Most do this wrong. Here’s how often to clean everything.

### The Kitchen: Cleaning Frequency and Tips

The kitchen is one of the most-used areas in any home, and it requires frequent cleaning to ensure food safety and hygiene. Many people clean the countertops and wipe down surfaces regularly but fail to give proper attention to some of the hidden nooks and crannies in this high-traffic room.

#### **1. Countertops and Surfaces**
*How often: Daily (or after every meal)*

Wiping down kitchen counters after every meal or food prep is essential to prevent bacteria and crumbs from accumulating. Whether you’re using your countertops for food prep, meal storage, or just putting your grocery bags down, these surfaces can collect bacteria, especially if they come in contact with raw meat or vegetables. Use a disinfectant cleaner or a mixture of vinegar and water to keep your counters clean and germ-free.

#### **2. Cutting Boards**
*How often: After every use, especially after cutting raw meat*

Cutting boards, particularly wooden ones, can easily harbor bacteria due to cuts and nicks on their surface. After every use, especially when dealing with raw meat, poultry, or seafood, scrub the board with hot water and soap, or better yet, clean it with a disinfecting wipe. Wooden boards can also be treated with food-safe mineral oil to prevent cracking and to maintain their lifespan.

#### **3. Sink**
*How often: Daily*

Your kitchen sink is a breeding ground for bacteria and germs, especially after washing dishes, handling raw food, or pouring liquids. After each use, wipe it down and disinfect the faucet and handles. Make sure to clean the drain and garbage disposal weekly with a baking soda and vinegar mixture to eliminate odors and blockages.

#### **4. Oven and Stove**
*How often: Weekly, or as needed*

Ovens and stovetops collect grease, food splatters, and spills, which can become harder to clean if left unattended. For a simple clean-up, wipe down the stovetop after every meal. However, deep cleaning is necessary once a week to tackle the buildup of grime, grease, and food debris. Use an oven cleaner for deep cleans of the oven, and for stovetops, consider using an appropriate cleaning product for the material (e.g., ceramic, gas, or induction).

#### **5. Refrigerator**
*How often: Weekly for cleaning inside, monthly for deep cleaning*

It’s important to clean out your fridge regularly, checking for expired food and wiping up any spills immediately. Wipe down shelves weekly, and every month, do a deeper clean by pulling everything out, tossing out expired items, and cleaning all the surfaces with warm soapy water. Don’t forget to clean the drip trays or water dispensers, if applicable.

#### **6. Microwave**
*How often: Weekly*

The microwave is another area prone to food splatters. Wipe down the interior after each use, and once a week, clean the microwave thoroughly. To get rid of stubborn splatters, heat a bowl of water and lemon slices for a few minutes to steam and loosen grime. Wipe down the interior after the steam settles.

#### **7. Dishwasher**
*How often: Monthly*

Many people forget to clean their dishwashers regularly, but they require attention to maintain their performance. Run an empty cycle with a dishwasher cleaner or a cup of vinegar once a month. This will remove grease buildup, grime, and odors. Don’t forget to clean the filters and edges of the dishwasher’s door where debris can accumulate.

### The Bathroom: Cleaning Frequency and Tips

The bathroom is another area that requires careful attention, as it’s prone to germs, bacteria, and soap scum buildup. Proper cleaning will prevent the spread of illness and keep your bathroom looking fresh.

#### **1. Sink and Countertops**
*How often: Daily*

Like your kitchen counter, the bathroom sink should be cleaned daily to avoid soap scum, toothpaste residue, and other bathroom debris from building up. A quick wipe-down will ensure the area stays fresh and free of bacteria.

#### **2. Toilet**
*How often: Every other day*

Toilets are notorious for harboring bacteria, so it’s essential to clean them frequently. Use a toilet brush and disinfectant cleaner every other day, and don’t forget to wipe down the seat, lid, and surrounding areas. The flush handles should also be cleaned regularly, as they are one of the most touched areas in the bathroom.

#### **3. Shower/Bathtub**
*How often: Weekly, or after every use if possible*

Shower tiles and bathtubs accumulate soap scum, mildew, and grime. Clean your shower or tub once a week to avoid mold and mildew buildup. Use a squeegee after every shower to prevent water spots and soap scum from forming. Pay special attention to grout lines and corners, where mold and mildew are likely to grow.

#### **4. Mirrors**
*How often: Weekly or as needed*

Mirrors in the bathroom tend to accumulate water spots and toothpaste splatter. Wipe them down with a glass cleaner weekly to keep them streak-free. If you have bathroom ventilation, run it during and after showers to reduce steam and water spots on the mirrors.

#### **5. Towels**
*How often: Every 3-4 days*

Bathroom towels can collect moisture, which is a breeding ground for bacteria. Towels should be washed every three to four uses, or more frequently if they become particularly soiled. Don’t forget to wash hand towels, washcloths, and bath mats regularly, as they also harbor bacteria and germs.

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