Assess and Declutter
The first step to deep cleaning your kitchen is to take everything out of the cabinets, drawers, and pantries. This allows you to fully clean every nook and cranny. As you take items out, get rid of anything expired, duplicates, or things you don’t use. Decluttering makes way for thorough cleaning and organization.
I start by emptying all the cabinets and drawers. It’s satisfying to see everything laid out so I can make decisions about what to keep. I put things I’m keeping on the counter and get rid of the rest.
Next, I go through the pantry and discard anything past its expiration date. I also look for duplicate items I don’t need. For example, I once found 4 open boxes of pancake mix – I kept one and donated the rest.
Finally, I remove everything from the fridge and freezer and toss expired or spoiled foods. I wipe down shelves before replacing the items I’m keeping.
Deep Clean Appliances
With all food items removed, it’s easier to deep clean the appliances. I start with the refrigerator by washing the shelves, drawers and walls with a baking soda solution. This neutralizes odors. I use a toothbrush to scrub the crevices and a microfiber cloth for flat surfaces. I wash the vegetable and meat drawers with hot soapy water.
For the oven, I sprinkle baking soda on the bottom and walls, then spray with vinegar and let sit. The fizzing action helps loosen baked-on grease and food. After letting it sit for 20 minutes, I scrub with a wire brush and rinse clean. For stubborn spots, I make a paste with baking soda and water and let sit overnight before scrubbing.
The stovetop can get very dirty with drips, spills and burned-on food. I fill a spray bottle with equal parts vinegar and water and spray the surface. Then I use a metal scraper to gently lift off stuck-on bits. I scrub with a non-abrasive sponge and finish by polishing with a microfiber cloth.
Wash Cabinets, Drawers and Surfaces
With the appliances sparkling, I’m ready to clean the cabinets, drawers and countertops.
I start with the wood cabinets by mixing up a solution of 1/4 cup of vinegar, 1/2 tsp dish soap and 2 cups of warm water. Using a microfiber cloth, I wipe down the cabinet frames and doors, then dry immediately with a clean cloth.
For drawers, I empty them completely and vacuum out crumbs and dust with the crevice tool. Then I wipe down the insides with my wood cleaning solution. I scrub any sticky spots with a baking soda paste.
Countertops get a good scrubbing with my homemade wood cleaner to remove grime. For extra shiny granite or marble, I polish with a stone-safe cleaner or mild soap and water.
For the sink, I sprinkle with baking soda and rub with a damp sponge. Rinse and polish faucets with a microfiber cloth.
Organize and Restock
Once everything is clean, it’s time to organize and put items back. I group similar items together in the pantry, and arrange cabinets from most- to least-used items.
Here are some of my tips for keeping your kitchen organized long-term:
- Use clear canisters so you can easily see contents
- Store food in airtight containers
- Put shelf liner inside drawers and cabinets
- Label spice jars
- Use drawer dividers and trays to separate items
- Hang utensils or pots from the ceiling or walls
- Display pretty dishes in open shelving
A clean and organized kitchen makes cooking and meal prep so much more enjoyable. The whole process takes me about 4-6 hours for a medium-sized kitchen. But it’s worth it to start the new year with a sparkling clean slate!
