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Most People Get This Wrong: How Often to Clean Every Part of Your Kitchen & How to Do It
The kitchen is the heart of the home, where meals are made and memories are shared — but it’s also one of the most germ-prone places in your house. Despite its importance, many people either overlook cleaning certain kitchen areas or don’t clean them as often as they should. The result? A buildup of grime, bacteria, and sometimes even pests.
If you want a truly clean and safe kitchen, you need to know how often to clean every part of it—and the best way to do it. Here’s your ultimate guide.
1. Countertops: Daily
Why: Countertops come into direct contact with food, so they’re a hotspot for germs and bacteria.
How: Wipe down with warm soapy water or a multi-surface kitchen cleaner after every meal prep. For deeper cleaning, disinfect with a solution of 1 tablespoon bleach per gallon of water once a day, especially after handling raw meat or poultry.
2. Sink and Faucet: Daily to Weekly
Why: Sinks often harbor bacteria from food scraps, dirty dishes, and water splashes.
How: Clean daily with dish soap and a sponge. Once a week, scrub with baking soda and vinegar to remove grime and odors. Don’t forget to clean faucet handles and around the drain where buildup occurs.
3. Stovetop and Oven: Weekly to Monthly
Why: Food spills and grease accumulate quickly, creating a fire hazard and attracting pests.
How: Wipe down the stovetop daily if you cook often. For a thorough clean, remove burner grates and soak them weekly. Oven interiors require deep cleaning about once a month—use a commercial oven cleaner or a baking soda paste for natural scrubbing.
4. Refrigerator: Monthly
Why: Spoiled food and spills can lead to mold and bad smells.
How: Check for expired items weekly, but give your fridge a full clean once a month. Remove all contents, wipe shelves with warm soapy water, and use a mixture of baking soda and water to neutralize odors.
5. Microwave: Weekly
Why: Food splatters inside the microwave can breed bacteria and cause unpleasant odors.
How: Place a bowl of water with lemon slices inside and microwave on high for 3–5 minutes. The steam loosens grime, making it easy to wipe down with a clean cloth.
6. Cabinets and Drawers: Monthly
Why: These areas can collect dust, crumbs, and food particles over time.
How: Remove items, wipe down shelves and drawers with a mild cleaner, and dry thoroughly before returning contents.
7. Trash Can: Weekly
Why: Trash cans can be a breeding ground for bacteria and bad smells.
How: Empty daily if possible, and clean the entire bin with hot soapy water once a week. Disinfect with vinegar or a bleach solution, and always use a fresh liner.
