You’ve picked up the keys and unloaded the moving truck. You want to unpack and finally make this new house a home, but you won’t have peace of mind until you personally clean the nooks and crannies others forget. Before you wipe down the cabinet shelves or vacuum every closet, there’s one cleaning task you should move to the top of your to-do list: running a cleaning cycle on all major appliances. Even if the dishwasher, washing machine, or oven looks like new, food residue, bacteria, and soap scum may linger from prior use.
A study by the National Sanitation Foundation found that kitchens harbor more germs than bathrooms. Appliances like the built-in water dispenser in the fridge and the reservoir in your coffee maker are among the germiest because they aren’t cleaned often. Don’t let these invisible threats wreck your move-in experience or your health. These household appliances need your immediate attention.
Kitchen Appliances
The kitchen is the heart of any home, but it’s also home to lots of thriving bacteria. Even if everything appears clean on the surface, deep clean kitchen appliances before using them.
1. Dishwasher
Start by removing and cleaning the dishwasher filter, typically located at the bottom of the appliance. Wipe down the seals and gaskets with a vinegar-dampened cloth to remove grease or mold. Then run a hot-water cleaning cycle with a cup of white vinegar on the top rack. For extra freshness, sprinkle baking soda and run a short cycle. If there’s a sanitizer setting, use it with a germ-cleansing agent. Check that the dishwasher soap compartments are empty, then wipe down any residue. For long-term use, consider switching to microplastic-free dish-cleaning products from companies like Blueland, Kit & Kin, Nellie’s, and more, which help reduce microplastic exposure in dishware and wastewater.
2. Oven and Stovetop
If your oven has a self-cleaning function, use it. Remember to open windows, doors, and exhaust vents to ensure good ventilation throughout the process, which can last several hours. Otherwise, safely unplug or disconnect the appliance, so you can thoroughly clean each compartment. Spread a baking soda-and-water paste inside the oven, let it sit overnight, and gently scrub it the next day. Remove any racks or trays and thoroughly clean them too. For the stovetop, remove the grates and knobs, and then soak them in soapy water. Wipe the surfaces thoroughly to remove grease buildup. If your stove has a horizontal, removable tray that encases the burners, open it and clean underneath.
Food fragments and oil can be trapped there for longer than you’d think. The same applies to areas under the stove or between the stove and the wall.
3. Microwave
Microwaves are the unsung heroes of most kitchens. Due to their frequent use, they can hold onto odors and food particles. Place a glass bowl with water and lemon slices inside and run it on high for 3 minutes. Let it sit to loosen any grime, and then wipe down the interior. Open the microwave door and let it dry out completely. Try to stay chemical-free during this process, since you don’t want any scents to activate during the next heat cycle. Instead, use white vinegar and warm water to give it a once-over. Don’t forget to turn off the power before cleaning out the microwave vent or hood.
4. Refrigerator
Even if you were assured that your place was professionally cleaned before you arrived, refrigerators merit a personal touch. Before loading in groceries, take out all the shelves and drawers. Wash in warm, soapy water. Wipe down the interior with a mix of water and vinegar or a mild antibacterial cleaner. Use a small wire brush tool (often used for straws or baby bottles) to clean in the corners of rubber seals and drawers. Remove any crumbs or mold.
Remember to clean your water and ice dispenser, too. The ice trays and water tubing don’t get as much attention as the shelves, so don’t forget to clean them when you move in, and set a reminder to revisit them at least every few months.
5. Garbage Disposal
Even if they smell fine, bacteria are definitely lurking inside a garbage disposal. Toss in some ice cubes, a few citrus peels, and a tablespoon of baking soda. Turn it on and let it grind everything to freshen and clean the blades. Garbage-disposal cleaning tabs can help with particularly smelly or old appliances that haven’t been cleaned in a while.
Laundry Appliances
Although it is counterintuitive, the washing machine is often overlooked on the list of cleaning to-dos. You can set a new tone in your new home by avoiding this mistake.
1. Washing Machine
Front-loading washing machines are particularly prone to mold and mildew. Check the rubber gasket around the door for black residue or foul odors, and clean it with a vinegar-soaked cloth. Then run an empty cycle with hot water and either a washing machine cleaner or 2 cups of white vinegar and a half-cup of baking soda. Don't forget to clean the detergent tray and the fabric softener cup. Both can trap dirt on their sticky residue. For top-loading machines, remove any spokes and agitators, and give them a thorough wipe-down. You’d be surprised what gets trapped in the corners.
2. Dryer
Dryers accumulate lint and dust, which can worsen any allergies or respiratory sensitivities. Clean the lint trap and the vent hose—lint poses a fire hazard. Use a dust mask to prevent inhaling the newly released particles, and use a handheld vacuum cleaner to capture any clumps. Wipe the inside drum with a damp cloth, too.
Your job isn’t done until you’ve also looked behind and under the machines. You might find pet hair, dust, or small toys left behind by the previous residents. A quick sweep and mop can make a big difference.
HVAC Systems
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems are often overlooked on move-in day, but they directly affect your home's air quality.
1. Air Vents and Filters
Replace HVAC filters immediately, unless you’re certain they’ve been recently changed before your move. Dirty filters circulate dust, allergens, and mold. Use a vacuum with a hose attachment to clean out vent covers and ducts if they’re safely accessible.
3. AC Units
Clean the units with a damp microfiber cloth and clean the grilles. If you have a ductless unit with reusable mesh filters, wash, dry, and reuse them. When in doubt, check the manufacturer’s instructions or hire a pro for deep cleaning.
4. Furnace and Ducts
If your home has a forced-air heating system and you notice musty smells or dust, invest in a professional duct cleaning. If the previous occupants had pets or smoked indoors, this cleaning step is a must.
Read more at Better Homes and Gardens
