Costco Connection - March 2009

Keeping your kitchen healthy all year round

dishwashing detergent and water, then apply the solution. Let stand two minutes, then rinse all surfaces with a solution of 1 tablespoon of bleach per gallon of water. Do not let soak overnight.

ACCORDING TO THE American Society for Microbiology, about 36 percent of food-borne illness in the home results from cross contamination. That means cutting boards, counters or utensils are not properly disinfected or sanitized before they are used to prepare foods that are eaten raw, such as fruits or vegetables.

Cleaning with soap and water isn’t enough. Soap and water remove some germs from surfaces, but they can’t kill those germs. In fact, they may spread them around. Only a disinfectant can kill a broad spectrum of harmful bacteria and viruses.

The good news is that you can help kill nasty bacteria that can cause food-borne illness by following simple sanitizing and disinfecting routines when preparing your family’s meals.

Counters, tabletops and highchairs

After each use, spray a disinfecting cleaner on surfaces until thoroughly wet.

Let stand for 30 seconds, then rinse or wipe clean. For nonporous countertop surfaces, use a disinfecting wipe for one-step cleaning and disinfecting.

Refrigerators, freezers, plastic
cutting boards, stainless steel
utensils, dishes, glassware,
counters, pots and pans

Wash or rinse with detergent and water, then soak in a solution of 1 tablespoon of bleach per gallon of water. Let stand two minutes, then air-dry. (Do not use on steel, aluminum, silver or chipped enamel items.)

PHOTODISC

Ongoing maintenance

Now that your kitchen is spot-on perfect, here are some great techniques for quick cleanups and little touch-ups.

A multipurpose spray cleaner for hard surfaces can be great for spot-cleaning floors, walls and ceilings. Always have a bottle handy.

Replace germy sponges with a container of disinfecting wipes. Pre-moistened and easy to use anywhere and anytime, wipes can kill germs that can make your family sick. (Use as directed.)

A pen with gel bleach will help you to stay on top of grout. The sooner you treat a stain, the faster it will come out.

These kitchen-sanitizing routines might take a little more effort, but just remember that good healthy food always comes from a good healthy kitchen. C

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