How To Deep Clean Your Kitchen: Tips & Tricks

When it’s time to tackle that long-overdue deep clean of your kitchen, you’ll want to be prepared. Start by gathering your essential cleaning supplies – an all-purpose cleaner, disinfectant spray, and some sturdy scrubbers should do the trick. 

But before you begin scrubbing, remember that a successful deep clean requires more than just elbow grease. A strategic approach, tailored to your kitchen’s unique needs, will make all the difference. But what exactly does that entail? 

What specific techniques and products should you use to get the job done? Let’s break it down and find out.

Prepare Your Cleaning Supplies

To get your kitchen deep cleaning underway, gather all necessary supplies in one place. This will save you time and energy in the long run by avoiding trips back and forth to fetch items.

You’ll need an all-purpose cleaner, glass cleaner, disinfectant spray, and a degreaser for tough stains. Don’t forget scrubbers, sponges, and microfiber cloths for wiping down surfaces.

Next, gather trash bags and a recycling bin to sort items as you go. If you have any stubborn stains or grout to tackle, consider adding a grout brush and a baking soda-based cleaning product to your arsenal.

A step stool or ladder will also come in handy for reaching high shelves and ceiling fans.

Make sure you have a bucket or large container for mixing cleaning solutions and warm water. Having a pair of rubber gloves on hand will protect your skin from harsh chemicals and hot water.

Tackle the Kitchen Sink

Now that you’ve got your cleaning supplies ready, it’s time to focus on one of the kitchen’s most-used areas: the sink.

Begin by clearing out any debris or dishes from the sink basin. Next, sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda or powdered cleanser around the sink, making sure to cover all surfaces evenly.

Using a soft sponge or cloth, scrub the sink in a circular motion to work the cleanser into a paste. Pay special attention to any stubborn stains or areas with visible buildup. Rinse the sponge or cloth frequently to prevent the spread of grime.

Once you’ve scrubbed the entire sink, rinse it thoroughly with warm water to remove any remaining cleanser residue.

For tougher stains or mineral deposits, consider using a more heavy-duty cleanser or a vinegar-based solution. Apply the solution to the affected area and let it sit for 15-30 minutes before scrubbing and rinsing as usual.

A clean sink not only looks great, but it also helps prevent the spread of bacteria and germs in your kitchen.

Deep Clean the Stovetop

How thoroughly has your stovetop been cleaned lately – or has it been harboring grime and food residue for months?

It’s time to tackle this area and give your stovetop the deep clean it deserves. Start by removing any debris or food particles from the surface. If you have a gas stovetop, take out the burners and soak them in warm soapy water. For electric stovetops, remove any removable parts such as drip pans and grates.

Next, mix baking soda and water to create a paste, and apply it to the stovetop surface. Let it sit for 30 minutes to an hour, allowing the paste to break down tough stains.

Use a non-abrasive scrubber or sponge to scrub away any grime or food residue. Rinse the stovetop with warm water and dry it with a towel to prevent water spots.

For tougher stains, apply a small amount of white vinegar to the area and let it sit for a few minutes before wiping it clean.

Regular deep cleaning will help maintain your stovetop’s appearance and prevent the buildup of grime and bacteria.

Cleaning the Refrigerator

You’ve tackled the stovetop, and now it’s time to turn your attention to another kitchen workhorse: the refrigerator. Start by taking everything out, including all food, drinks, and shelves. Discard expired or spoiled items, and wipe down containers and shelves with soap and warm water.

Next, focus on the fridge’s interior. Mix baking soda and water to create a paste, and apply it to any tough stains or odors. Let it sit for 30 minutes before wiping it down with a damp cloth.

Use a microfiber cloth to wipe down the fridge’s walls, shelves, and floor, removing any dust, dirt, or spills. Don’t forget the often-overlooked areas, such as the door seals and handles.

For the exterior, use a gentle cleanser and a microfiber cloth to wipe down the doors, handles, and any other exterior surfaces. Remove any magnets, notes, or other items, and clean the area underneath.

Dry the exterior with a clean towel to prevent water spots. Once everything is clean, replace the shelves and containers, and restock the fridge with your cleaned and purged items.

Oven Cleaning Made Easy

Tackling the oven is often the most daunting task in deep cleaning the kitchen. You’re not alone if you’re hesitant to face the grime and food residue that’s built up inside.

To make oven cleaning easier, start by taking out the racks and placing them in the sink or a large container filled with hot soapy water. Let them soak while you focus on the oven itself.

For a self-cleaning oven, consult your user manual for specific instructions. If you don’t have this feature, you can use a commercial oven cleaner or make your own solution using baking soda and water.

Apply the solution to the interior surfaces and let it sit overnight or for at least 12 hours. This will help loosen the tough grime. Use a long-handled brush or scrubber to remove the grime and food residue, working from the top down.

Be sure to wear gloves and work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling harsh fumes. After cleaning, use a damp cloth to wipe down the surfaces and remove any remaining residue.

Disinfecting Kitchen Surfaces

 Now that your oven is clean, it’s time to focus on the rest of your kitchen surfaces. Disinfecting these areas is crucial to prevent the spread of bacteria and germs.

Start by gathering your cleaning supplies: a disinfectant spray, a microfiber cloth, and a scrub brush.

Begin by spraying the disinfectant on all high-touch areas, such as countertops, faucets, and doorknobs. Let it sit for a few minutes to allow the solution to penetrate and kill bacteria.

Then, use your microfiber cloth to wipe down these areas, paying special attention to any stubborn stains or grime buildup.

Use your scrub brush to tackle tougher areas, like sink drains and garbage disposals. Make sure to scrub all surfaces thoroughly, then rinse with warm water.

Don’t forget to disinfect your kitchen trash cans and recycling bins, as these can harbor bacteria and unpleasant odors.