Ah, Christmas dinner — the highlight of the season. The table is laden with delicious dishes, your family and friends are gathered around, and laughter fills the air. But once the plates are cleared and the guests leave, you’re left staring at a kitchen that looks like a tornado just blew through. Fear not! With a little strategy and some post-holiday cheer, you can tackle the mess and restore your kitchen to sparkling perfection.
Step 1: Set the Mood
Cleaning up doesn’t have to feel like a chore. Play some upbeat music or your favorite holiday tunes to keep your spirits high. Brew a fresh cup of coffee or tea, and maybe grab a leftover Christmas cookie for a quick energy boost.
Step 2: Declutter the Counters
Start by clearing off all the surfaces. Remove serving platters, cooking utensils, and ingredients that didn’t make it back to their rightful places. Sort them into categories: things to wash, things to put away, and things to toss.
Step 3: Attack the Dishes
Soak First: Fill the sink with warm soapy water and let any caked-on pots, pans, and dishes soak. This will make scrubbing much easier later.
Dishwasher Priorities: Load the dishwasher with glasses, plates, and smaller items first. Run it while you tackle other areas so you can do multiple loads if necessary.
Handwashing: For delicate items like crystal glasses or non-dishwasher-safe cookware, wash them gently with a soft sponge and mild detergent.
Step 4: Handle Leftovers
Label and Store: Transfer leftovers into airtight containers, label them with the contents and date, and refrigerate or freeze promptly.
Compost: Sort through any food waste. Compost what you can and discard the rest,
ensuring your kitchen bin is lined and ready.
Step 5: Wipe Down Surfaces
Worktops: Spray down counters with an all-purpose cleaner or a mix of vinegar and water. Wipe thoroughly, especially around food prep areas.
Appliances: Clean splatters and fingerprints off the stove, oven, microwave, and refrigerator with a damp cloth.
Table and Chairs: Don’t forget to wipe down the dining table and chairs, which may have sticky spots or crumbs.
Step 6: Sweep and Mop the Floors
A lot can end up on the floor during Christmas dinner prep — flour, breadcrumbs, spills, and more. Sweep thoroughly to collect debris, and then mop with a gentle floor cleaner for a polished finish.
Step 7: Freshen the Air
Light a festive-scented candle or simmer a pot of water with orange slices, cinnamon sticks, and cloves to refresh your kitchen with a cozy holiday aroma.
Pro Tips for a Faster Clean-Up
Delegate Tasks: If you’re hosting, enlist a few willing helpers to share the workload.
Use Disposable Liners: Line baking trays and roasting pans with foil or parchment paper to minimise scrubbing.
Wash as You Go: During cooking, clean utensils and surfaces to keep the mess manageable.
Invest in Quality Cleaners: Stubborn stains or grease? A good degreaser or specialty cleaner can save you time and effort.
Celebrate Your Hard Work
Once the kitchen is clean and back to its pre-dinner glory, treat yourself to some downtime. Cozy up with a leftover slice of pie, a hot drink, and a classic holiday movie. After all, you’ve earned it!
Cleaning up after Christmas dinner may seem daunting, but with a clear plan and a bit of holiday cheer, it can be a surprisingly satisfying task. Plus, starting the new year with a clean kitchen is one of the best gifts you can give yourself!
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