For Americans, a trip to the doctor for foodborne illnesses is a reality for up to 56,000 people per annum. Research also suggests that the majority of these illnesses start off in the home kitchen. While it’s not always easy to maintain safe quality levels in an indoor kitchen, it becomes increasingly hard in an outdoor kitchen while braving the elements. But with a few simple tricks, outdoor hygiene will no longer have to be the topic at next Sunday’s barbecue.
Incorporate Durable Surface Areas That Are Easy to Keep Clean
From wild birds hoping for a stray seed or breadcrumb to cats soaking up the sun, there are a number of reasons to sanitize kitchen countertops outside. But not all outdoor kitchens have workspaces that can easily be sanitized, such as bricks and slatted wood. Instead, opt for seamless and hygienic countertops that don’t have nooks and crannies where dirt can accumulate. Grouting and cement joinings are known to attract dust and particles, which can prove a problem during food prep. Seamless cement slabs are a better option, as well as slate, granite, and marble tops.
Every Outdoor Space Deserves Good Appliances
While an outdoor grill is an essential component to a good outdoor space, there are other appliances that take the outdoor kitchen up a notch or two. From coffee machines to microwaves and ovens, entertaining can take place without having to step inside. When it comes to hygiene, however, it’s going to take more than a wash-up area to keep things clean. To reduce the number of trips into the house and risk not cleaning dishes properly, a dishwasher outdoors makes cleaning up simple.
Create Some Form of Shelter
Although the outdoors is meant to be an open space, there are certain benefits to putting up shelter. For guests, this means enjoying scrumptious meals while being protected from the elements. Whether this is a simple pergola or something a little more substantial, shelter is also an essential component to keeping things hygienic. If the crockery and cutlery are stored outside, it’s important to have them in a cupboard or sealed trunk to keep away critters and dust. Dust cloths, awnings, and even shutters can provide that extra barrier needed to keep an outdoor kitchen clean. Outdoor storage is also essential to keep the area neat and items such as tablecloths and cushions safe from rain and dust.
Conclusion
Outdoor kitchens are fast becoming a must-have in properties and while an enjoyable area, it can gather outdoor dust and dirt fairly easily. With the right layout and use of equipment, this area can be kept clean and tidy without too much hassle.
Image Source: HGTV
