(HealthDay News) -- Proper food storage and preparation are important ways to prevent food-borne illness, as is keeping your kitchen germ-free.

Here are suggestions for a clean kitchen, courtesy of the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse:

• Each week, wash all sponges, dish rags and towels in the washing machine with hot water.
• Make sure all cooking utensils are clean before you use them, and wash them thoroughly immediately after cooking.
• Keep all kitchen counters and surfaces clean before and after preparing food. Clean them with a solution of one teaspoon of bleach to one quart of water.
• Always wash your hands with warm water and soap before working in the kitchen, especially when handling food.