How to Deep Clean Your Kitchen in an Hour or Less, According to Experts

Step One: Clear the Sink and Counters

Starting with an empty sink is key. Ensure there are no dirty dishes in the sink so you can easily access it while cleaning the rest of the kitchen. Clear the counters of trash and clutter to provide more space and prepare for a deep cleaning.

Step Two: Tackle the Fridge

Start by throwing out anything past its use-by date, including old leftovers. This can be a time-consuming task, so work efficiently. "Work before grocery shopping when the fridge is emptiest," Gina McRae of Molly Maids recommends.

OxiClean spokesperson Anthony “Sully” Sullivan cautions against using all-purpose sprays inside the fridge; instead, wipe down surfaces with a damp cloth or a food-safe cleaner.

Step Three: Declutter the Pantry and Clean the Microwave

Quickly scan for expired items and organize the shelves. Keep it simple—this isn’t the time for a full overhaul.

While clearing out the pantry, microwave a mug of water for 3 to 5 minutes and allow the steam to loosen any splatters. Afterward, carefully remove the mug of hot water from the microwave and use a few seconds to wipe away any visible debris with a damp sponge.

Step Four: Dust and Wipe Surfaces

Begin by cleaning high surfaces, such as cupboard doors, fans, and vent hoods, and work your way down. McRae suggests using a high-reach duster on a pole to clean fans, light globes, and visible cobwebs. Allow dust and crumbs to fall to the floor—you’ll vacuum and mop later.

Step Five: Clean Appliances

Spray and wipe the fronts of the fridge, stovetop, and oven using a disinfectant or stainless-steel cleaner. Give the interior of your oven a wipe-down—but save the scrubbing for another day. (You only have an hour, after all!) “I would also skip the freezer as it may need some extra care and attention due to frost and ice buildup,” says Sully.

Step Six: Clean the Counters and Sink

Spray and wipe countertops with a disinfectant, and scrub the sink (including the drain and faucet base) using a grout brush. McRae suggests using an all-purpose cleaner and keeping a light abrasive cleaner, such as Comet, on hand for tougher stains. 

Step Seven: Tackle Floors

According to Sully, you should be on track to tackle the floors at the 50-minute mark. Vacuum the floor, and pull out stove drawers to vacuum inside them as well. Spray and mop the floors with an appropriate cleaner. Allow 5 minutes for the floors to dry.

Step Eight: Final Touches

Trifold cooking towels and hang them neatly on the oven handle, countertop edge, or sink edge. Swap out the trash bag for a fresh one. Position rugs and arrange knick-knacks and small appliances to complete the put-together look.