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: hello@abcdeclutter.com
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!!
