Tips: Wiping Up May Not Be Enough

No kitchen is sterile, but certain steps can help cut back on bacteria.

• Microwave sponges and dishcloths on high for at least one minute.
• Regularly launder dish towels.
• Make sure tap water (and thus, the dishwasher) can exceed 140 degrees.
• Prepare raw meats and vegetables on separate work surfaces.
• Wash your hands before cooking, and as often as you can while cooking — especially if you pet the dog.
• Wash the meat thermometer after each use.
• Wash refrigerator door handles, cabinet knobs and work surfaces.
• Fill the sink with hot soapy water and drop in utensils after using them. Change the water often.
• Fully disassemble your blender before putting it in the dishwasher.
• Use a pipe brush and hot soapy water to clean under processor blades, even if you put them in the dishwasher.
• Wash the sink’s drain plug and scrub the sink before washing produce in it. [NYTimes]