Tackle this quick checklist before your big trip.
While going away on vacation can be relaxing, getting ready for one can be anything but. Between packing and all of those last-minute errands like picking up sunscreen or camping supplies, it’s important to make sure you don’t leave your home a complete disaster so you don’t come back to chaos.
While it’s not a big deal to leave your bed un-made because you had an early flight, for example, it’s crucial to give your kitchen a little extra attention before you’re on your way—especially because bugs have a knack for coming out to snack when the humans are gone! Here’s how to prepare your kitchen before going on a vacation.
Declutter Your Fridge
No one wants to return to rotting or moldy food. So, go ahead and toss those takeout containers. Anything fresh that’s in a meal prep container should probably go in the garbage as well. Don’t forget to get rid of or give away fresh fruits and veggies.
Check your drinks. Open bottles of wine, juice, and soda should be tossed, but anything that’s never been opened or comes in a can should be fine.
While you’re in the fridge, check out your condiments. That salad dressing with one use left should probably go along with that bottle of honey mustard that is nearly expired. Don’t forget to make a list of anything that may need to be replaced so you can stock up when you return from your trip.
Check Your Pantry
Fresh foods that you might keep outside the fridge also need to go. Whether it’s a loaf of bread or an open bag of chips, these things can attract mold and rodents. So, be sure to dispose of anything like this as well.
Unplug Any Extension Cords
When leaving your home for an extended amount of time, fire lieutenant and creator of Triple F Female Firefighter Plush Dolls, Tina Guiler, recommends unplugging any extension cords or power outlets that lack surge protectors.
This is because if bad weather like a storm occurs or there are sudden issues with the electric company or power lines, a jolt of electricity can come back into your house and fry any appliances that are plugged in, or worse—start a fire.
Unplug Small Appliances
While you might not think much of keeping your air fryer plugged in (especially if you use it regularly), or the coffee maker you use every morning, it’s crucial to unplug these things before go away. “Small appliances get used so much in the kitchen that the plug and the encased wires that you pull in and out of the wall can separate or get damaged and you won’t even see it. That tiny tear in the line is what can start a fire when you leave it plugged into the wall,” explains Guiler.
Unplugging small appliances can take a few bucks off your electric bill as well. “When you unplug all your small appliances, not only are you making sure no fires will occur, you are actually saving on power too because anything that is plugged into the wall creates electricity, which in turn makes your electric bill slightly higher.”
Throw Out The Garbage
Lastly, we know taking out garbage is probably at the bottom of your to-do list when getting ready for vacation. But there’s nothing less relaxing than coming back to a smelly kitchen after a relaxing trip. So, don’t skip out on this task.
Amanda Lauren, REAL SIMPLE