Is this task critical or optional? Critical. The sink is the kitchen’s second dirtiest spot (after the sponge). Without weekly scrub-downs, a plaquelike biofilm—containing germs from raw meat and more (eww)—can form and contaminate whatever touches it, says microbiologist Philip Tierno Jr. Critical or optional? Technically the dirt and grime are far enough out of reach that they’re generally not a significant health hazard (also, you know, out of sight, out of mind), which makes this optional. But dust can impair a machine’s performance, costing you in energy bills and repairs, so it’s best to clean around and under appliances seasonally. Critical or optional? Critical. Again, it’s a cross-contamination thing: The sink and its surrounding areas can be a hazard if not cleaned thoroughly during meal prep. Tack this onto your regular countertop wipe-downs. Critical or optional? Critical. A refrigerator’s standard temperature—32 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit—is ideal for mold and bacteria, including Listeria, to form, experts say. But a scrub-down each season and whenever you see a spill should prevent it. Critical or optional? Optional. If your caulk isn’t stained, you can skip the deep-cleaning. Just wipe it down regularly with a clean cloth to prevent dust and moisture from accumulating. Critical or optional? Grates are not the germiest area, but grimy ones can make your whole kitchen feel and look unsanitary. So this one is optional, except for cosmetic and psychological reasons. Critical or optional? Critical. The touch pad is one of the top-five kitchen spots to sanitize after food prep because it can become cross-contaminated, says Elizabeth Scott, Ph.D. It’s also glaringly obvious when grimy—right in guests’ line of sight. Critical or optional? Critical. Just like the microwave touch pad, knobs can become cross-contaminated during cooking. To disinfect quickly, give them a wipe-down with a bleach solution when you’re cleaning up after meal prep. Critical or optional? Most of the debris gets trapped inside the gasket’s rubber folds, so you don’t have to see it, making this task optional. But because debris can wear down the seal and keep the appliance from staying cool, cleaning it four times a year is recommended. Critical or optional? Critical. Stuck-on crumbs are a hazard—they can cause a toaster oven to smoke (and your kitchen to stink), and they can even attract vermin (ick). They’re also an eyesore. Eliminate the task in the future with this hack: Cut a reusable nonstick oven liner to the size of the toaster’s drip tray; take the liner out and rinse when it’s time to clean. Critical or optional? Optional-ish. Detergent buildup on the dispenser is an issue because it can throw off the soap distribution for loads. The fix is a monthly refresh: Pour a cup of white vinegar in a dishwasher-safe glass bowl and place it in the top rack, then run the machine. Tackling the grimy seal is a personal choice. Critical or optional? This is not an out-in-the-open spot, and there’s typically not a huge amount of grime that ends up here, so this one is optional. But it’s an easy task to conquer when most of the silverware is out of the drawer, in the dishwasher. Critical or optional? Optional. These spots are not germ magnets, but they’re easy to swipe while you’re standing around, say, waiting for water to boil. And it’s hugely satisfying to see all the grime that comes off (at least according to Real Simple editors).
Debra Johnson, manager of the training program at Merry Maids, a national cleaning company. Melissa Maker, founder of the Clean My Space cleaning company, YouTube channel, and blog. Becky Rapinchuk, cleaning expert and creator of Cleanmama.net. Elizabeth Scott, Ph.D., associate professor of biology and chair of the department of public health at Simmons College, in Boston. Donna Smallin Kuper, certified housecleaning technician and author of Cleaning Plain & Simple. Philip Tierno Jr., professor of microbiology and pathology at the New York University School of Medicine, in New York City.
