Olean, N.Y. ? When sunshine beckons you outside, remember there’s still some reason to give a little time to spring cleaning the kitchen.

If the kitchen is clean and organized it will be that much easier to cook up a tasty dish.

 Make sure all your knives are sharp; sharpen any that have lost their edge. Sharp knives cut more easily, of course, and are much safer.

 Check to see a full range of necessary cutlery and utensils is still in place; replace essentials, from pots, pans and lids to kitchen tools and accessories. Check appliance cords for possible cuts or fraying, and replace when necessary.

 Hand-wash cutlery and appliances. Read cleaning instructions for everything: Not all kitchen products are dishwasher safe.

 Check all expiration and “best used by” dates on items in the pantry, refrigerator and freezer. Throw out those past their prime.

 Evaluate how your pantry and food areas are organized. Sort food by category (baking, sauces, pastas, breakfast foods and so on) to make things easier to find and reach, and to know when items need restocking.

 Prevent accidents by checking for loose handles on pots and pans.

 Roll out new shelf linings in pantry and cabinets.