How to Keep Your Small Kitchen Appliances Clean and Spotless
Almost every small appliance has a control panel or lever. Bacteria such as Salmonella, Listeria, and E. coli, as well as mold and yeast, may be found when it is touched every time it is used. Any of these organisms have the potential to induce stomach discomfort or worse. While small kitchen gadgets such as toaster ovens, instant pots, food processors, and juicers may save time and energy in the kitchen, they must be clean and free of germs.
Here are some tips for keeping your small appliances clean:
Blender, Food Processor, or Juicer
When using a blender, food processor, or juicer, food and liquid splatters may fly everywhere, mainly if the lid isn’t utilized. Fortunately, since they can perform the majority of the work, these appliances are simple to clean. Rinse the blender or juicer cup with normal water after each use. Fill halfway with warm water and a few drops of dishwashing liquid. For 15 to 30 seconds, give it a good shake. You can even just switch the device back on for a few seconds! As you dump the cup into the sink, pour the solution over the lid.
Take apart the appliance blades and lid components. Rinse well with hot water and air dry thoroughly before reassembling. Finally, disconnect the machine and use a clean towel to wipe off the exterior of the base. To remove particles from hard-to-reach areas between buttons or knobs, use a clean, soft toothbrush dipped in a solution of warm water and a drop of dishwashing liquid. Allow to air dry after wiping down with a clean towel soaked in plain water.
Microwave
Allowing the microwave to clean itself is the most convenient method to clean it. Fill a microwave-safe container halfway with water. Turn off the microwave when the water reaches a seething boil. Close the door for at least 15 minutes. The steam will loosen food particles, allowing them to be easily wiped away with no scrubbing required.
To finish, wipe clean all internal surfaces with a soft cloth soaked in one part distilled white vinegar and one part warm water. Hand washes or put the glass turntable in the dishwasher if you have one. To eliminate germs, use a disinfectant wipe to clean off the exterior handles and keypad. If you have a microwave/range hood vent combo installed above your cooktop, be sure to clean the hood and filter regularly to eliminate grease residue.
Toaster Oven or Toaster
Crumbs and grease buildup may start fires. Therefore it’s critical to clean toaster ovens and slice toasters regularly. Unplug the appliances after each usage and open the trap doors or shake them upside down over the sink or trash can to remove stray crumbs. After each use, wash the detachable tray or toasting rack in hot soapy water, rinse, and air dry.
Unplug the device at least once a week and wash the inside and exterior with a soft cloth soaked in hot, soapy water, avoiding the heating components. To reach any tight places, use a clean, gentle toothbrush. Allow to air dry for at least 10 minutes after rinsing with a towel soaked in plain water.
Stand or Portable Mixer
If you make meals regularly, a portable or stand mixer is a must-have. The risk arises when food particles get entangled in the blades or beaters. Fill a bowl with warm water and a drop or two of dishwashing liquid to loosen food and run the mixer for 15 seconds. The best and safest way to clean the mixers is to take them apart and hand wash non-electrical components in hot soapy water or to put them in the dishwasher, as suggested by the manufacturer.
Finally, unplug the device and clean the outside with a warm soapy cloth. Rinse with a damp towel and pat dry with a soft cloth. Grab a soft toothbrush and go in between any buttons or nooks that need extra attention. The motor ventilation slots are one area to look for collected trash. To avoid overheating, they must be transparent.
Final Thoughts
Small appliances should be wiped off after use, and a more thorough cleaning should be done regularly. The frequency of usage determines how often. Clean all of the nooks with a small toothbrush, and be sure to clean the undersides of the item as well. Also, throughout your cleaning process, ensure the appliance is disconnected. Some equipment, such as a coffee maker, should have their interiors cleaned properly as well.
Check out our home and lifestyle blog posts at Blossom & Broom for additional ideas and advice on making your house a blissful place. From kitchen design ideas to edible landscape ideas, we offer several suggestions and ideas to assist you in maintaining an exquisite house design and a beautiful yard!
