How to Clean Up Your Kitchen After Baking

Learn how to leave your kitchen sparkling clean after a fun baking session with these simple, step-by-step cleanup habits.

1. Clear the counters. Start by putting away all your ingredients. Close bags, put jars back in the pantry, and move empty containers to the recycling bin. If there are any spilled dry ingredients like flour or sugar, use a dry cloth to brush them into your hand or a dustpan.
2. Soak the sticky items. Fill your sink with warm, soapy water. Place bowls, measuring cups, and spoons that have stuck-on batter or dough into the water to soak. This makes scrubbing much easier later.
3. Wash and dry. Use your sponge or brush to scrub the soaked items until they are clean. Rinse them with clean water, then place them on a drying rack or a dry towel. Ask a grown-up if you are unsure about which items should go in the dishwasher.
4. Wipe down surfaces. Spray your counter with a kitchen cleaner or use a damp, soapy cloth to wipe away any flour dust or sticky spots. Wipe from the back of the counter toward the front, then use a clean, dry towel to buff the surface until it shines.