Most people don’t enjoy doing chores, especially ones that add more time to your seemingly endless cleaning routine. Doing things like scrubbing baseboards and deep cleaning your shower are extra tasks that you may not have to do all the time. However, cleaning your home appliances is a necessary chore that should be done regularly. Not only will it keep your appliances running smoothly, but it can also help to improve their performance and extend their lifespan. This article will provide you with a simple guide on how to clean each of the most common types of home appliances.
Contents
Oven
The oven is one of the most commonly used appliances in the home, and it’s also one of the most difficult to clean. The first step is to remove any racks or trays and soak them in hot, soapy water. Then, scrub the interior of the oven with a sponge or cloth and a cleaning agent made for ovens. Be sure to get into all the nooks and crannies, and pay special attention to the bottom. If there is any built-up grease or food residue, you can use a scrub brush to help loosen it. Once the interior is clean, you can move on to the exterior. You may need to pull it out to reach the sides, however, the front and sides can be cleaned with a wet cloth, and for tough spots, you can use a little bit of vinegar or baking soda.
Dishwasher
The dishwasher is one of the easiest appliances to clean, but it’s still important to do it regularly. To clean your dishwasher, first, make sure it’s unplugged. Then, remove the bottom rack and spray down the inside of the dishwasher with a vinegar and water solution (1 cup vinegar per gallon of water). Next, scrub any areas that need it with a soft brush. Finally, replace the bottom rack and plug in the dishwasher. Run it on the hottest cycle possible to kill any bacteria. For additional cleaning, you can also run your dishwasher with a cup of vinegar in the top rack!
Washing Machine
Although you might not think about this one, your washing machine needs a good cleaning every once in a while. To begin, fill the empty washer with hot water as if you’re doing a large load of laundry. Add a quart of bleach and let the entire machine run for one minute to combine the bleach with the water. Next, allow the machine to sit for an hour with the top open. After that hour you can close it and let it run a full cycle. When you’re done, start from the beginning. Fill the washer with hot water and add the quart of white vinegar to the bleach channel this time. Let the machine run for a minute to agitate the water and vinegar before opening it up again and letting the hot water sit in the basin for an hour before running it on its highest setting. After this is done you just have to wipe down the exterior and you’re finished!
Refrigerator
Cleaning your refrigerator is one of the most important things you can do to keep it running smoothly. Vinegar will be your best cleaning solution for this chore. The acid in the solution breaks down grease and grime, making it an effective food-safe cleanser that can be used on any gunk that might have built up on refrigerator shelves. Before you start make sure to pull all of your food out of the fridge, even with a safe cleaning mixture you don’t want your food tasting like vinegar! Once you’ve removed everything from a shelf, start at the top, and inspect it for damage. If any spills have occurred, carefully remove the glass from the frame or brackets and clean both sides, as well as the edges. Then, dry it with a microfiber cloth. You may also clean the frame that supports the glass before replacing it. If you’re cleaning the frame, use your sink to wash it with mild dish soap with warm water.
Microwave
The microwave can be one of the most difficult appliances to clean because of the food residue that can build up over time. To make this process a little bit easier, start by microwaving a cup with two parts water to one part vinegar for two minutes. This will help to loosen any dried-on food particles. Then, take a damp cloth and wipe down the inside of the microwave. Be sure not to use any harsh chemicals or cleaning products, as they can be harmful to your health. Once this is done most of the tough stuck-on food will come off easier. You can also use a similar combination to the one you used in your cup except for this time in a spray bottle. Spray it onto the inside of the microwave and let it sit for a few minutes before wiping it down with a damp cloth. Once the interior is all clean you can run your microwave again for 30 seconds to clear out any remaining vinegar.
Conclusion
Although it can be time-consuming, cleaning your home appliances is a very important step in maintaining their function and longevity. By following the simple steps outlined in this article, you can clean each of your appliances with ease and without fear of harmful chemicals or bacteria. Just make sure to be vigilant about cleaning them regularly and you’ll be good to go!