February Home Maintenance Checklist: Deep Cleaning Your Kitchen & Laundry Appliances
As we settle into February, it’s the perfect time to focus on deep cleaning some of the most-used appliances in your home. Keeping your kitchen and laundry appliances in top shape not only improves efficiency but also extends their lifespan. This month, we’re tackling six essential home maintenance tasks that will keep your appliances running smoothly.
1. Clean Your Oven & Cooktop
After all the holiday cooking, your oven and cooktop could probably use a good scrub. A dirty oven can lead to smoke, unpleasant odors, and even reduced efficiency. Use a baking soda and vinegar paste to break down stubborn grime or run the self-cleaning cycle (just be sure to ventilate your kitchen well!). For the cooktop, remove burner grates and wipe down any built-up grease to keep it sparkling.
2. Deep Clean Your Refrigerator
It’s easy to forget about your fridge’s interior until you notice spills and expired food. Take everything out, wipe down shelves and drawers with warm, soapy water, and toss any expired items. Don’t forget to vacuum the coils on the back or bottom of your fridge—this improves efficiency and helps it run better.
3. Clean Your Dishwasher
Even though it cleans your dishes, your dishwasher needs a good cleaning too! Food particles, grease, and soap scum can build up over time. Run a cycle with a cup of white vinegar on the top rack to break down residue, then sprinkle baking soda on the bottom and run another short cycle. For stubborn buildup, check and clean the filter and spray arms to keep everything running smoothly.
4. Clean Your Washer
Your washing machine works hard to keep your clothes fresh, but it can develop odors and residue over time. Run an empty cycle with hot water and white vinegar, then wipe down the drum, rubber seal, and detergent drawer. If you have a front-loader, be sure to leave the door open between washes to prevent mildew buildup.
5. Vacuum the Lint from the Dryer
Cleaning the lint trap after each use is a good habit, but did you know lint also builds up inside the vent and exhaust hose? Too much lint can become a fire hazard and cause your dryer to work harder than it needs to. Unplug your dryer and use a vacuum attachment to remove lint from the vent and behind the appliance. This improves efficiency and safety!
6. Replace Your HVAC Filters
Your HVAC system works year-round to keep your home comfortable, but clogged filters reduce airflow and efficiency. A dirty filter can increase energy costs and put stress on your system. Swapping it out for a clean one ensures better air quality and improved performance—plus, it only takes a few minutes!
Keep Your Home Running Smoothly
Taking the time to clean and maintain these appliances ensures they stay in great condition for years to come. Plus, a clean home is a happy home! Stay ahead of the game by keeping up with these simple but effective home maintenance tasks each month.
Want more home maintenance tips? Stay tuned for next month’s checklist!
