Nine things to do in your kitchen before going on holiday – it will avoid a common disaster
AN expert has shared the list of jobs to do in your kitchen before going on holiday – these will avoid a common disaster.
As holiday season has begun, many will travel lovers will be heading off to soak up some sun and enjoy a well-deserved break.
However, before you leave to hop on the plane, it is crucial to ensure the house has been properly prepared to avoid any mishaps and unpleasant surprises on your return.
Here, one expert, Lizzie Beesley, kitchen specialist from Magnet, emphasised that kitchen is the one area in the house that requires pre-holiday prep the most.
Speaking to The Express, she said: ”Whilst it’s important to ensure the security and state of your whole home, it’s the kitchen that calls for the most amount of pre-travel prep to ensure your mind is at rest on holiday and is ready for a blissful homecoming.”
Many will be familiar with the classic and the more common security advice, for example, locking the windows and ensuring the doors and shut properly as well – however, there are extra few tasks you might want to add to your list.
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Remember to switch off:
“Kitchen appliances are the top culprits for using lots of electricity, even when left on standby.
”Ovens, dishwashers, microwaves, washing machines, kettles, coffee machines, toasters and other countertop gadgets in your home should be switched off before departure.
“Unplugging them or turning off the fuse switch are the best ways to ensure they’re not left on standby – but make sure you don’t switch off your fridge or freezer in the process.”
When it comes to he boiler, the whizz said it will depend on the season.
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“In the summer, switch off your boiler as hot water and heating aren’t needed.
“In the winter, however, it’s important to leave your boiler on and set the thermostat on a lower temperature or on a timer, to prevent your pipes from freezing.’’
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Don’t switch off:
Unless you’re going away for a long period of time and your fridge and freezer have been emptied, leave them on.
Ms Beesley said: “If you switch off a fridge or freezer, it will defrost and you’ll return to a very wet floor.
The stench and clean-up of rotting food is not something you want to return to.“
Cut the water supply
One of the “most common domestic disasters” , Lizzie revealed, are water leaks.
“[Leaks] cause considerable damage and expense if left unattended, so remember to turn off your water supply at the mains.”
She added: “Turning it off is simply a must-do and it will put your mind at ease whilst on holiday.”
Plan ahead with your fridge clear-out
Just as important as planning the outfits you’re going to be stunning everyone in, is clearing the fridge and removing foods that will spoil quickly.
Lizzie said: “A little planning ahead here can go a long way and prevent you from wasting food and money.
“In the run-up to your holiday, try and use up anything that will go bad during the time you are away.
”Use vegetables in a soup or stew, or make a veggie curry or casserole.
“If you make a big batch, you can freeze the leftovers for an easy meal when you get back.
“While you’re clearing the fridge out, wipe down the shelves and draws to make sure any lingering crumbs and food that could breed mould are removed.’’
Empty the bins
Before heading off, many tend to forget a simple task – taking out the rubbish and recycling.
Not only will leaving a bin alone for an extended period of time cause nasty smells but also attract pests that you will have to deal with upon your return.
“It’s also a good opportunity to clean out your bin and recycling containers as even the tiniest amount of rubbish or food waste can cause an odour in the warmer months,” Lizzie added.
Don’t forget the coffee grounds
Easy to use and convenient, coffee machines have become a staple for many Britons – but it’s also key to take proper care of these devices.
The kitchen expert said: “It’s a simple step to miss, but take the time to clean to do so.
“Wet coffee grounds are the perfect breeding place for mould and odours and can even attract cockroaches.’’
Leave your dishwasher open
“Do it before you depart and make sure you leave the dishwasher open just a crack.
“This will allow any standing heat and moisture to escape, which can breed mould and microbes if left alone for a long period of time.’’
Freshen the drains
We’re all familiar with the unpleasant smells of kitchen drains – and you will definitely notice them after coming home from a holiday.
However, there is a way to avoid it, according to the guru.
“Before you go, drop half a cup of baking soda down the drain and then pour one cup of vinegar down it.
“Let it sit for 15 minutes and then flush the drain with hot water.
“Add some lemon and you’ll be sure to return home to a sparkly sink with a citrus scent.’’
Be smart with lighting
With worried Brits expecting the brutal cost-of-living crisis to spark a crime wave, it should come as no surprise that burglars will be extra keen to try their luck whilst you’re away.
Before you’re setting off for adventures, try to make your house look lived in to deter any unwelcome visitors.
“If you have an automatic timer on your lights, set it to turn on and off in the evenings at pre-programmed times.
”Or, make use of external security lights to warn off potential intruders and give the impression of someone being at home.”
She added: ”Completely shut kitchen blinds during the day scream that a home is unoccupied.
”Leave them slightly open to give the impression that someone is in, but not enough for people to peer directly in.
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“For those with kitchen curtains, you can also leave them slightly drawn and ensure any valuables are out of sight.
”But it’s advised you use other deterrents like smart security systems and upgraded door and window locks to enhance the security of your home.’’
