How to Clean Every Major Kitchen Appliance for a Spotless Home
Safe, DIY solutions keep your home’s busiest helpers running longer and odor-free.
Kitchen appliances are some of the hardest-working tools in your home. From refrigerators and dishwashers to ovens and coffee makers, regular cleaning ensures efficient operation, extends lifespan, prevents odor buildup, and creates a healthier kitchen environment. This guide provides step-by-step instructions on cleaning the interior and exterior of each major appliance using safe, practical techniques—many leveraging natural cleaning products.
General Tips for Cleaning Kitchen Appliances
- Unplug appliances before cleaning to ensure safety—especially with plug-in small appliances.
- Use microfiber cloths: They are gentle, effective at removing grime, and won’t scratch surfaces.
- Check manufacturers’ recommendations in manuals before using new cleaning products or methods, especially on specialty finishes.
- Clean regularly: A little upkeep weekly makes deep cleaning much easier and prevents buildup.
- Avoid abrasive cleaners or scouring pads which can damage surfaces and leave scratches.
How to Clean a Refrigerator
The refrigerator is essential for fresh food, but it can harbor spills, odors, and bacteria if not cleaned routinely. For best results, deep-clean your fridge every 3 to 6 months.
- Remove all food: Place perishables in a cooler. Toss expired items.
- Take out shelves and drawers: Wash them with warm, soapy water. Rinse and dry thoroughly.
- Clean interior surfaces: Use a solution of 1 tablespoon baking soda in 1 quart warm water or a gentle all-purpose cleaner. Wipe racks, bins, and walls.
- Address stubborn stains: Scrub gently with a paste of baking soda and water.
- Deodorize: Place an open box of baking soda, or a bowl of activated charcoal, in the fridge to absorb odors.
- Clean the door seals: Wipe gaskets clean with soapy water and dry. Avoid harsh cleaners here.
- Clean exterior: Use a damp microfiber cloth with mild dish soap. For stainless steel, follow the direction of the grain to avoid streaks and scratches.
- Replace contents: Return shelves, drawers, and food when dry.
How to Clean a Dishwasher
Dishwashers make daily cleanup easier—but even these washing machines need regular cleaning to prevent buildup, odors, and mechanical issues. Aim to clean your dishwasher every one to two months.
Step-by-Step Dishwasher Cleaning
- Clear out debris: With the dishwasher empty, remove the bottom rack. Wipe out any food debris from the basin.
- Clean the filter: Locate the filter (usually on the floor of the unit) and twist it to remove. Wash with hot, soapy water, and use a sponge or soft brush to remove stuck-on gunk. Rinse and replace the filter.
- Tackle spray arms: Check for clogs in holes or jets. Use a toothpick or small wire (like a paper clip) to clear debris.
- Wipe gaskets and seals: Use a damp cloth and a little dish soap to clean around the door gasket/seal.
- Run a cleaning cycle: Place a dishwasher-safe cup filled with one cup of white vinegar in the top rack. Run a hot cycle with the dishwasher empty to break down scale, grease, and odors.
- Finish with baking soda (optional): Sprinkle 1 cup baking soda on the floor of the dishwasher and run a short hot cycle for deodorizing and brightening.
Tip: Clean the filter regularly to prevent clogging and improve performance. Refer to your manufacturer’s manual for detailed filter instructions.
How to Clean an Oven
Baked-on grime, grease splatters, and food spills can make ovens dirty and cause smoke or odors while cooking. Most ovens need a thorough cleaning every few months, depending on usage.
How to Clean a Manual Oven (No Self-Clean Setting)
- Remove racks: Take racks out. Soak in warm, soapy water or baking soda solution for 1-2 hours to loosen grime.
- Mix a baking soda paste: Combine 1/2 cup baking soda with a few tablespoons of water until you get a spreadable paste.
- Spread paste: Coat oven walls (avoiding heating elements, gas vents, and door glass) with the paste.
- Let sit: Allow the paste to rest for at least 20 minutes (overnight for heavy buildup).
- Spray with vinegar: Spritz vinegar or lemon juice over the paste for extra cleaning power; it will fizz.
- Wipe clean: Use a soft cloth or sponge to remove all residue. Repeat as needed.
- Scrub stubborn spots: For tough stains, gently use a plastic scraper or spatula.
- Rinse and replace racks: Scrub oven racks, rinse, dry, and return them to the oven.
Cleaning Self-Cleaning Ovens
- Remove all racks, pans, and foil. (Check your manual—some racks may remain.)
- Wipe away loose debris or spills with a damp cloth.
- Close the oven door. Engage the self-clean cycle. The oven will heat to a very high temperature — usually 900°F or higher — burning away residue.
- When the cycle is complete and the oven is cool, wipe up ash with a damp cloth.
- Ventilate the kitchen as self-cleaning can produce strong odors and may set off smoke detectors.
How to Clean a Microwave Oven
Food splatters and stains are common in microwaves. Clean at least once a week for optimal performance.
- Steam the inside: Fill a microwave-safe bowl with 1 cup water and a few slices of lemon (or 2 tablespoons vinegar). Heat on high for 3-5 minutes, letting the steam loosen food splatters.
- Wipe out interior: Carefully remove the bowl (it will be hot). Wipe the inside with a damp sponge or microfiber cloth. For stubborn spots, use a paste of baking soda and water.
- Clean turntable: Remove and wash the glass tray in warm, soapy water. Dry thoroughly before replacing.
- Clean exterior: Wipe control panel and door with a cloth slightly dampened with soapy water (never spray directly onto controls).
How to Clean a Coffee Maker
Mineral deposits and mold can build up in drip coffee makers, affecting flavor and performance. For best results, clean monthly (or more often if you have hard water).
Cleaning a Drip Coffee Maker
- Empty and prepare: Dispose of used grounds. Remove and wash carafe and filter basket with warm, soapy water.
- Descale with vinegar: Fill the water reservoir with equal parts white vinegar and water.
- Run a brew cycle: Start a brew cycle. Switch off halfway through, allowing the solution to sit for 30 minutes to dissolve deposits.
- Complete brew cycle: Resume brewing until cycle is complete. Discard solution.
- Rinse: Run 2-3 cycles of fresh water to flush out residual odor/flavor.
- Wipe exterior: Clean any drips, buttons, or exterior surfaces with a damp cloth.
Tip: For pod or single-cup brewers, consult your manufacturer for approved descaling and cleaning solutions.
How to Clean a Stovetop
Cooktops—whether gas, electric, or glass—benefit from regular wipe-downs to prevent burnt-on messes. Clean up promptly after spills to reduce work later.
Gas or Electric Coil Stovetops
- Remove burner grates and knobs. Wash in soapy water, rinse, and dry.
- If safe, remove coils and gently wipe.
- Wipe stovetop surface with a sponge, using a mixture of mild dish soap and water. For stuck-on messes, sprinkle baking soda and scrub gently.
- Wipe all surfaces clean and dry.
Glass or Ceramic Stovetops
- Wait until cool. Wipe off crumbs and spills.
- Apply a few drops of specialized glass stovetop cleaner (or a baking soda paste) for stubborn stains. Use a soft cloth or silicone scraper to remove residue.
How to Clean Small Kitchen Appliances
Don’t neglect blenders, toasters, stand mixers, and other small tools. Unplug before cleaning, and disassemble removable parts when possible.
- Blender: Disassemble the jar, lid, and blade (if detachable). Wash with hot, soapy water, then dry thoroughly.
- Toaster or Toaster Oven: Unplug, remove crumb tray, and shake crumbs out. Wipe exterior with a damp cloth. For toaster ovens, clean racks and interior per manual.
- Stand Mixer: Clean bowl and beaters after each use. Wipe mixer body with a damp cloth; avoid immersing the motor housing in water.
- Food Processor: Disassemble and wash all removable parts. Wipe the motor base carefully with a damp sponge.
How to Clean Stainless Steel Appliances
Stainless steel is attractive but easily smudged by fingerprints and water marks. The right cleaning approach keeps these surfaces streak-free and shining.
- Choose the right cleaner: Use water with a few drops of dish soap, or a solution of vinegar and water for greasy smudges.
- Wipe with the grain: Stainless steel surfaces have a “grain” (lines on the finish). Always wipe in the direction of the grain to avoid scratches.
- Rinse and dry: Use a clean, dry microfiber cloth to prevent streaks.
- For extra polish, apply a small amount of mineral oil or specialized stainless steel cleaner, then buff well.
- Never use abrasive pads or cleaners: These can permanently scratch the surface.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How often should I clean my appliances?
Frequency depends on use and appliance type. Refrigerators and ovens should be deep-cleaned every 3–6 months; dishwashers and coffee makers monthly; microwaves and cooktops weekly, or whenever spills occur.
Are natural cleaners effective on kitchen appliances?
Natural cleaners like baking soda, vinegar, and lemon are highly effective for many appliance-cleaning tasks. Baking soda removes odors and stains, vinegar breaks down mineral deposits and soap scum, and lemon provides natural degreasing and a fresh scent.
What should I avoid when cleaning appliances?
- Avoid abrasive scrubbers and harsh chemicals.
- Never immerse electrical components in water.
- Don’t use bleach in areas where it may come into contact with food or certain metals.
Can I use vinegar to clean all appliances?
Vinegar is a good general-purpose cleaner, but avoid using it on natural stone and certain seals or rubber gaskets—consult your manual first.
How do I keep my stainless steel appliances streak-free?
Clean with a microfiber cloth dampened with water and a mild cleaner. Wipe with the grain and dry immediately. Buff with a small amount of mineral oil or a stainless steel cleaner for extra shine.
Conclusion
Keeping your kitchen appliances fresh and clean doesn’t require fancy products or hours of work. With a regular cleaning schedule and the right techniques, your refrigerator, oven, dishwasher, microwave, and small appliances will run efficiently, last longer, and maintain a sparkling appearance in your home.
References
- https://askacleanperson.substack.com/p/cleaning-the-things-we-use-to-clean
- https://www.brothersmain.com/blog/how-to-clean-your-kitchen-appliances-inside-and-out
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KbYRM-ZA2dA
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KhxmcHoUOl0
- https://auntfannies.com/blog/stainless-steel-wins-bhgs-clean-house-awards/
- https://pocketmags.com/us/better-homes-and-gardens/2511-2/articles/bhg-people-s-choice-appliance-awards
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