Did you know that the
kitchen cloth can be one of the dirtiest objects in the kitchen? If you don't wash it properly and frequently, it can become a breeding ground for bacteria like E. coli or Salmonella. That's why, at kiwilimón, we explain how to wash the kitchen cloth properly and keep your kitchen clean and safe. In this complete guide, we explain how often to wash
kitchen cloths, at what temperature and which products to use, how to disinfect them according to recommendations from organizations like the CDC, and when it's time to replace them. Keep reading and discover the best tricks to help you prevent diseases and bad odors in your kitchen. You can also read:
How to easily disinfect the kitchen sponge1. Why is it necessary to wash kitchen cloths?Kitchen cloths can harbor dangerous bacteria like E. coli, Salmonella, and Staphylococcus aureus, which thrive in damp and dirty environments. If not cleaned properly, you risk cross-contamination and foodborne illnesses, according to the
University of Nebraska. 2. How often should you wash the cloth?Daily use: If you use it to dry dishes or surfaces that come into contact with raw ingredients,
experts recommend washing it daily.Medium use: Do you use it to dry your hands or hold dry dishes? Wash it every 3 to 5 days, according to the American Cleaning Institute.If you clean raw meat juices or residues from perishable ingredients, then run and wash it immediately.3. Temperature and washing methodWash kitchen cloths with
hot water, at 60 °C.Use detergent and a bit of bleach diluted in water.Avoid fabric softeners and bath towels in the same load.See more:
Why and how to disinfect your thermos?4. Drying and storageLet the cloth air dry or use the dryer with hot air. Remember that moisture helps fungi and bacteria grow.Store them in a kitchen drawer once they are dry or clean. Don’t leave them on wet surfaces!You should have several clean cloths to switch out and avoid using one every day.5. Total disinfectionCleaning: first wash with hot water and soap.Sanitize: prepare a mixture of 1 liter of water with 1 tsp. of bleach, soak the cloth for a few minutes, and then rinse it.Drying:
Let dry before storing it.6. When to replace them?Throw away old kitchen cloths and renew them if:They smell badThey no longer dry wellThey are worn outThey have stainsThey are frayedWashing the kitchen cloth correctly protects your health and avoids health risks. Use hot water, detergent, add bleach if necessary, dry completely, and change cloths according to their use. Stay alert to signs of wear;
kitchen hygiene starts with a clean cloth! Continue reading:
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