The Part Of Your Kitchen That's Likely Never Been Cleaned

With the increase in food recalls in recent times, most folks are well aware of the dangers of pathogens like E. coli and listeria. However, meat and produce from the grocery store aren't the only culprits when it comes to contracting foodborne illnesses. Although many people clean their kitchens regularly, there are spots in plain sight that nevertheless get neglected. One of the most under-cleaned areas in a home kitchen is the light switch. We often turn it on or off without a second thought, but if your hands have touched anything harboring bacteria, that switch could be the site of some disgusting germ growth. This also means that the next time you flip the switch before making an appetizing meal, your hand could be transmitting that filth onto your food.

A microfiber cloth is one of the best tools to eliminate germs. If the light switch doesn't appear dirty, that cloth can even be used dry, without applying any disinfecting agents. For a detailed cleaning, a cotton swab works wonders to get into the tiny crevices around the switch. When doing a routine spruce-up (which should be performed weekly to ensure a safe, sanitized kitchen), little things like light switches can't be disregarded. Yet, they aren't the only overlooked culprits that might be allowing bacteria to grow. Some sources suggest using a swab with a touch of isopropyl alcohol or a good old disinfectant wipe but take care that you've switched off the power and don't soak the switch and get into the electronics below.

If you are using your refrigerator's crisper drawers correctly, they are storing most of your produce and meat. Because these foods have a high potential for carrying bacteria, it is possible that when you grab something out of one of those drawers and close it, germs get on the handle. A simple wash with soap and hot water will do the trick. While you're at it, use the same method to wash the refrigerator door and cabinet handles, which are also often overlooked.

Hood systems above the stove are frequently missed during cleaning sessions, meaning they are likely concealing grease buildup, which makes them work less efficiently and increases the risk of fires. By removing the filters and letting them soak in a hot water and detergent solution for 15 minutes or so, you can break up the grease before giving it a more dedicated, gentle scrub with a sturdy brush.

When folks are excited to get to work creating their next culinary masterpiece, they may forget how many things they are touching in their kitchen after handling raw meat or similar foods that harbor bacteria. For instance, all those essential flavor enhancements sitting on the spice rack are commonly put back without a second thought for any harmful microorganisms that might have transferred there from your fingers. Simply wipe the jars down with hot, soapy water to eliminate bacteria.