Home Handyman Hints - Appliance Maintenance

Cleaning and maintaining kitchen appliances, including the dishwasher and oven, is important for their performance and longevity. Here are the steps to clean and maintain these appliances:

Materials:

• Mild dish soap
• Baking soda
• White vinegar
• Lemon
• Microfiber cloth or sponge
• Toothbrush (optional)
• Oven cleaner (for oven)
• Dishwasher cleaner (for dishwasher)

Steps:

1. Dishwasher:

• Clean the filter: Remove the bottom rack and locate the filter at the bottom of the dishwasher. Remove any debris or food particles from the filter and clean it with warm, soapy water.
• Clean the spray arms: Check the spray arms for clogs or debris. Use a toothbrush or small brush to clean the spray holes.
• Run a cleaning cycle: Place a dishwasher-safe cup filled with white vinegar on the top rack and run a hot water cycle to clean and deodorize the dishwasher.
• Clean the exterior: Wipe down the exterior of the dishwasher with a damp microfiber cloth or sponge and mild dish soap.

2. Oven:

• Remove oven racks: Remove the oven racks and clean them separately with warm, soapy water. Rinse and dry them thoroughly.
• Clean the interior: For light cleaning, sprinkle baking soda on the bottom of the oven and spray with water. Let it sit overnight and scrub with a sponge or cloth. For heavy cleaning, use an oven cleaner according to the manufacturer's instructions.
• Clean the door: Wipe down the oven door with a damp cloth or sponge and mild dish soap. For stubborn stains, use a paste of baking soda and water.
• Clean the exterior: Wipe down the exterior of the oven with a damp microfiber cloth or sponge and mild dish soap.

3. Refrigerator:

• Clean the interior: Remove all food items from the refrigerator and wipe down the interior with a solution of mild dish soap and water. Rinse and dry thoroughly.
• Clean the coils: Vacuum or brush the condenser coils at the back or bottom of the refrigerator to remove dust and debris.
• Clean the door seals: Wipe down the door seals with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or debris that may prevent a tight seal.

4. Microwave:

• Clean the interior: Fill a microwave-safe bowl with water and a few slices of lemon. Microwave on high for several minutes to create steam. Wipe down the interior with a damp cloth or sponge.
• Clean the exterior: Wipe down the exterior of the microwave with a damp microfiber cloth or sponge and mild dish soap.

5. Maintain Regularly:

• Clean spills and stains promptly to prevent them from hardening or becoming more difficult to clean.
• Check appliance manuals for specific cleaning and maintenance instructions.

By following these steps and maintaining your kitchen appliances regularly, you can ensure they remain clean, efficient, and in good working condition.