Keeping the kitchen clean seems simple, but many everyday habits actually make the mess worse or shorten the life of your tools. Here are 10 common cleanup mistakes people make while cooking — and the right way to handle them.

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1. Washing nonstick pans with abrasive scrubbers

Using steel wool or rough pads can strip the coating and ruin your pan.
Fix it: Use a soft sponge and mild soap. For stuck-on food, soak first instead of scrubbing hard.

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2. Putting wooden utensils in the dishwasher

The heat and moisture cause wood to crack and warp.
Fix it: Hand-wash wooden spoons and cutting boards, then dry them immediately.

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3. Letting dirty dishes sit too long

Food hardens and becomes harder to clean, wasting your time later.
Fix it: Rinse or soak items right away to prevent buildup.

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4. Using the same sponge for everything

This spreads bacteria across different surfaces.
Fix it: Use separate sponges or cloths for dishes, countertops, and stovetops.

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5. Pouring grease down the sink

Grease solidifies in pipes and can cause serious blockages.
Fix it: Let grease cool, scrape it into a container, and throw it away.

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6. Ignoring the stovetop while cooking

Spills that burn onto the surface are much harder to clean.
Fix it: Wipe splatters quickly between steps if it’s safe to do so.

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7. Overloading the dishwasher

Crowding dishes prevents proper cleaning and forces you to rewash.
Fix it: Give each item space so water can reach all surfaces.

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8. Using harsh cleaners on stainless steel

Strong chemicals leave streaks or damage the finish.
Fix it: Use a microfiber cloth and a gentle cleaner specifically for stainless steel.

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9. Not cleaning as you go

Waiting until the end turns small messes into a mountain.
Fix it: Clear scraps, wipe counters, and wash small tools during breaks in cooking.

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10. Forgetting to clean hidden spots

Areas like handles, knobs, and appliance edges collect grease over time.
Fix it: Add these small spots to your regular cleaning routine.