How to Clean Kitchen Appliances Properly

Kitchen appliances take daily abuse and are often cleaned far less thoroughly than they need to be. Proper appliance cleaning extends the life of your equipment, prevents bacterial buildup that can contaminate food, and keeps your kitchen looking sharp. Here is how to clean the appliances that need the most attention.

The Oven: Deep Clean Every Three Months

Most modern ovens have a self-cleaning cycle that uses extreme heat to incinerate food residue. Run this cycle every three months or after any spill that has burned onto the oven floor. After the cycle completes and the oven cools, simply wipe out the ash with a damp cloth. For a manual clean, a paste of baking soda and water left overnight loosens baked-on grease without harsh chemicals.

The Refrigerator: Monthly Interior Wipe-Down

Remove all shelves and drawers quarterly and wash them in warm soapy water. Monthly, wipe down the interior walls and shelf surfaces with a mixture of one tablespoon baking soda per quart of warm water — this cleans effectively and neutralizes odors without leaving chemical residue that could contaminate food. Check and discard expired items during each clean.

The Dishwasher Needs Cleaning Too

Dishwashers trap food particles, grease, and mineral deposits over time. Once a month, place a dishwasher cleaning tablet or a cup of white vinegar in a dishwasher-safe bowl on the top rack and run a hot cycle. Clean the filter — located at the bottom of the machine — monthly by removing and rinsing it under hot water.