Cleaning Appliances Before You Leave: A Guide to Leaving Your Kitchen Spotless

Whether you’re going away on a vacation, preparing for an extended absence, or moving to a new house, leaving the kitchen immaculate isn’t only about appearance. A spotless kitchen is a welcoming space and prevents pest infestation, odours, and damaged appliances. If you leave the kitchen and kitchen appliances clean, you'll avoid unpleasant surprises or expensive repairs when you return.

We recommend you follow specific steps when cleaning the kitchen appliances. Scrub everything from the refrigerator and oven to small appliances like the coffee maker and microwave. With some elbow grease and dedication, you can leave your kitchen spotless.

Key takeaways

Essential preparation

• collect cleaning supplies: all-purpose cleaners, dish soap, vinegar, baking soda
• get essential tools: microfiber cloths, brushes, protective gear, and vacuum attachments

Cleaning major kitchen appliances

• Refrigerator: Empty, defrost, scrub intensely, and leave the door slightly open
• Dishwasher: Wipe filter and spray arms, run vinegar cycle, and let it dry completely
• Oven: Remove racks, use baking soda paste, polish stovetop based on type (gas or electric)
• Microwave: Steam clean interior, wipe efficiently and leave door ajar

Cleaning small appliances

• Unplug and wipe all countertop appliances
• Descale coffee makers and kettles
• Remove all crumbs from toasters
• Store small appliances in a safe, dry location

Cleaning drains and disposal

• Meticulously dust all debris
• Use baking soda and vinegar to deodorize drains and garbage disposal
• Polish splash guards and sink surfaces
• Verify if drainage is proper

Before leaving

• Empty all trash containers
• Place deodorizers
• Ensure efficient ventilation
• Document any maintenance needs for return

Remember: Clean, dry, and ventilate all appliances to prevent odours and mould while you are away.

What do you need for cleaning the kitchen?

Cleaning supplies

• All-purpose cleaner to tackle grime and oil stains on surfaces and appliances.  
• Dish soap –is gentle, yet efficient to wipe small appliances, surfaces, and removable parts.
• Vinegar and baking soda—these natural cleaning agents can remove stains, deodorize, and break down buildup in appliances.
• Glass cleaner—to wipe the exterior door of the oven or microwave.
• Specialized cleaners—sometimes, you need cleaners specially made for appliances like stainless steel cleaners, refrigerators, oven cleaners, etc.

Tools and equipment

• Microfiber cloths—are ideal for wiping down surfaces and don’t leave streaks or lint behind.
• Sponges and scrub brushes—to scrub away difficult grime. Use soft sponges for delicate surfaces.
• A toothbrush or small detailing brush—to get into hard-to-reach crevices, like appliance seals or the edges of stovetops.
• A vacuum cleaner with attachments—to remove crumbs and debris from inside appliances like toasters or refrigerators.
• Buckets or bowls—to mix cleaning solutions or soak removable parts of kitchen appliances.

Protective equipment

• Gloves—to protect your hands from harsh chemicals, greasy residue, and hot water.
• Masks—use them when handling strong cleaning agents or you work in poorly ventilated spaces.
• Apron or old clothing—to protect your clothes while scrubbing the kitchen.

Additional items

• Trash bags—to dispose of debris, expired food, or disposable cleaning items like paper towels
• Old towels to wipe spills or protect floors during the cleaning process
• Steep stool to reach the top of refrigerators or high shelves.

What are the steps for cleaning your refrigerator and freezer?

Step 1: Empty the contents

• Remove all food and beverages and use coolers with ice packs to temporarily store any perishables.
• Discard expired or spoiled food and donate or use unopened and still-good products.
• For easy cleaning, remove all shelves, drawers, and racks.

Step 2: defrost the freezer (if applicable)

• Defrost the freezer by unplugging the refrigerator or switching it off
• To catch water from melting ice, place towels on the floor around the freezer. You may use a scraper or a plastic spatula to remove large ice chunks.
• Wipe the freezer after it's completely defrosted.

Step 3: wipe the interior

• Use warm soapy water to clean drawers, shelves, and racks. Rinse them thoroughly and let them air dry.
• Make a solution of water and vinegar or mild dish soap (equal parts). Using a sponge or a microfiber cloth, wipe all interior surfaces, seals, walls, and corners.
• Apply a paste of baking soda and water for difficult spots. Scrub it carefully after several minutes.

Sanitize and deodorize

• Use a vinegar solution or a disinfectant spray to sanitize the interior of the freezer and refrigerator. Wipe them with a spotless cloth.
• To absorb odours, place an open box of activated charcoal or baking soda.

Polish the exterior

• Damp a cloth in a stainless-steel cleaner or all-purpose cleaner to wipe appliances and get a streak-free finish.
• If possible, use a vacuum or brush to remove dust from the condenser coils. Typically, they are placed at the back or bottom of the appliance and cleaning them improves their efficiency.

Organize and restart

• Put back in place all removed parts, after they have dried.
• Plug in the refrigerator and freezer. Restock the items after they have cooled.
• If you’re leaving soon, place only essential products or leave the appliances empty, with the door ajar to avoid odours and mould.

What steps to take for an immaculate dishwasher?

Step 1: Gather supplies

• Dish soap or mild detergent
• White vinegar
• Baking soda
• A soft brush or toothbrush
• Microfiber cloth
• Toothpick or small wire for unclogging spray arms

Step 2: empty the dishwasher

• Completely unload the dishwasher
• Check for leftover food particles or buildup in the bottom.

Step 3: clean the filter

• Commonly, the filter is at the base of the appliance. Check out the manual for precise location.
• Twist or unlock the filter and pull it out.
• Rinse the filter under warm water and remove grease and food debris to scrub with a soft brush and dish soap the filter.
• To prevent clogging, securely put the filter back in.

Step 4: wipe the spray arms

• Take the arms out of the dishwasher (if applicable)
• Use a toothpick, needle or small wire to clear debris blocking the holes in the spray arms.
• Run water through the spray arms.
• Put the spray arms back in place.

Step 5: Wipe down the interior

• Wipe the walls, door, and gasket seals with a damp cloth with dish soap or vinegar solution.
• Don’t forget the edges of the door and the bottom of the dishwasher.

Step 6: run a cleaning cycle

• Place a bowl filled with white vinegar on the top rack. To break down grease, odours, and limescale, run a hot water cycle.
• Sprinkle some baking soda across the bottom of the dishwasher. Run a short, hot water cycle to deodorize and brighten the interior.

Step 7: wipe the exterior

• Using a microfiber cloth and an all-purpose cleaner or stainless steel cleaner, wipe down the dishwasher door and control panel.
• Pay special attention on handles and buttons, where smudges and fingerprints tend to accumulate.

How should you clean your oven and stovetop?

Cleaning the oven

Step 1: Collect your supplies

• Baking soda
• White vinegar
• Dish soap
• Spray bottle
• A soft sponge or scrub brush
• Microfiber cloth
• Rubber gloves

Step 2: remove oven racks

• Remove all racks and trays from the oven
• To loosen grease and grime, place the racks in a sink or tub filled with warm water and dish soap. While you wipe the oven interior, let them soak.

Step 3: make a baking soda paste

• Make a thick paste out of 1/2 cup of baking soda and a few tablespoons of water.
• Evenly spread the paste over the interior surfaces of the oven. Avoid heating elements and focus on heavy buildup.

Step 4: let it sit

• The paste should sit for at least 12 hours (overnight) to break down stubborn grease and grime.

Step 5: wipe it off

• Using a microfiber cloth or sponge, wipe off the dried paste.
• For a fizzing reaction, spray white vinegar onto the remaining baking soda. Wipe it clean.

Step 6: clean the racks

• Scrub the soaked racks with a brush or sponge to eliminate all remaining residue.
• Use clear water to rinse before placing them back in the oven.

Step 7: final fixes

• With a moist cloth, wipe the oven door and window. Remove difficult stains with a paste made of baking soda and vinegar.

Clean the stovetop

Step 1: Identify the stovetop type

A gas stovetop has grates and burners, while an electric stovetop features smooth glass surfaces or coils.

Step 2: Collect supplies

• Dish soap
• Baking soda
• Vinegar
• Soft sponge or cloth
• A toothbrush or small brush

Step 3: wipe removable parts

• Remove burner caps and grates
• Place them in a sink with warm water and dish soap for half an hour.

Step 4: clean the stovetop surface

• Wipe away crumbs and loose residue with a damp cloth
• Apply the baking soda paste on baked-on stains and let it sit for 20 minutes or so.
• Carefully, scrub away grime with a soft sponge or brush

Step 5: rinse and polish

• Put back in place grates and burners after you rinse and dry them.
• For a streak-free finish, use a damp cloth and polish with vinegar to wipe the surface.

Step 6: wipe knobs and controls

• Remove knobs and wash them with warm, soapy water. If they are fixed, wipe around them with a toothbrush.

What about your microwave and small appliances?

Cleaning the microwave

Step 1: Collect supplies

• White vinegar or lemon juice
• Baking soda
• A microwave-safe bowl
• Soft sponge or cloth

Step 2: loosen stuck-on food

• Fill a microwave-safe bowl with water and 1-2 tablespoons of vinegar. Alternatively, use several slices of lemon.
• Microwave on high for 3-5 minutes, until steam condenses inside and the liquid boils.
• Let the steam loosen the grime for another 5 minutes.

Step 3: wipe down the interior

• Remove the turntable and wash it in warm, soapy water.
• Wipe down the interior with a damp sponge or microfiber cloth.
• Sprinkle baking soda on stubborn stains, scrub gently, and wipe clean.

Step 4: wipe the exterior

• With a soaked cloth and an all-purpose cleaner, wipe the door, control panel, and handle. Make sure not to get any moisture into controls or vents.

Cleaning small countertop appliances

Coffee maker

• Remove leftover coffee grounds and rinse the carafe and basket
• Mix equal parts of water and vinegar. Run it through the brewing cycle. To rinse, run two cycles of plain water.
• Use a damp cloth to polish the outside and dry thoroughly.

Blender or food processor

• Take apart blades, lids, and jars
• Soak the parts in warm, soapy water. Use a soft brush to scrub them.
• For a deep clean, sanitize appliances with a vinegar rinse or dishwasher-safe solution.

Toaster or toaster oven

• Remove the crumb tray and shake it to remove loose debris
• Using a moist cloth or brush, wipe the inside to eliminate crumbs. Avoid heating elements.
• For a shiny finish, use a stainless steel cleaner.

Electric kettle

• Boil a mixture of water and vinegar to remove limescale. Rinse with water.
• Polish the outside with a damp cloth.

What are the best ways to clean the garbage disposal and sink?

Cleaning the garbage disposal

Step 1: turn off the disposal

• Turn off the garbage disposal or unplug it (if possible)

Step 2: remove debris

• Use tongs or pliers to remove stuck food and debris inside the disposal.
• Lift and scrub the rubber splash guard with a sponge and dish soap.

Step 3: deodorize

Vinegar and baking soda

• Pour 1/2 cup of baking soda into the disposal.
• Add 1/2 cup of white vinegar.
• Let the mixture fizz for 5-10 minutes. Rinse with hot water afterwards.

Citrus freshness

• Toss several ice cubes and small citrus peels into the disposal.
• Remove lingering odours and grease by running the disposal with cold water.

Step 4: deep clean with ice and salt

• Place several ice cubes and 2 tablespoons of coarse salt into the disposal.
• Run the disposal with cold water. The abrasive action will eliminate stubborn residue from the blades.

Cleaning the sink

Step 1: wash the surface

• Use warm water and dish soap to scrub grease and grime from the basin, faucet, and drain cover.
• Apply a paste of baking soda and water to stained areas. Gently scrub and rinse with plenty of water.

Step 2: sanitize the sink

• Spray white vinegar over the surface of the oven. Let it sit for 5 minutes to disinfect and use a damp cloth to wipe down.
• Kill bacteria and flush out residue by pouring a pot of boiling water down the drain.

Step3: deodorize the drain

Baking soda and vinegar

• Pour 1/2 cup of baking soda into the drain and follow by 1/2 cup of vinegar.
• Wait for 15 minutes and flush with hot water afterwards.

Salt and lemon for stainless sinks

• Sprinkle salt on the sink surface, and scrub with a cut lemon. For a shiny finish and a fresh scent, rinse it with warm water.

What final checks should you make?

Kitchen Appliances

Refrigerator and freezer

• Remove all food if you turn off the appliances
• Assidously wipe and dry the interior
• Leave the door slightly open to avoid mould and odours.

Oven and stovetop

• Check if all surfaces, burners, and racks are clean, without any crumbs or grease.
• Turn off the appliances

Microwave

• Polish the interior and exterior
• Leave the door slightly open

Dishwasher

• Empty and sanitize the filter
• Leave the door ajar

Garbage disposal and sink

• Verify if the disposal is clear of debris
• Rinse the sink to make sure that there is no standing water.

Small appliances

• Unplug the small appliances
• Store them in a safe, dry place.

Laundry appliances

Washing machine

• Run an empty cycle with vinegar or a cleaning agent
• Wipe the drum and leave the door open.

Dryer

• Empty the lint trap
• Wipe down the drum and see if there are any items left inside.

How to avoid odours while you're away?

Kitchen Tips

Refrigerator and freezer

• Take out all perishable products and discard anything close to expiration.
• Leave the doors slightly open to avoid mould and mildew (if turned off)
• Place an open box of baking soda or activated charcoal inside the refrigerator.

Garbage disposal and sink

• Pour baking soda and vinegar down the drain followed by hot water.
• Wipe the sink dry to avoid water pooling—it can cause odours.

Trash bins

• Take out the garbage
• Wash and dry the bins and sprinkle baking soda at the bottom to avoid odour.

What maintenance tasks to schedule for when you come back?

Refrigerator and freezer

• Verify if there are any lingering smells
• Tidy shelves and compartments before refilling with fresh groceries.

Oven and stovetop

• Wipe down surfaces to remove dust or stale odours.
• Test the burners, heating elements, and fans.

Dishwasher

• Run an empty cleaning cycle with a dishwasher cleaner or vinegar to eliminate residue from standing water.

Garbage disposal and sink

• Run the disposal with ice cubes and lemon peels to refresh the system.

Laundry appliances

• Run an empty cleaning cycle with vinegar or a washing machine cleaner to eliminate musty smells
• Inspect the dryer and wipe the lint trap and drum before use.

Don’t forget to open windows and let fresh air circulate throughout the house. If any of your kitchen appliances need servicing or deep cleaning, schedule professional services.

RESOURCES

www.bucketsandbows.com/5422/house-cleaning/the-ultimate-guide-to-maintaining-a-spotless-kitchen

www.goodhousekeeping.com/uk/house-and-home/household-advice/a673506/10-things-people-with-spotless-kitchens-do-every-day/

www.homesandgardens.com/solved/golden-rules-of-stain-removal

www.olivesfordinner.com/keeping-a-clean-kitchen/

www.armandhammer.com/articles/how-remove-common-stains

www.kapitidrycleaning.co.nz/post/top-10-common-stains-and-how-to-remove-them

www.davidsuzuki.org/living-green/how-to-remove-common-stains-and-whiten-laundry/

www.homesandgardens.com/solved/kitchen-closing-shift