The kitchen is one of the most challenging spaces to clean and maintain. With various appliances, stains, and surfaces, it can be overwhelming. As a cleaning professional and a homeowner, I've gathered numerous tips and tricks to make kitchen cleaning more manageable. Here are 10 professional kitchen cleaning tips to make the process easier and more efficient.
1. Use The Eye-Level Test
The eye-level test is a game-changer for maintaining a clean space. To employ this test, get down to the same level as the surface you're cleaning. Use light—whether from a window or an overhead light source—and maneuver it to get an almost reflective view of the surface. Viewing a surface at eye level with the light just so will reveal all the little bits you've missed.
2. Remove Dinnerware Scratches
Over time, dishes can develop scratches and marks from regular use. To fix this, make a paste with cream of tartar and a little water. The paste should have a pudding-like consistency. Apply it to the scratched surface and rub in a circular motion with your finger or a cloth. For stubborn scratches, add a few drops of vinegar or lemon juice. Keep rubbing to buff away the scuffs, then rinse and wipe clean.
3. Natural Stone Stain Remover
Stains on granite countertops are common, whether from turmeric, tomato sauce, coffee, or wine. To remove these stains, mix equal parts rubbing alcohol and dish soap. Spread the mixture across the stained surface and let it sit for 10 minutes. Wipe it off, and the stain should be gone. If not, your countertop might be unsealed. Sealing your natural stone countertops is crucial to prevent stains from setting in.
4. Clean Hard Water Deposits
Hard water deposits on and around the faucet can be unsightly. To remove them, fill a plastic bag with vinegar and secure it over the faucet head with an elastic band. Let it sit overnight. In the morning, remove the bag, and the deposits will be gone. For deposits around the faucet, soak a cloth or paper towel in vinegar and wrap it around the area. Let it sit for several hours, then remove it to find the stains gone.
5. Clean Glass Cooktops
Glass cooktops can be challenging to clean due to their delicate surface and the potential for scratches. Use cooktop wands made specifically for cleaning glass cooktops. Let water sit on the mess for a few minutes, then scrub with the wand. This method cleans effectively without scratching the surface.
6. Empty The Kitchen Sink
The kitchen sink is like the bed of the kitchen—if it’s clean, the rest of the kitchen feels clean and organized. Make it a habit to keep the kitchen sink empty and give it a quick clean after every meal. Ensure there are no dishes left behind, scrub with baking soda and dish soap, rinse, and buff with a microfiber cloth. This quick routine takes under a minute and makes a significant difference.
7. Clean With Infused Vinegar
Vinegar is a powerful, nontoxic cleaner, but its smell can be off-putting. To make it more pleasant, fill a mason jar with citrus peels (lemon, orange, lime) and top it up with plain white vinegar. Let it sit for at least three days, then strain out the peels. Use the infused vinegar as is or in any DIY cleaning recipe.
8. Deep Clean Oven Racks
Cleaning oven racks can be daunting, especially since they can't be left in during the self-cleaning cycle. To clean them, place an old towel in your bathtub, lay the oven racks on top, and fill the tub with hot water and a cup of laundry detergent. Let them soak for several hours or overnight. Scrub any remaining grime with a brush, then rinse and dry.
9. Keep On Top of The Fridge
A clean and organized fridge helps reduce waste and keeps your kitchen feeling clean. Every 30 days, empty your fridge, wipe down the shelves and drawers, replace paper towels in crispers, check expiration dates, and discard expired items. Consider making a short-term menu to use up items that have been there for a while.
10. Eliminate Coffee and Tea Stains
Coffee and tea stains can build up in mugs and travel cups. To remove these stains, use baking soda. Take a pinch of baking soda, wet it with a few drops of water, and use your finger or a cleaning toothbrush to scrub the stains. Rinse and repeat until the stains are gone.
Conclusion
Maintaining a clean kitchen may seem overwhelming, but with these 10 professional tips, you can make the process more manageable and efficient. By incorporating these cleaning secrets into your routine, you'll keep your kitchen sparkling clean and organized, making it a more pleasant space for cooking and gathering. Remember, consistency is key—clean a little every day, and your kitchen will always look its best.
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