Kitchen Cleaning With Kids

Toddler girl loading plates into dishwasher.Kids age 3 to 5 years can help unload the dishwasher.

At what age can a child set and clear the table? When can a kid take out the garbage? 

Kitchen patrol isn't anyone's favorite chore, but it beats cleaning the bathroom hands-down. You could always give your kids the option of scrubbing the toilet if they're not in the mood to rinse dishes and put them in the dishwasher.

This quick guide to kitchen cleaning with kids will help you divvy up the KP chores. 

Once a child reaches a certain skill or age level, he can generally do the chores for his age group and those for the age groups below. Of course, some of these chores need to be done each day, others once a week, and still others once a month or even less frequently.

Kitchen Cleaning With Kids: Chores for Ages 2 and Under

  • Close cabinet doors and drawers
  • Turn on the dishwasher
  • Help set the table

Chores for Kids Ages 3 to 5:

  • Previous chores, plus:
  • Place dirty dishes on the kitchen counter
  • Sponge down the play table
  • Help unload the dishwasher

Chores for Kids Ages 6 to 9:

  • Previous chores, plus:
  • Help make breakfast
  • Do simple cooking tasks such as rinsing vegetables
  • Set and clear the table
  • Put dishes into the dishwasher
  • Wipe up spills
  • Wipe kitchen table, chairs, high chair, counters, and cooktop or range
  • Wipe down the interior of the microwave
  • Sweep or vacuum kitchen floor and damp-mop any spills
  • Help put away groceries
  • Empty and wipe wastebaskets clean, using disinfecting wipes

Kitchen Cleaning with Kids Ages 10 to 13:

  • Previous chores, plus:
  • Pour beverages for meals
  • Help hand-wash dishes
  • Make lunch for school
  • Unload the dishwasher
  • Disinfect kitchen countertops

Chores for Teens Ages 14 to 17:

  • Previous chores, plus:
  • Prepare meals
  • Clean and disinfect sink
  • Clean coffeemaker thoroughly
  • Organize pantry


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