Some Random Kitchen Tips

1. Put a plastic bag on the counter and throw your garbage in it as you're cooking - peels, plastic wrap, seeds, empty containers, etc. Fold down the edges of the bag to avoid unwanted spills when you pick it up. I like to use plastic grocery bags - when I'm done, I tie the handles together and throw it into the big trash can in the corner.
2. Microwave your sponge for one minute on high every day to kill germs and keep your sponge cleaner. Be sure to squeeze out as much water as possible before microwaving.
3. If, like me, you hate mincing garlic because you can never seem to get it small enough, grate it with a microplane instead.
4. Store Siplats (silicone baking sheets) on the inside of a paper towel tube.
5. Use only half the amount of powdered dishwasher detergent that fits in the well and add a few drops of liquid dish soap to prevent spots.