Small Kitchen Cleaning Guide

Small kitchens have a big advantage: less space to clean. But they also show dirt faster and can feel cluttered quickly. The key is consistent maintenance and preventing buildup.

Daily Kitchen Habits

These take just a few minutes and prevent the need for major cleaning sessions:

After Each Meal

• Wash dishes immediately (or load dishwasher)
• Wipe counters with damp cloth
• Wipe stovetop while still warm (easier to clean)
• Put food away promptly

End of Day

• Run dishwasher if full
• Take out trash if needed
• Quick wipe of sink
• One final counter check

Weekly Kitchen Deep Clean

Set aside 20-30 minutes once a week for deeper cleaning:

Stovetop and Range

• Remove burner grates if applicable
• Spray with degreaser or all-purpose cleaner
• Let sit 5 minutes
• Scrub with non-scratch sponge
• Wipe clean and dry

Microwave

• Place bowl of water with lemon slice inside
• Heat 2-3 minutes until steamy
• Let sit 5 minutes (steam loosens grime)
• Wipe interior with cloth
• Clean turntable separately

Sink

• Scrub with baking soda paste
• Clean faucet and handles
• Pour baking soda down drain, follow with vinegar
• Flush with hot water

Appliance Exteriors

• Wipe refrigerator door and handles
• Clean dishwasher exterior
• Wipe small appliances

Monthly Tasks

Refrigerator Interior

• Remove all food
• Check expiration dates
• Remove shelves and drawers
• Wash with warm soapy water
• Wipe interior walls
• Replace food, organizing as you go

Oven

• Remove racks
• Apply oven cleaner (or baking soda paste for natural option)
• Let sit as directed
• Scrub and wipe clean
• Clean racks separately

Cabinet Fronts

• Wipe with damp cloth and mild cleaner
• Pay attention to handles where grease accumulates

Tackling Common Kitchen Problems

Grease Buildup

Grease accumulates near the stove and on cabinet fronts. Clean it before it hardens:

• Hot water helps dissolve grease
• Dish soap is an effective degreaser
• For stubborn spots, let cleaner sit before scrubbing
• Prevent by wiping stovetop after each use

Sink Odors

Drains can develop odors, especially in warm weather:

• Weekly: Pour baking soda + vinegar down drain
• Run hot water for 30 seconds after doing dishes
• Clean garbage disposal with ice cubes and citrus peels

Limited Counter Space

Clutter makes cleaning harder:

• Store rarely-used appliances in cabinets
• Use vertical space (wall-mounted storage)
• Keep only daily essentials on counters
• Clear surfaces before cooking, clean after