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A clean kitchen is mandatory for a healthy environment. The kitchen is where people prepare their food and as such high standards for personal and environmental hygiene must be followed. Whether at a home or in a restaurant, it is always important to keep high levels of cleanliness in the kitchen. The kitchen, more than any other location, is the room most prone to the growth and development of disease-causing bacteria and pests.

A clean kitchen begins with high levels of personal hygiene. Whether you are a homemaker, domestic help or a restaurant employee, be aware of the fact that you are a bacteria carrier and may pass diseases to others without being aware of it. You should not handle food with unwashed hands because you risk passing bacteria on to the food you handle. If you’re a restaurant employee, always take a shower before reporting to work.

The cleanliness of the kitchen environment is also important. Before beginning cooking, clean counter tops, tables and other surfaces in the kitchen. This is not just about wiping surfaces down, it is also about sanitizing surfaces to discourage the growth of bacteria. Sweep floors and wipe walls clean on a daily basis or more often if necessary. Liquids spilled onto floors and other surfaces need to be taken care by using proper disinfectants. In addition, remove any cobwebs that hang from the kitchen. A clean sink is the greatest indicator of the level of hygiene in your kitchen. If you keep your sink clean, all other kitchen items, utensils, equipment, and surfaces will follow.

Remove any food that spills out or drops onto kitchen surfaces immediately. Remember bacteria thrives well in locations where there are dirt and food. Rinse and dry all kitchen utensils after washing but before putting them away. Every single step is important, and the removal of dirt ensures your kitchen is safe for the preparation of food meant for human consumption.

Equipment, furniture and electronic appliances should also be cleaned before use. Routinely clean the refrigerator, oven, stove, microwave, freezer and other kitchen appliances. Cleaning here may involve cleaning the inner parts of appliances such as the refrigerator.

Waste management is critical to the general cleanliness in the kitchen. Sprinkle any kitchen garbage with phenyl and cover it. Dispose of garbage as soon as practically possible to discourage infestation by pests such as mice.