Household appliances make life easier, but they can get quite dirty if you don’t clean behind and under them regularly. Here are some tips for cleaning neglected appliance areas.
Refrigerator
Refrigerators need to be cleaned behind and underneath every few months. Here’s how:
Unplug and Pull Out
First, I unplug the refrigerator to be safe while cleaning. Then I pull the refrigerator away from the wall so I can access the back and underneath. I put down towels to catch any spills.
Remove Drawers and Shelves
Next, I remove all the drawers, shelves, and bins from inside the refrigerator. This allows me to clean the inside more thoroughly later. I set them aside to clean separately.
Vacuum and Wipe Down
Now I vacuum up all the dust bunnies behind and underneath the refrigerator. Then I wipe down the back and underside with a cleaning solution like a mix of warm water and mild detergent. I use a microfiber cloth to remove grime and residue.
Replace Parts and Plug In
Once the back and underside are clean, I replace the drawers, shelves and bins. I give them a good wipe down too. Then I push the refrigerator back into place and plug it in again.
Oven
Ovens get splattered with grease and food bits. Here’s what I do to clean behind and under my oven:
Remove Racks and Pull Out
First, I take out all the oven racks so I can access the oven interior better. Then I pull the oven away from the wall slowly. I put down an old sheet or towels.
Clean Behind, Underneath, and Sides
Now I clean behind the oven by vacuuming and wiping with a degreasing spray. I use a stiff brush or scraper for stuck-on grime. Then I scrub underneath the oven, reaching as far back as I can. I also wipe down the oven sides.
Scour the Interior
With the racks removed, I can scrub down the oven interior with a baking soda paste. This helps remove stubborn stains. I use a toothbrush to get into corners and crevices.
Replace Racks and Push Back
When the inside is sparkling, I replace the oven racks. Then I carefully push the oven back against the wall. I plug it in and I’m done!
Dishwasher
Dishwashers need occasional cleaning too. Here’s how I clean mine:
Remove Racks and Filters
First, I take out the racks and filter. This gives me better access to the tub interior and bottom.
Check and Clean Along Edges
Then I use a damp cloth to wipe along the inner door edges and tub rim. Food debris often collects in these areas.
Clean Out Tub and Bottom
Now I scrub down the inside of the tub, including the hard-to-reach bottom. I use a brush and dishwasher cleaner or a vinegar solution.
Rinse and Replace Parts
Once done scrubbing, I run a rinse cycle to flush out any cleaner residue. When the tub is clear, I replace the racks and filter.
Run a Cycle
Finally, I run an empty dishwasher cycle with vinegar to freshen up the interior. Then the dishwasher is clean and ready for more dirty dishes!
Conclusion
Cleaning behind and under major appliances takes a bit of time and elbow grease. But it really helps them run more efficiently and last longer. Just be sure to unplug appliances, remove parts, and take precautions when pulling out heavy items. With regular deep cleaning, your appliances will stay crumb, dirt and grime free.
