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When it comes to home appliances, a consistent cleaning schedule is an integral part of maintenance. Whether it's for our food or our clothing, this equipment needs to be regularly sanitized. It isn’t just for health purposes either; cleanliness ensures their efficiency and extends their longevity. If you are wondering how to properly clean the most common appliances in a home, here’s a guide highlighting the proper methods.

5 Common Home Appliances & How to Clean Them

1. Washing Machine

Even though you're using detergent with every wash, germs can still build up, especially if moisture accumulates. Leave the door open for a while after you’re done doing laundry so the inside can dry. Then, once a month, wash the interior. There are cleaning tablets and cleansers designed for this, but if you don’t want to use them, distilled white vinegar works as well. Dampen a washcloth, wipe down the interior, pour a cup of vinegar inside, and set the washer to the hottest wash cycle, Leave the door open once it's done for optimum drying.

2. Dishwasher

appliancesAnother monthly task to keep in mind, sanitizing the dishwasher is similar to the washer. Again, while there are cleansers you can use, a cup of vinegar is just as effective. Pour it into a dishwasher-safe container, set the container on the top rack, and run a complete cycle using hot water. You can also scatter some baking soda to remove any lingering scents. Let it sit for half an hour, then rinse with a quick cycle. Leave the door open for it to dry.

3. Garbage Disposal

Cleaning the garbage disposal is also comparable — it’s another monthly task to remember, you can buy cleansers at a general store to use, and in a pinch, you can use vinegar and baking soda. If you choose the latter, start by sprinkling a half a cup of baking soda into the disposal, then slowly pour in a cup of vinegar. It will fizzle, so be careful. Wait a few minutes, then finish with some hot water.

4. Refrigerator

Every three months, empty out the refrigerator for cleaning. While this may seem arduous, it’s actually great for keeping inventory as well. Found a yogurt far past the sell-by date? Don’t take a chance. Old juice you drank a cup of and didn't really like? Get rid of it. Then, wipe down every surface with a mixture of two cups warm water and 1.5 teaspoons of baking soda. Remember to clean the crevices too!

5. Microwave

Generally, microwaves need only a monthly cleaning, but if you heat up oily foods that splatter, you may want to do it every two weeks. You’ll need one or two lemons and a big bowl filled with a cup of water. Add a few slices and juice to the water, then heat it for about three minutes to create steam. Once it’s done, carefully remove the bowl and use a soft, clean cloth to wipe down the inside.

 

These practices should keep your appliances in excellent condition, but if they’re not like they used to be, you may want to invest in a replacement. If you’re in the Boscobel, WI, area, Krogen’s Do It Best has a wide variety of name-brand appliances, as well as housewares, furniture, electronics, and more. You can learn more online, by calling them directly at (608) 375-4656, or by visiting the store in-person.

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