Cleaning 101: Conquer the kitchen

Heather says:

The kitchen is often the heart of the home.  Meals that nourish the body are prepared in here and should be created in a clean setting.  Our lives are so busy, it is hard enough to cook in a clean kitchen, the idea of trying to put together a meal in a dirty one is usually enough to make even me consider the drive through.

So, is there a right way to tackle this beast?

• Start with the sink.  If it is really dirty and needs to soak put things away while you wait. Declutter!

• Once the sink is shining, wipe down the counters and appliances.  Don’t forget the microwave!

• Use a degreaser or diluted vinegar and wipe down the cabinets.

• Sweep and mop.

The first deep clean is the hardest.  By giving the kitchen a quick wipe down after each meal you’ll save yourself a lot of time and elbow grease.  I clean out the fridge as I plan the week’s menu, getting rid of anything that can’t be used and wiping up any spills.  Cooking, especially for a family, is much easier when there isn’t a mountain of dishes in the way.  It took time to build the habit, but I start the dishwasher each night before I go to bed and unload it first thing in the morning, while the coffee is brewing.  If there is a child that is supposed to be in charge of this chore do not punish yourself by waiting for them to get around to it.  Consider deducting your time and effort from their allowance or temporarily substitute a more dreaded chore.

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