Here’s How Often You Should Clean Kitchen Appliances

1. Refrigerator 

Let’s face it, cleaning the kitchen is no one’s favorite chore. But keeping your appliances clean is important for both food safety and longevity. So how often should you clean your refrigerator? The answer may surprise you. 

According to most experts, the fridge should be cleaned once a week. This may seem like a lot, but it’s really not that bad when you break it down. For example, you can quickly wipe down the door handles and exterior surfaces every couple of days. Then, set aside some time once a week to give the inside of the fridge a good cleaning. Don’t forget to tackle the freezer compartment as well! A little bit of effort now will go a long way towards keeping your kitchen clean and safe.

2. Dishwasher 

Just like your oven, fridge, and range hood, your dishwasher needs regular cleanings to stay in top shape. Depending on how often you use it and what type of water you have in your home, you may need to clean it once a month or more. 

If you live in an area with hard water, for example, mineral deposits can build up inside the dishwasher and cause it to run less efficiently. Similarly, if you have a lot of people in your household who use the dishwasher frequently, it will need to be cleaned more often to prevent food and grease build-up. In general, however, cleaning your dishwasher once a month should be sufficient to keep it running smoothly.

3. Garbage can 

Most people don’t give much thought to their garbage cans, but regular cleaning is important for both hygiene and storage purposes. Depending on how often the can is used, it should be cleaned anywhere from once a week to once a month. If it’s constantly in use, you may need to clean it more frequently. 

A good rule of thumb is to give it a quick rinse after each use. For a more thorough cleaning, mix equal parts water and vinegar and scrub the inside of the can with a sponge or brush. Be sure to rinse away any residue before using again. With regular cleaning, your garbage can will stay fresh and free of any build-up or bad odors.

4. Oven 

Most people only think to deep clean their ovens a few times a year, but the frequency with which you should clean your oven depends on how often you use it. If you are an avid baker and use your oven multiple times a week, you should give it a deep clean at least once a month. This involves removing the racks and giving the entire oven a good scrub. However, if you only use your oven for the occasional roast or casserole, deep cleaning it every few months should suffice. 

In between deep cleans, it’s important to keep on top of any spills or splatters by wiping them up as soon as they happen. By taking the time to clean your oven regularly, you can help prevent build-up of grime and grease and extend its lifespan.

5. Microwave 

When it comes to kitchen appliances, microwaves are usually pretty low-maintenance. However, that doesn’t mean you can just ignore them altogether – they still need to be cleaned on a regular basis. So, how often should you clean your microwave?

Ideally, you should give it a good scrub down at least once a week. If you use it more frequently than that, you may need to clean it more often. If it’s been awhile since you’ve given it a good cleaning, start by removing any loose food debris. Then, wipe down the interior (including the door and seals) with a damp cloth or sponge. You can use a mild dish soap if necessary. Finally, rinse with clean water and dry completely. Repeat as needed until the inside of your microwave is sparkly clean!

6. Dryer filter 

As kitchen appliances go, your dryer is probably not the first thing you think of when it comes to home maintenance. However, like any other appliance, it needs to be regularly cleaned and cared for in order to function properly. One important part of this is cleaning the dryer filter. Depending on how often you use your dryer, you should aim to clean the filter for three months. 

A clogged filter can reduce the efficiency of your dryer and cause it to overheat, so it’s important to keep it clean. You can easily clean the filter by removing it from the dryer and brushing away any lint or debris. Once it’s clean, be sure to put it back in place before using your dryer again. With a little regular care, you can keep your dryer running smoothly for years to come.