Kitchen Deep Clean: Simple Steps for a Spotless Kitchen

If your kitchen looks tired, greasy, or just plain messy, a deep clean can bring it back to life. It’s not about sprucing up — it’s about getting rid of hidden grime, grease buildup, and food residue that regular wipes miss. Below you’ll find a straightforward plan you can follow in a single afternoon, no fancy equipment required.

Preparing Your Kitchen for a Deep Clean

Start by clearing the space. Remove every dish, appliance, and utensil that sits on the counters. Put them in the sink or a temporary container, then wipe the surfaces with a damp cloth to get rid of loose crumbs. This step saves you from moving things around while you’re scrubbing.

Gather a few basic tools: a bucket, warm water, white vinegar, baking soda, a microfiber cloth, a non‑scratch scrub pad, and a sturdy spray bottle. If you have a commercial‑grade degreaser, that’s a bonus, but a mix of water and vinegar works for most jobs.

Next, set a timer for each area. Working in short bursts (10‑15 minutes) keeps you focused and prevents fatigue. It also makes the whole process feel less overwhelming.

Step‑by‑Step Deep Cleaning Checklist

1. Oven and stovetop: Remove oven racks and soak them in hot, soapy water. Spray the interior with a 50/50 vinegar‑water solution, let it sit for 10 minutes, then scrub with a non‑scratch pad. For tough baked‑on grease, sprinkle baking soda, spray with vinegar, and watch the fizz while you scrub.

2. Microwave: Fill a microwave‑safe bowl with water and a slice of lemon, heat for three minutes, then wipe the interior. The steam loosens splatters, and the lemon leaves a fresh scent.

3. Cabinets and drawers: Open each door, pull out the contents, and wipe the inside with a damp microfiber cloth. For sticky spots, dip the cloth in a vinegar‑water mix. Dry thoroughly before replacing items.

4. Countertops: Spray the surface with your vinegar solution, let it sit for a minute, then scrub with a soft pad. Rinse with clean water and dry with a fresh cloth. If you have stone countertops, skip vinegar and use a pH‑neutral cleaner instead.

5. Sink and faucet: Sprinkle baking soda across the basin, scrub with a pad, then rinse. For mineral deposits on the faucet, wrap a cloth soaked in vinegar around the nozzle for a few minutes, then wipe clean.

6. Floor: Sweep or vacuum to get rid of loose debris. Mop with warm water and a few drops of dish soap or a mild floor cleaner. For grout lines, apply baking soda paste, let it sit, then scrub with a brush.

Finish by putting everything back in its place. Take a moment to check for any missed spots and give them a quick touch‑up. You’ll notice a brighter, fresher kitchen that not only looks clean but also feels healthier.

Regular deep cleans every few months keep grease from building up and extend the life of appliances. Pair this routine with weekly surface wipes, and you’ll spend less time scrubbing and more time cooking.