The rainy season is here and the kitchen is not immune to the conditions that make this season challenging. Indeed, with the damp, the continuous showers and a host of other season-related problems, the kitchen may just prove to be a battleground of sorts. Here are a few tips and ideas for the rainy season-challenged kitchen.

• Stock up on bacteria disinfectants.
  The sun's hot rays are no longer here to sanitize surfaces. As such, it is best that homeowners become vigilant in keeping bacteria and pathogens at bay through chemical means, as the season is known for certain diseases. Keep these poisonous substances out of the reach of children though, as they may prove toxic to their systems.
  
  

• On the same vein as above, be sure to have liquid soaps handy for immediate disinfecting through washing.
  Keep a bottle of liquid soap (any brand, it need not be expensive), near the sink for ease of use. As mentioned, some opportunistic and contagious diseases become prevalent during this season, and the kitchen because of high human traffic might just become a means by which pathogens are transmitted.
  
  

• Keep rags and paper towels handy.
  Rags are best for keeping the damp away. Just wipe regularly and throw away once used. The same can be said about paper towels. However, these are more expensive. A compromise would be the use of a sponge. Nonetheless, sponges need to be thrown away as well once it becomes dark and dirty from constant use.
  
  

• A word about the rags.
  Some non-governmental organizations actually have rag-making as an income-generating livelihood project for indigent families and communities. Buy these and help our brethren.
  
  

• Keep an eye on the electrical installations and fixtures (sockets, switches etc.) as some areas in Metro Manila and even outlying provinces are flood prone.
  Indeed, the kitchen is chockfull of electrical appliances that could easily become damaged when floodwaters rise. As such, be proactive in keeping them in tip-top shape. For instance, the refrigerators could be placed on wooden or metal pallets several inches above the floor. Switches and sockets could also be placed several feet above the ground. For small appliances, once could keep them in shelves and cabinets several feet floodwaters. Doing so would keep the kitchen clutter free as well.
  
  

• Lastly, invest in rubber mats or matting.
  These could be place in areas of the kitchen that are made dangerous when wet (especially during strong rain and flooding). Thus, enabling floors to be slip-free. Although relatively expensive, they can nonetheless be used for a long period of time. Home depots usually have a selection of these rubber mats.