Do you get twitchy if you haven’t checked your phone for messages in the last few minutes? Like to stay connected while doing your daily jobs?
Carrying our phone or tablet everywhere we go has become a habit for most of us. And while it’s useful to have constant access to the internet and social media, there are some times when it’s best to put your gadgets down and one such time is when you’re in the kitchen.
Here are some of the top reasons to keep your tech-gadgets out of the kitchen:
Germs
Phones and tablet screens are a hotbed for germs. If you’re swapping between preparing food and swiping your touchscreen, not only do you risk getting food debris on your gadget but you’re also likely to transfer germs to food.
When you consider that we carry our phones almost everywhere from our own bathroom to public spaces, there’s little wonder they are covered in germs. Research shows that the average mobile phone could be home to ten times more bacteria than a toilet seat. So perhaps not something you want to be touching while preparing food!
Distraction
In the kitchen, even the most routine tasks need your full attention. Stirring a pot with one hand while texting with the other is a recipe for disaster. At best, you might overcook your pasta while checking Facebook. But at worst you could have an accident if one eye is on your screen while you’re cooking.
Damage
The kitchen isn’t an ideal place to charge or store your phone. It’s all too easy for spills to occur and if you knock over a cup of liquid while your phone is lying nearby it could end up in a puddle.
It’s also important to be careful that wires from your gadgets don’t create a trip hazard in the kitchen.
Kitchen Technology
Of course, there are times when technology can be useful in the kitchen. You might use your phone’s timer to tell you when dishes are ready or you might access a recipe using your tablet or phone. If this is the case, keep your gadget in a spot where it won’t get damaged from spills or splashes. Clean your gadget screen regularly so that you don’t transfer germs to food. Only use the gadget for the task in hand and don’t allow yourself to be distracted by messages or updates.
If you like to have a little entertainment while you’re working in the kitchen, a radio is a good investment. It’s less distracting than a television and doesn’t require interaction like a phone or tablet. Simply tune into your favourite radio station and listen away. Just remember to give your radio a wipe down every now and again to keep it clean and free from grease and crumbs.
Mealtime Distraction
Many studies have shown that we’re likely to overeat when distracted. So, avoid using your phone at mealtimes and keep televisions out of the dining room. Mealtimes are a great time to catch up with the family so encourage your loved ones to leave technology out of the dining room while you are eating.