Cooking at home is an enjoyable experience, but it can also lead to big messes. If you love preparing delicious meals but hate the cleanup, there are some simple steps you can take to protect your kitchen countertops, backsplash, and other surfaces while minimizing the amount of work necessary after you’re done eating.

5 Ways to Maintain Your Kitchen While Cooking

1. Tidy Up Before You Start

It might seem counterintuitive to clean before potentially making a mess, but it’s important to begin with a blank slate so you have space to easily navigate around your kitchen. Clearing off the kitchen countertops, sink, and cooking areas allows you to keep all ingredients organized and your cooking supplies visible.

2. Prepare the Ingredients

It’s easy to spill ingredients on your counters and floor when you’re rushing. Reduce the stress and stay tidy by gathering all items in your recipe first. Portion them out before starting so all you have to do is combine them as you go.

3. Create a Makeshift Garbage

As you chop veggies, trim meat, and prepare side dishes, you’ll probably need to throw some bits away. Instead of carrying everything to the other side of your kitchen and potentially dropping or spilling waste, keep a bowl or bag for garbage near your cooking area. This will help you stay clean and save time.

4. Use a Splatter Guard

If you’re sauteing or frying items on your stove, the oil and fat can make a sticky mess around your cooking area. Prevent grease from getting everywhere by placing a splatter screen over the pot or pan. This metallic mesh cover catches spatters before they get on your surfaces while still allowing the food to cook.

5. Keep Cleaning Materials on Hand

Instead of cleaning up after dinner, you can simply wipe the surfaces as you go. This also prevents long-term stains from forming on your kitchen countertops and backsplash grout. Keep a bottle of cleaner or soapy water and a cloth nearby so you can easily grab them if you spill liquids or food.

If you need new kitchen countertops or backsplashes to improve your cooking experience, Rino’s Tile & Stone will help. The family-owned and -operated company provides customers throughout the Anchorage, AK, area with quality granite, quartz, and marble countertops, along with ceramic and porcelain tile and other stone accents. Their showroom features a variety of materials, so there’s an option for every home’s needs. They also offer installation services. Browse a gallery of products on their website, or call (907) 743-1075 to place an order.