Cleaning Appliances

A typical home has many appliances that have various uses and come in all shapes and sizes. Appliances can be made of different materials, and their maintenance needs depend on many factors. But one thing is for sure—all appliances need to be cleaned once in a while.

Cleaning your appliances is vital to their long life, and the task doesn't take too much of your time. By spending a few minutes to keep your appliances clean, you will help to ensure that they function for a long time and don't run into problems down the road. Whatever their function or their size, these appliances need attention if you expect them to keep working.

The different appliances in your home require specific cleaning methods to most effectively clean them. Here are some ideas for appliance cleaning:

• Your refrigerator does an important job, and it should be cleaned often. Throw away old food, wipe up spills, and defrost the freezer to maintain a clean fridge. Also, don't forget to clean the exterior with some all-purpose cleaner and a rag once in a while. Pay extra attention to the handles, since these areas will collect the most dirt and fingerprints. Dust the top of the refrigerator as needed.
• For easy microwave cleaning, heat a bowl of water until boiling. Remove the bowl, and then wipe the inside of the microwave. The steam from the water will work to loosen stuck on spills and make it much easier to clean up.
• Many ovens have a self-cleaning feature, but you should still clean up spills and messes when you can. Try an oven cleaning spray, but be sure to wear protective gear while cleaning since this type of cleaner can be irritating. You can also soak the oven racks in hot soapy water and scrub with a sponge to remove messes.
• Has your washing machine started to smell a little off? Try running the machine empty with some vinegar to freshen things up. You should also take some time to wipe off the machines exterior to leave it shiny and clean. It's likely that detergent spills have dried on the surface, so be sure you clean it up.

Spending a few minutes to keep your appliances clean and in good shape can make a difference, and will leave these machines looking and working great. Take a little time to keep them clean and you'll be happy with the result.