When it comes to cleaning our kitchens, most of us think about wiping down the countertops, cleaning the stove and oven, and washing the dishes.
However, there are several hidden areas in our kitchens that often go overlooked but need cleaning too. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at these
Hidden Areas of Your Kitchen
01. The Top of Cabinets and Fridge
Have you ever looked at the top of your cabinets or refrigerator? Chances are, you’ll find a layer of dust and grime. Since these areas are not at eye level, they are often overlooked.
Over time, dirt and dust can accumulate, and bacteria can grow. This is especially true if you store food on top of your fridge or cabinets.
To clean these areas, use microfiber clothes or a duster to wipe away the dust and grime. You may need a step stool to reach these areas.
02. Inside the Cabinets and Drawers
While you may clean the outside of your cabinets and drawers regularly, the inside can easily be forgotten. Food particles and spills can accumulate inside, leading to foul odors and even attracting pests.
To clean the inside of your cabinets and drawers, remove all the items inside and wipe them down with a damp cloth. Don’t forget to vacuum out any crumbs or debris at the bottom.
03. The Dishwasher
Yes, even the dishwasher needs cleaning! Over time, food particles, soap scum, and grease can accumulate inside the dishwasher, leading to unpleasant odors and even malfunctioning.
To clean your dishwasher, remove the racks and clean them with warm soapy water. Use a toothbrush or a soft brush to clean the spray arms and any crevices.
You can also run a cycle with a dishwasher cleaner or a cup of vinegar to help break down any buildup.
04. The Sink Drain
Your kitchen sink drain is an area that can easily go forgotten, but it’s essential to keep it clean. Like the dishwasher, food particles, grease, and soap scum also build up inside the drain, leading to clogs and unpleasant odors.
To clean your sink drain, pour a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by a cup of vinegar. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes before flushing with hot water. You can also use a drain snake or a plunger to remove any clogs.
05. The Range Hood and Filter
Your range hood and filter work hard to remove smoke, grease, and steam from your kitchen. Over time, the filter can become clogged with grease and grime, making it less effective.
To clean your range hood and filter, remove the filter and soak it in hot soapy water for 10-15 minutes. Scrub away any remaining grime with a soft brush or sponge.
Use a degreaser or a mixture of baking soda and water to clean the range hood itself.
06. The Oven
While the oven may not be a hidden area, it is an often overlooked area when it comes to cleaning. Spills and splatters can accumulate over time, leading to unpleasant odors and even smoke during cooking.
To clean your oven, use an oven cleaner or a mixture of baking soda and water to scrub away any buildup. Don’t forget to clean the oven racks too.
07. The Microwave
Like the oven, the microwave can also accumulate spills and splatters over time, leading to unpleasant odors and even affecting the taste of your food.
To clean your microwave, mix equal parts water and vinegar in a microwave-safe bowl and heat it for five minutes. The steam will help loosen any buildup, making it easier to wipe away with a damp cloth.
According to a survey conducted by the American Cleaning Institute in 2020, “85% of respondents reported cleaning their kitchen at least once a week, with 45% cleaning it daily. However, the survey also found that certain areas of the kitchen, such as the refrigerator coils, range hood filter, and oven, were often overlooked in cleaning routines.”
08. The Countertop Appliances
Countertop appliances like your toaster, blender, and coffee maker are also areas that can easily go forgotten when it comes to cleaning. Food particles and spills can accumulate inside, leading to foul odors and even affecting the performance of the appliance.
To clean these appliances, we refer you to read the manufacturer’s instructions for specific cleaning tips.
09. The Walls and Ceiling
While you may not think about cleaning your kitchen walls and ceiling, they can also accumulate grease and grime over time, especially near the stove and oven.
To clean these areas, use a mixture of warm water and dish soap, or a degreaser if needed. Don’t forget to use a step stool to reach the ceiling.
10. The Trash Can
Last but not least, your kitchen trash can is an area that can easily go forgotten when it comes to cleaning. Food particles and liquids can accumulate at the bottom, leading to unpleasant odors and even attracting pests.
To clean your trash can, remove the bag and wash the inside with warm soapy water. You can also sprinkle baking soda at the bottom to help absorb any odors.
Conclusion
While these hidden areas in your kitchen may not be the first thing you think about when cleaning, they are just as important as the visible areas.
Neglecting these areas can lead to foul odors, bacteria growth, and even malfunctioning appliances. By taking the time to clean these areas regularly, you’ll keep your kitchen clean, hygienic, and running smoothly.
