This may come as a shock to some people, but there is no such thing as a kitchen elf. That's right, folks ... those office kitchens DO NOT take care of themselves!
As this seems to be an area of great contention in many workplaces, may I offer some suggestions:
1. Clean up after yourself. If you use a dish or utensil, wash and put it away. Wipe off any and all crumbs, spills or mess you might have made.
2. If you have taken the last of something, replace it. Does your company offer a supply of paper towels, napkins or plastic utensils? Don't leave the empty roll or box for the next person, refill it. - This also applies to the coffee pot! How do you feel when you find the coffee pot empty -- frustrated? When you take the last cup, take a few minutes and pay it forward by making a new pot.
3. Let someone know when you have used the last of an item so more can be purchased.
4. If there is a communal fund for creamer, contribute. People will notice when you take "just a little bit"; it's called freeloading.
4. Is the trash can filled to over-flowing? You can empty it rather than simply adding to it.
5. The microwave: - It is for heating food, not for cooking.
- Smells carry and linger. Fish, garlic, etc. are not good options. Eat them at home.
- What is your office policy on popcorn? Some offices have banned it outright because of the smell and the propensity to burn.
- If you have a food "explosion", wipe down the inside. (Uncovered pasta sauce, anyone?)
6. The refrigerator:
- Avoid smashing or mangling other items as you try to make yours fit. People are very protective of their food.
- Throw out your old left-overs! Shoving them to the back of the fridge does not mean they have been taken care of!
- Don't eat anyone else's food!
- Labeling personal items can be extremely helpful to all.
7. "Who ate my sandwich?" So what do you do if there is a food thief in your office?
- Talk to the boss and then bring it up at a staff meeting.
- Place a note on the fridge door: "Do not take food or drinks that do not belong to you!"
- Some suggest making a decoy sandwich, such as tuna and peanut butter. Hmmm. Perhaps not.
- You can always keep a small cooler by your desk!
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Remember...
Whether kitchen cleaning service is provided by the company or it is left to the employees to self-police, be courteous to your co-workers and do your part to keep the kitchen environment clean and tidy. It's not only a matter of respect, it is also a matter of health.
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