Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash

Spring Cleaning Your Kitchen: A Fresh Start

Ah, spring cleaning. It’s the perfect excuse to tackle that messy junk drawer, those mysteriously sticky cupboard handles, and the forgotten crumbs behind the fridge. The kitchen is often the heart of the home, so why not give it a little TLC this spring? Here’s your ultimate guide to spring cleaning your kitchen and getting it sparkling clean, organized, and ready for the season.

1. Declutter Like a Pro

Channel your inner Marie Kondo and let go of anything you haven’t used in the past year. The old avocado slicer that’s never seen the light of day? It’s time to say goodbye. You’d be surprised how much more space you’ll have once you clear out the clutter. Here are some easy steps to start:

Sort through drawers and cabinets: Remove everything and start sorting. Be honest—do you really need that garlic press or that collection of mismatched tupperware lids? If you haven’t used it in a year, it’s probably time to donate it.
Recycle old containers: Tupperware and jars accumulate over time. If you can’t find the matching lid, it’s time to part ways.

Not only will your kitchen look tidier, but it’ll also make cooking and cleaning more efficient.

2. Deep-Clean Appliances

Your oven, fridge, and microwave have probably seen a lot over the past few months. Now’s the perfect time to give them some love. Trust us, your future self will thank you when your meals taste even better!

Oven: Use a commercial oven cleaner or a homemade mixture of baking soda and water to scrub away grease and food spills. Don’t forget to clean the oven racks, too!
Microwave: Fill a microwave-safe bowl with water and a few slices of lemon. Microwave on high for 3-5 minutes to loosen grime. Then, simply wipe it down with a damp cloth.
Fridge: Remove all food, and wipe down shelves with a solution of vinegar and water. Check expiration dates and toss anything that’s past its prime. This will not only help keep your fridge smelling fresh but also make it easier to find what you need.

3. Organise for Functionality

Decluttering is step one, but organising for functionality is key to maintaining your kitchen’s cleanliness. Group similar items together and keep everyday essentials within easy reach.

Cabinets and drawers: Organise by frequency of use. Keep the most used items like pots, pans, and utensils within arm’s reach, while storing less-used items higher up or in harder-to-reach cabinets.
Spices and seasonings: Consider using drawer organizers or spice racks to keep everything neat and easy to find. Labelling your spices can save you time when you’re cooking.
Pantry: Group your canned goods, grains, and dry ingredients by category (e.g., pasta, rice, canned beans) so you can find them quickly.

This type of organisation makes meal prep and clean up a breeze, and it will save you time on busy mornings.

4. Clean the Sink and Countertops

While you’re at it, give your sink and countertops a good scrubbing. These are high-touch areas that can accumulate bacteria, so it’s essential to clean them thoroughly.

Sink: Clean your sink with a non-toxic cleaner or a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to remove any stains. Don’t forget to clean around the tap, as soap scum and grime can build up here.
Countertops: Wipe down countertops with an appropriate cleaner based on your surface type (granite, marble, or laminate). Pay special attention to corners and edges where crumbs tend to gather.

5. Wipe Down Cabinets and Drawers

Don’t forget about the surfaces you touch every day. Kitchen cabinets and drawers can collect dust, grease, and grime over time. Grab a microfiber cloth and a gentle cleaner to wipe them down. Consider using a natural wood cleaner for wooden cabinets to preserve their finish.

6. Refresh Your Kitchen Floor

Your kitchen floor bears the brunt of spills, crumbs, and stains, so it’s important to give it some extra attention.

Tile or laminate: Sweep or vacuum up any dirt or crumbs, then mop with a floor-safe cleaner.
Wood floors: Use a wood-specific cleaner and be sure to dry any wet spots immediately to avoid damage.
Carpeted floors: If you have carpet, spot clean stains and vacuum thoroughly.

Bonus Tips:

Replace your dish towels and sponges: These items absorb a lot of bacteria, so it’s always a good idea to replace them regularly.
Check your kitchen lighting: Sometimes a good clean and a fresh bulb can make your kitchen feel brand new.
Give your dishwasher a deep clean: Run a clean cycle to get it super sparkly and fresh.

FAQs About Spring Cleaning Your Kitchen

1. How often should I spring clean my kitchen?
Ideally, deep clean your kitchen once a year during spring cleaning. However, routine cleaning (like wiping down counters and washing dishes) should be done more frequently.

2. What’s the best way to clean greasy kitchen cabinets?
For greasy kitchen cabinets, use a degreaser or a mixture of vinegar and water. Apply the solution with a cloth, scrub gently, and dry with a clean towel.

3. How do I get rid of lingering odours in my fridge?
To neutralize odours in your fridge, try placing an open box of baking soda or a bowl of activated charcoal inside. Both are natural odour absorbers and can help keep your fridge smelling fresh.

4. How do I organise my kitchen pantry for maximum space?
Use clear containers for dry goods so you can easily see what’s inside. Group similar items together, and label everything for easy access. Consider installing extra shelves or pull-out drawers for better accessibility.

5. Can I use vinegar to clean my kitchen?
Yes! Vinegar is a fantastic natural cleaner that can be used on many surfaces in your kitchen. It’s especially effective for removing stains, cleaning appliances, and deodorising the air. (always check the individual care instructions for your kitchen surfaces)

6. Should I clean my kitchen before or after cooking?
It’s best to clean as you go while cooking to avoid mess build-up. After cooking, do a more thorough cleaning to remove grease and residue.

7. How do I clean my kitchen sink naturally?
You can clean your kitchen sink with a mixture of baking soda and vinegar. Apply baking soda to the sink, scrub with a sponge, and rinse with vinegar. This will remove stains and sanitize your sink without using harsh chemicals.

Spring cleaning your kitchen doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a little organization and some elbow grease, you’ll have a fresh, sparkling kitchen in no time. Happy cleaning!

Share your before-and-after cleaning photos and be sure to tag us Love Kitchens Peterborough