The kitchen is one of the most used areas in a home, so it's really easy for dirt and grime to build up in places you might not notice during regular cleaning. A deep clean makes your kitchen look fantastic but also helps maintain hygiene and prevent unpleasant smells too! With spring around the corner you might be starting to plan your deep cleaning- here’s how to tackle the kitchen effectively.
Start with the Cabinets and Drawers
Over time, grease and dust can stick to the surfaces of your cabinets and drawers. Your best bet is to begin by emptying them out completely. Use a damp microfiber cloth and a gentle cleaner to wipe down both the interior and exterior. Pay special attention to handles and edges, as these areas collect the most grime. For stubborn grease, a mixture of warm water and dish soap works wonders. Make sure everything is completely dry before returning items to the drawers or cabinets. Once they're all clean, spend some time organising everything. Throw away any expired tins and jars, get rid of small appliances you have stored that you never use and check/ replace chipped or damaged crockery. Invest in some good cupboard storage to make everything easier to access.
Focus on the Oven and Hob
Ovens and hobs often bear the brunt of cooking messes. For the oven, remove the racks and soak them in warm, soapy water. While they soak, apply a baking soda paste to the interior and let it sit for at least 20 minutes to loosen burnt-on food. Wipe it clean with a damp cloth and follow up with vinegar spray for any stubborn spots. If your oven has a self cleaning cycle, be sure to run this at least once a year- this works by incinerating stuck on food making it easy to brush off and clean afterwards. For the hob, clean under burners or grates, and use a toothbrush to reach tiny crevices where crumbs and grease can hide.
Tackle the Fridge
The fridge can end up being home to lots of bacteria over time without you even realising. Empty it completely and check expiration dates on all items. Remove shelves and drawers and wash them with warm, soapy water. For stuck-on spills, let shelves soak before scrubbing gently. Use a mixture of water and baking soda to wipe down the interior walls, as it neutralises smells without being harsh. Don’t forget to vacuum the coils at the back of the fridge to improve its efficiency.
Clean Small Appliances
Small appliances like microwaves, kettles toasters and coffee makers often get overlooked during cleaning. For the microwave, heat a bowl of water with lemon slices for five minutes to loosen food residue, then wipe it clean. Empty and clean crumb trays in toasters, and run a vinegar solution through coffee makers and kettles to descale them. Always finish by wiping the exteriors with a damp cloth.
Scrub the Sink and Drain
Kitchen sinks can harbor bacteria if not cleaned properly. Use a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to scrub the basin and get rid of stains. To freshen the drain, pour half a cup of baking soda followed by half a cup of vinegar, then flush with boiling water.
Don’t Forget the Floors
Kitchen floors can get sticky and stained from spills. Sweep thoroughly to remove crumbs, then mop using a mixture of hot water and a few drops of dish soap. For tile floors, scrub the grout lines with a brush and a baking soda paste to remove dirt and discoloration. If you have hardwood, use a cleaner that’s safe for wood to avoid damage. Don't forget areas around bins and behind appliances that might get missed on a regular days of cleaning and build up.
Preventative Tips for a Cleaner Kitchen
Once your kitchen is spotless, keeping it that way is easier with a few simple habits. Wipe down surfaces daily to prevent buildup, and clean spills as soon as they happen. Use liners for drawers and shelves to catch crumbs and stains, making future cleaning faster. Empty the bin regularly and disinfect the bin to avoid bad smells. Finally, make it a habit to deep clean every few months to maintain a hygienic and welcoming space.
