7 Ways to Keep Your Kitchen Clean (+ why you should!)

Our kitchens are the hearts of our homes.

Think about the joy + satisfaction you feel when you try out a new recipe for the first time and it’s a hit! Or how communal it feels to have the family gathered in that space at the end of a busy day.

Now think about the times you’ve avoided the kitchen like the plague or ordered take out because it was daunting to wash your favorite pot or clear off the dining table...

We would all prefer to be in a space that feels joyful rather than be reminded that we have work to do.

So many great things happen in the kitchen and dining area: homework gets done, board games are played, presents are wrapped, friends enjoy a moment of connection over a cup of coffee (or wine), clothes are folded, art projects are done, cookies are made with love.

When the dining table and kitchen are messy, it prevents us from enjoying these activities. Our homes can be a place for happy memories by keeping them clean and ready for spontaneous family activities.

Here are 7 tips to keep your kitchen and dining area clean:

1. Make sure your sink is empty before you start cooking. You can even fill one side with soapy water to wash a few dishes as you go.

2. Make sure your dishwasher is empty or ready for dirty dishes.

3. Don’t do two things at once. Focus on prep work THEN cook. Clean up as you go!

4. If they’re old enough, let the kiddos help!

5. Make sure all of your dishes are clean or in the dishwasher before you sit down to eat.

6. Set the table. Put those delegating skills to good use and let the kids do it. They learn by doing and then dinner can become a childhood memory instead of a pain.

7. Have everyone clear their own place and put their dishes in the dishwasher after eating.

With practice and consistency, you may find that you're never stressing over a messy kitchen and dining area again! Remember, the kitchen is the heart of the home. Let it be a reflection of your love for your space and your family.

Are you ready to implement some of these steps into your daily routine? Or do you already do some of these? Leave us a comment and let us know! What are your tried and true tips for keeping your kitchen and dining area clean?

Thanks for reading!