Brilliant prospects: Perfectly clean kitchen appliances

For many of us, the kitchen is the heart of the home alongside the living room: a room where we prepare and enjoy delicious food in company (not just on public holidays). Many indispensable helpers make our work easier. In order to enjoy them for longer, we should take good care of them. Read here how to clean your kitchen appliances properly.

Ofen mit Gummihandschuhen und Lappen putzen© iStock
With the right tips, your kitchen appliances will soon shine like new again.

Toaster

It is very important to unplug the toaster every time before cleaning it. Only then lift it up, turn it over and carefully pour out the crumbs. Stubborn crumbs are best removed with a fine brush. If dirt has accumulated on the outside, you can remove it with a damp sponge and washing-up liquid. It is also helpful to check the instructions for use for care tips.

Microwave

To clean the microwave thoroughly, place a small bowl of water and a little washing-up liquid in it. Run the microwave for one minute at maximum power. Then leave it closed for a good 10 minutes. This will loosen even very stubborn encrustations on the walls, which can then be easily wiped off with a damp cloth.

Extractor hood

It is often neglected when cleaning the kitchen. Put some cooking oil on a paper towel and use it to remove the layer of grease. Then make it shine again with a little water, washing-up liquid and spirit. Change the mats in the filter every eight weeks and clean the metal filter with hot water.

Refrigerator

Use a bottle brush to keep the ventilation grille free of dirt, otherwise heat will build up and the appliance will consume up to 30 percent more electricity. Wipe out the interior weekly with hot water, washing-up liquid and a microfiber cloth. A bowl of freshly ground coffee powder helps to combat stale smells - it binds unpleasant odors and provides a light coffee scent.

Oven

Get started while it's still warm. Put the grill rack on the bottom shelf and place a bowl of water with the juice of several lemons on top. Heat the oven to 200 degrees and wait until the "sour" steam loosens the fat and crusts. Wipe out. Or sprinkle a thin layer of washing powder on the floor, place damp kitchen paper on top and leave to work.

Dishwasher

Clean the lower sieves approximately every two weeks with a dishwashing brush and hot water. Remove food residues from the spray arms once a month with a toothpick. Wipe out the interior regularly with lemon water to prevent limescale deposits. Also clean the sealing rings regularly, otherwise mold can easily form here.

Coffee machine

Many new machines have practical self-cleaning programs so that you can ensure cleanliness with just one click. Others, however, require special cleaning agents from specialist retailers; follow the manufacturer's recommendations. For gentle descaling, it is best to use natural citric acid.

Kettle

For thorough descaling, it is best to mix vinegar essence and water in a ratio of 1:3 and boil the liquid in the appliance. Leave to stand for one minute. Thoroughly rinse out dissolved limescale residue with clear water. Alternatively, rub the inside walls with a fresh lemon half and add water to the lemon juice. Bring everything to the boil, rinse.