12 Feb 2023

Kitchen appliances are some of the most frequently bought home appliances in the UK. And it’s unsurprising, as they’re essential to keeping a home running well.

As kitchen appliances can endure a lot of wear and tear over the years, it’s important to take small steps to ensure they work well for as long as possible. With a little know-how and some elbow grease, users can keep the kitchen appliances working better for longer.

Kitchen appliance maintenance

Below, they’ve provided tips to help users clean the kitchen appliances in their home. Almost all appliances come with a user manual, which contains information on installation, instructions for use and maintenance of the appliance. It’s essential to follow the steps noted in the manual to keep appliances working at their best and to avoid invalidating the warranty.

  • Stoves and ovens - While it’s not the most exciting of tasks, cleaning the stove or oven every couple of weeks helps to avoid dirt and grime build up. Always make sure to use a cleaning product which is recommended for the appliance.
  • Fridge - Does a bad smell greet the users every time they open the fridge? Or can they spot mould building up on the shelves? These are signs that the fridge needs a good clean. A good time to clean the fridge is just before they do the weekly shop. Clear everything out and wipe the inside with cool soapy water and a cloth – this includes the drawers and shelves. Users can also use a small amount of sterilizing fluid.

Cleaning dishwasher filter

  • Dishwasher - It’s hard to avoid an unclean dishwasher – the smell will often linger every time they open the door. Here’s a quick guide to cleaning the dishwasher:
  • Before loading the plates and cutlery, give them a quick rinse to remove any food. This will help prevent bad smells in the first place.
  • Rinse the dishwasher filter every two months – drainage filters are usually located at the bottom of a dishwasher. To locate the filter and find detailed instructions on maintenance, please refer to the appliance user manual.
  • Place a cup of vinegar on the top rack and run the machine to prevent bad smells and grease accumulating. Otherwise, users can sprinkle a cup of baking soda along the bottom of the dishwasher.

Appliances continue working

  • Microwave - Microwaves can get messy quickly so regular cleaning can also keep it smelling fresh and working at its best.

At ScottishPower, they work with Domestic & General Services Limited to offer Appliance Care plans for a range of kitchen appliances. They can provide maintenance and support to help ensure the appliances continue working well and minimise the chance of a breakdown.