Cleaning the kitchen is a complicated task.
Maintaining a clean kitchen isn't just about aesthetics, it's also about protecting the health of you and your loved ones. As temperatures rise, so do the challenges to kitchen cleanliness. Ants and cockroaches can be found in hidden corners, and dust can end up in unexpected places. Beyond the obvious wiping of countertops and stovetops, there are nooks and crannies that are often overlooked during the kitchen cleaning process. If you leave these areas neglected, your kitchen won't be completely clean. What are these areas? Have you forgotten to clean them? Let's check it out.
Also read: Kitchen Tips: How to Clean Wooden Utensils
Here are five kitchen areas that are often ignored while cleaning.
1.Dry food storage area:
Steel jars containing essentials such as flour and lentils are prime targets for pests. It is effective to seal it in an airtight container, but do not overlook the shelf where it is placed. Spills and crumbs accumulate in these often crowded spaces. Regularly clean and disinfect these shelves to keep them free of pests.
Also read: Kitchen tips: How to clean greasy dishes
2. Gas cylinder cabinet:
The cabinet that houses the gas cylinder is hidden under the countertop and is often overlooked during cleaning. Moving can be a hassle, but by taking the time to move the cylinders and being considerate of your surroundings, you can prevent dust and dirt buildup and ensure a safer cooking environment.
3. Spice box:
Despite diligently refilling spice compartments, the space between them often goes unnoticed. Before refilling, take a thorough approach, including removing all compartments, disinfecting the container, and exposing it to the sun's germicidal rays. This extra step ensures that the pinch of spice is as pure as it should be. Follow the tips below.
The spice box also needs to be cleaned. Image credit: iStock
4. Inside the microwave oven:
The exterior of your appliances may be shiny, but it's what's inside that really matters. Let's take the microwave oven as an example. To remove mysterious odors from reheated meals, do more than just a quick wipe of any remaining curry splatter or turmeric traces. Click here for tips on how to effectively clean your microwave.
5. Lower cabinet door:
While upper cabinet doors regularly receive attention, lower doors and handles often go unnoticed. Dust and bacteria can accumulate here and pose a potential threat to your cooking. To maintain a truly hygienic kitchen, incorporate these often forgotten surfaces into your cleaning routine.
Bonus tip: Achieving a spotless kitchen requires more than a quick fix with a soapy sponge. To completely remove germs and dirt, use a clean, new cloth each time you wipe to avoid spreading dirt from previous cleanings. After each use, soak the cloth in warm water and detergent to remove stubborn oils and bacteria, then let it air dry completely before next use.
