The Kitchen Item Everyone Forgets to Clean After Dinner

Growing up, I was guilty of sneaking snacks into my room, leaving dishes behind, and driving my mom nuts in the process. She had this sixth sense for spotting a rogue plate hidden under my bed or a mug left on my desk. Back then, I didn’t understand why she cared so much. But now that I have a kitchen of my own, it’s like her cleaning instincts have been passed down to me.

These days, I’m in full kitchen-cleaning mode after dinner. Dishes, counters, and stovetops all get tackled. But recently, I realized I was missing something—salt and pepper shakers. It turns out, they’re not just dusty little table accessories. They’re way dirtier than I ever imagined.

Why Salt and Pepper Shakers Are Dirtier Than You Think

Think about how often you grab your salt and pepper shakers. They’re probably the most touched items in your kitchen, right? Every recipe calls for a pinch of salt, and pepper is just as popular. But here’s the thing—they’re getting handled by everyone, whether it’s you, your kids, or guests at a holiday dinner.

And it’s not just about fingers. If your shakers live near the stove, they’re getting hit with oil splatter, too. That sticky residue becomes a magnet for dust and germs. According to a study by ABC News, the average pepper shaker harbors over 11,600 bacteria. Let that sink in for a second—11,600! If you’re like me and love cooking with your hands, it’s easy to see how those little shakers can turn into germ factories.

How to Keep Salt and Pepper Shakers Clean

The good news? Cleaning your shakers is super simple. I’ve started wiping mine down with a damp cloth at least once a week, sometimes more if they’re near my stovetop. It only takes a few seconds, but it makes a big difference.

When they’re empty, it’s a great excuse to give them a deeper clean. If your shakers are dishwasher safe, toss them in for a full reset. If not, hand washing them with warm, soapy water does the trick. Just make sure they’re completely dry before you refill them, or you’ll end up with a clumpy salt mess.