A Guide To Proper Kitchen Hygiene A Guide to Proper Hygiene | Page 3

· Wash cutting boards in hot, soapy water every time you use them. Discard cutting boards with
deep scoring or gouges.
· Wash your hands after touching your nose, mouth or eyes.
· Wash your hands after handling raw meat or eggs.
· Keep household cleaners away from food prep areas.
· Don’t forget to clean all the gadgets you use for food prep like meat thermometers, measuring
cups, measuring spoons, can openers, sieves, colanders, blenders, wooden spoons, cookie
sheets and spoon rests. If it touches perishable foods, it should be cleaned.
· Dispose of spoiled food promptly. Never keep leftovers in your refrigerator longer than four
days.
· Refrigerate perishable foods after no more than two hours at room temperature.
· If a food item looks or smells off in any way, pitch it.
2. Limit Household Use of Harsh Chemicals
When things get really dirty, it’s easy to think you have to bring in the heavy artillery. Cleaning
agents used in kitchens and bathrooms kill germs because they consist of a string of strong
chemicals that get the job done, but can also leave residue behind. Humans aren’t immune to
the biological effects of strong anti-bacterial agents, and keeping your home clean using safe
practices can be challenging. One thing is certain, though. Maintaining a regular cleaning
regimen keeps bacteria under control, so there’s less of it to deal with. The chemicals you use,
whether you decide to go green or employ a more aggressive, powerful option, will be available
in reduced concentrations at any given time. If you’ve ever spent a weekend of heavy-duty
cleaning only to have your home smell like you’re preparing a chemical stew, you know what
we mean. We love the idea of cleaning with wholesome products like white vinegar, a mild but
effective acid, and baking soda, a mild abrasive. Whether you go this route or not, a little
regular cleaning will create lower concentrations of harsh chemicals and less opportunity for
dangerous exposure than a quarterly cleaning marathon.
3. Entertain Without Embarrassment
You may prefer the idea of having the kitchen all to yourself when you’re having company over,
but folks usually like to gravitate to the kitchen to see what’s going on. It’s the place where all
the action is. Don’t be surprised if your tidy living room is empty and your guests are laughing
and having a great time standing within a couple of feet of the garbage bag you just filled with
corn husks. Life is so unfair, but the fact is that the kitchen is the heart of the home. Sadly, it