Many younger adults (and some older adults) find that they are not quite sure what it really means to do the dishes. Sometimes we learn the hard way when living with roommates for the first time, that kitchen duty demands more than loading a dishwasher. This article is for anyone who feels kitchen clean-up means just washing the dirty dishes.

Gather all the dirty dishes, not just what is sitting in the kitchen sink. Make sure to check all rooms for cups, glasses and plates. If you have roommates ask them to help gather the dishes. There is nothing more frustrating when doing the dishes then being handed more after you are done.

Whether you have a dishwasher or do them by hand make sure all washing is done properly. This means loading the dishwasher correctly and making sure all dirt, grease and leftovers are gone from those that you do by hand. Wipe the inside of the sink, making sure to remove all food particles.

Next rinse the coffee or tea pot if dirty. This is part of doing dishes, making sure appliances are clean. Wipe the counters, microwave and stove. This is not a chore left for Saturdays or “cleaning day”. Daily cleaning of your kitchen appliances lessen your cleaning day work load and keep bacteria and pests out of your kitchen. My favourite cleaning solution is water and vinegar. The vinegar cuts down the grease and disinfects your surfaces. For an added bonus I add a few drops of grapefruit oil extract to my solution; this is another good disinfectant and leaves your kitchen smelling fresh and clean.