How to Spring Clean Your Kitchen Appliances in Just One Hour

Take your kitchen from cluttered to sparkling in just 60 minutes with this quick and effective spring cleaning guide.

Get Started: Gather Your Supplies

Before you begin, make sure you have everything you need:

• Dish soap
  
  

• White vinegar
  
  

• Baking soda
  
  

• All-purpose cleaner
  
  

• Scrub brush or old toothbrush
  
  

• Microfiber cloths or paper towels
  
  

• Razor blade scraper (optional for stubborn stains)
  
  

Fill your sink with warm, soapy water and place removable parts like refrigerator drawers, microwave plates, and stove grates in to soak. While they sit, you can start tackling each appliance one by one.

Cooktop Cleaning: Glass or Gas

Glass Cooktop

1. Let it cool completely.
   
   

2. Wipe away crumbs and spills with a damp cloth.
   
   

3. Spray white vinegar over the surface.
   
   

4. Sprinkle baking soda on any stained areas.
   
   

5. Scrub gently in circular motions.
   
   

6. Use a razor blade scraper (if safe per your manufacturer’s instructions) for stuck-on food.
   
   

7. Wipe clean and dry.
   
   

Gas Cooktop

1. Cool the cooktop and turn off all burners.
   
   

2. Remove grates and soak them in the sink.
   
   

3. Scrub the surface with warm, soapy water and a soft sponge.
   
   

4. Wipe clean and dry thoroughly.
   
   

Oven Cleaning

Even with a self-cleaning oven, a little manual cleaning goes a long way.

1. Spray a degreaser or baking soda + vinegar mix inside and let it sit for 10 minutes.
   
   

2. Scrub away grease and grime, then wipe clean.
   
   

3. Use self-cleaning mode if your oven has it—just crack a window while it runs.
   
   

4. Don’t forget the racks! Scrub them in the sink with soapy water.
   
   

Dishwasher Deep Clean

1. Remove racks and spray the interior with cleaner or baking soda mix.
   
   

2. Clean the filter and trap—check for food debris.
   
   

3. Pour 1 cup vinegar + ¼ cup baking soda into the bottom.
   
   

4. Run a short cycle, using the sanitize setting if available.
   
   

5. Wipe down exterior and replace racks.
   
   

Microwave Refresh

1. Place the glass plate in the sink with the other soaking items.
   
   

2. Mix ½ cup water + ½ cup vinegar in a microwave-safe container.
   
   

3. Microwave on high for 10 minutes—don’t open the door immediately.
   
   

4. Let steam loosen grime, then remove the container.
   
   

5. Wipe the interior, spot clean with baking soda mix if needed.
   
   

Refrigerator Reset

1. Toss expired food and remove everything else.
   
   

2. Take out shelves and drawers and let them soak.
   
   

3. Spray the interior with all-purpose cleaner and let sit for 10 minutes.
   
   

4. Scrub and rinse drawers and shelves, dry completely.
   
   

5. Wipe the inside of the fridge, then return items.
   
   

Tip: Deep clean your fridge every 3 months to keep it fresh and organized.

Freezer Defrost & Clean

If your freezer doesn’t auto-defrost and has ¼ inch or more of frost buildup, it’s time.

1. Unplug the unit and remove all food.
   
   

2. Place towels or a bucket to catch water.
   
   

3. Leave the door open to let ice melt.
   
   

4. Wipe away melted ice, then clean with a baking soda solution (1 tbsp baking soda to 4 cups hot water).
   
   

5. Dry thoroughly before plugging it back in.
   
   

One-Hour Spring Cleaning Schedule

Here’s how to make it all happen in one productive hour:

• 0–10 min: Soak removable parts in soapy water. Spray fridge and oven interiors.
  
  

• 10–25 min: Clean cooktop and microwave.
  
  

• 25–35 min: Scrub and rinse fridge shelves/drawers and oven racks.
  
  

• 35–45 min: Clean dishwasher and wipe down the microwave.
  
  

• 45–55 min: Finish cleaning fridge and freezer.
  
  

55–60 min: Reassemble appliances and wipe exteriors.