2024 Homeowner's Guide to Cleaning and Maintaining Kitchen Appliances

Refrigerator Maintenance and Cleaning

A clean and well-maintained refrigerator is key to preserving food freshness and ensuring optimal performance. Here are some tips on how to clean and maintain your refrigerator

Cleaning the Interior of Your Refrigerator

To clean the interior of your refrigerator, remove all the food items and dispose of expired or spoiled food. Unplug the refrigerator for safety. Remove the shelves, drawers, and other removable parts. Wash them with warm, soapy water, rinse thoroughly, and let them dry completely. Wipe down the interior walls and surfaces with a mild detergent and warm water, focusing on any stains or spills. Once cleaned and dried, replace the shelves and drawers and restock the food.

Cleaning the Exterior of Your Fridge

To clean the exterior of your refrigerator, unplug it and wipe down the external surfaces, including the door, handles, and control panel with a mild detergent and warm water. Avoid abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals as they can damage the finish. Dry the exterior with a clean, soft cloth. Don't forget to clean the rubber gasket around the door to prevent mold and mildew buildup. Use stainless steel cleaner to polish the door and handles if you have a stainless fridge.

Maintaining Your Refrigerator for Top Performance

Here are a few tips to keep your refrigerator running smoothly:

• Set the refrigerator temperature between 35°F and 38°F and the freezer temperature at 0°F for best food preservation.
• Regularly check and replace the water filter if your refrigerator has a water dispenser or ice maker.
• Ensure good airflow by not overpacking the refrigerator or blocking the vents.
• Check the door gasket for cracks or leaks and replace if necessary to maintain proper sealing.
• Twice a year, clean the condenser coils to boost energy efficiency. Refer to your refrigerator's manual for instructions.

Watch this video from Sears Home Services Technician Tom Charland that shows how to clean the condenser coils and provides additional tips for maintaining your fridge:

By following these cleaning and maintenance tips, you can keep your refrigerator running smoothly and extend its lifespan, contributing to a well-functioning kitchen.

Oven Maintenance and Cleaning

A clean and well-maintained oven is essential for efficient cooking and prolonging its lifespan. Here are some step-by-step instructions, tips, and tricks to help you clean and maintain your oven.

Steps for Cleaning Your Oven

If you have a self-cleaning oven, use that cycle to thoroughly clean the oven cavity. Follow the instructions in the owner’s manual for using the self-clean cycle.

If you don’t have a self-cleaning oven, follow these steps for cleaning:

1. Remove the oven racks and any loose debris from the oven.
2. Make a paste by mixing baking soda and water until it reaches a thick consistency. Apply this paste to the interior surfaces of the oven, avoiding the heating elements.
3. Allow the paste to sit for a few hours or overnight to loosen the grime.
4. Wipe away the paste, along with the dirt and grease, using a damp cloth or sponge.
5. For stubborn stains, use a vinegar solution or a specialized oven cleaner. Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.
6. Once the interior is clean, wipe down the oven racks and replace them.

Removing Stubborn Stains from Your Oven

For tough stains, make a paste using baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. Apply it to the stained areas and let it sit for a few hours or overnight. Scrub the stains until they are removed. Rinse the area thoroughly with water and dry it with a clean cloth.

Maintaining Your Oven's Heating Efficiency

1. Regularly clean the oven to prevent the buildup of grease and food residues, which can affect its heating efficiency.

2. Don’t overfill baking dishes to help prevent spills inside the oven.

3. Avoid using harsh chemical cleaners or abrasive materials that can damage the oven's surfaces.

4. Regularly check the oven's door seal and replace it if there are any signs of wear or damage.

5. Schedule an annual professional service check for your oven to ensure optimal performance.

By following these cleaning and maintenance tips, you can keep your oven in prime condition, ensuring delicious meals every time you cook.

Stove Top Maintenance and Cleaning

A clean and well-maintained stove top is essential for a tidy and functional kitchen. Here are some methods for cleaning different types of stove tops, removing grease and grime, and preventing scratches.

Cleaning Different Types of Stove Tops

For glass or ceramic stove tops, start by wiping away loose debris with a soft cloth or sponge. Then, apply a non-abrasive cleaner specifically designed for these surfaces. Gently scrub the stove top using a soft sponge or a non-scratch pad. Rinse with water and dry with a clean cloth.

For gas or electric coil stove tops, remove the grates and burners. Soak them in warm, soapy water and scrub away any dirt or grease. Use a degreaser on the stove top surface and scrub with a non-abrasive sponge or brush. Rinse thoroughly and dry.

Removing Grease and Grime from Your Stove Top

For stubborn grease stains, make a paste using baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the affected areas and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, scrub gently with a sponge or non-scratch pad. Rinse and dry.

To clean greasy grates or burners, soak them in a mixture of hot water and dish soap. Scrub away the grease using a brush or sponge. Rinse thoroughly and dry before reassembling.

Preventing Scratches on Your Stove Top

• Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scrub brushes that can damage the surface of your stove top.
• Always use cookware with flat bottoms to prevent scratching.
• Place a protective barrier, such as a silicone mat, between the stove top and heavy pots or pans.
• Clean up spills and stains immediately to prevent them from hardening or becoming difficult to remove.

By following these tips, you can keep your stove top looking clean and functioning efficiently for years to come.

Microwave Cleaning and Maintenance

Keeping your microwave clean and well-maintained is essential for ensuring its optimal performance and longevity. Here's a step-by-step guide for cleaning the interior of your microwave:

• Mix equal parts water and vinegar in a microwave-safe bowl.
• Heat the solution in the microwave on high for about 5 minutes, or until it boils and creates steam.
• Allow the steam to sit for a few minutes to loosen any food splatters or stains.
• Remove the bowl from the microwave carefully (it may be hot).
• Unplug your microwave for safety.
• Remove the turntable, roller ring, and any other removable parts.
• Wipe the interior of the microwave with a soft cloth or sponge.
• For stubborn stains, dip the cloth or sponge in the vinegar solution and scrub gently.
• Rinse the cloth or sponge and wipe down the interior again to remove any residue.
• Wash the turntable, roller ring, and other removable parts with warm soapy water, then dry them thoroughly before replacing them.
• Plug your microwave back in and it's ready to use!

You can also eliminate stubborn stains and odors from your microwave by heating a bowl of lemon juice or a few lemon slices in a bowl of water for a few minutes. The natural acidity of lemons helps remove stubborn stains and unpleasant smells.

To prevent food splatters in your microwave, follow these tips:

• Use a microwave-safe lid or cover to prevent splattering.
• Use microwave-safe containers with lids to contain any potential mess.
• Stir or rotate your food during cooking to ensure even heat distribution and minimize splatters.
• Avoid overfilling containers to prevent spills and splatters.
• Use microwave-safe covers or paper towels to cover dishes that are prone to splattering, like sauces or soups.

Dishwasher Cleaning and Maintenance

Keeping your dishwasher clean and well-maintained is essential for optimal performance and longevity. Here are some methods for cleaning the interior and exterior of your dishwasher, removing buildup, unclogging the drain, and tips for maintaining its overall performance.

To clean the interior of your dishwasher, start by removing any leftover food debris from the filter and spray arms. You can use a toothbrush or a soft brush to gently scrub away any stubborn residue. Then, place a cup of white vinegar in a dishwasher-safe container on the top rack and run a hot water cycle. This will help remove grease, odors, and mineral deposits.

For the exterior of your dishwasher, use a mixture of warm water and mild dish soap to wipe down the control panel, door, and handle. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scrub brushes that can scratch the surface. For stubborn stains, make a paste using baking soda and water, apply it to the stains, let it sit for a few minutes, and then wipe it off with a damp cloth.

If your dishwasher's drain is clogged or there is buildup, address it promptly. Remove the bottom rack and inspect the drain area for debris. Use a paper towel or a small brush to remove any visible buildup. Then, mix equal parts baking soda and vinegar and pour it down the drain. Allow it to sit for about 15 minutes before flushing it with hot water.

To maintain optimal dishwasher performance, follow these tips:

• Scrape off excess food from dishes before loading them into the dishwasher.
• Run your dishwasher regularly to prevent stagnant water and odors.
• Inspect and clean the dishwasher's spray arms periodically to ensure proper water distribution.
• Check the dishwasher's rubber gasket for any signs of wear or damage and replace if necessary.
• Use dishwasher-safe and appropriate dishwasher detergent to avoid damaging the appliance.

By following these cleaning and maintenance methods, you can keep your dishwasher running smoothly and efficiently, ensuring sparkling clean dishes every time.

Coffee Maker Cleaning and Maintenance

Keeping your coffee maker clean and well-maintained is essential for ensuring a great cup of coffee every time. Here are some step-by-step instructions, tips, and tricks to help you clean, descale, and prolong the lifespan of your coffee maker.

To clean your coffee maker, remove any leftover coffee grounds and filters. Wash the removable parts, such as the carafe and filter basket, with warm, soapy water. Rinse them thoroughly and allow them to air dry.

Next, wipe down the exterior of the coffee maker with a damp cloth. Pay extra attention to the areas where coffee and water are dispensed. For stubborn stains, use a mild cleaner specifically designed for coffee makers. Avoid using abrasive cleaners that can damage the surface.

Descaling your coffee maker is important to remove mineral deposits and improve its performance. To descale, mix equal parts of white vinegar and water and fill the water reservoir. Run a brewing cycle without any coffee grounds. Repeat this process a few times, then run a few cycles with clean water to rinse out any vinegar residue.

Finally, here are some tips to prolong the lifespan of your coffee maker:

• Regularly clean and descale your coffee maker as per the manufacturer's instructions.
• Use filtered water to reduce mineral buildup and improve the taste of your coffee.
• Replace the water filter and coffee filter regularly.
• Avoid leaving brewed coffee in the carafe for extended periods as it can affect the flavor and cleanliness of your coffee maker.

By following these simple steps and tips, you can keep your coffee maker in top shape and enjoy delicious coffee for years to come.

Schedule Yearly Kitchen Appliance Professional Maintenance

To keep your kitchen appliances in top shape and lasting longer, schedule professional maintenance through Sears Home Services. We’ll send a Sears Home Services Technician to your home to perform a 33-point inspection on your refrigerator, dishwasher and oven.

Our technicians know all the top appliance brands. We can maintain your appliances no matter where you bought them. If a technician uncovers problems during appliance maintenance, you can trust our appliance experts for repairs on top appliance brands like Whirlpool, Frigidaire, GE, Samsung, Maytag, Bosch, LG and Kenmore.

Trust Sears Home Services to help you keep your kitchen in top shape. We make it easy for your to manage your home so you can relax and enjoy life.