The kitchen is one of the most important places in a home. 
Many of us take time to deep clean the kitchen at least twice in a year. This includes scrubbing everything and digging deep in hard to access areas to get rid of dirt. While general cleaning is recommended, how well you clean the kitchen every day dictates its status. This article from a kitchen showroom in Richmond discusses some of the simple, yet effective ways to clean the kitchen without breaking your back.
1. Start the Day With an Empty Sink and Dishwasher
While it seems obvious, many people let dirty utensils sit in the sink or dishwasher for hours, overnight, and even for days. Make it a point of cleaning up everything in the dishwasher and sink before you can start cooking.
2. Make a Habit of Cleaning as You Go
With the sink and dishwasher empty, you will get the motivation to wash utensils and other items as you go. This should make keeping the kitchen clean a lot easier.
3. Clean the Sink Once Done Washing the Dishes
Just because the utensils and everything is clean doesn’t mean the sink should be left with all the stains. Make it a ritual of cleaning the sink soon after finishing up with the dishes. This not only leaves the kitchen smelling fresh, but also adds some glamour to it. It is also with cleaning and wiping the sink that dishes won’t get gunky/extra greasy when you toss them in. This should also make your work more manageable.
4. Do Some Maintenance on Knives and Cookware at Least Once a Month
Burnt-on stains, rust spots on stainless steel pans and pots, and blunt knives can make your kitchen seem messy and uninviting. Make it a habit of cleaning these up, polishing, and removing the burnt stains, and it will go a long way towards bringing the shine back to the kitchen. Dedicate at least one day to address all these issues before they can get out of control. One weekend wouldn’t be a bad idea.
5. Oil Chopping Boards Once Per Month
Your wooden cutting boards, too, need to be kept in the best shape possible. One way to do this is by oiling them at least once a month. The same applies to wooden spoons. Doing this should save you lots of time, money, and frustration.
6. Invest in the Right Cleaning Tools
Nothing frustrates more than trying to wash your utensils and other items using the wrong cleaning tool. Getting the right tools for the job, however, makes the work a lot easier. You don’t, however, need lots of cleaning tools in the kitchen sink. Take time to determine what is essential and what is not, then stock up with the essential ones. Keep the spare ones in an easy to reach cabinet, preferably under the sink.
7. Keep Your Countertops Tidy
An untidy countertop can be unsightly. Keeping it clear of items, and especially those that don’t belong would be a wise idea. Although some items may seem essential on these countertops, too many of them will only make it seem crowded and messy. A clean, tidy countertop, however, will make the kitchen appealing, and even inviting. Only items needed at that moment should be kept on the countertop, anything else should be kept in the cabinet or shelves.
8. Pay Attention to the Things You Love
Giving special attention to the things you love about your kitchen, and in the kitchen, will also give you a reason to want to keep it clean all the time. This includes items you don’t love. Make sure you take good care of items such as the stock pot, wooden spoons, and the countertops as well. Identify things you don’t love in the kitchen and have them fixed. Be open to new ideas and suggestions from family members and friends. Some of these can come in handy in keeping your kitchen clean at all times.