I was busy cleaning my kitchen after cooking today and reflecting on how for many parents the kitchen is the hub of the home, so I thought to share with you a few simple mom-dad hacks and must-haves for your kitchen. These I hope will contribute to helping you keep your sanity and save time in the midst of your busy days!
Have your kids help you with simple tasks in the kitchen
I can’t utilize this one just yet, because Lux is so young. However those of you with older children, this one’s for you. This is a great way to teach your kids responsibility and also the importance of contributing to the household chores. Invite your kids to come and help you out in the kitchen. Try not to make it a bore, and use it as an opportunity to have a conversation while you prepare dinner and ask for simple tasks to be completed, such as setting the table or folding tea towels away in drawers. Time will be saved as you have helpers and this doubles up as a bonding experience – you might be surprised how much information can be divulged during these moments. If you happen to have both a son and a daughter, try including both kids when asking for help in the kitchen. This will teach your kids that domestic labor should be split between everyone and is not gender-specific!
Use simple and natural products that are safe for the family
By now I think it’s clear that I’m a fan of natural and waste-free products for the family and home. Using simply baking soda and natural dish soap you can clean chrome, porcelain sink basins, oven tops, and stoves. You can add your favorite natural essential oil to the mix to have your home smelling sweet like lavender, or like a summer’s day, with lemon. Alternatively, you can use any white or dark vinegar and lemon juice for most hard duty jobs in and around the kitchen. Clean safely and with less stress knowing that your kitchen is phosphate- and chlorine-free. It’s great to know that you can leave your kitchen knowing that the family hub is without harsh chemical residue.
Create your own functional and stylish pantry display
Over the past few weeks I have been collecting glass jars. You’ll be amazed how many of these we go through. Pesto jars, jam jars, olive jars, the list truly does go on. When you clean these thoroughly and scrub off labels, you’re left with really cute little jars that can be put to use in a number of ways. You can store craft supplies, scrap materials and buttons, or pantry items! I love a good pantry room, but let’s face it; most of us unfortunately do not have access to one of these, living in Beijing. One hack for the pantry-less is an open display for produce, snacks, and baking supplies. You can use shelves or counters in your kitchen. Place fresh fruit in a bowl, or fill baskets with kids’ snacks and glass jars with baking items in a chic and stylish way. Trust me, the results are so cute.
Invest in a slow cooker
Now we already know the importance of owning a rice cooker here, especially if you have an ayi, who in my case would probably say it is her best friend in the kitchen. However one-pot dinners are lifesavers and one of the simplest but most efficient hacks for busy families. You can throw a bunch of ingredients into a slow cooker early in the morning, forget about it all day, and then have a slap up meal ready for everyone by the time you get home. Winning! You can also use this item to prep ahead and freeze meals, which can be thawed and warmed through in the slow cooker too. You’re very welcome.
What mom-dad hacks do you swear by for your family?
Photos: Pixabay
