There’s a lot of talk about relationships in February. Since most successful relationships are give-and-take, let’s take a moment to think about how much your kitchen has given you this winter. With holiday parties and family gatherings complete, show your favorite spot in the house a little TLC this month with Your February Kitchen To-Do List.
1. Deep Clean Your Refrigerator
- Empty the contents of your fridge onto the counter. Do this all at once or shelf by shelf.
- Remove all parts and shelving you can, including drawers.
- Wash the shelving with warm, soapy water and a sponge. You may also use white vinegar and baking soda, which acts as a deodorizer.
- Wipe down the inside of the fridge with your sponge using warm, soapy water and dry with a clean towel.
- Lift and clean the glass on the shelves if they are removable.
- Once the inside of your fridge has been wiped down, replace all shelving, drawers, and glass. Make sure parts are dry before loading your fridge.
- Re-stock your fridge with food. Now is a great time to check expiration dates and toss any UFOs (Unidentifiable Food-like Objects).
Don’t Forget the Coils
The coils are easy to overlook, but cleaning them will keep your fridge in energy-saving shape. The coils are located in the back or on the bottom of the appliance. Remove excess dust and dirt using the upholstery attachment on your vacuum cleaner.
2. Clean Range Hood Filter and Fan
The hood above your stove-top should be cleaned regularly to remove grease and grime. Wear rubber gloves to protect your hands. Clean the top, sides, and underneath. Start by thoroughly cleaning the range hood inside and out with a citrus-based cleaner.
Remove the grease filter from the fan. Clean it using hot, soapy water or run it through the dishwasher.
3. Clean Kitchen Cabinets
- Spray cabinets with a grease-cutting, citrus-based cleaner
- Allow the cleaner to sit for several minutes to cut through the grease
- Wear rubber gloves to dampen a sponge with hot water
- Use the sponge to wipe down the cabinets
- Use a clean towel to wipe off any remaining residue after you scrub
4. Clean Stovetop and Oven
Cleaning your stovetop and oven can be a daunting task. Today’s Homeowner suggests the following tips:
The Stovetop:
- Remove the stove burners, drip pans, and knobs.
- Wipe down the drip pans with a solution of dish soap and baking soda, and let them sit.
- Spray down the stovetop with a citrus-based cleaner.
- Using the same method as with the cabinets, microwave a wet sponge for 30-40 seconds and use the hot sponge to scrub grease and grime off the stovetop. Be sure to wear gloves, so you don’t burn your hands!
- Sprinkle stubborn stains with baking soda and scrub it clean.
- If the stovetop looks hazy, spray it with white vinegar and shine it up with a dry towel.
- Rinse and re-heat your sponge, and use it to scrub the drip pans and stove knobs clean.
- Replace the drip pans, knobs, and stove burners.
The Oven:
The easiest way to clean the oven is to use a commercial oven cleaner. For a greener option, sprinkle the bottom of the oven with baking soda, spray lightly with water. Allow it to sit overnight, then scrub it clean.
5. Enjoy!
Once you’ve reminded your kitchen how much it means to you, get in there and make a special meal for a special someone. After all, February is the perfect month to let your love and your kitchen shine its brightest.