JJs Declutter Podcast - Episode 48: Kitchen Crusades Part 2

"The Deep Clean (Roll Up Your Sleeves Territory)"

Welcome back, brave warriors! This is NOT your daily wipe-and-walk. This is question-your-life-choices territory where we tackle crumb colonies, sticky secrets behind the fridge, and that expired hoisin sauce from 2019 (why is it always hoisin sauce?).

Pro tip: Take before pictures to celebrate your progress. Maybe even a selfie to see how YOU held up!

The Deep Cleaning Checklist

Step 1: Fridge & Freezer

• Take EVERYTHING out - no peeking and wiping
• Sort: Keep, Toss, Questionable (when in doubt, toss it out)
• Remove shelves/drawers, wash in sink
• Wipe interior with vinegar/water
• Clean door seals with toothbrush (so much gunk!)
• Pitch freezer-burned or unidentifiable items
• #Tidy12 Challenge: 12 minutes for fridge purge!

Step 2: Pantry Purge

• Work by zones/shelves - DON'T pull everything out at once
• Check expiration dates (spices over 2 years? Done)
• Pro tip: Use Sharpie to write expiration dates on tops of cans for low-light pantries
• Clean shelves, organize by category (pasta, canned goods, snacks)
• Function over Instagram-perfect containers!

Step 3: Oven & Stovetop

• Remove and soak oven racks
• Skip self-cleaning cycle (shortens oven life!)
• Baking soda paste overnight, spray vinegar in AM, wipe clean
• Remove burner grates and knobs - clean underneath (greasy crumb paste alert!)
• Lift-top stoves? Crumb graveyard underneath
• YouTube videos available for step-by-step!

Step 4: Cabinets & Drawers

• Wipe faces with degreaser (especially near stove)
• Clean cabinet tops - dust and grease city
• Empty drawers one at a time
• That free Temu avocado slicer you used twice? Let it go!
• Wipe handles and knobs

Step 5: Dishwasher Deep Clean

• Remove and rinse filter (yes, it has one!)
• Use toothbrush on beige slimy gunk
• Check spray arms for clogs - use toothpick
• Wipe door edges and rubber seal
• Run vinegar cycle, then baking soda cycle

Step 6: Small Appliances Quick Hits

• Empty toaster crumb tray
• Descale coffee maker with vinegar
• Blender magic: Halfway with warm water + soap, run 30 seconds
• Wipe stand mixer, microwave, all bases

Step 7: Behind & Beneath (Once or Twice Yearly)

• Pull fridge forward, clean coils (pet hair = fire hazard!)
• Check ice maker water line isn't kinked
• Sweep behind stove - lost items await
• Clean baseboards while you're down there

You Did It! Fresh trash bag, light a candle, take after pictures. Schedule next deep clean (3-6 months) NOW.

Resources:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@abcdeclutterwithjj
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/abcdecluttercommunity
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abcdeclutterwithjj

Website: https://www.abcDEclutter.com
Podcast website: https://www.TheJJsDeclutterPodcast.com
eMail: [email protected] 

May your oven shine and your fridge never smell like regret!

 #JJsDeclutter #KitchenCrusades #DeepClean #Tidy12Challenge  

Keep it Simple, Keep it Intentional, and - as always - Keep Decluttering!!