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Counter tops frequently get dirty in an active kitchen, and the longer the spilled liquids and various food particles are allowed to remain, the more difficult it can be to clean them. Flour can be one of the biggest mess makers for counter tops, particularly when it is used in making or rolling dough for bread, pasta, cookies, etc. However, cleanup from flour can be made easier by first sprinkling salt on the counter or other surface to which the dough is clinging. The surface can then be wiped with moistened paper towels or an old rag. Often the best way to clean counter tops that are stained from liquids or have food encrusted on them is by first moistening them and wiping vigorously with wet paper towels or rags. This should be followed by additional brisk wiping by moist paper towels or rags that have been dipped in baking soda, which acts as a gentle abrasive and also helps remove stains. An often effective means of removing, or at least reducing, stubborn stains that remain after the above steps is to pour a small amount of household bleach on the stains, let rest for a minute or two, and then rub with wet paper towels or rags. Bleach also makes an excellent disinfectant for counter tops. Thus, a small amount can be wiped on the entire counter after the other cleaning steps have been completed and then wiped off a few minutes later with moist paper towels or rags.
Created September 30, 2006. |