Doing a little spring-cleaning is a good way to refresh your home just in time for sunny skies and warm weather, but it’s easy to overlook the appliances while you’re busy dusting shelves, mopping floors, and cleaning closets. Cleaning them regularly, however, can go a long way toward preventing appliance repairs and protecting the longevity of the unit. 

A Guide to Spring-cleaning Your Appliances

1. Microwave

It’s not usually at the top of the cleaning list, but microwaves deserve a little attention. Food particles can easily cause germs to spread and contaminate new, uncovered food that you heat up. Cleaning it at least monthly is appropriate. Simply fill a bowl with 1 cup water and 1 cup white vinegar, microwave until it comes to a boil, and then wipe down the surfaces. All of the caked-on material will be loose as a result of the steam.

2. Refrigerator

A dirty, disorganized refrigerator is a breeding ground for germs and old food. Always throw away anything that is expired or smells unusual. Remove all of the shelves and soak them in warm water and a mild cleanser. You can go over the fridge walls with a brush to loosen any debris and then wipe them down. Be sure to empty the drip pan, which should be cleaned at least every three months with warm water and dish soap to prevent it from overflowing or developing mold. Finally, use your vacuum attachment to clean the area around the fridge, along with the condenser coils on the back. 

3. Oven

Self-cleaning oven cycles produce extremely high temperatures and might even emit some smoke during the process. It’s safer to manually clean the unit, which also gives you a chance to inspect the oven more closely for potential signs that it needs appliance repairs. Begin by wiping away visible messes with a mild dish soap and warm water. You can use a scouring brush to loosen more stubborn debris. Rinse with plenty of water when you’re done to prevent any soap stains.

4. Dishwasher

Dirty dishwashers can lead to frequent appliance repairs if left unkempt for long. When food collects inside, it reduces the unit’s efficiency and forces it to work harder to clean your dishes. To do your part to prevent dishwasher repairs, dislodge any food caught in the drain to promote better drainage. Break down stubborn particles by running a heavy duty cycle with white vinegar in the machine. You can also add a little baking soda in a shorter separate cycle to boost shine. Wipe down the exterior with warm water and a mild cleanser to finish.

Dealing with sudden appliance problems can be a nuisance, but homeowners in Cincinnati, OH, can trust the team at Complete Appliance Service to resolve any issue with ease. They’ve served the community since 1980, and they’re proud to offer a wide variety of services, including microwave, range, dishwasher, oven, and refrigerator repairs. Visit them online for more information on their services, or call (513) 661-3708 to schedule appliance repairs.