A clean kitchen is more than just a pleasant sight—it’s essential for health, safety, and efficiency in your home. Over time, grime, grease, and dirt build up on kitchen surfaces, making even the nicest kitchens look tired. With the right tools and approach, you can deep clean your kitchen and keep it looking spotless for weeks to come.
This guide will take you step by step through deep cleaning every corner of your kitchen. It will also share tips for keeping your kitchen organized so it remains clean and clutter-free.
How to Make the Deep Cleaning Process Simple
Deep cleaning your kitchen doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Breaking the cleaning process into manageable steps makes the job easier. Start by decluttering and clearing surfaces, then clean the sink, countertops, cabinets, and floor. Starting multiple tasks at one time can lead you to feel overwhelmed sooner, so starting and completing individual tasks before moving on to another will help with this.
You don’t have to tackle every part of the deep clean on the same day, you can do it over a series of days, or even weeks. Just remember to be systematic about it by keeping track of which tasks you’ve completed and which ones still need to be done so you can make sure everything gets cleaned.
Start By Decluttering the Space
The first step in deep cleaning your kitchen is decluttering. Remove everything from the countertops, the stovetop, and kitchen cabinets. This creates clear surfaces for cleaning and ensures you don’t miss hidden messes or buildup. Small appliances like toasters and coffee makers should be set aside for now since they will be cleaned separately.
Take this opportunity to get rid of items you no longer need. Throw away expired food, unused spices, and anything that doesn’t belong in the kitchen. Decluttering makes cleaning easier and gives you more room for the essentials.
Tackle The Kitchen Sink and Faucet
The kitchen sink can harbor grime and bacteria, especially if dirty dishes have piled up. Start by rinsing the sink with hot water to loosen any stuck-on food or stains. Sprinkle baking soda across the sink’s surface and scrub with a damp cloth or scrub brush to remove stubborn stains. For a deeper clean, spray a mixture of white vinegar and warm water over the baking soda and let it bubble for a few minutes before scrubbing again.
Don’t forget to clean the faucet. Use a microfiber cloth soaked in warm soapy water to remove water spots and splatters. A toothbrush helps scrub hard-to-reach areas, such as around the faucet base. If you have a garbage disposal, freshen it by running ice cubes and lemon peels through it.
Clean Countertops and Backsplash
Countertops and backsplashes often collect grease, food splatters, and grime. Use a purpose cleaner or a mix of dish soap and warm water to wipe these surfaces. For tough buildup, make a paste of baking soda and water to gently scrub away stains. Avoid harsh chemicals on natural stone countertops like granite or quartz, as they can damage the finish.
The backsplash, especially behind the stovetop, often has stubborn grease stains. Spray a degreaser or white vinegar solution onto the backsplash and let it sit for a few minutes before wiping it clean with a damp cloth.
Scrub The Stove and Small Appliances
The stovetop sees daily messes and needs extra attention. Remove burners or grates if possible and soak them in warm soapy water while you clean the stovetop. Use a degreaser for splatters and a sponge for stuck-on food. If you have an electric stovetop, use a soft sponge to avoid scratching the surface.
Wipe down small appliances like the toaster, blender, and coffee maker with a clean cloth dipped in warm soapy water. For hard-to-reach areas inside these appliances, use a toothbrush to scrub grime from nooks and crannies.
Refresh Kitchen Cabinets
Kitchen cabinets accumulate grease and fingerprints over time. Wipe the cabinet doors with a damp cloth soaked in warm soapy water. Pay close attention to knobs and handles, as they often harbor germs. For tough buildup, use a gentle cleaning solution or a paste of baking soda and water.
If your cabinets have glass panels, clean them with a mixture of white vinegar and water for a streak-free shine. Be careful not to soak wooden cabinets, as too much water can damage the material.
Clean The Kitchen Floor
The kitchen floor takes a lot of wear and tear, from food spills to daily foot traffic. Start by sweeping or vacuuming to remove crumbs and debris. Mop the floor with warm soapy water or a disinfectant cleaner to eliminate dirt and grime.
For tile floors, use a toothbrush or scrub brush to clean grout lines. Wipe down baseboards with a damp cloth to remove dust and grease, tying the whole look together and making your kitchen feel spotless.
Don’t Forget The Light Fixtures
Light fixtures near the stovetop or sink often collect dust and grease. Clean them with a cloth and warm soapy water, being careful with delicate surfaces. Other often-overlooked areas, like the edges of the refrigerator, behind the stove, and the inside of the garbage disposal, also need attention. Cleaning these spots ensures your kitchen is fully refreshed.
Keeping It Organized
After deep cleaning, keeping your kitchen spotless requires organization and regular cleaning. With a few different strategies, keeping your freshly cleaned kitchen organized will be easier than ever.
Maximize Cabinet Space with Shelf Organizers
Keeping your kitchen cabinets neat starts with using shelf organizers. These tools add extra layers within cabinets, doubling storage for plates, cups, and pantry items. Adjustable shelves or stackable racks work well for fitting different-sized items while ensuring everything stays visible. Use clear bins for loose items like snacks or spices, labeling each bin for easy access.
Avoid overfilling cabinets, as crowded spaces make it harder to keep things tidy. Dedicate specific shelves to certain categories, such as baking supplies or meal prep tools, so you always know where to find what you need. A well-organized cabinet makes cooking easier.
Utilize Hidden Storage Solutions
Hidden storage options, like Murphy Door hidden doors or floating shelves with secret compartments, can revolutionize kitchen organization. Hidden doors can transform a pantry into a concealed storage space, reducing visible clutter while keeping essentials accessible. Floating shelves with compartments are perfect for hiding less-used items like seasonal dishes or small appliances.
These solutions free up countertops and make your kitchen feel more spacious. Their sleek design blends seamlessly into any decor, keeping your kitchen organized without sacrificing style. By utilizing hidden storage, you create a cleaner, more functional kitchen that’s ready for everyday use or entertaining guests.
Keep Countertops Clutter-Free
Clear countertops not only look better but also make cooking and cleaning easier. To achieve this, only leave out items you use daily, like a coffee maker or knife block. Store small appliances in cabinets or pantry shelves when not in use. Use countertop organizers, such as a tray for oils and spices or a caddy for utensils, to keep essentials neat.
Establish a habit of putting things away immediately after use to prevent clutter buildup. A clutter-free countertop creates a more efficient workspace, making your kitchen feel open and inviting every time you step in to cook or clean.
Create a Dedicated Cleaning Zone
Having a specific area for cleaning supplies helps maintain an organized kitchen. Use a cabinet or under-sink storage for essentials like dish soap, sponges, and all-purpose cleaners. Install pull-out bins or a lazy Susan to maximize space and keep everything accessible. Label spray bottles and refillable containers to avoid confusion.
Consider adding a hidden compartment shelf to store less-used items, like specialty cleaning solutions, out of sight. Keep paper towels and microfiber cloths nearby for quick cleanups. A dedicated cleaning zone keeps supplies organized and ensures messes are handled quickly, helping you maintain a tidy and efficient kitchen.
Creating a Daily Cleaning Checklist
Maintaining a spotless kitchen also means following a regular cleaning routine. Wipe down countertops daily, clean up spills as they happen, and disinfect the sink weekly. Create a cleaning checklist to ensure you stay on track and keep your kitchen looking fresh.
Why Deep Cleaning Matters
Deep cleaning your kitchen isn’t just about appearances; it’s also about creating a healthier environment. A clean kitchen reduces bacteria, mold, and foodborne illnesses. It also helps prolong the life of your kitchen surfaces and appliances by preventing grime buildup.
Beyond the health benefits, a spotless kitchen makes cooking and entertaining more enjoyable. You’ll feel more inspired to prepare meals and host guests when your kitchen is clean and organized.
Elevate Your Kitchen with Murphy Door
Murphy Door offers hidden storage solutions that make deep cleaning and maintaining a clutter-free space easier than ever. With options like hidden pantry doors and shelves with concealed compartments, you can maximize storage while adding a sleek, modern look to your home. Take your kitchen to the next level with Murphy Door—perfect for creating a functional, beautiful space you’ll love.
