How to Deep Clean a Kitchen: Step-by-Step Guide

Deep cleaning your kitchen goes beyond daily tidying and ensures a hygienic space for cooking and dining. Here's a complete guide to achieving a spotless kitchen:

What You’ll Need:

• Microfiber cloths

• Dish soap

• Baking soda

• White vinegar

• All-purpose cleaner

• Degreaser

• Sponge or scrub brush

• Rubber gloves

• Trash bags

• Mop and bucket

• Vacuum or broom

1. Declutter and Empty

• Clear the counters: Remove appliances, utensils, and other items.

• Empty cabinets and drawers: Set aside items for cleaning, organizing, or discarding.

• Empty the trash: Replace the liner with a clean one.

2. Start with the Sink

• Clean and sanitize: Sprinkle baking soda in the sink and scrub with a sponge. Rinse with white vinegar for added shine.

• Unclog drains: Pour a mixture of baking soda and vinegar, let it fizz, then flush with hot water.

3. Appliances

• Refrigerator:

  • Remove all food and discard expired items.

  • Wipe shelves and drawers with warm soapy water.

  • Sanitize handles and seals.

• Oven:

  • Apply a commercial oven cleaner or a paste of baking soda and water.

  • Let sit for 20 minutes, then scrub and wipe clean.

  • Clean oven racks with soapy water.

• Microwave:

  • Heat a bowl of water with lemon slices for 3–5 minutes to loosen grime.

  • Wipe the interior with a damp cloth.

• Dishwasher:

  • Run a cycle with a dishwasher cleaner or a cup of vinegar placed on the top rack.

  • Wipe edges and seals with a damp cloth.

4. Countertops and Backsplash

• Degrease and sanitize: Use an all-purpose cleaner to wipe down surfaces.

• Tackle grout lines (if tiled): Scrub with a brush and baking soda paste.

5. Cabinets and Drawers

• Clean interiors: Wipe with a damp cloth and mild soap.

• Exterior surfaces: Degrease and polish handles.

• Organize contents: Discard unused items and group similar items together.

6. Floors

• Vacuum or sweep: Remove crumbs and debris.

• Mop thoroughly: Use a cleaning solution suitable for your floor type (tile, wood, or laminate).

7. Small Appliances

• Toaster: Remove crumbs and wipe surfaces.

• Blender: Wash detachable parts and wipe the base.

• Coffee maker: Run a cycle with vinegar and water, followed by clean water.

8. Finishing Touches

• Polish stainless steel: Use a microfiber cloth and a stainless steel cleaner for appliances and fixtures.

• Clean light fixtures: Dust and wipe down.

• Disinfect frequently touched surfaces: Sanitize light switches, doorknobs, and cabinet handles.

Tips for Maintaining a Clean Kitchen:

• Wipe counters and stovetops daily.

• Sweep or vacuum the floor every evening.

• Do a quick fridge cleanout weekly.

• Schedule a deep clean every 1–2 months for a consistently spotless kitchen.