How to Keep Kitchen Cleaning Tools Clean?

Choose Antibacterial Cleaning Tools  

Providing clean kitchen instruments gives you a good starting point. Choose cleaning tools that prevent the growth of bacteria, use tools that have a bacteria-killing rate of 99% or higher. Cleaning tools that incorporate safe and non-toxic cleaning ingredients are a bonus because your hands and the cleaning surfaces will be safe.  

Establish Regular Cleaning Routines  

Establishing a cleaning schedule for your cleaning tools is also necessary. After every use, make sure to rinse your tools with warm water first, and then wash your tools to get rid of any food particles or grease. Sponges and cloths that are used for cleaning also need to be soaked in warm water and a mild detergent for 10 to 15 minutes. This process is repeated every week. It is also important to remember to avoid placing tools that are damp in dark and humid places because these areas will encourage the growth of microbes.

Targeted Cleaning Methods

To keep different tools clean, they each need a corresponding care routine. For example, when cleaning a dish brush, remove food remnants by tapping the brush against the sink then rinsing it with hot water. For scrubbers, deep cleaning them on the hot cycle in the dishwasher works well. For the reusable cloths, laundering them along with a gentile detergent that brightens and sanitizes works best. Make sure to use concentrated detergents that cut through the grease and rinses clean to avoid residue on tools. 

Drying and Storage

For thorough cleaning, the rinsing and drying steps must be completed in the proper order. Good rinsing and drying before storage must be completed to avoid spoilage. After cleaning, sponges and cloths have to be thoroughly dried by squeezing out the excess water then air drying. Sponges need to be stored in ventilated spaces. Set up drying racks so that your storage hooks don’t touch damp surfaces. For mops or brooms, upright storage is the best option.  Mild unpleasant odors are less likely to develop on sponges or cloths if proper steps to on drying are followed.

Replace Tools When Necessary

Regardless of how diligent you are when caring for a cleaning tool, it too has a lifespan. Look out for the telltale signs of cleaning tool neglect—frayed bristles, worn-out cloths, or a persistent smell that doesn’t go away. This shows that the tool has been so colonized by bacteria there is no cleaning it. As a rule of thumb, sponges should be replaced every 2-4 weeks and cloths every 3-6 months. Regularly replacing your cleaning tools helps in making sure you are sanitizing and cleaning with tools that are safe and effective.  

Embrace Eco-Friendly Practices

Cleaning your tools doesn’t have to be a guilt-ridden chore. Choose biodegradable, eco-friendly detergents to clean your tools. They are eco-friendly and tough on grime. Look for products that have natural cleaning ingredients like amino acids or plant-based extracts. When you clean with these products, you are ensuring your tools are safe for the environment and safe for your family. You are sanitizing your kitchen, and you are also caring for the planet.