11 Things that Don’t Belong on the Kitchen Counter-top

Knife rack and mug set might look stylish, but shouldn’t be on the countertop

The kitchen countertop is the main workspace where food is prepared at least once a day. Each housewife, over time, develop their own storage system for household items on her. But few people know that some objects on work surfaces not only interfere, but are also a source of danger for the whole family. Here are the things that don’t belong on the kitchen countertop.

Kitchen towels come in contact with dirty surfaces

The habit of leaving a tea towel on the counter can be a nuisance. According to the latest research, a wet towel on a table is a suitable breeding ground for bacteria that get on it from the surface of the countertop, hands and knives during cooking. It is best to store towels by hanging them on a hook immediately after use.

Cutting boards trap moisture

They not only take up space, but also become a source of bacteria reproduction. Microcracks and scratches on the boards trap food particles, and a humid environment with close contact between the boards will create conditions for the growth of microbial colonies that will spread over the table surface.

The toaster collects dust and food pieces

If the hostess prepares crispy toasts for breakfast less than 2-3 times a week, then it is better to remove the machine from the countertop. Dust gets into the holes of the toaster, and pieces of food, all this accumulates and burns to the bottom. In addition, it is difficult to make a full-fledged processing of work surfaces after cooking, if they are covered with different devices.

Knife holders collect dirt

A bulky knife holder with slots takes up a considerable part of the working surface. This is especially noticeable in a small kitchen. In addition, gaps collect dust and dirt, which are difficult to get rid of. Bacteria enter the slits from the knives and remain there forever, because it is almost impossible to clean them out of such a narrow gap.

Advertising brochures pose a potential threat

Coupons with food delivery promotions or discounts can also settle on the countertop. Better to set aside a separate shelf for flyers, away from the cooking area. It is unlikely that the promoter washed his hands carefully.

Sponges serve as a magnet for bacteria

Some housewives leave the sponge on the countertop to dry after washing the dishes, but this is not the method to use. Kitchen sponges are the dirtiest items in your home and need constant replacement or decontamination. They cannot be stored on the countertop. Get a special dish for her and store near the sink.

Hot pot holders accumulate fat

The hostess remembers about potholders only at the moment when it is time to get the hot baking sheet out of the oven. And when it comes time to send kitchen textiles to the wash, it seems that the potholders are still clean. But drops of fat and food particles remain on the tissue and serve as the basis for the reproduction of microorganisms. For potholders, separate hooks are needed on the wall. They definitely don’t belong on the countertop.

Spices lose their freshness in the light

The spice containers are convenient to keep close at hand, so they are often placed on the countertop next to the stove. But this is not the worst place. The founder of the spice company gives the following recommendations: store in a cool, dark place. Sunlight and high temperatures will fade the bright aroma of spices.

The food processor takes up the work surface

On the surface, multifunctional appliances like a food processor should be used every day. But often the hostess decides that it is faster to grate the carrots than to turn on the car, or does not want to make noise early in the morning. And time after time the combine remains unused, taking up a lot of space.

Yoghurt maker takes up space on the countertop

The same goes for highly targeted techniques like yogurt makers or ice cream makers. Immediately after purchasing a new kitchen appliance, it is often used for a week or two. Then the technique just stands on the table and waits in the wings. The body collects dust, grease particles and takes up the work surface.