Being sanitary is on everyone’s mind with the risks of COVID-19. Your kitchen is a great place to start when it comes to being clean. Here are seven tips on how to be clean and sanitary in your kitchen:

1– FAUCETS
Touchless faucets function without having to turn a knob is definitely the way to go. These type of devices allow you to wave your hands under the nozzle to start water flow. Motion-sensitive, touchless faucets come in a variety of styles.

2–GARBAGE BINS
Consider an enclosed garbage bin to be sanitary. Many people opt for a pull-out cabinet with the garbage bin hidden inside. This will lessen the amount of germs roaming in your kitchen. (If your kitchen space does not have room for this type of storage, use a step-on container that allows you to open it without using your hands.)

3–SANITARY MATERIALS FOR YOUR KITCHEN
If you are updating your kitchen, think about using materials that are easy to clean. Stainless-steel appliances will not stain from food or drink spills. They are also easy to clean since they are a smooth surface. A tiled backsplash is easy to clean and maintain. Granite and quartz counters are also quite easy to clean. Most household cleaners are safe to use. Marble counters require soap and water for cleaning followed an alcohol-based disinfectant. A wood counter is more of a challenge. Use a hydrogen-peroxide based cleaner to kill germs without damaging the wood. Leave the solution on the wood and then wipe with a damp cloth and use a dry cloth to dry.

4–SPONGES
If you use sponges, keep many on hand and sanitize or replace them often. Wet sponges (or towels) are magnets for germs. (Place sponges in a microwave for 2.5 minutes to decontaminate.)

5–CUTTING BOARDS
Keep separate cutting boards for meat and others for fruit and vegetables. This will eliminate cross-contamination of germs. Sanitize often. Store separately.

6–DISINFECT SURFACES
Counters, islands, floors, sinks, stove, microwave, refrigerator, drawer pulls – these are many places for germs to lurk in a kitchen. Have a consistent cleaning routine to kill germs. Using a wet paper towel on a surface is good for cleaning only – it is not the same as sanitizing to get rid of germs. Once your countertop is sanitized, dry it with a clean cloth or paper towel.

7–USE THE DISHWASHER
The dishwasher is a great appliance to use to clean and sanitize utensils, cups, plates and other items. If you do not have a dishwasher, you will need to use soapy water and a sanitizing solution.

Need help in installing a new feature in your kitchen? Contact Sibcy Cline Home Services. They can connect you to many professional, vetted service vendors.