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Appliances only work well if we take good care of them, and when we do, they’ll last for years. Every appliance has specific cleaning needs, and staying on top of them ensures they function at their best. But caring for these can be complex at times, so I’ve created a simple guide that reviews the products, tools and techniques for some common appliances.
Here’s how to clean your toaster
Always begin by making sure the toaster (or any small appliance!) is unplugged and cooled down before cleaning.
1. Glass door cleaning
2. Crumb tray
Regularly remove and clean the crumb tray using a Magic Eraser or warm soapy water. The more crumbs and burnt drippings land here, the stinkier your toaster will become.
3. Interior cleaning
4. Rack cleaning
Soak the rack overnight in hot water with a dishwasher tablet and scrub clean the next day.
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Say goodbye to smelly laundry
A common complaint is that washing machines start to smell musty, which can transfer to clothing and towels and lead to mold in the gasket and detergent tray. Here’s how to prevent it:
1. Keep it open
Leave the washer door and detergent tray slightly open between washes.
2. Monthly deep clean
3. Moldy rubber gasket?
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Overhead exhaust fan: Grease be gone!
These filters work hard to remove grease and odours from your kitchen, and they need regular cleaning to function properly. Remember, there’s the filter, and the exhaust hood and fan itself that need to be cleaned. If you’ve never tackled this before, prepare: it might look like a sticky, creepy cave up there!
1. Spray away
2. Let it sit
Wait several minutes until the grease starts to budge, then scrub with a soft-bristle brush.
3. Rinse and dry
4. Surrounding areas (hood and fan)
Blot up any grease with a paper towel.
5. Spray with degreaser
Let it sit for several minutes until grease starts to budge, then scrub with a sponge and wipe clean. Rinse if necessary.
6. Replace filter
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More essential appliance cleaning tasks
Dryer Vent Cleaning
- Use a dryer vent brush (either manually or attached to a drill) to clean out built-up lint.
- Follow up with a dryer cycle to blast out loosened debris.
- Clean the lint trap slot with a slender brush and vacuum using the crevice tool.
Dishwasher Cleaning
- Remove and scrub the dishwasher filter if accessible, using dish soap and a toothbrush.
- Use a dishwasher cleaning tablet once a month on an empty cycle.
- Wash the gasket and frame with soapy water.
Fridge Water and Air Filter Replacement
- Change both the water filter and air filter twice a year for fresh-tasting ice and water and odour-free food.
- Order the correct filter based on your fridge’s make and model.
- Set a reminder in your calendar to keep up with this maintenance.
By following these simple cleaning steps, you’ll keep your appliances running efficiently and extend their lifespan. A little maintenance goes a long way toward ensuring your appliances continue to perform at their best!