The kitchen is the heart of the home. Still, research proves that everyone needs kitchen sanitising tips because it is often the dirtiest room in the house, and a breeding ground for bacteria, thanks to the abundance of leftover food, heat, and moisture. You may think the kitchen is just for cooking, but for bacteria like E. coli and Salmonella, it’s a summer holiday with an endless supply of food.
In a study conducted by the NSF, a World Health Organization (WHO) collaborating centre on food safety, scientists found that the kitchen was dirtier than the bathroom when swabbed for coliform bacteria (including E. coli and Salmonella). The numbers don’t lie because over 75% of dishcloths and sponges were contaminated, 45% of kitchen sinks tested positive, 32% of kitchen countertops, and 18% of cutting boards.
Sponges and dishcloths are particularly nasty because they are a breeding ground for bacteria. They trap food and moisture, and spread bacteria faster than they can eliminate it.
More to bacteria than the eye can see
Your kitchen may look spotless to the naked eye, but bacteria are less concerned with your housekeeping skills, and they are happy to wait for mealtimes. A splash of juice and a smear of grease can sustain them indefinitely, and it’s a sweet ride for them when you swipe a dirty dishcloth across a kitchen counter.
Some bacteria are harmless, even beneficial; others can disrupt your gut faster than an emergency evacuation. Here’s a quick guide to the main culprits and the chaos they can cause.
10 Steps to reduce bacteria in the kitchen
Admittedly, the only thing worse than a dirty kitchen is having to clean it, but prevention is better than cure, and a little effort goes a long way. It’s relatively easy too if you remember to clean, dry, and sanitise surfaces properly.
These simple habits create an environment where bacteria can’t thrive, preventing your kitchen from becoming a health hazard. Just remember that you also have to clean your cleaning tools too. As the old saying goes, cleanliness is close to godliness, and in this case, it’s also close to good health.
What’s your secret to keeping your kitchen clean?
