Alright, let’s be honest — spring cleaning the kitchen sounds great in theory… until you’re standing there, staring at that avalanche of Tupperware and wondering where on earth to start. I’ve been there — armed with good intentions, a sponge, and a playlist that somehow turns into a full-on cleaning concert (you know, because who doesn’t belt out songs while scrubbing?).
But here’s the deal: a clean kitchen changes everything. It makes cooking easier, mornings calmer, and honestly, food just tastes better when your surroundings don’t look like a crime scene. So, grab your coffee (or maybe something stronger 😉), and let’s talk about 28 ways to spring clean your kitchen — fast, easy, and actually satisfying.
1. Start With a Game Plan
Don’t just dive in like a hero without a cape. Plan your attack.
Make a list of the zones you’ll tackle — countertops, fridge, pantry, drawers, etc. Then go one section at a time. It’s way less overwhelming, trust me.
2. Clear the Counters
Your countertops are the first thing you see — and clutter there can make your whole kitchen look messy.
- Remove everything.
- Wipe down the surface (get under that toaster!).
- Only put back what you actually use daily.
FYI, the air fryer from Christmas 2022 doesn’t count.
3. Deep Clean the Sink
You’d be surprised how gross sinks get.
Use baking soda and vinegar to scrub away stains and odors. Don’t forget the drain — a little lemon slice down there helps it smell fresh again. Ever noticed how a shiny sink makes the whole kitchen feel cleaner? Yeah, it’s weirdly satisfying.
4. Tackle the Fridge
Take everything out (yes, even that mystery jar in the back).
- Toss expired items.
- Wipe shelves with warm soapy water.
- Line drawers with paper towels for easy future cleanup.
Pro tip: Keep a “use first” bin for food nearing expiration. It saves money and guilt. :)
5. Attack the Freezer
If you can’t tell what something used to be — it’s time to say goodbye.
Label your freezer bags and use the “first in, first out” rule. No more mystery meats, okay?
6. Organize the Pantry
Pantries are like mini treasure hunts gone wrong. Pull everything out, group similar items, and toss expired stuff.
- Store dry goods in clear containers.
- Label them (future you will thank you).
- Keep snacks at eye level for easy grabs.
Bonus: It looks Pinterest-worthy when you’re done. ;)
7. Scrub the Stove & Oven
You know those burnt bits that have become part of your stove’s personality? Time for them to go.
Use baking soda paste and let it sit before scrubbing. For oven glass, a vinegar-water mix works wonders.
Ever wondered why food seems to cook better after a good oven clean? It’s not magic — it’s airflow!
8. Clean the Microwave
If your microwave has seen too many spaghetti explosions, this one’s for you.
Heat a bowl of water and lemon slices for 3 minutes. The steam loosens grime so you can just wipe it away. Smells fresh too!
9. Refresh the Dishwasher
Yes, your dishwasher needs washing too (ironic, right?).
Run an empty cycle with vinegar, then sprinkle baking soda on the bottom and run it again. Boom — no more funky smells.
10. Wipe Down Cabinets
Greasy fingerprints, meet your match.
Mix a little dish soap with warm water and wipe everything down. Focus on handles and corners — those are dirt magnets.
11. Declutter Drawers
Let’s be honest: you’ve got at least one “junk drawer.” We all do.
Dump it out, toss what you don’t need, and use dividers to organize the rest.
You’ll feel 10x lighter, I promise.
12. Sanitize Cutting Boards
Wood or plastic, both need love.
Rub with half a lemon and coarse salt. Let it sit, then rinse. It removes odors and bacteria — no harsh chemicals needed.
13. Clean Small Appliances
Your blender, toaster, and coffee maker deserve some TLC.
Unplug them (safety first), wipe them down, and clean any removable parts. A little effort goes a long way.
14. Freshen Up the Garbage Bin
You can’t have a clean kitchen with a stinky bin.
Wash it with hot soapy water and let it dry completely. Then sprinkle some baking soda at the bottom to absorb odors.
Smells like new. Almost. ;)
15. Shine Stainless Steel
Fingerprints everywhere? Ugh.
Use a microfiber cloth and a bit of olive oil to make your stainless steel appliances gleam again. No streaks, no smudges.
16. Check Expiry Dates
This step is oddly satisfying.
Go through sauces, condiments, and spices. Toss anything expired or ancient. You’ll be shocked how long that mustard’s been there.
17. Deep Clean the Floors
Mop, vacuum, and don’t forget under the appliances.
If you haven’t moved your fridge in a while — brace yourself. It’s… educational.
18. Organize Under the Sink
This spot gets messy fast.
Add bins or pull-out drawers. Group items like cleaning supplies, sponges, and trash bags. Label them — because organized chaos is still chaos.
19. Clean Light Fixtures
Dust loves light fixtures.
Take them down (if possible) and give them a wipe. Suddenly, your whole kitchen looks brighter — literally.
20. Wipe Baseboards
Do people notice baseboards? Maybe not. But you will once they’re clean.
Quick wipe with a damp cloth = instant freshness boost.
21. Wash Curtains or Blinds
Fabric curtains trap odors, and blinds collect dust. Wash or vacuum them for a true spring-clean feel.
22. Replace Sponges and Dishcloths
If your sponge smells… questionable, it’s time.
Replace them regularly to avoid spreading bacteria. Bonus points if you microwave them for 30 seconds to sanitize (yes, really).
23. Clean the Walls & Backsplash
You’d be amazed at how much grease sneaks up there.
A mix of vinegar and warm water cuts through buildup like a charm.
24. Reorganize Cookware
Stack pots, pans, and lids smartly — no more avalanche every time you cook.
Consider using pan organizers or racks for easy access.
25. Dust the Top of Cabinets & Fridge
No one looks up there… but dust does.
Wipe it clean, then line it with paper or shelf liners to make next time easier.
26. Clean the Coffee Station
If you’re a coffee lover (same here ☕), clean the coffee maker, organize pods or beans, and wipe the counter.
A fresh coffee corner = happy mornings.
27. Replace or Wash Kitchen Mats
Kitchen mats get gross, fast.
Toss them in the washer or replace them entirely. Clean feet, clean vibes.
28. Add Something New
This isn’t a cleaning step, but a reward step.
Buy a new candle, plant, or cute dish towel. It keeps your kitchen feeling fresh — and makes all that cleaning so worth it.
Final Thoughts:
So there you have it — 28 simple but powerful ways to spring clean your kitchen without losing your mind (or your weekends).
The trick isn’t to do it all in one day (unless you’re part superhero). Break it up, throw on your favorite playlist, and make it fun. You’ll be amazed at how much better your space — and your mood — feels when everything shines.
And hey, if all else fails, light that new candle and pretend you just cleaned. No judgment here. ;)
