Julia Child's Cleaning Tip To Ensure A Less Hectic Kitchen Cleanup

Julia Child, the beloved culinary icon, offered a timeless cleaning tip that can transform a hectic kitchen cleanup into a more manageable task. Her approach emphasizes the importance of cleaning as you go, a philosophy that encourages maintaining order while cooking. Julia understood that a cluttered workspace could hinder creativity and efficiency, so she advocated for tidying up during the cooking process rather than leaving everything for the end. This method involves washing dishes, utensils, and surfaces as they are used, ensuring that the kitchen remains organized and clutter-free. By integrating small cleaning tasks into the cooking routine, one can prevent the overwhelming pile-up of dirty dishes and mess, making the post-meal cleanup less daunting. Julia's tip not only helps in reducing stress but also allows for a more enjoyable cooking experience, as the cook can focus entirely on the culinary creation without the distraction of looming cleanup. This practice encourages a neat and orderly kitchen environment, fostering a more pleasant and efficient cooking space that aligns with Julia's philosophy of making cooking a joyful and stress-free endeavor.
Advertisement

Other great tips for cleaning while you're cooking

It might seem surprising, but starting with a tidy kitchen is the best approach before you begin cooking. While it's true that your kitchen will get messy during the cooking process, having dishes piled up or ingredients and tools scattered around can disrupt your workflow. Make sure your counters are clear and wiped down, and that the dishwasher is empty. Every item in the kitchen should have its designated spot. Familiarize yourself with where the measuring cups and cutting boards are kept, and always return them to their proper places. If you don’t, the mess will accumulate, and soon you'll find yourself spending hours scrubbing, organizing, mopping, and sanitizing to compensate for not cleaning thoroughly after previous meals.

Don’t postpone cleaning up spills and stains, either. Splatters and dried food become increasingly difficult to remove over time. Keep a kitchen towel nearby for quick cleanups on the counters. A small bowl on the countertop can also be useful for collecting food scraps, helping to maintain a tidy workspace and reducing trips to the trash can. However, avoid trying to organize your kitchen while watching a pan on high heat. Use slower moments—like when something is baking in the oven or water is boiling—to focus on cleaning. Before you know it, you’ll be able to savor a delicious home-cooked meal in a spotless kitchen at the same time.

Recommended

Next up

Advertisement