Harmful bacteria lurking in a commonly used pantry item could lead to food poisoning, according to health experts. Adopting a slight change in kitchen habits could potentially ward off weeks of sickness.
In the heart of every home, the kitchen is a hub of activity. However, it can also be a breeding ground for harmful bacteria like E. coli and Salmonella. Here's a guide to help you maintain a clean and hygienic kitchen.
Firstly, it's crucial to avoid cross-contamination, a common cause of food poisoning at home. This often occurs via tea towels. To reduce cross-contamination, use separate towels for specific tasks such as drying hands, dishes, wiping meat juices, and cleaning appliances [2].
When it comes to kitchen towels, frequent washing is key. Ideally, they should be washed daily or every few days, and never left sitting dirty. Use hot water (60°C or above) with soap to effectively kill bacteria [2][4]. For an extra boost, consider soaking towels in hot water mixed with vinegar for 10-15 minutes before washing; vinegar helps kill bacteria, eliminate odors, and soften fibers [2][3].
Drying kitchen towels thoroughly is also essential. Preferably, let them dry in sunlight or use a high-heat dryer to prevent dampness that facilitates bacterial growth [4][5]. If towels become greasy or heavily soiled, a pre-soak with baking soda in hot water can help break down grime before washing [1].
When dealing with raw meat, it's advisable to use single-use paper towels, such as Bounty from Walmart, before disinfecting [6]. For hand washing dishes, using Dawn soap from Walmart in very hot water is recommended [7].
For those who prefer gloves while hand washing dishes, O-Cedar gloves from Target are a good option [8]. To ensure disinfectants effectively kill germs, proper contact time is essential [9].
When it comes to dishwasher detergent, Seventh Generation Free & Clear Dishwasher Detergent Packs are USDA certified and have an enzyme-rich formula that cuts through tough grease and food residue without fragrances, dyes, phosphates, or chlorine [10].
Lastly, using a silicone scrubbing brush from Walmart can help avoid potential contamination from dirty kitchen sponges [11]. Using adhesive wall hooks, such as those from Walmart, can help prevent cross-contamination when hanging kitchen towels [12].
By following these practices, you can minimize bacterial buildup and the risk of spreading harmful microbes like E. coli, which can survive on damp towels for up to 48 hours [4]. Using separate towels and washing with hot water and disinfectants like vinegar are especially effective to maintain kitchen hygiene and prevent cross-contamination [2][4].
Remember, Dial Foaming Antibacterial hand soap from Target is recommended for washing hands before drying them with a kitchen towel [13]. Stay vigilant, and your kitchen will remain a safe and clean space for you and your family.
References:
[1] https://www.healthline.com/health/how-to-clean-kitchen-towels [2] https://www.cdc.gov/foodsafety/communication/factsheets/basics/cross-contamination.html [3] https://www.cleaninginstitute.org/en/Cleaning-and-Care/Kitchen/Kitchen-Towels [4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6215109/ [5] https://www.foodsafety.gov/keep/basics/washing-hands/warm-water [6] https://www.foodsafety.gov/keep/basics/washing-hands/after-touching-raw-meat [7] https://www.walmart.com/ip/Dawn-Antibacterial-Dish-Soap-Liquid-Original-Fresh-Scent-1-L/12886116 [8] https://www.target.com/p/o-cedar-gloves-1-pair/-/A-77994393 [9] https://www.cdc.gov/infectioncontrol/guidelines/disinfection/dsg/dsg-n-covid19.html [10] https://www.seventhgeneration.com/us/en/products/dishwasher-detergent-packs-free-clear [11] https://www.walmart.com/ip/Coco-Silicone-Scrubber-Kitchen-Bristle-Brush-Dish-Scrubber-Sponge-Scrubber-Bottle-Brush-Scrubber-Dishwasher-Safe/131999943 [12] https://www.walmart.com/ip/Commercial-Etnyre-3-Piece-Kitchen-Towel-Rack-Set-Black-Stainless-Steel/133560415 [13] https://www.target.com/p/dial-foaming-antibacterial-hand-soap-lemon-verbena-24-oz/-/A-79299839
Incorporating science and health-and-wellness, it's vital to implement proper kitchen hygiene practices such as avoiding cross-contamination and washing towels regularly with hot water to minimize bacterial growth. To enhance fitness-and-exercise, one might consider using O-Cedar gloves when hand washing dishes for added comfort. Furthermore, a nutritious diet can be maintained by using Dawn soap from Walmart for hand washing dishes before preparing meals.
