Keeping your appliances clean is important not just for aesthetic reasons, but also for their proper function and longevity. The frequency with which you should clean your appliances can vary depending on the type of appliance and how often you use it. In this article, we will cover how often you should clean some of the most common household appliances.
- Refrigerator: It is recommended to clean your refrigerator once a month. This includes wiping down the shelves and drawers, cleaning the condenser coils (located at the back or bottom of the fridge), and emptying and cleaning the drip pan.
- Oven: Depending on how often you use your oven, you should clean it every 3-6 months. A self-cleaning oven can be cleaned by running its self-cleaning cycle, which heats the oven to a high temperature to burn off any food particles or stains. For a non-self-cleaning oven, use an oven cleaner and follow the instructions on the package.
- Dishwasher: Clean the dishwasher once a month by wiping down the interior and exterior, checking and cleaning the spray arms, and cleaning the filters. Also, run an empty cycle with a dishwasher cleaner to remove any buildup.
- Microwave: The inside of the microwave should be wiped down after each use. A deep cleaning of the microwave should be done every month, which involves removing the turntable and cleaning it separately, wiping down the interior and exterior, and cleaning the vents.
- Coffee maker: Depending on how often you use your coffee maker, you should clean it once a month or every other month. This includes cleaning the carafe, wiping down the exterior, and descaling the machine to remove any buildup.
- Toaster: Clean the toaster once a week by wiping down the exterior and removing any crumbs from the crumb tray. To clean the inside, turn the toaster upside down and shake it over the sink.
- Blender: Clean the blender after each use by rinsing the blades and the pitcher with warm water and soap. For a deeper cleaning, disassemble the blender and wash the parts in the dishwasher or by hand.
- Washing machine: It is recommended to clean your washing machine once a month. This includes wiping down the exterior, cleaning the detergent dispenser, and running an empty cycle with a washing machine cleaner to remove any buildup.
- Dryer: Clean the dryer after each use by emptying the lint trap. Once a year, remove the vent hose and clean it with a vent brush. Also, wipe down the interior and exterior of the dryer with a damp cloth.
- Air conditioner: The air filter in the air conditioner should be replaced every three months or more often if you have pets or allergies. Clean the exterior of the unit once a month by wiping it down with a damp cloth.
In conclusion, it is important to clean your appliances regularly to keep them functioning properly and looking their best. The frequency with which you should clean each appliance can vary, so it is important to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations and keep an eye out for any signs of buildup or malfunction. By following these guidelines, you can keep your appliances in top shape for years to come.