Introduction
Keeping a clean kitchen is essential for health and hygiene. A deep clean of the kitchen is needed periodically to thoroughly sanitize all surfaces, appliances, andnooks and crannies. This guide will take you step-by-step through a deep cleaning process for the kitchen.
Cleaning the Kitchen Counters
The kitchen counters see a lot of action and can quickly become grimy. Here’s how I tackle cleaning the counters:
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First, I remove everything from the counters and put away any appliances. Having a clear workspace is crucial.
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Next, I mix together some all-purpose cleaner and warm water in a spray bottle. Any mild detergent will work.
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Then, I spray down the entire counter and let it soak for a few minutes. This allows the cleaning solution to break down any dried-on stains.
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After that, I go over the counters with a soft sponge or rag. I use a scrubbing motion to remove any stuck-on debris or stains.
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Finally, I rinse the counters thoroughly and dry with a clean towel.
The counters should look shiny and free of grease once finished.
Cleaning the Kitchen Backsplash
The kitchen backsplash can accumulate a lot of dirt and stains from cooking. Here are my tips for cleaning the backsplash:
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I mix a cleaning solution of white vinegar, warm water, and a few drops of dish soap in a spray bottle. The acidity of the vinegar helps dissolve grease and stains.
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Using a soft cloth, I spray the solution directly onto the backsplash and let it sit for 5 minutes. This allows the solution to penetrate stains.
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Next, I use a non-abrasive sponge or rag to gently scrub the backsplash. I rinse frequently to avoid spreading around dirt.
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For tough stains, I let a paste of baking soda and water sit on the area for 10 minutes before scrubbing.
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Finally, I wipe the backsplash down with clean water and dry with a microfiber cloth to prevent water spots.
Scrubbing the Kitchen Sink
The kitchen sink encounters food particles, grease, soap scum, and more. Getting it squeaky clean requires some elbow grease:
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I start by removing everything from the sink, including the drain catch. Removing clutter helps expose all surfaces.
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Then I make a paste of baking soda and lemon juice and apply it to the sink basin, faucet, and drain with an old toothbrush. This mixture bubbles away grime.
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After letting it sit for 10 minutes, I scrub all over with the toothbrush. The abrasive paste loosens stuck-on gunk.
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I rinse the sink thoroughly and follow up with an all-purpose cleaner to sanitize. I use a soft sponge for hard-to-reach spots near the faucet.
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For the drain, I pour boiling water down to flush away debris. Once a month, I also use a sink plunger to remove clogs.
Cleaning Kitchen Appliances
Appliances like the stove, oven, and fridge require special care. Here is my method:
Oven
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I remove oven racks and soak them in the bathtub with hot, soapy water. This loosens burnt-on food particles.
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For the oven walls, I mix baking soda and water into a spreadable paste. Using a cloth, I coat oven surfaces with the paste.
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After letting the paste sit overnight, I wipe down the oven with clean water and a non-scratch sponge. The paste bubbles away grime.
Stove
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I remove stove grates and burners and soak them in hot, soapy water to loosen stains. Using a bottle brush, I scrub away stuck-on food.
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I sprinkle baking soda on the stovetop and use a damp sponge to scrub. Baking soda is mildly abrasive to cut through grease.
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For shiny surfaces like stainless steel or glass, I polish with olive oil and a soft cloth. The oil helps restore shine and repel new fingerprints.
Fridge
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I take out all shelves and drawers and wash them by hand or in the dishwasher.
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Inside the fridge, I spray dish soap and water and wipe down walls and surfaces. For stubborn spots, I use baking soda and a brush.
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I replace all drawers and shelves after drying completely. A box of baking soda left in the fridge absorbs odors.
Deep Cleaning the Kitchen Floors
Kitchen floors can harbor all kinds of unseen dirt. Here is how I get them spotless:
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I first sweep then mop floors with an all-purpose cleaner. This gets surface-level dirt and stains.
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For a deeper clean, I mix warm water and dish soap and use a stiff scrub brush on floor tiles. The bristles dig into grout and corners.
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I pay special attention to under the fridge, stove, and dishwasher where dust bunnies hide. I slide appliances out to fully access these spaces.
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For linoleum or vinyl floors, a capful of white vinegar in the soap and water helps remove wax buildup.
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With grimy grout, I rub baking soda directly on the grout line and scrub with a small bristle brush.
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I always rinse floors thoroughly with clean water and dry with old towels to prevent slippery surfaces.
Conclusion
Deep cleaning the kitchen requires exertion but pays off in a shiny, germ-free cookspace. Setting aside a few hours for a thorough scrub-down of counters, appliances, sinks, and floors leaves the kitchen sparkling. With the right tools and some elbow grease, anyone can deeply clean their kitchen from top to bottom. Maintaining these spaces regularly prevents a massive mess down the line.
