If you are like us, your outdoor kitchen is your pride and joy. It’s where fun times are had and memories are made. So what happens when you’re away and can’t keep an eye on this backyard oasis?
Fortunately, there are easy steps you can take to keep your outdoor kitchen clean and secure while you are gone. Whether you’re leaving for business or pleasure, you can trust that your kitchen will be in pristine condition when you return.
Clean Up Before You Go
If you plan to be away for more than a day or two, you should clean your outdoor kitchen before you go. Doing so will help you avoid a pest or rodent problem. Plus, it can even reduce the risk of rust or water damage.
As you clean, pay special attention to these areas of the outdoor kitchen:
- The grill
- The kitchen sink
- The refrigerator
- The countertops
- The furniture
Start with a simple wipe down and then dive a little deeper for areas that need extra attention. If you notice rust on any of your stainless steel appliances, scrub it off with a hard-bristle brush.
Seal Your Countertops
You could plan on covering your kitchen with a tied-down tarp every time you are away. Or, you could invest in a quality sealant so your countertops have 24/7 protection without the hassle.
You can do the job yourself or call in for professional help. Either way, you’ll extend the life of your countertops. Just be sure to reapply the sealant every three to five years.
Cover Your Grill
The grill is one of the most valuable pieces of an outdoor kitchen, so give it the respect it deserves. With a simple grill cover, you can protect it from the elements and keep it in top condition for years to come.
Disconnect the Utilities
If you won’t be using your outdoor kitchen for a while, we recommend turning off your utilities. This will save you money and keep the area secure. Unplug any appliances and turn off the gas to the grill. And if you have an outdoor sink, avoid burst or freezing pipes by draining the supply line before you go.
Invest in Waterproof Cabinets
The best thing you can do for your outdoor kitchen is to invest in quality materials from the start. You will not be able to protect the area from rain or water, especially when you are away. So get started on the right foot by installing waterproof outdoor cabinets instead of traditional ones.
The best materials will be easy to clean and stain-resistant. Some cabinets are even resistant to bugs and termites due to their lack of organic compounds. There is a wide range of cabinetry products to choose from, but we recommend that you avoid stainless steel cabinets at all costs and opt for a durable material like HDPE instead.