Best Cleaning Practices for Every Major Home Appliance

Keeping your home appliances clean not only improves their efficiency but also extends their lifespan. Whether it’s your refrigerator, oven, or washing machine, regular maintenance can help prevent costly repairs. Below, we’ll cover the best cleaning practices for each major appliance.

Refrigerator

How Often?

• Wipe down shelves and drawers weekly
• Deep clean interior every 3-4 months
• Clean condenser coils twice a year

Cleaning Steps:

1. Empty the fridge – Remove all food items, tossing anything expired.
2. Wash shelves and drawers – Use warm soapy water or a vinegar solution.
3. Wipe interior surfaces – A baking soda and water mixture helps remove odors.
4. Clean the gaskets – Wipe rubber door seals with a damp cloth to maintain a proper seal.
5. Vacuum the condenser coils – Dust buildup can cause your fridge to overwork, leading to higher energy bills.

💡 Pro Tip: Place an open box of baking soda inside to absorb odors.

Dishwasher

How Often?

• Wipe interior weekly
• Clean the filter monthly
• Deep clean with vinegar every 2-3 months

Cleaning Steps:

1. Remove and clean the filter – Soak in warm soapy water, then scrub with a soft brush.
2. Run a vinegar cycle – Pour a cup of white vinegar in a dishwasher-safe cup and run a hot cycle.
3. Scrub the door gasket – Use a damp cloth and mild detergent to remove grime.
4. Check the spray arms – Clear any clogs using a toothpick or small brush.

💡 Pro Tip: Avoid using too much detergent; it can cause residue buildup over time.

Oven & Stovetop

How Often?

• Wipe spills after each use
• Deep clean oven every 3 months
• Clean stovetop weekly

Cleaning Steps:

For the Oven:

1. Remove racks and soak them in warm, soapy water.
2. Make a baking soda paste (½ cup baking soda + water) and spread inside the oven.
3. Let it sit overnight before wiping clean with a damp cloth.
4. Use vinegar spray to remove residue.

For the Stovetop:

1. Gas burners: Remove grates and soak them, then scrub with a soft brush.
2. Electric stovetops: Wipe with a damp cloth and mild cleaner.
3. Glass stovetops: Use a specialized cleaner and a non-abrasive sponge.

💡 Pro Tip: Avoid using harsh chemicals inside your oven, as they can leave behind harmful fumes.

Washing Machine

How Often?

• Wipe seals weekly
• Run a cleaning cycle monthly

Cleaning Steps:

1. Run a hot water cycle with white vinegar (2 cups) to remove detergent residue.
2. Scrub the detergent drawer with warm soapy water.
3. Clean the rubber gasket around the door to prevent mold buildup.
4. Leave the door open after each use to prevent odors.

💡 Pro Tip: Use high-efficiency detergent to prevent excess suds and residue buildup.

Dryer

How Often?

• Clean lint trap after every use
• Deep clean vent every 6 months

Cleaning Steps:

1. Remove lint from the trap after each use.
2. Vacuum around the lint trap area to remove dust buildup.
3. Disconnect the vent hose and clear out lint buildup to prevent fire hazards.

💡 Pro Tip: Dry clothes faster by keeping the vent hose straight and free of obstructions.

Microwave

How Often?

• Wipe interior weekly
• Deep clean monthly

Cleaning Steps:

1. Steam clean with vinegar – Place a bowl of water and vinegar (1:1 ratio) inside and microwave for 5 minutes.
2. Wipe down surfaces with a sponge or cloth.
3. Clean the turntable in warm, soapy water.

💡 Pro Tip: Prevent future messes by covering food with a microwave-safe lid or paper towel.

Garbage Disposal

How Often?

• Rinse daily
• Deep clean weekly

Cleaning Steps:

1. Run cold water while grinding small ice cubes to sharpen blades.
2. Use vinegar and baking soda to remove odors.
3. Drop in citrus peels for a fresh scent.

💡 Pro Tip: Avoid putting fibrous foods (like celery) or grease down the disposal to prevent clogs.

Final Thoughts

Regular cleaning of your appliances not only keeps them looking good but also ensures they function efficiently. A little maintenance goes a long way in preventing major repairs and prolonging the life of your appliances.

Need professional help with an appliance issue? Pioneer Appliance Repair is here for you!