Keeping Kitchen Appliances Hygienic and Safe
By Greg Bechard
We all have those trusty kitchen appliances that we use daily. For many, the day doesn't start until the first cup of coffee. Without proper cleaning, that required cup of Joe may start tasting funny if the coffee pot is never cleaned out. Other appliances in the kitchen benefit from regular cleanings, too. It keeps things hygienic and working well. Remember that when your aging loved one or you need some additional help with light housekeeping, a professional senior caregiver could be the answer.
How to Clean Common Kitchen Appliances
Remembering to clean your kitchen appliances is simple if you create a cleaning schedule. As you dive into the regular upkeep, you may find your stuff is lasting longer and your morning cup of coffee tasting better. Here are suggestions for a few common appliances:
- Coffee Maker: The hot water used to create your morning miracle is also the breeding ground for bacteria and mould growth. After each pot, remove the part that can be removed and hand wash or put it in your dishwasher. Empty water reservoirs and drip trays, and then wipe the outside of the machine. To get rid of mineral buildup, run distilled white vinegar and distilled water through the cycle. First, let it sit in the reservoir for 30 minutes to an hour, then hit brew. Rinse the machine by running a couple of pots of plain distilled water.
- Blender, Food Processor, or Juicer: These tools will partially clean themselves. Rinse them out after each use, add about a cup of plain warm water and dishwasher liquid, and turn it one for about 15-30 seconds. Rinse the soap off, and let dry. Finally, you can wipe down the outside.
- Microwave: Like your blender, the microwave aids in its own cleaning. Take a microwave-safe bowl, fill it with at least a cup of water, and heat the water until it is at a rolling boil. Leave in the microwave for a minimum of 15 minutes to loosen food particles. Take a soft cloth dipped in an equal mixture of distilled white vinegar and water and wipe down the interior. Wash the turntable in soap and water.
- Toaster: Each time you use the toaster, open the trap door or shake it upside down over a trash can to get the crumbs out. Once a week, unplug it and wipe down the outside areas.
Hygienic Kitchen Appliances Encourage a Healthy Life
Daily wipe-downs will help keep germs at bay and encourage a healthy lifestyle. Getting extra support when you need it most is another way to keep your home and kitchen clean. The dedicated team of caring professionals from Home Instead Brantford, work with families and seniors to ensure their needs are met. Our caregivers provide support with cooking, light housekeeping, personal care assistance, and other homecare services. Contact us and let us design a services package to meet your family’s needs.
Call us at (519) 752-4663 to schedule a no-obligation, in-home consultation. Learn more about the compassionate, quality senior care we deliver daily to families in Brantford, Paris, Ancaster, Stoney Creek, Dunnville, Port Dover, Woodstock, Caledonia, Cayuga, Fisherville, Simcoe, Waterford, Turkey Point, Port Rowan and Burford.