How To Clean And Maintain Your Appliances
This Article Written By
Carly C.
Author / Co-Owner
Hi there, my name is Carly! I am a massive New England Patriots fan, I cannot start my day without Starbucks, and… growing up, I was my mom’s messiest kid. Who would’ve thought I would be the one to own a cleaning business.
Hey, cleaning champs! It’s Carly from FreshLee Cleaning Co., soon-to-be Clean With Carly, here to dish out some love for those hardworking appliances in your home. Let’s face it—your fridge, oven, dishwasher, and other appliances take care of you every day, so it’s only fair you return the favor. Keeping them clean and well-maintained not only extends their lifespan but also ensures they work efficiently (hello, energy savings!). Ready to give your appliances the TLC they deserve? Let’s dive in.
The Fridge: Keep It Cool and Clean
Your fridge works 24/7 to keep your food fresh, so a little upkeep goes a long way.
- Weekly Wipe-Down: Use a mixture of warm water and mild dish soap to wipe down shelves and drawers. For stubborn spills, a paste of baking soda and water works wonders.
- Don’t Forget the Gaskets: Clean the rubber door seals with a damp cloth to keep them free of dirt and ensure a tight seal.
- Deep Clean Tip: Empty the fridge once a month to clean hard-to-reach corners. This also gives you a chance to toss expired items.
- Coils Matter: Vacuum the coils on the back or bottom of the fridge every six months to improve energy efficiency.
The Oven: Stay Spotless and Safe
Ovens can get grimy fast, but regular cleaning makes the job manageable.
- Quick Spills: Wipe up spills as soon as they cool to prevent baked-on messes.
- Monthly Deep Clean: Use a fume-free oven cleaner or make your own with baking soda and water. Let it sit for an hour, then scrub and rinse.
- Avoid Self-Cleaning: As I’ve said before, self-cleaning modes can get dangerously hot. Manual cleaning is safer for your oven and home.
- Check the Door Gasket: Ensure the seal around the oven door is intact to prevent heat from escaping.
Dishwasher: Sparkle Inside and Out
Your dishwasher handles dirty dishes like a pro, but even it needs a little help sometimes.
- Clean the Filter: Remove and rinse the filter every month to keep water flowing freely.
- Deodorize: Run a cycle with a bowl of vinegar on the top rack to tackle odors and mineral buildup.
- Scrub the Sprayer Arms: Use a toothpick or small brush to unclog the holes in the sprayer arms for optimal performance.
- Wipe the Door: Don’t neglect the edges and seals of the door—they’re magnets for grime.
Washing Machine: Fresh and Clean Every Time
If your washer smells funky, it’s time for a cleaning session.
- Monthly Maintenance: Run a hot cycle with vinegar and baking soda to clean the drum and eliminate odors.
- Gasket TLC: Wipe down the rubber seal on front-loading washers after each use to prevent mold.
- Lint Trap Love: Check and clean the lint trap regularly if your washer has one.
Small Appliances: Don’t Overlook the Little Guys
Blenders, coffee makers, and toasters need love, too!
- Blenders and Food Processors: Take apart and wash all removable parts in warm, soapy water. For lingering odors, blend a mixture of lemon and baking soda.
- Coffee Makers: Run a brew cycle with a mix of vinegar and water, then rinse thoroughly with fresh water to prevent build-up and improve taste.
- Toasters: Unplug and shake out crumbs over the sink. Clean the exterior with a damp cloth, and never use metal utensils to dislodge stuck pieces.
General Maintenance Tips
Read the Manual: It might not be thrilling, but understanding your appliance’s care instructions can save you time and headaches.
Schedule Regular Checks: Inspect cords and plugs for wear and tear to prevent hazards.
Keep It Dry: Always dry appliances after cleaning to avoid water damage or rust.
Use the Right Tools: Microfiber cloths and non-abrasive cleaners are your best friends for most appliance surfaces.
Carly’s Final Take
Taking time to clean and maintain your appliances ensures they’ll serve you well for years to come. It also saves you money by avoiding costly repairs or replacements. Plus, a well-maintained appliance works more efficiently, which means lower utility bills—win-win!
If life gets too busy and your appliances need a little extra love, don’t forget that Clean With Carly is here to help. Whether it’s your fridge, oven, or entire kitchen, we’ve got the skills and tools to make everything sparkle.
Happy cleaning,
Carly ✨