Source: Better homes and Gardens
It feels like spring, and spring often means a big annual cleaning. The kitchen is the center of the house, so let's give it some special attention. Here are a few tips and tricks for cleaning your appliances.
Clean dishwasher filter.
Often overlooked, a clean dishwasher filter ensures spotless dishes while decreasing the chances of a breakdown. Machines with manual filters, as opposed to self-cleaning filters or hard food disposers, can be cleaned by hand. Typically positioned under the bottom dish rack, the filter will twist out in the direction indicated on the machine. Take it to your sink, then use a soft scrub brush and warm water to scour it clean. A toothbrush can help remove any caked-on gunk. If your model has two filters stacked on top of each other, make sure to clean both. Shake off excess water and dry off, then twist to lock back into place.
Deep-clean microwave.
Take a few minutes to wipe out any crumbs, spills, or splatters from your microwave. Fill a microwave-safe bowl with warm water and a squirt of dishwasher soap and place it in the microwave. Run the bowl on high for 5 minutes, then let stand for 5 minutes to let the steam loosen any gunk. Wipe off the microwave walls, door, and turntable with a wet sponge. Dry with a paper towel.
Degrease vent hood filter.
A yucky vent hood filter can lead to fumes filling your kitchen or even a fire. To clean this filter, gently pull it down and carefully submerge it in a sink filled with hot water and a cup of baking soda. Let sit until the water cools. Then rinse the filter, dry, and replace.
Get a spotless stove top.
A stove top is one of the most visible, hardworking surfaces in your kitchen. To create a clean cooking space, it's important to remove any food residue or stains. For gas burners, remove grates and burner caps, and soak them in the sink in warm, soapy water. Spray the stove top with an all-purpose cleaner (avoiding burners), let sit for 5 minutes, then wipe. Before replacing grates and burner caps, scrub with scouring pads.
For an electric/smooth-top surface, wet a dish towel in hot water and spread it over the range top. Let it sit for 15 minutes, then use the towel to wipe the surface clean. Apply a nonabrasive cleaner, such as Bar Keepers Friend Cooktop Cleaner, to remove any water stains.
Next week: How to clean your refrigerator inside and out
