We all know that our kitchens need a lot of TLC to keep them clean. And thankfully most of it is pretty obvious which is awesome. However, sadly there are little sneaky areas that can quickly get gross. Like really gross.
But don’t let that scare you because today we are going to chat about those little sneaky spots and how to clean them.
So let’s just immediately get into it so you can get to cleaning-
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6 Sneaky Area Of Your Kitchen That Need Cleaned
Hidden places in your kitchen to clean + how to:
Sneaky spot 1: Top of your fridge!
If you’ve never checked the top of your refrigerator, now might be the time to take a deep breath, grab a step stool, and prepare for whatever you find. *insert dramatic music*
This area is one of the dustiest places in the kitchen simply because it’s out of sight and rarely gets touched. Over time, dust, pet hair, grease, and other airborne particles settle on the surface, creating a thick layer of grime.
Since this area is often used for storage (well if you are anything like me) maybe it’s cereal boxes, bags of chips, or extra kitchen supplies… regardless it can easily get ignored. However, all that dust eventually finds its way back into the air and it can even affect your refrigerator’s efficiency!!
To clean it, use a damp cloth with warm, soapy water or your preferred general cleaner. If there is a layer of greasy buildup, a mixture of baking soda and warm water will help break it down. Once it’s clean, consider covering the top with a layer of drawer lining. This can help to keep it cleaner and can be easily tossed if they get nasty.
Sneaky spot 2: Under Small Appliances
Moving your toaster, blender, coffee maker, or air fryer might not be something you do often, but if you slide one of them over right now, you’ll likely find a lot more crumbs, coffee spills, and grease stains then you would hope for.
Since these appliances typically sit in one spot for long periods, spills and crumbs tend to accumulate unnoticed. If left like that, they can attract pests, create unpleasant odors and even damage countertops over time.
To clean under small appliances, unplug them and move them off the counter. Use a damp cloth or sponge with warm soapy water to wipe down the surface beneath them. If any stubborn grease or residue is present, a paste made from baking soda and water works wonders. Before putting the appliances back, take a moment to wipe down their bases and cords, as they often get sticky from splattered food.
Sneaky spot 3: The Sink Drain and Garbage Disposal
The disposal? Ew! I know but guys don’t skip this one because it gets GROSS!
While most people regularly clean their sinks, the drain and garbage disposal often get overlooked, and that’s where odor-causing bacteria thrive 🙁 Bits of food, grease, and soap residue accumulate over time, leading to an unpleasant smell that no amount of surface scrubbing will fix.
To deep clean your sink drain, start by pouring half a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by one cup of vinegar. The mixture will fizz and help break down grime inside the pipes. After five to ten minutes, flush the drain with boiling water.
For the garbage disposal, toss a few ice cubes down the drain along with lemon peels. Running the disposal while the ice cubes grind helps clean the blades and remove stuck-on residue, while the citrus peels leave a fresh scent. For an extra deep clean, use an old toothbrush to scrub around the drain opening and the rubber gasket, where hidden gunk tends to build up.
Sneaky spot 4: Cabinet Handles and Drawer Pulls
Cabinet handles and drawer pulls are some of the most touched surfaces in the kitchen, yet they rarely get cleaned as often as they should. Every time you cook, grease, food particles and fingerprints transfer onto these surfaces, and over time unfortunately they develop a sticky residue.
To clean them, spray them with an all-purpose cleaner or a vinegar-water solution and wipe them down with a cloth. If the buildup is particularly stubborn, dip a toothbrush into a mixture of baking soda and water and scrub the handles gently.
While you’re at it, take a moment to wipe down the edges of drawers and cabinets as well, since grease and dust tend to accumulate in those areas too.
Sneaky spot 5: The Rubber Seal on Your Refrigerator
The rubber gasket around your fridge door might seem like a minor detail, but it’s one of the sneakiest places where grime and mold can build up!!
Every time you open and close the fridge, tiny food particles, crumbs, and moisture get trapped in the folds of the rubber seal. If it stays damp, it becomes the perfect breeding ground for mold and mildew, which can affect the freshness of the food stored inside.
To clean the rubber seal, mix a solution of warm water and a little dish soap. Use a cloth or an old toothbrush to scrub in between the folds of the rubber. If you notice any mold or mildew, use a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water to disinfect the area. After cleaning, dry the seal thoroughly with a clean towel to prevent moisture buildup.
Sneaky spot 6: The Inside of the Microwave Door
Most people remember to clean the inside of their microwave, especially after a messy food explosion… But one area that often gets missed is the inside edges of the microwave door, where splatters and grease tend to hide.
And that build up can cause bacteria to get onto your food and can create disgusting smells.
To clean this area, microwave a bowl of water with lemon slices or a few tablespoons of vinegar for three to five minutes. The steam will loosen up any dried-on grime, making it easier to wipe away. Then, take a damp cloth or sponge and wipe around the edges of the door, paying special attention to the vented areas where grease accumulates. If needed, use a toothbrush to scrub inside any hard-to-reach spots.
Korra-Shay
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