Kitchen appliances, who are making our culinary lives a lot easier, deserve a little pampering now and then. Beyond just keeping them looking pretty, regular cleaning extends their lifespan and improves efficiency. Let’s dive into how to show your kitchen appliances could use some cleaning.
Sparkling cooking surfaces
Your stove top witnesses everything from sauce splatters to boil-overs. If you’re wondering how to clean induction hob surfaces without scratching them, the secret lies in gentle products and perfect timing. Wait until the surface cools completely, then use HG hob cleaner extra strong, wipe it with a wet, clean cloth, and then wipe with a soft microfiber cloth. For stubborn, burnt-on stains, a paste of baking soda and water works wonders: apply it, let it sit for 20 minutes, then gently scrub away the stain.
How to clean your microwave
That convenient meal-heating box probably has more food splatters than you’d like to admit. Instead of scrubbing like crazy, try this smart trick: fill a microwave-safe bowl with water, add a slice of lemon, and microwave it for 3 minutes. The steam loosens all those crusty bits while the lemon fights odours. Wait a minute before opening (beware the steam!), then simply wipe down the interior with a cloth.
An all-clean refrigerator
Your fridge needs regular attention too, before mystery smells take over. Start by tossing anything that looks questionable (if you have to ask yourself “is this still good?” the answer is probably no). Remove shelves and drawers and soak them in warm soap water. Wipe interior surfaces with a solution of baking soda and water to get rid of those odours without leaving chemical smells. Don’t forget to vacuum the dusty coils in the back, because clean coils mean a more efficient fridge and lower energy bills.
Don’t forget the dishwasher
Ironically, even your dishwasher needs cleaning. Although meant for cleaning, the dishwasher can get food stuck, which affects its performance. Remove the filter at the bottom and give it a good scrub. Run an empty cycle with a cup of white vinegar on the top rack to dissolve mineral buildup and to get rid of grease. For extra freshness, sprinkle baking soda across the bottom and run a short hot cycle.
Clean the toaster
Toasters collect more crumbs than a bakery floor. Unplug it (important first step!), then shake it upside down over the trashcan. For deeper cleaning, remove the crumb tray and wash it with warm, soapy water. A small paintbrush, toothbrush or a toothpick can help sweep out stubborn crumbs hiding in corners. Wipe the exterior with a damp cloth mixed with a drop of dish soap for a like-new shine.