How can a kitchen stay sparkling clean? The larger the family the more difficult the task so developing good habits is important for every family member.

Consider these small tips:

• Make it a rule to have everyone clean up after themselves at the time the mess is made. Children can begin to learn simple habits at a young age. Messes should not be left for mom!
• When cooking, clean as you go. If your family takes turns cleaning and cooking consider it best to have the “cook” clean the kitchen area and the one not cooking take care of the dinner dishes. This way the cook can clean as they go and will be more careful of the mess being made. Large family? Team up!
• Keep dishes washed and put away. Do not let them pile up. If you have a dishwasher, rinse the dishes as you use them and place in the dishwasher. After dinner run a load and empty right away. 
• Do not let the counters pile up with unused appliances. Get rid of appliances you do not use and keep appliances not used often in a cabinet.  
• Wipe down the counters, floors, cabinets, and handles as needed. Keep cleaning wipes under the sink for quick access.
• Keep baking soda on hand. Baking soda is an inexpensive, multi-purpose staple for any kitchen. You can use it to deodorize your garbage disposal, refrigerator and sponges. It is an effective cleaner for chrome, sinks and by adding a few tablespoons along with your dish soap can help cut grease on dishes, pots and pans. It is also a safe way to scrub fruits and vegetables.
• Keep trash bins emptied. Add a few extra bags at the bottom of the trash can for a quick changeover.
• Once a month do a thorough cleaning and wipe out cabinets and pantries.
• Clean out the refrigerator and discard expired food prior to grocery shopping.
• Try keeping plastic bags in an old tissue box. Be reasonable if you have hundreds saved. If you don’t really need them … recycle! 
• Do not keep dish soap and sponges out in the open. I keep mine under the sink and use an old spoon rest to house the sponge.
• Consider donating items you do not need. Do you really need ten spatchula’s?