Are Your Kitchen Surfaces and Sponges Really Clean?
Published October 23, 2020
Reviewed October 2020

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You can find illness-causing germs all around your kitchen. So, it's important not only to wash your hands, but also to clean kitchen surfaces and sponges to prevent the spread of bacteria.
Kitchen Surfaces
Use hot soapy water to clean kitchen surfaces after preparing each food item. Wipe down your appliances, countertops, utensils and cutting boards. Keeping cutting boards and surfaces clean prevents cross-contamination that could cause food poisoning. Wash dishwasher-safe materials in a hot washing and drying cycle.
Also, as an additional precaution, mix one tablespoon of unscented liquid chlorine bleach in one gallon of water and use it to sanitize washed surfaces and utensils.
Sponge and Dishtowel Safety
Dishcloths and sponges are the cleaning tools of choice for many Americans. Help keep them clean by following these do's and don'ts.
Do | Don't |
---|---|
Clean Sponges Daily
|
Don't Be a Scrooge
|
Start a New Cycle
|
Don't Use Sponges to Wipe Up Meat Juices
|
Replace Frequently
|
Don't Use Sponges on Countertops
|
Keep it Dry Wring out your sponge completely after each use and wash off any loose food or debris. Store it in a dry location. Letting your sponge lay wet on a countertop takes longer for it to dry and allows bacteria to grow. Also, avoid leaving any damp sponges in an enclosed area such as a bucket or under the sink. |
Don't Ignore Dishcloths
|
Download: Kitchen Sponge Safety Tip Sheet