Kitchen Cleaning 101
Inspired by springtime renewal, we’ve been thinking of efficient ways to clean a kitchen space. This way, you’re sure to start the season off on the right foot.
Which cleaning solutions to use? Check under your sink to take an inventory of what you’ll need. Here are some homemade mixes you can use to fill up empty bottles. We love these because they are non-toxic, budget-friendly, and very effective. Be sure to label everything.
First things first, if you have a self-cleaning oven, set and start it before you begin anything else so that it can work its magic as you work yours.
Before you reorganize and deep clean, make sure any maintenance cleaning is already done. This means washing and putting away all dishes previously used and ridding all spaces of unnecessary clutter. Gather all the items that are in your kitchen but do not belong and temporarily place them in a box or basket and set items accordingly at a later time.
1. To begin, clean out your cupboards and pantry one by one and place like items together on the counter. For nonperishable items that won’t be consumed, place them aside in a box to donate. For all items in half open bags, like pasta or rice, place them in storage containers for neater storage and prolonged freshness. Clean each shelf from top to bottom. Once all surfaces are dried, put the items back in place.
2. Next, clean out your drawers and follow the same process. Once drawers are reorganized and cleaned, wipe down doors and outer surfaces. Pay close attention to handles and outside edges too.
3. Now move on to all appliances. First, tackle your refrigerator and freezer. Empty both by throwing away any items that are old or expired. Fill your sink with hot soapy water to throw in empty containers and the drawers from your fridge so they can soak. Working from top to bottom, clean all shelves. Once surfaces are dried, place items back in the refrigerator and freezer. Don’t forget the top of the refrigerator!
Wipe the outside of your dishwasher. Wipe the outside of your stove and clean the inside manually if your oven is not self-cleaning. Wipe the outside of your microwave as the inside cleans by microwaving this natural solution on high: fill a medium-sized bowl with water, one sliced lemon, and a splash of white vinegar.
4. For all the items that have been soaking in your sink in the meantime, place them in the dishwasher or wash by hand. Drain the sink and rinse with hot water. Clean the basin and rinse with hot water again.
5. Empty the trash bin and give the can a wipe down before taking the trash out. Replace the can with new bag.
6. Sweep and mop the floor. Don’t forget to move appliances to get every nook and cranny. Dump the dirty mop water outside or in the toilet to not contaminate the already clean sink.
