Because of spoilage and contamination issues surrounding food, surfaces and appliances in the kitchen pose unique challenges to the green housekeeper. In commercial kitchens - restaurants, institutional cafeterias, and hotels - state health laws require strict standards of upkeep, which include using hot water and strong disinfectants to clean, eliminating the risk of food-borne illnesses. Chlorine bleach is the disinfectant often dictated, but a milder choice is hydrogen peroxide. Solutions made up of hydrogen peroxide and water or borax and water or vinegar and water have disinfecting properties.

Green commercial cleaners can effectively disinfect surfaces as well. These cleaners are suitable for the home environment, and many smell good, too. Look for the following characteristics:

• Nontoxic, phosphate-free and biodegradable ingredients used when possible

• Detergents are plant-based, not petroleum based

• Never tested on animals, sometimes listed as cruelty-free

• Doesn't create harmful fumes or leave harmful residues behind

Oven and Stovetop Cleaners

Check the oven manufacturer's instructions before cleaning the oven. If you lost them, go online for the answer or call the place you bought the oven. Many manufacturers are adding green suggestions to their instruction booklets.

Here are a few tips to get you started:

• Cornstarch is great for absorbing grease and oily spills. Lightly sprinkle cornstarch on your stovetop and allow it to soak up the grease. Wipe away with damp sponge.

• After a messy spillover - whether blueberry pie or lasagna - wait until the oven is cool before attempting to clean. Then sprinkle baking soda on spilled food or spray inside of oven with water until damp. Allow to sit for several minutes or even overnight. Remove with cleaning cloth or paper towel.

If you're out of baking soda or want a little more "scrub" action, salt is a good choice. Simply sprinkle table salt on the spill while the oven is still warm. Wait for the salt and stain to cool and then scrape food away. Wipe with damp cloth.

• To clean your microwave oven, mix ¼ cup baking soda and ½ cup water and apply with damp sponge. Let the paste set for several minutes and then wipe away with clean sponge.

Cleaners for Cookware

As soon as your cookware has cooled after using, put it in the sink to soak in water, adding a squirt of dishwashing liquid or a sprinkle of baking soda. This method lifts off the burned-on food and makes cleanup easier. After soaking your cookware, scrub it with a sponge and finish with hot soapy water or the dishwasher, if appropriate.

The following combinations are for pots and pans that may have years of buildup and won't come clean with a general washing:

• Stainless Steel Rejuvenator: Pour water in a pot until halfway to almost full. Add ½ cup of white vinegar and bring to boil. Immediately reduce heat and simmer 30 minutes to 1 hour. Empty and wash as usual.

• Aluminum Illuminator: You can shine up your aluminum cookware and rub new life into pots and pans.  ....read more