The kitchen is the heart of the home, but it’s also one of the places that can quickly accumulate dirt and grease. To keep your kitchen clean and hygienic, it’s important to clean regularly, including the oven and the space behind appliances. Here’s a guide to help you take care of these often-neglected areas.
1. Cleaning the Kitchen
Countertops and Surfaces
Start by clearing off the countertops and wiping them down with a mix of warm water and mild detergent. For stubborn stains, use a paste made from baking soda and water. Let the paste sit on the stain for a few minutes before scrubbing it off with a soft cloth.
Sink
The sink should be cleaned daily to prevent bacterial growth. Use a disinfectant cleaner or a mixture of vinegar and water. To keep the drain fresh, pour some baking soda followed by vinegar down the drain, let it bubble, and rinse with warm water.
Cabinets and Drawers
Empty cabinets and drawers, and wipe down the interiors with a damp cloth. Use a mild cleaner to remove any dirt and grease. Check the handles as well, as they can collect bacteria and grime from hands.
2. Cleaning the Oven
Remove Grease and Grime
If your oven has a self-cleaning function, use it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If not, you can clean the oven manually. Start by removing the oven racks and soaking them in warm water with dish soap. Apply oven cleaner inside the oven and let it sit for 15-30 minutes. Scrub away grease and grime with a sponge or brush.
Glass Door
Clean the glass door by applying a mixture of baking soda and water. Let it sit for about 15 minutes, then wipe it off with a damp cloth to reveal a shiny, clean surface.
Oven Racks
Oven racks can get quite dirty, so soak them in a mixture of dish soap and warm water. After soaking, use a brush to remove burnt food and grease.
3. Cleaning Behind the Oven and Fridge
Unplug and Move
Before cleaning behind the oven and fridge, ensure these appliances are unplugged. Carefully pull them out to access the space behind.
Vacuum and Wipe Down
Start by vacuuming up dust and dirt that has collected behind the appliances. Then, use a damp cloth to wipe down the walls and floors. If there is grease or spills, use a degreaser to clean the area.
Clean the Vents
Check the ventilation on the back of both the oven and fridge. If these are clogged with dust, use a brush or vacuum to clean them. This improves both safety and energy efficiency.
4. Cleaning the Fridge
Interior Cleaning
Empty the fridge and discard any old or expired food. Remove all shelves and drawers, and clean them with warm water and dish soap. Use a damp cloth to wipe down the interior of the fridge.
Fridge Door and Seal
Clean the fridge door and seal with a mixture of water and dish soap. Check that the seal is in good condition and clean it to prevent dirt and bacteria from building up.
Keep It Fresh
To keep your fridge smelling fresh, place a small bowl of baking soda on one of the shelves. The baking soda will absorb any unwanted odors and keep the fridge odor-free.
5. Regular Maintenance
To keep your kitchen and appliances in top condition, make sure to clean regularly. Smaller, frequent cleaning tasks are much easier to manage than large cleanings that become necessary due to neglect. Regular maintenance also ensures that your kitchen remains a healthy place for preparing food and gathering with family.
With these tips, you can keep your kitchen, oven, and the spaces behind your appliances clean, fresh, and in perfect condition.
