🤝 How to Negotiate Lovingly | Featuring Catherine Stewart
Wednesday, December 29, 2021 • Duration 55:43
Hi everybody -
In this episode, we interview Catherine Stewart, former COO of Shippo and Chief Business Officer at Automattic/Wordpress.
Negotiation, she argues, is a practical skill to study. We are constantly negotiating to have better outcomes and get our needs met. A lot of negotiations happen at the beginning of a relationship. By creating value from the get-go, you set yourself up for success as you work together as partners.
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.trylifeschool.com
🏡 How to Invest In (& Manage) Rental Properties
Friday, December 10, 2021 • Duration 01:03:49
Hi everybody -
Hope this email finds you well! Our first episode of the Life School 2.0 podcast features Dana Dunford, CEO & Founder of Hemlane, a technology company that helps manage long-term rental properties. She speaks with us about the future of the rental industry, the benefits of investing in cash flow-generating properties, and how to start investing beyond your backyard.
I have linked some notes & key takeaways here. Given this is the first episode post-pivot, I’d love to know what you think! Feel free to drop me a line or post a comment. Also, if you have any questions for Dana, her email is here.
Have a great weekend!
~ Michelle
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.trylifeschool.com
🥡 Sprucing Up Leftovers, Washing the Dishes, and Overnight Hosting & Guesting
Saturday, October 9, 2021 • Duration 01:53
Hi everybody -
Welcome to the second edition of the Life School Weekly! This week we are unlocking three guides that we hope will help elevate your quality of living.
🗝 Unlocked this week:
* 🥡 Sprucing Up Leftovers⚡️📓 (3 min read; 4 min listen): There’s an old saying, “every food has a purpose and a re-purpose.” Working with leftovers is one of the ultimate ways to lean into this philosophy. Both challenging and rewarding, sprucing up leftovers will stretch your prowess as a scrappy & creative home chef.
* 🧼 Washing the Dishes 🎬 (2 min read; 3 min listen): With a plan of attack, you can blast through that tower of gunk before you know it. Sparkling sinks make for happy people, so give these tips & tricks a try.
* 💞 The Etiquette of Dating 📓 (10 min read; 19 min listen): Contrary to popular belief, etiquette in dating is not outdated, nor is chivalry dead. Both, however, have evolved in the modern era. From swiping to snuggling, let these tips & tricks inspire you to elevate your game.
🔒 Premium-Only
* 🧳🏡 The Etiquette of Overnight Hosting & Guesting 📓 (5 min read; 9 min listen): Are you confident in your manners & skillsets as a houseguest or host? This guide is nearly complete and could use a final review. Have feedback? Did we miss something? Please leave a comment. 🙏
Have a great weekend!
~ Michelle & the Life School Team
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit
⚡️ Wiping Counters, The Etiquette of Dating, MaxF Living & More...
Friday, October 1, 2021 • Duration 02:19
Hi everybody,
Welcome to the first edition of the Life School Weekly. This week we are sharing four guides we hope will elevate your quality of living. The first three are “unlocked” and available for the next week, regardless of your subscription tier. The fourth is “Premium”. You can learn more about our decision to launch premium content here.
We hope you find these guides helpful and/or interesting!
~ Michelle & the Life School Team
🗝 Unlocked This Week:
* Wiping Counters & Tables 🎬 (1 min & 20 sec): Tips to find your wiping rhythm & keep those surfaces crumb-free. Also, a new video!
* The Philosophy of MaxF, featuring Claire Conly ⭐️ 🎬 (2 min & 12 sec): Making life better by being more efficient. From strategizing errands routes to optimizing downtime while cooking, Claire has a knack for making the most of getting stuff done.
* Freezer Stocking Reference Guide 📓 (1 min & 34 sec): A printable reference guide covering what you can and cannot freeze, and how freezing speeds up midweek meal prep.
🔒 Premium-Only
* The Etiquette of Dating 📓 (10 min & 7 sec): Whether seeking marriage or simply a romantic encounter, a dater armed with etiquette has a higher chance of success. Etiquette refers to the customs and guidelines that help people act with more sensitivity towards others. Contrary to popular belief, etiquette in dating is not outdated, nor is chivalry dead. Both, however, have evolved in the modern era. From swiping to snuggling let these tips & tricks inspire you to elevate your game.
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit
The Etiquette of Dating 💕
Friday, October 1, 2021 • Duration 19:33
This guide is 2,748 words, a 10 min 59 sec read time (19:33 minute listen). Subscribe here.
📍Introduction:
Whether seeking marriage or simply a romantic encounter, a dater armed with etiquette has a higher chance of success. Etiquette refers to the customs and guidelines that help people act with more sensitivity towards others. Contrary to popular belief, etiquette in dating is not outdated, nor is chivalry dead. Both, however, have evolved in the modern era. From swiping to snuggling, let these tips & tricks inspire you to elevate your game.
📝Notes, Tips & Tricks:
General Principles:
* Dating shares the same word root as data. Approached through this lens, dating is a "data-gathering activity" that allows two people to learn about one another & explore whether or not they are romantically compatible. There's no need for high expectations, build-up, or pressure. You're just getting to know someone.
* Dating goals can vary widely (e.g., practice for marriage, fun, personal growth). If you have strong preferences (e.g., for something casual, something serious), it’s best to state that pretty soon. Regardless of your ambitions, however, remember that people can be easily hurt. Treat others the way you want to be (or you think they want to be) treated.
* It takes two to tango. This goes for both positive and negative experiences. If the date (or relationship) goes horribly, it is typically not one person's fault. If it goes well -- same story.
* It's best to approach & treat people as individuals. Believing that "all women are x" or "all men are y" can lead to false negatives (aka type II errors) and aloof behavior.
Asking Out & Being Asked Out
* When asking someone on a date, be specific (e.g., "Would you like to go for coffee this weekend?"). General questions can be hard to answer (e.g., "What are you doing this weekend?")
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit
📣 Important Announcement: We're launching Premium Content!
Monday, September 27, 2021 • Duration 01:39
This email is 272 words, a 1 min and 5 second reading time.
Hi Everybody & Happy Monday -
Fourteen months ago, we launched the Life School Substack with the mission to help people broaden their life skills & improve their quality of living. We hope that we have delivered on this goal and that you have found our content useful!
As we enter this next phase of our development as a startup, we are focused on building a company that can grow and evolve for years to come. Producing lessons for free has been a great way to learn & get feedback, but now we need to know what content is worth paying for.
Starting tomorrow, September 28th, all lessons published to date (~80 so far) will be available to Premium Subscribers only. Additionally, most of our posts going forward will be for premium subscribers only. You can see our proposed syllabus here.
We will continue to have a free subscriber tier. Free subscribers will have access to three free lessons at a time, which we will rotate weekly.
If you have found Life School enjoyable and/or helpful, please consider subscribing. Premium subscribers will have access to our Slack group, as well as receive all new posts. Our first premium-only post will be The Etiquette of Dating.
To thank you for being an early subscriber, we are offering a 30% discount on annual subscriptions ($35 instead of $50/year). Alternatively, you can subscribe monthly for $5/month.
Thank you so much for being on this journey with us. If you have any questions, concerns, ideas, or would like a free/comped subscription for any reason at all, please email me.
~ Michelle & The Life School Team
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit
Cleaning and Organizing the Refrigerator (& Freezer)
There are some great benefits to having a clean and well-organized fridge. A big one is being able to find an ingredient while cooking. Digging around your fridge for something mid-cooking can lead to items scorching.
Another advantage is reducing forgotten items. Lost ingredients & leftovers often spoil, leading to financial and environmental waste.
Is your fridge a jumble? Fret not! Here are some tips and tricks to help you get spiffed up fast.
⚙️ Gear
* All-purpose cleaner (or dish soap)
* Cleaning cloth
* Fridge thermometer (optional)
✅ Instructions
Basic Cleaning
* Review fridge for spoiled foods. Remove and toss/compost.
* Spot clean with a warm, damp cloth & all-purpose cleaner as necessary.
* Organize the refrigerator to your preferences.
Deeper Cleaning (2x/year+)
* Remove all items from the refrigerator.
* Wash bins and shelves in the sink with hot soapy water.
* Wipe down other surfaces with a warm, damp cloth & all-purpose cleaner.
* Wipe dry.
📝 Notes, Tips, and Tricks
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit
Are you listening to our podcast? 🎧🎙
Wednesday, August 11, 2021 • Duration 00:34
Hi everybody!
Are you listening to this recording? Are you subscribed to our podcast on Spotify, Overcast, or iTunes? If yes, we want to get to know you.
If you're open to having a call with our founder, me, Michelle, please email me at michelle@trylifeschool.com.
I'd love to set up a 15 minute phone call to learn about what you're liking and what we could do better.
Like a painter approaching a blank canvas or a writer sitting down to a neat desk - a home chef at a shiny cooktop is likely to feel more inspired & at ease.
With that said, a stovetop isn’t always so easy to clean. Splatters, spills, smears - there are many ways that grease and residue build up and cake on. This lesson is about how to keep the stovetop clean. Let’s dive in.
⚙️ Required Gear
* Towel or sponge for cleaning (e.g., terry bar mop)
* Towel for wiping and drying
* All-purpose cleaning spray (or dish soap)
* Baking soda (optional)
✅ Instructions
Gas stove with burners
* Ensure the stove is off and cool.
* Remove all grates (what pots and pans sit on) and burner caps (disks on tops of burner heads). If needed, wash everything in the dishwasher or by hand.
* Dry-wipe debris and crumbs off the stovetop.
* For a light clean, spray 2-3 times with cleaning spray, allow it to sit for one minute, and wipe the surface down with a cloth. Wet one side of a fresh cloth to rinse, using the other side to wipe dry.
* For a deeper clean, use a warm soapy non-abrasive sponge. Wash down the stovetop using minimal water to avoid getting burner heads wet and damaging components. To remove burnt or stuck on food, add a paste of baking soda and water for 2-3 minutes. Wring and reuse sponge to rinse or use a fresh towel (half for rinsing, half for wiping dry).
* Reassemble the stove.
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit
The Weekly Kitchen Cleaning Routine - Introduction ✨
Like a weekly face mask or steam at the gym, a deep kitchen clean can feel oh so satisfying. By tackling more challenging cleaning activities once a week, they become an integrated part of your self/home-care routine. This regularity will help reduce buildup and ensure that your workspace performs at its best. Working in a sparkling kitchen is more pleasant, comfortable, and relaxing.
The weekly routine builds on what we covered in The Daily Kitchen Cleaning Routine. It focuses on the deeper levels of cleaning, covering techniques & hacks to deal with tougher messes (e.g., sticky floors, oily fingerprints, and smelly sinks.)
In this course, we have structured the heftier cleaning duties into a few discrete tasks. They are: wiping appliances & cleaning the stovetop, tidying the fridge & emptying the trash, vacuuming & mopping the floors, cleaning & disinfecting the sink, laundering kitchen towels, and caring for tools. Let's dive in.
⚙️Required Gear:
* Vacuum (highly recommended, or broom/dustpan)
* Mop (spray or traditional) & floor cleaner (optional)
* Cleaning cloths (e.g., microfiber, terry bar mop towels)
* If you're the one asking for the date, give as much detail as possible (e.g., time, place to meet). Waiting until the last minute to pick a spot or time can make it difficult for your date to plan accordingly (e.g., clothing, transportation, scheduling).
* If you are asking someone out, it is typically assumed that you will pay. However, this can vary by wealth levels and cultures (e.g., in Europe splitting the bill is more common). If you suggest the place, it's nice to at least offer to cover the bill. Choose something less pricey if you are on a budget (see dating budget reference guide below).
* Relatedly, if you are the one being asked out, don't suggest a more pricey option. It could make your date feel uncomfortable & pressured.
* When asking someone out, double-check to ensure it aligns with their interests (e.g., don't book rock climbing without confirming your date isn't afraid of heights)
* If booking a restaurant with someone new, it's polite to ask about dietary restrictions. Relatedly, if you have strict food preferences or allergies, let your date know in advance.
* Don't cancel a date unless absolutely necessary. Scheduling and rescheduling a date over and over is unromantic, irritating, and can send the message that you aren't interested and/or reliable.
* Don't cancel on pre-existing plans to accept a date. It's rude to cancel on someone for a better option. Suggest meeting at a different time.
* Don't give false hope if you have no interest (e.g., I can't because I'm very busy with a work project right now"). Also, don't lie. It can come back to haunt you.
Talking/Texting/Communicating
* Daters differ on their willingness to talk, text, or video chat before meeting in person. If you have strong preferences, share them. Be flexible.
* Many people these days prefer to have some form of verbal communication (e.g., zoom/facetime, phone call) before meeting in the real world. This is a new norm. Embrace it! It can save you a lot of time and money.
* Tangentially, too much texting before meeting in real life can lead to a loss of momentum. It can also result in misinterpretations or projections.
* It is customary but not required to touch base (e.g., text, call) before a date to confirm details. If you are the one planning the date, try to do so the night before if possible. It creates a sense of anticipation and gives your date plenty of time to prepare.
* Preferences around grammar and punctuation differ. Matching your date's style is the best bet for harmonious text communication.
* Ghosting (not returning someone's text or call) is very rude & can leave someone hanging on without closure. If you aren't interested, thank your date for the time together and decline their offer. (See Ending Things Nicely below)
* Honest, direct communication can help avoid a lot of confusion & heartache.
* Sharing your feelings can go a long way. Nobody is a mind reader, and honestly stating what you are experiencing can go a long way in providing clarity. For inspiration, check out the Feelings Reference Guide below. If your feeling statement has the word "that" or "like" in it, you likely aren't speaking of your feelings (e.g., "I feel that/like you always do X" is a thought, not a feeling).
* In the beginning (e.g., first 1-3 dates), it's typical for one person to take the lead in proposing dates and the other to follow by accepting or rejecting. If the lead is interested, they will ask for a second date. If you want to (co)lead, ask for the second date!
* Texting frequently between dates can hinder the romance associated with anticipation (e.g., "A relationship rarely dies of starvation, yet often dies of indigestion."; "Absence makes the heart grow fonder.”)
On the Date:
* Make every effort to be on time. Nobody likes to be kept waiting. Additionally, tardiness implies you value your time more than your date's. If possible, arrive a few minutes early. Running a few minutes behind? Call (and apologize.)
* When picking up a date, it's polite to go to their door & ring the doorbell. Don't wait in the street or honk.
* If driving, tidy the car. If there are crumbs/dirt inside, vacuum. Don't arrive low on gas (or electricity).
* Holding doors open, allowing your date to exit the elevator first, or helping someone into their chair are chivalrous but not required. If you feel the desire to try these activities but are unsure, ask for permission. If someone opens the door for you, thank them.
* When strolling on the sidewalk, walking on the side closer to oncoming traffic can be seen as an act of protection.
* If walking, try to match the pace of your date.
* When picking seats at a table perpendicular to a wall, it is traditional that whoever faces the wall signals their lack of interest in scanning the crowd (e.g., for alternative date options).
* Don't order for your date unless they indicate that preference.
* Try not to check your phone while on the date. It can send the message that you are bored.
* Many people advise against discussing politics, religion, marriage, exes, children, or money on the first few dates. However, if one of these topics is important to you, it’s worth sharing early on (e.g., dates 2-5) rather than down the road. If there are deal-breakers on the table, better to find out sooner rather than later.
* Table manners will help you avoid disgusting your date (e.g., don't chew with your mouth open or talk with a mouth full of food, try not to eat too fast).
* Don't get drunk on a date. You may think you're charming, but you are likely to look sloppy and say (or do) something you regret.
* Show an active interest in getting to know your date (e.g., ask questions and refrain from monopolizing the conversation). However, don't pepper your date with questions and refuse to open up. Dating should be a two-way road.
* Don't interrupt your date. Additionally, avoid constantly interjecting with "uh-huh" or "yeah" as they speak. It's distracting and can send the message you are trying to speed them up.
* Life is long, and the world is small. Due diligence (both in hiring and dating) is common practice now. Treat others as you would like to be treated (and remembered or spoken of down the line).
* It is typical (& courteous) to walk or drive your date home. It shows that you care about your date's safety & wellbeing. Alternatively, you can wait until their transportation arrives. For next-level generosity, hail the rideshare from your phone and cover your date's journey. This ensures you know your date arrived home safely.
* If you had a lovely time on the date, express your thanks graciously (e.g., I had such a great time, would love to see you again"). Had a really great time? Express thanks both in person and with a follow-up text the next day.
Grooming & Dressing
* Don't wear clothing that may distract you. If you feel uncomfortable (e.g., too warm/cold/itchy/squeezed), you may appear nervous. Try to dress comfortably so your best self can shine through.
* Showing a lot of skin can distract your date, making it difficult to focus on a meaningful conversation. Also, it reduces the mystery & intrigue of what might come later.
* If you hope to touch your date, ensure your nails are clean and filed smooth.
* Bad breath is a major turn-off. Smell your floss. If it stinks, so does your breath.
* Body odor is avoidable & easily deterred with light deodorant or antiperspirant. Go easy on the scented type as it can smell like car freshener.
* Relatedly, while a bit of scent can be nice, overpowering smells may turn off your date. Go light on the cologne/perfume. 1-2 spritzes are generally sufficient.
* If you think there will be walking, wear shoes you can walk in.
Physical Romance:
* When exploring physical chemistry, consent (ideally enthusiastic) is required. If you sense hesitation from your date, pause. If you doubt your ability to read body language, go slowly.
* When in doubt, ask your date (e.g., would you like (for me) to XYZ?)
* If you aren't sure whether or not you are romantically interested in someone, consider getting to know them as a friend first. A true romance typically blooms naturally.
* It is your duty to disclose anything that could affect your partner's health.
* If you don't feel comfortable discussing topics related to safe sex (e.g., STDs, testing), reconsider if you are ready to get physical.
* It is entirely acceptable to require a test before engaging physically with your date.
* Don't lie (e.g., signal interest in something serious if you aren't).
* PDA can make others around you feel uncomfortable. With that said, if a special moment arrives, embrace it. (See this video for inspiration)
Ending Things Nicely
* If you end a dating relationship with kindness and grace, you open up new opportunities for yourself (e.g., starting a friendship, being introduced to one of their friends).
* Ending a date early is generally considered rude & will likely hurt your date’s feelings. However, if you are genuinely uncomfortable or have been hurt in some way, it is acceptable to depart early (e.g., after dinner & before dessert).
* If someone asks you for another date and you don't want to accept, be gracious and thank them. Then turn them down nicely.
* Do not lead people on. It's cowardly & selfish.
* When ending things, don’t lie. Lies are unethical and can brand you as a “liar” if caught.
* If you end something and are sincere about staying friends, let some time pass and follow up with a friendly invitation.
* If the timing is off, be upfront (e.g., "Thank you for asking me out. I would like to but [insert timing-related issue here]. Would it be okay if I reach back out when things change?")
* Sample rejection verbiage: "I see this more as a friendship than something romantic"; "I've recently started seeing someone, but thank you."; "I don't think we have enough chemistry."; "I am sorry, but I have a rule to never ___."; "Something is missing."; "The timing isn't right."
Accepting Rejection With Grace
* If someone turns you down, accept it graciously. If, however, you think your rejector has made a grave mistake, it's acceptable to ask for another chance.
* It is acceptable to ask for feedback if you can abstain from becoming pushy or defensive.
* Remember that the right guy/gal won't let you get away, there are many fish in the sea, and dates are like streetcars. If you miss one, another one’s on the way.
* Learning to accept rejection is a part of life. Try not to obsess or take it too personally. It's their loss. Let your friends be there for you.
Dating App Profiles
* Pictures should be equal parts "accounting" & "marketing." Market your strengths (e.g., high-resolution photos in good lighting) and account for who you are (e.g., recent photos that don't hide your face or body).
* Don't lie about your age or height. (Rounding up half an inch is permissible.)
* Avoid group photos if at all possible. They require an additional mental load for your prospective date (who likely has swiping fatigue). You may think you look dissimilar from your friends. On a 3x3 inch image, it's often hard to tell.
* Answer questions in a way that helps someone get a sense of your personality. Sharing that you relish widely popular food/activities/music is unlikely to differentiate you from others.
* Don't be afraid to ask a friend or family member for help. Sometimes we aren't the best judges of our strengths and quirks.
Introducing others:
* If you want to set two people up, it's best to ask both their permission beforehand, separately. If one person tends to be pickier than the other, ask that person first. Show a picture and make a quick pitch. If they aren't interested, let it go.
* One easy way to introduce people to one another is to create a scenario where they can meet naturally, in person, in a group setting (e.g., invite them both to an event or party)
* Introducing people is a great way to put positive karma into the world.
Dating & Money:
* In theory, the person who initiates the date signals their intent to pay. This goes for suggesting an addition to a date underway as well.
* It’s polite to at least offer to split the check. Most likely, your offer will be refused (at least on a first date). If you strongly prefer to pay, kindly explain that.
* If someone pays for you, thank them.
* Some more traditional types will prefer to pay/be paid for the first few dates. This is something worth discussing if it makes you uncomfortable one way or the other (e.g., "how do you think/feel about paying for dates?")
* The early stages of dating often transform as a couple builds more trust and talks through preferences around spending money. Do not assume that what happens on the first few dates will be set in stone.
* Paying for a date should not correlate with any romantic outcomes.
* If eating at a restaurant and the menu is expensive, try to pick something in the mid-price range or look to your date for guidance (e.g., mimic their general approach).
* Splitting the check early on (e.g., the first three dates) can be read as a lack of romantic interest — signal at your own risk.
📓Dates by Budget Reference Guide
* $: walk/hike, coffee/tea, phone call/video chat, local park, museum, volunteering
* $$: brunch/lunch, movie, drinks, picnic, host for dinner
* $$$: out to dinner, cultural event (e.g., show, concert)
* $$$$: trip/vacation
📓 Feelings Words Reference Guide:
Do you struggle to talk about feelings? Here are some words to help guide/inspire you.
* The less food you waste, the more money you save. Organized home chefs often waste <5% of ingredients.
* Expiration & sell-by dates are subjective. A quick sniff test or visual review is most reliable. If something is rancid or rotting, your nose & intuition will know it.
* When in doubt, throw it out.
Cleaning & Keeping Clean:
* An open box of baking soda can help absorb odors. Replace every ~3 months, and use it for cleaning (e.g., scrubbing down the sink).
* To make for easy drawer cleaning, place paper towels along the bottom.
* Ensure everything that goes into the fridge is clean (e.g., wipe off drips on rims and sides of bottles)
Temperature Control:
* The ideal fridge temperature range is between 35 and 38°F. Above 40°F is the "danger zone." A refrigerator thermometer (typically <$10 at a hardware store) is helpful for monitoring.
* Every time you open the fridge door, warm air rushes in. Don't leave the door open for too long as it enables certain items to degrade faster (e.g., dairy).
* Fridge & freezer compartments are generally cooled by the same system. They do this by sharing air between the two. If you leave something stinky in the fridge (e.g., garlic), the ice in the freezer could end up tasting like it. Cover items accordingly.
* Keep your fridge about ¾ full - enough to "hold the cold" but also allowing room for air to circulate.
Organizing & Storage:
* If you tend to forget what's inside your tupperware, use some painter's tape and a sharpie to label it.
* Store items you want to consume faster (e.g., cut vegetables, leftovers) at eye level & in front (e.g., top & middle shelves). Consider hiding items you want to consume less of (e.g., cheese, treats) in harder-to-reach areas (e.g., drawers). For a controversial take on this, check out this TikTok.
* If you have multiple items of the same kind, place the new items behind older ones (so you use up older items first).
* Organizer bins (like these) can help designate spaces for items. They also make it easier to pull groups of things out simultaneously (e.g., frozen fruits).
* Glass containers make for easier viewing & faster identification.
* Eggs are best left in the carton to reduce their absorption of fridge odors.
* Keep milk near the back of the fridge (where it's coldest).
* Meat & poultry are best stored low in the fridge to reduce their chance of dripping on other items. If there are drips, place items in a bowl or on a plate.
* High humidity crisper drawers work by permitting less air to circulate (thereby drawing out less moisture). They are best for leafy greens, which often wilt, as well as strawberries and citrus.
* No high humidity drawer? You can mimic the effect by wrapping lettuce in a wet paper towel & storing it in a plastic bag. Produce bags from the grocery store work well for this - as well as reusable silicone ones. Leave room for some airflow, though, or it can mildew.
* Low humidity drawers are great for fruits. Fruit emits ethylene gas which promotes ripening and spoilage. With low humidity, there is better ventilation.
* To extend the life of fruit, consider purchasing a "produce freshness saver" like this one. To use, place it inside the drawer with the fruit. It absorbs the gas, slowing ripening.
* Conversely, to speed up ripening, remove fruits from the fridge. To speed up ripening even more, concentrate the gas emissions (e.g., put fruit inside a paper bag with apples).
* If you haven't used a condiment in a few months, just toss it. It's taking up space and cluttering your fridge.
* Every month review items in the freezer and identify those you can use up (e.g., frozen meat, frozen leftovers). Freezers don't stop time entirely. See the Freezer Storage Reference Guide for more information.
* Wipe down coils with a damp cloth. If coil burners are heavily soiled, turn coils on high for a few minutes to burn off residue. Once cooled, use a dry toothbrush or abrasive sponge to scrape off any remaining residue.
* If drip pans are heavily soiled, pull coils out of the stove and remove drip pans. Wash them in warm soapy water or soak in a mixture of one part vinegar and two parts baking soda.
* Rinse and wipe down with water and allow to dry.
* Lift the top to check for burnt food underneath, removing as necessary.
* When all parts are dry, reassemble.
Glass or ceramic cooktop
* Dry-wipe surface to collect any food pieces or crumbs.
* Spray with warm water or all-purpose cleaner. Wipe with a microfiber cloth or clean towel.
* To deep clean, sprinkle baking soda on top and cover with warm damp soapy cloths. Let sit for 15-30 minutes. Remove towels, using cloths to wipe down the cooktop.
* Use a lint-free cloth (e.g., microfiber) to dry and polish.
📓 Notes, Tips & Tricks
* Ideally, wipe down the stovetop after every use. Messes are easiest to lift off when fresh. More quick cleans = less deep cleans.
* If you don’t have time to do a proper clean, at least wipe off new spots, drips, or spills.
* If you have many crumbs on or inside the stove, you can use a vacuum cleaner to sweep them up.
* Avoid abrasive cleaning solutions and pads that can scratch the stovetop.
* To scrape off hardened foods, use a plastic knife or spatula. Avoid metal, which can scratch.
* Stovetop cleaner is highly optional and rarely required. Soap, all-purpose cleaner, and baking soda are almost always sufficient.
* Cotton cloth works well for this job as it’s strong, absorbent, & inexpensive. Terry cloth is particularly effective as it has extra texture for scrubbing. Dedicated bar mops (like these) or old towels cut up into rags work quite well.
* Abrasive powder: Baking soda or Bar Keepers friend ($)
🔢 The Weekly Kitchen Cleaning Routine
(More detail in following lessons)
* Wipe down stovetop & appliances.
* Clean out & tidy the fridge. Empty trash & recycling.
* Vacuum the floors & if necessary, mop.
* Rinse & disinfect the sink.
* Launder cleaning towels.
* Care for tools (as needed).
📝 Notes, Tips & Tricks:
* Done all at once, these tasks will take ~20-30 minutes. Alternatively, you can break them up throughout the week into micro-cleans at ~ 10-15 min each.
* If done weekly, this routine prevents the buildup of dust and grime. It does not, however, guarantee a spotless kitchen at all times.
* For a "next-level" clean kitchen, we recommend the following activities every ~3 days, or as needed: (1) clean stovetop, (2) disinfect sink (3) vacuum.
* A cordless vacuum stored near the kitchen can do wonders for those who love to cook in their bare feet.
* Kitchen cleaning can be a great background activity for other things (e.g., podcasts, thinking time, music, talking on the phone). It is also great for getting the body moving and blood flowing (especially emptying the dishwasher & mopping the floors 🕺).
* A kitchen timer or clock can help you get a sense of how long things take. Try setting it for 10 minutes and racing to "beat the clock" with a given activity. You might surprise yourself with how little time most activities take.
* Individual cleaning tasks make for great desk/screen-time breaks.
* Kitchen cleaning products are ideally stored together in the kitchen (e.g., in a bin or bucket under the sink or inside a cupboard nearby)
📓Kitchen Cleaners Reference Guide
Cleaning fluids range in pH from 0 (acidic) to 14 (alkaline). 7 (dish soap) is neutral. Alkaline cuts through dirt, grease, proteins, oils, and other organic items. Acids are better for calcium, rust, and other minerals.
* Chlorine Bleach: pH level 11-13 (highly alkaline); corrosive and requires ventilation, not safe on many surfaces and can bleach fabrics; great at whitening and removing stains
* Ammonia: pH 12; also corrosive and requires ventilation, don't mix with other ingredients (creates harmful gasses); works wonders on tough dirt and grime.
* Oven Cleaner: pH 11 to 13: similar to ammonia
* Borax: 10, breaks down oils and organic dirt, effective as a laundry booster
* Baking Soda: pH 8 to 9: just barely alkaline, can cut through grease and dirt but not strong enough to be corrosive, great for many areas of the home b/c less toxic.
* Mild Dish Soap: 7-8: neutral cleanser, if it's labeled "mild," "gentle" or "great for hands," chances are it's neutral; great for everyday cleaning, not damaging for surfaces, can be used many places other than kitchen sink (e.g., cleaning stovetop, floors); cuts through grease
* Stone Cleaner: pH 7 to 10; 7 recommended for natural floors, marble, etc.
* Vinegar: pH 3 - acidic - great for removing mineral deposits but can also damage some surfaces (e.g., stone)
* Lemon Juice: pH 3, acidic - great for cleaning copper pots and drains but careful on stone or near grout
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