clean Appliances Inside & Out

Why it matters: Refrigerators, ovens, and microwaves can harbour spills and splatters that degrade food quality and hygiene.

What to do:

• Refrigerator: Remove expired items weekly, wipe shelves with a mild detergent, then sanitize. Keep produce drawers dry.

• Microwave: Heat a bowl of water with lemon slices for 3–5 minutes, then wipe down the interior with a soft cloth.

• Oven: Use a steam cleaner or a baking soda paste to remove stubborn grime. Wipe clean and rinse thoroughly.

Final Thoughts

By incorporating these five strategies into your kitchen routine, you’ll significantly reduce the risk of foodborne illness, keeping your family safe and your mind at ease. If you’d like professional support, Radiant Places offers specialized kitchen deep-clean services designed for efficiency and safety.

Book your kitchen deep clean today and cook with confidence!

📞 780-919-8349🌐 www.radiantplaces.com

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