The Shortcut Chef: Clean as You Cook

Staying on top of dishes and messes while you cook saves post-meal stress and keeps your kitchen ready for anything.

Why This Shortcut Matters

Cleaning as you go reduces clutter, speeds up final cleanup, and helps you work more efficiently—especially valuable when space or time is limited.

Step-by-Step Shortcut

• Step 1: Fill your sink or a basin with warm, soapy water before starting—drop in utensils as soon as you finish with them.

• Step 2: Wipe counters and cutting boards immediately after use to prevent build-up and cross-contamination.

• Step 3: Use moments of downtime—like waiting for water to boil—to wash up or sort ingredients.

• Step 4: Stack or rinse pots and pans while food simmers so you finish cooking and cleaning at nearly the same time.

"Success is never owned, it is rented - and the rent is due every day." – Rory Vaden

Extra Chef’s Tip

Before serving, do a final sweep for stray wrappers, crumbs, or spills—leaving your space fresh for tomorrow’s meal.

Shortcut Summary

Cleaning as you cook leaves you with a sparkling kitchen, less end-of-meal hassle, and more energy to enjoy your food and your evening.

Add Your Shortcut Below

How do you keep your kitchen tidy while you cook? Share your best organizing or cleaning hacks below and help every Shortcut Chef stay ahead!