This kitchen essential hides most grime — yet nobody cleans it
The kitchen item everyone forgets to wash (photo: magnific)
Most people regularly wash dishes and wipe kitchen surfaces. However, they often forget about one item that comes into contact with dirt and bacteria every day — kitchen gloves, according to Southern Living.
Why people don’t clean gloves
Kitchen gloves are one of those items people seldom think about when cleaning. Everyone regularly washes towels, replaces sponges, and wipes countertops, but gloves can hang in the kitchen for months without any cleaning.
The reason is simple — most people do not see them as something that actually gets dirty. The situation becomes especially problematic with moisture: if gloves get wet and do not dry completely, an unpleasant smell appears, and microorganisms can multiply inside.
Another reason is the inconvenience of cleaning. Some people are even afraid to wash them so as not to damage their thermal insulation. Because of this, cleaning is postponed “for later” and then simply forgotten.
How often to wash
If you use the oven daily, you should wash fabric oven mitts every week. Wash them immediately if they have come into contact with raw meat.
Oven mitts can contain bacteria just like any other kitchen item. Pre-treat stains and wash them in a washing machine in warm or hot water together with towels.
Silicone gloves can be washed with soap and water after each use. It is better to choose silicone ones if you cannot maintain the cleanliness of cotton gloves.
When to replace them
Oven mitts must be in good condition to fully protect your hands. If they have holes, signs of wear, or you start noticing that your hands begin to burn when taking cookies out of the oven, it is time to buy new ones.
Be sure to throw away gloves if they have accumulated grease. They can become a fire hazard, and your hands will no longer be protected from burns.
