Keeping your kitchen clean is important for preventing the spread of germs and illness. Here are some natural ways to get rid of germs in your kitchen without using harsh chemicals.
Clean surfaces with vinegar
Vinegar is a natural disinfectant and cleaning agent. Vinegar can be used to clean and disinfect countertops, sinks, appliances, and other surfaces.
To use vinegar as a cleaner:
– Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
– Spray the solution onto surfaces and wipe clean with a microfiber cloth.
– For extra disinfecting power, let the vinegar solution sit on the surface for 5-10 minutes before wiping.
– Undiluted white vinegar can also be used for tougher cleaning jobs.
Vinegar is great for getting rid of grease, grime, and bacteria lurking on kitchen surfaces. It’s also eco-friendly and safe to use on most materials.
Sanitize sponges
Kitchen sponges harbor a lot of germs, especially when used to clean messes on counters and sinks. Disinfect your sponges by:
- Placing damp sponges in the microwave and heating for 1 minute. The heat kills germs and sanitizes.
- Soaking sponges in a diluted bleach solution (1 tsp bleach per 1 cup water) for 5 minutes.
- Running sponges through the dishwasher on the drying cycle.
I aim to sanitize my sponges at least once weekly to prevent the spread of bacteria.
Use hydrogen peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is another natural disinfectant that can be used throughout the kitchen. Here’s how:
- Create a cleaning solution by mixing 1 part hydrogen peroxide with 1 part water.
- Use this solution to wipe down counters, appliances, sinks, and other areas prone to collecting germs.
- Rinse food prep surfaces with hydrogen peroxide after working with meat and poultry. This helps kill bacteria like salmonella and E. coli.
- Hydrogen peroxide can also be used straight from the bottle to spot treat mold and disinfect dishes.
Hydrogen peroxide breaks down into water and oxygen, so it’s safe and residue-free.
Disinfect with lemon
The citric acid in lemons acts as a strong antimicrobial agent. Lemon juice can be used to sanitize cutting boards, utensils, and kitchen surfaces.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice onto surfaces and let sit for a few minutes before wiping clean. The acid kills germs and bacteria.
- For heavily used cutting boards, rub a cut lemon half over the surface to disinfect. Let the board air dry.
- Run lemon wedges over utensils that have touched raw meat or eggs. Rinse thoroughly.
- Mix lemon juice with water to make a cleansing spray. Use on appliances, sinks, counters, etc.
Bake soda for the fridge
Baking soda can absorb funky odors in your fridge and freezer. It also sanitizes these spaces without adding weird chemicals to your foods.
To use baking soda:
- Place an open box of baking soda in the fridge and freezer to soak up odors. Replace every 30 days.
- Make a baking soda paste with water and use to scrub down shelves.
- Mix baking soda with water to create a spray for cleaning inside the fridge and freezer.
Don’t use baking soda to clean a self-cleaning oven. It can damage the cycle. Safe for most other areas!
Steam clean microfiber cloths
Microfiber cloths are excellent for cleaning and contain antimicrobial properties. However, they need to be cleaned frequently to avoid the spread of germs.
To sanitize microfiber, use a steam cleaner if you have one. The heat of the steam kills germs and bacteria.
You can also toss cloths in the washing machine using hot water and a microfiber detergent. Avoid fabric softeners – they prevent microfiber from working effectively.
Replace your microfiber cloths every 3-6 months for the best cleaning and germ removal. Rotate different cloths in different areas.
By using natural cleaners like vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, and lemons, I’m able to get rid of germs in my kitchen without exposing my family to nasty chemicals. What are your best tips for keeping a clean, sanitary kitchen? Let me know in the comments!
