Small appliances often get filthy on your kitchen counter or countertop due to their curves, knobs, and moving parts. And, as Consumer Reports discovered in its studies, certain appliances are more difficult to clean than others.
Follow a few simple cleaning techniques and tackle the filth while you mess to keep your appliances looking bright and sleek. Always disconnect the device before removing any parts for cleaning for safety reasons, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. And, of course, never immerse your electronic devices in the water.
Drip Coffee Machines
Even the best fresh coffee can be ruined by residual oils from dried coffee. After each use, wash the electric coffee maker’s carafe and basket with soap and water, then rinse and dry. Wipe away any spilled coffee and burnt-on stains with a moist sponge and a little baking soda once the hot plate has cooled down.
Run equal parts water and white vinegar through the machine regularly to avoid mineral accumulation in pans and pipes, especially if you have hard water. After that, run the water through it a few times. (First, consult the manual: some coffee machines recommend a different ratio.) Alternatively, clean the coffee maker with a specific solution.
Coffee Capsule Machines
Clean your coffee maker on a regular basis. Mineral deposits and coffee residue slow down the brewing process and can even change the flavor. For brewing, some models’ instructions suggest using filtered or bottled water.
Manufacturers’ manuals usually recommend running a white vinegar cycle through the machine once a month or so. Depending on the model, the procedure varies. However, once the warranty period has passed, there’s no reason not to give white vinegar a shot. Rinse only with water at the end, as usual.
Food Processors and Blenders
When you invest in a blender or the best food processor in India for your home, you likely want it to remain clean and useful for a long time. It is recommended that after each usage, you should clean your blender and food processor.
Although some parts are dishwasher safe (typically top rack only), their unusual shapes make them difficult to secure, thus hand washing is advised. Remove the cutting or shredding blade from the bowl and wash each part separately with a mild detergent in hot water, followed by a thorough warm water rinse (to limit the risk of injury or damage).
Clean any stuck-on food with a toothbrush or a bottle brush. Allowing the blades to soak in water or darken from sight is not a good idea. Dry the metal pieces gently with a soft, clean towel while allowing the plastic parts to air dry. Clean the motor base using a light all-purpose cleaner or a soft cloth soaked with water or white vinegar.
Toasters
A toaster or electric oven can quickly fill up with crumbs, but most versions come with removable trays that make cleaning a breeze.
Make sure the appliance is cool to the touch before cleaning. Under the tray, place a plastic rubbish bag or a few sheets of newspaper, then slowly slide it out and shake it free of any stray crumbs or food. Remove baked-on particles with a damp, soapy sponge or nylon scouring pad, then rinse well and dry with a soft cloth or paper towel. Before putting the tray back in, make sure it is totally dry.
Furnaces powered by electricity
Electric ovens require more regular cleaning because they are commonly used for roasting, baking, and toasting. Clean the external walls and crumb tray using a moist sponge and a drop of mild dishwashing liquid on a regular basis, then wipe with a damp sponge.
Carefully remove the cooking grates and wash them in the dishwasher or soak them in hot, soapy water for 20 to 30 minutes. Clean the glass door with a moist, soapy cloth, then remove any soap residue with a damp sponge and dry with a clean towel.
Most electric ovens include a “continuous cleaning” layer on the internal walls that helps avoid stains and spattering, but metal scouring pads and abrasive cleaners can destroy it. Use a moistened polyester or nylon pad to remove burnt-on food from inside an electric oven, but avoid touching the heaters. Before using the electric oven, make sure all parts are totally dry.
Microwaves
Clean the outside of the microwave oven using a light cleanser and a soft cloth. Any spills should be cleaned up right away. Wipe the oven walls and base with a warm, moist cloth to remove cooking stains. Disposable pieces, such as the turntable, should be cleaned with hot water and dishwashing liquid.
Place a basin of water with a quarter cup of lemon juice in the oven and heat on high for a minute to disguise scents. Remove the bowl and wipe the interior of the oven clean, wiping away any moisture that has collected.
Water can be used to remove stains. If required, repeat the process. Using a credit card, scrape away at stubborn stains. However, never scratch the inside of the window, since this may harm the microwave’s blocking finish.
Air Fryer
Allow the fryer to cool completely before attempting to use it. Remove the drawer once it has cooled and filled with water and detergent. Stir well and soak for 10 minutes to remove the chamber.
Finally, unload the drawer and wipe down any remaining filth with a cloth. Cleaning the air fryer with metal instruments, abrasive sponges, or wire brushes can damage the nonstick coating.
If the first procedure failed to remove the filth from your air fryer basket, it’s time to upgrade to a more powerful product. Baking soda has been used in homes all around the world for years.
Take a small amount of this powder and mix it with enough water to make a paste that can be applied to dirt-resistant areas. Scrub with a brush with very delicate bristles (a toothbrush works well). Rinse and dry the basket with a clean cloth.